Book Review: Spaghetti is Not a Finger Food by Jodi Carmichael and Sarah Ackerley

Spaghetti is Not a Finger Food, written by Jodi Carmichael and illustrated by Sarah Ackerley is a chapter book about an eight-year-old boy with Asperger's Syndrome. Young Connor takes readers with him as he works his way through an average school day. We get to see his thought processes as he tries his hardest to be as cool as everyone else. Like any time people try to be what they think is cool rather than themselves, misunderstandings and disaster soon follows. However, at the end of the day Connor comes to the realization that he is exactly as 'cool' as he is meant to be.

Spaghetti is Not a Finger Food is divided into chapters, each one focused on a specific part of Connor's day. The story is fun, and easy to follow. Connor's unique trains of thought are easy to follow, and soon we are able to better understand just how his brain is making connections. Readers of all ages will find it funny, but it is also a great resource for children, parents, and teachers in better understanding how those with Asperger's Syndrome see the world. It is good for helping everyone better approach those that see the world a little differently, regardless of why, and remind us of the importance of good listening and patience.

Spaghetti is Not a Finger Food is a fun and important book to read. It would be a wonderful classroom resource, part of an organizational library, or addition to personal collection. Even if you have never met anyone with Aspergers, you must have had an encountered someone with a different way of seeing the world and communicating. There is wonderful insight and information here that can help us all understand each other while allowing everyone to be themselves rather than forcing conformity.