A Kind of Spark
Publisher: Knights Of
Addie’s class are told they have a ‘fun’ new project to study in the run-up to Halloween. As the teacher recounts how 16th century women were accused of witchcraft for reasons as innocuous as being left-handed, 11 year old Addie is left stunned. She’s horrified that innocent people, including women from her own area, were persecuted, executed, then forgotten by society. The revelation leaves her determined to lobby for a local memorial in her small Scottish village.
Oppression of those with perceived ‘differences’ is of course not confined to the history books. And Addie, who is autistic, experiences this at first hand and in various forms, both at school and in the local community. But we soon see that she is not one to sit back and accept injustice – and with support from a new girl at school - she fights valiantly for what she knows is right.
This debut novel from a neurodivergent writer offers an utterly convincing and hugely likeable narrative voice. Challenging many a myth and a stereotype, but never forcing its messages, this is a powerful book with a gentle touch. With Addie’s twin sister also on the spectrum, we are reminded that there are ‘many different ways to be autistic’. We see that there are regrettably also many ways to ignorant and unpleasant, and that even adults can be bullies. And we are reminded what a phoney place the world of social media can be. But above all, we revel in joining Addie in her crusade for equality and truth.
A short, sweet and accessible read, but with so very much to say.
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What you thought...
Average rating:
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Heather, 19 September 2024
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Good
Ella, 04 February 2024
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I can really relate to Addie and it is such an amazing story
Anonymous, 13 November 2023
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i can relate to addie and how she feels : 5 stars from me 9/9/23
rhinoceros, 09 September 2023
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I really don't have words to describe how incredible this book has been to read. It is the first book with neurodiversity that feels authentic and relatable and has made being different something to be proud of. It's really not just book, but a comfort and escape from the confusing ways of 'traditional thinking'. All I can say is thank you.
Anonymous, 05 August 2023
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This book was AMAZING, and I have read it so many times.
Cara, 09 August 2022
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I absolutely adore a kind of spark. It is the best book with a neurodivegent character i have ever read. Its plot is compelling, the characters are wonderful and I highly recommend it.
Anonymous, 09 May 2021
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I think that a kind of park is an amazing book that my love for cannot be put into words. Elle mcnicoll is an amazing author and I look forward to her next book, which is coming out soon that unfortunately I have forgotten the name of!
Unicorn, 05 February 2021
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is good
Anonymous, 30 January 2021
I love this book I couldn’t take my eyes of it I think lots of people can relate to Addie and the way she lives her life