A review by zoesnicholson
The Things I Didn't Say by Kylie Fornasier

4.0

The Things I Didn't Say is a eye-opening and perfectly balanced book about self-discovery, family, friendship, and romance. I've been meaning to read more Australian young adult books, and this reminds me just how good they are.

Piper Rhodes has selective mutism, a disorder that makes her too anxious to speak to anyone but her family and close friends. After a misunderstanding leaves her friendless, Piper switches schools in hopes of a fresh start. At school she meets West, and before long she falls in love with him. But who could love a girl that doesn't speak?

I hate the label Selective Mutism –as if I choose not to speak, like a kid who refuses to eat broccoli. I’ve used up every dandelion wish since I was ten wishing for the power to speak whenever I want to. I’m starting to wonder if there are enough dandelions.

Piper is an amazing protagonist who is completely realistic and relatable. She feels like a real person and there are occasions where it's hard to remember that she's only a fictional character. I can't imagine what it must be like to go through life not being able to talk when there's nothing you want do more, and that makes her character one you just can't help but root for.

Where the book excels is in how it balances the character relationships. Not only is there romance but there's also a strong emphasis on Parker's relationship with her family and friends. Every single relationship is written extremely well and feels extremely authentic. And, in a genre where so many books focus purely on romance, the added focus on family and friendship was a breath of fresh air.

The Things I Didn't Say is an honest and realistic exploration about what it's like to live with selective mutism. If you're looking for a well-written contemporary novel, this is definitely one I'd recommend.