Coloring Outside the Lines

Book: Something More

Author: Jackie Khalilieh

Synopsis

Fifteen-year-old Jessie, a quirky loner obsessed with the nineties, is diagnosed as autistic just weeks before starting high school. Determined to make a fresh start and keep her diagnosis a secret, Jessie creates a list of goals that range from acquiring two distinct eyebrows to getting a magical first kiss and landing a spot in the school play. Within the halls of Holy Trinity High, she finds a world where things are no longer black and white and quickly learns that living in color is much more fun. But Jessie gets more than she bargained for when two very different boys steal her heart, forcing her to go off-script.

Review

Jackie Khalilieh’s “Something More” is a delightful contemporary teen romance novel that beautifully weaves together themes of self-discovery, first love, and neurodiversity. Set against the backdrop of high school, the story follows fifteen-year-old Jessie, a quirky loner with a passion for nineties pop culture who is navigating the challenges of adolescence while grappling with her recent autism diagnosis.

From the outset, Khalilieh crafts a refreshingly genuine and messy portrayal of teenage life through the eyes of Jessie. As she embarks on her journey through high school, Jessie’s distinct voice and endearing quirks leap off the page, drawing readers into her world with authenticity and charm. Khalilieh effortlessly captures the essence of being a fifteen-year-old, complete with the highs, lows, and awkward moments that come with the territory.

One of the novel’s greatest strengths lies in its portrayal of neurodiversity. Jessie’s autism diagnosis is sensitively and thoughtfully depicted, offering readers a window into her unique perspective and experiences. Despite her struggles, Jessie refuses to let her diagnosis define her, instead embracing her quirks and forging her own path in the world. Khalilieh’s portrayal of Jessie serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of representation and inclusion in literature, providing neurodivergent readers with a character they can truly see themselves in.

Central to the narrative is Jessie’s journey of self-discovery and growth, as she navigates friendships, family dynamics, and the complexities of teenage romance. Khalilieh deftly explores the nuances of healthy and unhealthy relationships, offering valuable insights into the complexities of love and friendship. While the romantic elements of the story occasionally veer into cringy territory, they ultimately serve to enrich Jessie’s character development and add depth to the narrative.

Throughout the book, Khalilieh peppers the narrative with subtle nods to Palestinian and Arab culture, adding richness and depth to Jessie’s identity. These references serve to ground the story in a vivid cultural landscape, providing readers with a glimpse into Jessie’s heritage and upbringing.

Additionally, the infusion of nineties pop culture throughout the novel adds a nostalgic charm, evoking the spirit of classic rom-coms and coming-of-age films. From references to beloved movies and TV shows to iconic fashion trends and music, Khalilieh effortlessly captures the essence of the era, transporting readers back in time with every turn of the page.

In conclusion, “Something More” is a heartfelt and engaging novel that celebrates the beauty of neurodiversity, self-acceptance, and first love. With its authentic portrayal of teenage life, well-written characters, and charming nostalgia, this book is sure to resonate with readers of all ages. Through Jessie’s journey, Khalilieh reminds us that life is messy, unpredictable, and wonderfully colorful – just like a masterpiece waiting to be painted outside the lines.