As you read the reviews on Bookshop Talk, you'll notice that every review is positive. No, we're not a bunch of literary
pushovers who love everything we pick up; we just see no point in telling you about a book if we didn't like it.

March 4, 2013

MARCELO IN THE REAL WORLD by Francisco X. Stork, 2009

Marcelo Sandoval hears music no one else can hear--part of the autism-like impairment no doctor has been able to identify--and he's always attended a special school where his differences have been protected. But the summer after his junior year, his father demands that Marcelo work in his law firm's mailroom in order to experience "the real world." There Marcelo meets Jasmine, his beautiful and surprising coworker, and Wendell, the son of another partner in the firm. He learns about competition and jealousy, anger and desire. But it's a picture he finds in a file -- a picture of a girl with half a face -- that truly connects him with the real world: its suffering, its injustice, and what he can do to fight. (Goodreads)

Reviewed by Meredith, Librarian

There are few literary characters I love as much as I love Marcelo. I routinely wanted to climb into the book and give him a hug, then protect him from all the evil in the world. But the best thing about Marcelo is that he always does the right thing. He doesn't need to be protected. He sees terrible stuff all around, and he becomes stronger and more awesome than ever.  MARCELO IN THE REAL WORLD is kind of heartbreaking as he learns just how terrible the real world can be, but it's amazing anyway and ultimately hopeful.

Market: Young Adult
Language: Moderate-Marcelo has at least one foul-mouthed coworker
Sensuality: Mild
Violence: None
Mature Themes: Adultery (implied), blackmail, injustice

3 comments:

Anonymous said...

This is one of the most incredible books ever! I loved it so much. Thanks for the review, Meredith!

Sharon Himsl said...

I loved this book too. Marcelo has the wisdom and sensitivity of 'Forest Gump', another memorable character. Thanks!

Amy Finnegan {BookshopTalk.com} said...

This truly is a very original book. I really liked it. Thanks for the review!!