Waiting for Fitz

"The witty literary sophisticate narrates a poignant, at times tragic, tale of the emotional pain some kids endure, none more so than eventual soul mate Fitz. Savvy readers will be intrigued with Addie’s Holden Caulfield–esque persona and use of absurdist drama to figure out her own life. All readers will respond to Hyde’s fully authentic characters and compassionate portrayal of kids in pain." —Booklist

"Innocent romance sparks for the two, their shared passion for literature kindling their companionship. When the truth of Fitz’s past is revealed to Addie, she is forced to take a painful look at their relationship and her own future. An accurate, honest rendering of teenage mental illness. Fans of John Green and Jennifer Niven will enjoy this realistic portrayal of some heavy subject matter." -School Library Journal

"While seeking treatment for mental illness in a psychiatric ward, a teen contemplates the meaning of life. Although her first-person account describes how her OCD manifests and some of her treatment plan, the focus is on her relationship with fellow patient Fitz, who suffers auditory hallucinations. Issues with Fitz and the play converge as the two find fun with puns and other wordplay and notice how people are always acting and wearing masks, both on- and offstage. This complex story of merging metaphors and symbolism is for sophisticated readers who prefer reflection to adventure. Debut novelist Hyde offsets the painful realities of mental illness with gentle surprises and such humor as Fitz's naming his hallucinations after popular country singers. Thoughtful and thought-provoking."—Kirkus