A review by grace_koalateareads
The Beautiful Something Else by Ash Van Otterloo

adventurous challenging emotional hopeful informative inspiring reflective sad medium-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

“Nonbinary means not being “man” or “woman”, because neither one fits.

Neither. Both. Something else.” 

The Beautiful Something Else by Ash Van Otterloo broke my heart and put it back together in the most profound way. It may be a middle-grade novel, but it’s a story everyone should read. I’m in awe.

“She’s yanked my world out from under me so hard, I’m seeing stars.”

We follow the story of Sparrow Malone, a 12 year old who has been moving schools as their mum struggles with her addiction. When Sparrow is sent to live with their estranged relative at “Rainbow House”, everything their mum had told them seems to be a lie told out of fear. With new friends, a pair of boots, a Shadow and a garden to be wild in, Sparrow can finally start being themselves, whatever that may be. 

“The boots look brave and sturdy - like a little piece of inside-Sparrow has found its way onto my feet.”

Ash writes with such tenderness and truth. From page one I was right there in the thick of it with Sparrow. I felt what they felt. We thought the same. We saw the world as it so often presents its self to someone “other”. I could see just how lost they were as they fought for their mum’s approval. I may not have lived the same childhood, but a lot of this story mirrored mine especially when I was 12 myself. All I wanted to do was reach through the pages and hug Sparrow and let them know it was all going to be ok.

“Sometimes, it’s unsafe to take up space as yourself when you don’t have enough support.”

I cannot recommend this book enough, I’d give it the entire night sky of stars if I could, but I guess I’ll just have to settle for 5! 

“If it’s weirdness and adventure you crave, I know all the best places to find it.”

Content warnings: addiction, drug abuse, deadnaming, bullying, homophobia, transphobia, toxic relationship, dysphoria.

Content awesomeness: own voice, gender identity journey, gender nonconforming, non binary, found family, euphoria, supportive relationships, coming of age, trans joy, magic, warm hugs, hot chocolate, drag shows, new hair, preferred pronouns