Lily's half brother's autism rules her life. Ever since her mother died, her stepfather has been reluctant to get a diagnosis for Adam, and Lily is expected to make sure he doesn't have any meltdowns. One of the only things that calms Adam is dolphins. When a chance arises for Adam to swim with Nori, a dolphin recently brought into captivity, Adam and Nori immediately bond. Lily knows that being with Nori makes Adam happy, but she also sees that spending her life in captivity isn't what's best for the dolphin. Lily must decide what's more important r brother's happiness or trying to save an animal that needs her help. While navigating this dilemma, Lily researches the potential for dolphin therapy to help her brother, and her stepfather reaches a better understanding of Adam's disorder. There are many issues packed into this book, but Rorby handles them well, weaving topics together and offering feasible resolutions. Perfect for readers looking for a book about animals in captivity or tweens making a difference.

Gr 4-7 Lily has little time for friends or activities since her life seems to revolve around her half-brother, Adam, who has autism. Life has not been easy. Her stepfather, Don, doesn't acknowledge that Adam needs to attend a special school, and Lily has yet to get over the grief of losing her mother in a car accident two years ago. When Don, an oncologist, receives a call about assisting with a young dolphin who has cancer, he eagerly agrees to help. Adam has a strong attachment to dolphins, and Don thinks this will be the panacea to cure all his troubles. Adam quickly bonds with the dolphin Nori, but Lily begins to suspect that life in captivity in a marine mammal park is not the best scenario for Nori. Rorby paints a vivid picture of life with a child with autism and the struggles a family can face. VERDICT This book will raise questions about the ethics of marine life attractions and leave readers rooting for Lily, an appealing narrator. Beth Cuddy, Seward Elementary School, Auburn, NY