Quick Take

Willa likes certain things to be certain ways. Her socks have to be soft . . . and definitely can't have irritating tags on the inside. She loves the crunch of popcorn and nachos . . . but is grossed out by the crunch of a baby carrot. And slimy foods? Those are the worst.Willa can manage all these things -- but there are some things she can't deal with, like her father's big news. He's been keeping a big secret from her . . . that he's been dating the mom of Willa's best friend Ruby. Willa does NOT like the idea of them being together. And she does NOT like the idea of combining families. And she does NOT like the idea of her best friend becoming her sister overnight. Will she go along with all of these changes? NOT if she can help it!

Reader's Review

Book Review Summary: Not If I Can Help It (Scholastic Gold)

Introduction

"Not If I Can Help It" by Carolyn Mackler is a heartwarming and relatable novel that delves into the life of Willa, an eleven-year-old girl who struggles with sensory processing disorder. With a focus on friendship, family, and change, this middle-grade book provides readers with a unique perspective on how one girl navigates the challenges of growing up while dealing with a disorder that affects her daily life. In this article, we will explore the book's summary, author information, analysis of views, reasons for recommendation, and reasons for not recommending it.

About Carolyn Mackler

Carolyn Mackler is a renowned author known for her ability to create relatable and engaging stories for young readers. With a background in psychology and a personal connection to sensory processing disorder, Mackler brings a wealth of knowledge and empathy to her writing. Her previous works include popular teen novels such as "The Earth, My Butt, and Other Big Round Things," "Infinite in Between," and "The Future of Us." Mackler's ability to tackle sensitive topics with humor and sensitivity has earned her a dedicated following among readers.

Analysis of Views

Understanding Sensory Processing Disorder: Readers who have personal experience with sensory processing disorder praise the book for its accurate portrayal of the condition. They appreciate the representation and find comfort in seeing their struggles reflected in the story.
Coming-of-Age Story: The book is not only a valuable resource for understanding sensory processing disorder but also a coming-of-age story that resonates with readers. Willa's journey of self-discovery and acceptance resonates with readers as they navigate their own personal growth.
Realistic Emotions: The emotions portrayed in the book are described as honest and relatable. Readers appreciate the exploration of Willa's struggles and the challenges she faces in managing her outbursts and reactions. The authenticity of the emotions adds depth to the story and makes it relatable for middle-grade readers.
Blended Families: The book tackles the topic of blended families and explores how children with different needs handle stress and change. Readers appreciate the portrayal of cohesive parents who support each other despite their differences and work together to create a positive environment for their children.
Sensory Details: Mackler's ability to bring Willa's sensory experiences to life is praised by readers. The vivid descriptions of sensations like tight socks, slimy textures, and strong smells make the story more immersive and help readers understand the challenges faced by individuals with sensory processing disorder.

Reasons for Recommendation

Valuable Insights: The book provides valuable insights into sensory processing disorder, making it an excellent resource for students and educators seeking to better understand the condition. By sharing Willa's story, Mackler sheds light on the unique experiences of individuals with SPD and helps create a more inclusive environment for those affected.
Engaging Narrative: Mackler's writing style captivates readers from start to finish. The storytelling is engaging and keeps readers invested in Willa's journey. The emotional depth of the characters and their struggles creates a compelling narrative that keeps readers engaged throughout the book.
Relatability: Readers appreciate the relatability of Willa's experiences, as they find common ground with her struggles. The book offers a window into the world of sensory processing disorder and allows readers to empathize with individuals who face similar challenges. This shared understanding fosters empathy and understanding among readers.

Reasons for Not Recommendation

Age Appropriateness: Some readers find that the book's target audience (middle-grade) may be too young for their preferences. They feel that the story would be more suitable for younger readers or those who are still navigating their own personal growth journey. However, this opinion is subjective and may not apply to all readers.
Unrealistic Support: Some readers express frustration with the unrealistic level of support portrayed in the book. They feel that every character in Willa's life is overly supportive, which undermines the authenticity of the story. They would have preferred a more nuanced portrayal of relationships and conflicts within a blended family setting.

Conclusion

"Not If I Can Help It" by Carolyn Mackler is a captivating middle-grade novel that delves into the world of sensory processing disorder while exploring themes of friendship, family, change, and personal growth. With its accurate representation of sensory processing disorder, engaging narrative, and relatable characters, this book resonates with readers who identify with Willa's struggles or simply enjoy a heartwarming coming-of-age story. While some readers find it too idealized or unrealistic, the overall consensus is that "Not If I Can Help It" is an important addition to middle-grade literature that offers valuable insights into a lesser-known condition while providing an entertaining reading experience.