Quirky and whimsical and suprisingly emotional. I think children, especially neurodiverse children, will relate to main character Kabir's struggles at school and at home — the feelings of being misunderstood and isolated because no one sees the world in quite the same way as you. We really enjoyed the short chapters, playfully named, each with a standalone focus. Seeing the world through Kabir's eyes was a delight to read, as well as meeting the large and eccentric cast of supporting characters throughout the book and watching their grief and regret manifest and morph into understanding and acceptance. The subject matter in the middle of the book might be a bit mature for younger children, specifically talks of murder and murderers. However, yes, the story does have a happy — and profound — ending. 4.5/5 stars

⭐⭐⭐⭐ 1/2

Thanks to NetGalley for this ARC!

Thank you to NetGalley, the publisher and author for this ARC.

This book is lovely. It is a celebration of using one’s imagination and creativity.

This book is so special, especially for those with ADHD, and other diagnoses that may sometimes make the child feel alienated.

My niece and nephew loved it as well. Will be purchasing!

What a delightful book about a young boy whose neurodivergence gets him in trouble--an incredibly resonating experience for kids with ADHD--but at the end it becomes the very thing that saves him.

Flyaway Boy has a little bit of mystery, family dynamics many people will recognize themselves in, inter-generational friendships, and a phenomenal cast of characters that one instantly falls in love with and knows deeply. There's such magic and whimsy in this book, sprinkled throughout, that I can't help but think of as truly imaginative, even if that seems redundant for a kids book.

I must admit it took me a few tries to get into the book, but as soon as I did, the pace was fast and exciting. Perfect for a kid who might see themselves as the Flyaway Boy. I was rushing to read to see WHAT HAPPENS? The ending is brilliant, just so profound.

The book nestled deep in my soul as a parent of a young child with ADHD and a person with it and I rushed to buy a copy because this will be a book that we are going to read many times.