The Miscalculations of Lightning Girl

by Stacy McAnulty

Pub Date: May 1st, 2018

Lucy is a 12-year old girl and total math wiz—more like a literal genius. After she was struck by lightning, she acquired savant syndrome—a phenomenon where people take on amazing abilities and talents they did not have prior to a life-altering incident. For Lucy, it's an exceptional ability at math. She also has OCD, and while she's gotten by fine—restricting interactions have been easy since she's been homeschooled— her Nana now enrols her into middle school. Math is easy, but people are a whole different story. When a school project brings her closer to a pair of classmates, their budding friendship and mission to rescue animals will require Lucy to use her math genius, and face her greatest fears.

This is a fascinating tale rooted in in-depth research by the author. There was such ease to Lucy's voice, and I felt like I was really peering into the anxious mind of a middle-grader. I would have liked to know who and how Lucy was before her lightning strike. However, this a story about exceptionalism, which seems to be big in kid's lit following the huge success of Wonder. This is a perfect read for anyone looking for some great STEM books. Lucy is unapologetic about her genius, and uses it for a good cause. Animals, math, friendship and school: this a perfect summer read.