Elle McNicoll’s Wish You Were Her is a refreshing addition to the young adult genre, offering a nuanced portrayal of autism through the lens of a coming-of-age story. The novel is a delightful blend of romance, self-discovery, and the complexities of human relationships, all wrapped up in a narrative that pays homage to classic tales like The Shop Around the Corner and Cyrano de Bergerac. McNicoll’s ability to weave these influences into a contemporary setting makes for a compelling read that resonates on multiple levels.

At the heart of the story is Allegra Brooks, an eighteen-year-old actress navigating the challenges of being secretly autistic in a world that often misunderstands her. Allegra’s journey is both personal and universal, as she grapples with identity, acceptance, and the expectations placed upon her by society and herself. McNicoll’s portrayal of Allegra is both authentic and empathetic, offering readers a window into the experiences of an autistic individual without resorting to stereotypes or clichés. This authenticity is one of the novel’s greatest strengths, as it provides a voice to a community that is often underrepresented in literature.

The setting of Lake Pristine serves as a picturesque backdrop for Allegra’s summer of self-discovery. The small-town charm and the vibrant community of Brooks Books create a warm and inviting atmosphere that contrasts with Allegra’s initial feelings of isolation and uncertainty. As Allegra becomes involved in planning the Lake Pristine Book Festival, she finds herself drawn into the lives of the booksellers, each of whom brings their own unique perspectives and challenges to the table. This sense of community and belonging is a recurring theme throughout the novel, highlighting the importance of connection and support in overcoming personal struggles.

One of the most compelling aspects of Wish You Were Her is the dynamic between Allegra and the two brothers, Simon and Jonah. Simon, with his open enthusiasm and neurotypical demeanor, initially seems like the obvious choice for Allegra’s affections. However, it is Jonah, with whom Allegra shares a more contentious relationship, who ultimately captures her attention. This unexpected twist adds depth to the narrative, challenging readers to look beyond surface-level interactions and consider the complexities of human connection. The evolving relationship between Allegra and Jonah is beautifully crafted, with McNicoll skillfully capturing the tension, misunderstandings, and eventual understanding that define their interactions.

McNicoll’s writing is both engaging and insightful, with a keen eye for detail and a deep understanding of her characters’ inner worlds. Her ability to convey Allegra’s thoughts and emotions with clarity and sensitivity is particularly noteworthy, allowing readers to fully immerse themselves in Allegra’s journey. The novel’s pacing is well-balanced, with moments of introspection interspersed with lively dialogue and engaging plot developments. This balance ensures that the story remains engaging from start to finish, with each chapter offering new insights and revelations.

The themes explored in Wish You Were Her are both timely and timeless, touching on issues of identity, acceptance, and the search for belonging. Allegra’s struggle to reconcile her public persona with her private self is a relatable experience for many young adults, particularly those who feel marginalized or misunderstood. McNicoll’s exploration of these themes is both thoughtful and thought-provoking, encouraging readers to reflect on their own experiences and the ways in which they navigate the world.

In comparison to other works in the young adult genre, Wish You Were Her stands out for its authentic representation of autism and its nuanced portrayal of relationships. While novels like R.J. Palacio’s Wonder and John Green’s The Fault in Our Stars have explored themes of difference and acceptance, McNicoll’s work offers a fresh perspective that is both enlightening and empowering. Her ability to create complex, relatable characters and weave them into a compelling narrative is a testament to her skill as a storyteller.

Overall, Wish You Were Her is a triumph of storytelling that offers a heartfelt and insightful exploration of identity, love, and the power of community. Elle McNicoll has crafted a novel that is both entertaining and enlightening, providing readers with a deeper understanding of autism and the challenges faced by those who live with it. This is a book that will resonate with readers of all ages, offering a message of hope and acceptance that is both timely and timeless. Whether you are a fan of young adult fiction or simply looking for a compelling and thought-provoking read, Wish You Were Her is a novel that should not be missed.