Wink

Wink is a realistic fiction novel by Rob Harrell.  The novel is set in the present day and follows a 7th grader, Ross, through his diagnosis and treatment with a rare form of eye cancer.  While the novel is a work of fiction, the events in the book are inspired by the author's personal journey with cancer.  The novel is just over 300 pages long, so it is a bit of a longer read for kids. However, it is also peppered with drawings related to the plot and comics of "Batpig" - the comic strip the main character draws.  

Ross is diagnosed with a rare form of cancer in 7th grade that affects his right eye.  His family is no stranger to cancer - Ross lost his mother to cancer just before he turned 5.  Now this diagnosis flips his world upside down, as well as his father and stepmother's. Ross's daily routines now include a visit to the proton center for radiation, putting goop in his eye, wearing a hat to protect him from any other unnecessary radiation, and just getting through middle school one day at a time.  The only thing holding Ross together is his best friend, Abby.  As if daily attempts to save his vision were not enough to contend with, memes start floating around the school making fun of Ross's condition. Suddenly, everyone is a suspect: Jimmy, the over-sized bully that sits across from him in English class, Isaac, who used to be best friends with Ross and Abby until the diagnosis and then mysteriously disappeared, or any other kid at his middle school that doesn't understand what Ross is going through daily.  Ross and Abby are determined to find the person creating the terrible memes and texting them to everyone in the school, as each meme is worse than the last.  But Ross finds a friend in the most unexpected place: the treatment center.  It is Frank, the technician for his radiation treatment, that helps Ross discover that he is not only a talented artist like his mom, but also has a passion for music.  Together with Abby and Frank's help, Ross learns how to navigate even the hardest challenges life has to offer.  

Wink is a fabulous read, especially for middle school readers.  The novel will make you laugh, it will make you tear up, it will surprise you, it will make you frustrated - perfect for middle schoolers.  Ross is such a relatable kid who wants nothing more than to be normal and blend in with his surroundings - as so many middle school kids do - but his illness will not allow for that. There is some crude humor and some other medical information that makes this better suited for middle readers, so I wouldn't recommend this for readers younger than 5th grade.  Both girls and guys will enjoy this novel and the humor and lighthearted style that Rob Harrell brings to this serious situation.  I love this book (and any book) that sheds a spotlight on a personal or medical situation that allows a reader to learn more about the situation and allows a reader to build empathy for others struggling through similar situations.  One thing I loved most about this book is the lessons in the value of friendship.  Ross learns that friendships come in all shapes and ages and sizes.  Friendships can't be predicted and pop up (and disappear) when least expected.  Friendships can blossom from the most random connections, including cancer and music.  I strongly recommend Wink if you are looking for your next realistic fiction read!