Ellen Outside the Lines is a middle-grade novel that follows the journey of Ellen Katz, a Jewish and autistic girl, as she navigates a school trip to Barcelona, Spain. Published in 2022, the story delves into Ellen’s experiences with friendship, self-discovery, and embracing her identity.
Ellen thrives on routine and predictability, which provide her with comfort and a sense of control. The trip to Barcelona, however, presents her with unfamiliar situations that challenge her need for structure. Throughout the journey, Ellen grapples with evolving friendships, particularly with her best friend Laurel, and encounters new peers who introduce her to diverse perspectives.
The novel authentically portrays Ellen’s sensory experiences and her methods of coping with sensory overload, such as using noise-cancelling headphones. It also explores her process of understanding her own sexual orientation and gender identity, reflecting the complexities of adolescence.
Author A.J. Sass, who is autistic, draws from personal experiences to create a narrative that resonates with authenticity. The book has been praised for its nuanced representation of autism, LGBTQ+ themes, and Jewish culture. It was recognised as a 2023 Sydney Taylor Book Award Honour Book in the middle-grade category, highlighting its contribution to Jewish children’s literature.
This book is available on Amazon.
(Affiliate link)
“Get Your Free Ebook: NOT BROKEN”