Invisible Isabel

“Small, quiet” Isabel Beane doesn’t feel like she fits in. She tries her best to please others, even practicing smiling at home, “so people would know she was nice/ and good and friendly.” Attempts to befriend classmate Monica result in a cruel dismissal and claims by Monica that Isabel is too different. She’s further crushed upon learning that she’s the only girl in class who’s not invited to Monica’s birthday party. Isabel’s mother insists that she’s “too sensitive” and must learn to speak up for herself. She struggles trying to meet her mother’s expectations, make friends, and do well in school, contending with heartbreak and disappointment when her efforts don’t net success, but unexpected events soon change everything for Isabel and force Monica to face the consequences of her actions. Sensorial verse alternates between Isabel’s and Monica’s POVs. Though Isabel’s experiences are at times framed as learning opportunities for Monica, the challenges that she faces in navigating mounting anxieties are sensitively depicted in this touching story by Pla (The Fire, the Water, and Maudie McGinn) that celebrates identity, friendship, and finding inner strength. An endnote offers “useful starting points, about anxiety and/or autism.” Final art not seen by PW. Ages 8–12. Agent: Sara Crowe, Sara Crowe Literary. (July)