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thelibraryofamy's review against another edition
emotional
funny
inspiring
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
5.0
Content Warnings
Graphic: Ableism and Bullying
juicygreenmom's review against another edition
emotional
hopeful
reflective
sad
slow-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.0
livlovebooks's review against another edition
4.0
This book was so heart-warming and comprehensive. I usually don't read children's novels, but I might have to start after reading this book. This was beautiful and taught me so much about how autistic people think especially as kids. I appreciated how heavy issues were addressed in this book. Such a lovely story.
adverb17's review against another edition
emotional
hopeful
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? No
4.0
bibliobrittish's review against another edition
emotional
funny
hopeful
inspiring
reflective
tense
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
5.0
foxlyn_wren's review against another edition
emotional
hopeful
informative
inspiring
reflective
sad
tense
fast-paced
5.0
vickreads's review against another edition
challenging
emotional
hopeful
inspiring
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated
5.0
Elle McNicoll’s A Kind of Spark may be a children's book, but its impact reaches far beyond its intended audience. As an adult, this story touched my heart in profound and unexpected ways, stirring emotions that I hadn’t realised were so deeply buried. The protagonist, Addie, a young autistic girl, embarks on a journey to honour the memory of women wrongfully accused of witchcraft in her village. Her experiences with ableism and bullying resonated with me on a level that was both healing and painful.
Reading this book was a journey of emotional highs and lows. The unfairness and injustice that Addie faces felt like a mirror to my own childhood, a reflection that was challenging to confront. It brought forth a grief that was difficult to process—the realisation that the struggles endured by neurodiverse people are not isolated incidents but part of a broader, systemic issue. The story doesn't shy away from showing the harsh realities of the world, making it both a comforting and uncomfortable read for those who have lived through similar experiences.
One of the most powerful aspects of the book is its message about recognising and fighting injustice. Addie’s determination to fight for what’s right, despite the obstacles in her path, is an inspiring reminder that this is a strength, not a weakness. Her bravery is encapsulated in one of the story’s most striking lines (for me): “How can they sit here and be more displeased by my telling of the truth than by the truth itself?” This quote captures the essence of Addie’s struggle and the frustration of seeing people more upset by the disruption of their comfort than by the injustices around them.
Another memorable line, “Lies cast like spells. More powerful. More damaging,” poignantly highlights how falsehoods can be far more destructive than we realise, a sentiment that resonates deeply with those who have experienced the pain of being misunderstood or misrepresented.
A Kind of Spark is more than just a children's book; it’s a story of resilience, courage, and the power of truth. It’s a book that heals, challenges, and ultimately, empowers. Whether you’re a child or an adult, autistic or not, Addie’s story is one that will stay with you long after you’ve turned the last page.
Reading this book was a journey of emotional highs and lows. The unfairness and injustice that Addie faces felt like a mirror to my own childhood, a reflection that was challenging to confront. It brought forth a grief that was difficult to process—the realisation that the struggles endured by neurodiverse people are not isolated incidents but part of a broader, systemic issue. The story doesn't shy away from showing the harsh realities of the world, making it both a comforting and uncomfortable read for those who have lived through similar experiences.
One of the most powerful aspects of the book is its message about recognising and fighting injustice. Addie’s determination to fight for what’s right, despite the obstacles in her path, is an inspiring reminder that this is a strength, not a weakness. Her bravery is encapsulated in one of the story’s most striking lines (for me): “How can they sit here and be more displeased by my telling of the truth than by the truth itself?” This quote captures the essence of Addie’s struggle and the frustration of seeing people more upset by the disruption of their comfort than by the injustices around them.
Another memorable line, “Lies cast like spells. More powerful. More damaging,” poignantly highlights how falsehoods can be far more destructive than we realise, a sentiment that resonates deeply with those who have experienced the pain of being misunderstood or misrepresented.
A Kind of Spark is more than just a children's book; it’s a story of resilience, courage, and the power of truth. It’s a book that heals, challenges, and ultimately, empowers. Whether you’re a child or an adult, autistic or not, Addie’s story is one that will stay with you long after you’ve turned the last page.
boooksforbreakfast's review against another edition
5.0
Amazing! Such a good story with beautiful representation and powerful writing!