Marcelo in the Real World

Marcelo in the Real World by Francisco X. Stork
Teen Zone Fiction - Main Level - Stork

Marcelo Sandoval is a seventeen year old boy. He is high-functioning on the autistic spectrum, similar to Asperger's Syndrome. He goes to a special school where they keep horses, and Marcelo plans to spend his summer working as Stable Boy. His father has other plans.

Marcelo's father, Arturo, wants Marcelo to spend the summer working in his law firm. He wants Marcelo to experience the "real world," away from other autistic kids and with other "normal" working adults. He also wants Marcelo to finish high school in the public school system. Marcelo feels comfortable at his special school, though, and the thought of attending public school puts fear into his heart. The deal is that if Marcelo successfully finishes a summer working at the law firm, Arturo will let him decide where he finishes high school.

This is a great story. Marcelo's thought process and the way he approaches problems is interesting and at times even funny. What an interesting look into the mind of a highly intelligent, unique, young man! Marcelo's understanding - and misunderstanding - of people and situations will keep you turning pages in this quick read. Highly recommended!