About the Book and Author
This story is about a group of school children. The main character is autistic and one of his friends is dyslexic. He is bullied for being different and ends up grouping together to form an alliance with two other neuro diverse children who face their own challenges. The Asparagus Bunch share a common fact in that none is deemed to be a ‘normal’ kid.
This is a book that will make readers laugh and feel sad at times. Hopefully it will help readers to acquire a better understanding of how it feels to be neuro diverse. And readers who are dyslexic or autistic themselves, elements of the character’s experiences may resonate with them…
How marvellous would it be if a generation of readers become more empathetic and celebrate, rather than humiliate, people’s differences?
The Asparagus Bunch is published by Welbeck who have chosen a dyslexia-friendly font.
Jessica Scott-Whyte does not consider herself funny, at all, but writing during the pandemic when everything was so intense and extreme, humour became her last refuge. Neurodiversity is an extremely important presence in her life, so she drew on her own experiences to write this first novel, The Asparagus Bunch.
Originally from Dublin, Jessica Scott-Whyte studied History and French at University and worked as a lifestyle journalist before working in Comms for the Space Sector.
Book Review
I liked Leon's facts about sweets from around the world
Wow, I really didn’t like Leon at first, he just says whatever he wants no matter who it hurts. I found it really interesting to learn that Tourette syndrome is one symptom that some people with Asperger’s have.
Although I didn’t like some of the things he said especially to Tanya and his Mum other parts were very funny, especially when he compared the old ladies to penguins.
I do really like all of Leon’s chocolate and sweet facts though, they were really interesting, especially about the unusual ones from around the world.
My favourite character is Tanya, she seemed really cool. I loved her artwork and how confident she seemed in herself and understanding and embracing her dyslexia.
I felt really sorry for Lawrence and for Caroline, some of the bits of the story about them made me feel really emotional. For example when Lawrence’s bee hives were attacked.
Ryan’s mum says that there were lots of mental health and suicide triggers in the book that led to good conversations. Overall, he really enjoyed it despite the fact that some of the characters and their families had some difficult situations to deal with.
If you would would like to buy a copy of the book we invite you to order it from your local independent book shop.
Or, you can shop on-line and support our Kids Reviews page by sourcing your discounted book via this link
Alternatively, we suggest that you visit your local library and request to borrow a copy from a friendly librarian.
Whichever you choose we hope you enjoy being part of your unique reading community – happy reading everyone!
Reviewer Profile
- Name: Ryan
- Age: 10 years
- Likes: Lego, Dragonball Z and reading
- Dislikes: Being woken up and losing on computer games!
- Favourite Book: Tom Gates: Dog Zombie Rules by Liz Pichon
- Favourite Song: The Final Countdown by Queen
- Favourite Film: Dragonball Z: Super Battle of the Gods
