Marcelo in the Real World by Francisco X. Stork

One of the enduring characters from YA fiction for 2009 is likely to be Marcello Sandoval, a seventeen year old whose Asperger’s-like condition is marked by his unique relationships to music, theology and horses.

He is happy and capable in his special-ed situation where he cares for horses and mentors others on their care.  His father, however, believes it is in Marcelo’s best interest to see what life is like in the ‘real world’ and arranges for Marcelo to work in the mail room of his law firm for the summer.  There he uncovers deceptions and secrets that reveal a world where not everything – or everyone – is as it seems.  Marcelo addresses the puzzles and people he encounters with admirable strength, intelligence and integrity so that in the course of growing more comfortable and assured with his place in his own life, he will surely win your heart.

John S.