Marcelo In The Real World by Francisco X. Stork - OPTIONAL

Stork, Francisco X. Marcello in the Real World pgs.320 Arthur A. Levine Books

Language~R; Sexual Content~PG-13; Violence~PG

HS –OPTIONAL 

This story is part coming of age novel, part legal mystery, and part exposure to a main character with a disability. Marcello has a disability. It is on the Autistic Spectrum closest to what is today referred to Asperger’s Syndrome. For most of his life, Marcello has attended Patterson a private ranch/school for kids with Special Needs. This summer he has plans to work at Patterson as a stable hand. However, his father has made different plans. Marcello is to work at his father’s law firm to get experience in the ‘real world’ with ‘real people.’ He is assigned to work in the copy room with Jasmine, but is soon asked to work with Wendell, the son of the other partner in the law firm where he discovers a secret that could ruin his father and the law firm.

The novel is told in first person which allows the reader to become familiar with Marcello and the way he thinks. There are frequent sexual references and innuendo. There is also frequent use of the ‘f’ word. This novel will not be for all readers. I would strongly suggest that you read this before adding it to your collection.

Allison Madsen~Teen Librarian-SJO Public Library