Thanks to a sensory processing disorder, Willa has to work hard to deal with some experiences that don’t bother most people. Willa is afraid to share this with her best friend Ruby, but it turns out Ruby has a private side too—an anxiety disorder. As the soon-to-be stepsisters bond, they get in step to support each other.
Not If I Can Help It
Discuss the Book
Best Part Worst
Part Chapters 1–5
- Important Moment: “Best part worst part” is a game Willa and her mom play together where you take turns sharing the best and worst part of your day.
- Ask and Share: What is “best part worst part”? How do you play? Try playing a round of best part worst part together!
Going After Goals
Chapters 6–10
- Important Moment: Willa is so excited to earn a trampoline by doing things like controlling her energy level. But when a trampoline shows up, it doesn’t feel exciting because she didn’t earn it. She suspects there’s an unpleasant reason her dad is giving her the trampoline early.
- Ask and Share: Why isn’t Willa happy to see the trampoline in her living room, even though she’s been excited about it for weeks? Have you ever worked hard to earn something or reach a goal? How did it feel when you got there?
Get It Over With
Chapters 11–15
- Important Moment: Maureen suggests that maybe Willa’s dad and Ruby’s mom are “ripping of the Band-Aid”—getting everything out in the open quickly so the families can start dealing with it.
- Ask and Share: What does Maureen mean when she says the parents are “ripping of the Band-Aid”? Can you think of times in your life when ripping of the Band-Aid would—and wouldn’t—be helpful?
On the Level
Chapters 16–20
- Important Moment: Ruby’s mom invites Willa to talk before the move. Willa describes how scented soaps are hard for her brain to handle.
- Ask and Share: How is Ruby’s mom being respectful of Willa? If you had the chance to give advice to a room full of adults on how best to relate to kids, what things would you tell them?