This is the first book I've read written specifically for young adults about a main character with Asperger's Syndrome, a high-functioning form of autism. Crowley's own daughter was her inspiration for the story. It is well told in Merilee's own words, which become deeper and more fluid as she grows and changes over time. Readers will feel for Merilee and her family, who all have their own ways of dealing with Merilee's "uniqueness." However, I felt the author added a few too many quirky characters and subplots to the story - perhaps in an attempt to show Merilee as no less "normal" than the rest of the townspeople. While Merilee's retelling of everyone's secrets (she gives people Tootsie Pops, and they just start talking!) develops and enlivens the story, these details made it a little less believable than I would have liked. ( )