Bat and the End of Everything by Elana K. Arnold

Rating: My bookshelf

Reading Level: Early Elementary, Mid-late Elementary

I’d recommend this for any kids who rub shoulders with someone far on the autism spectrum, or for kids who are autistic themselves. BAT’s honesty, questions and observations helped me have empathy for the autistic.

Other positive notes:

• Animal lovers will relate to BAT’s tender care for his creature friends.
• The message of growth, family, forgiveness, & support are strong—even in the context of divorced parents.

Possible Concerns:

• Codependency? BAT seems unhealthily dependent on his best friend, Israel.
• Divorce/ New Girlfriend for Dad. When his dad tries to introduce his new girlfriend to BAT & his sister, Janie throws a temper tantrum and won’t have it. You might take a pass if you have similar struggles with divorce, or if your kid might not be well-served seeing an example of a perfectly executed & successful teenage tantrum.

Other than these, I thought it was a sweet story & I have no other major concerns. The photo below illustrates the reading level and tone. See also my review of A Boy Called BAT, which is Book 1 in the series.