"A heartbreaking but really beautiful story about autism and finding your place in the world."

"Sally J. Pla is one of my favorite authors. The way she approaches challenging topics in an appropriate way for middle grade readers is spot on. The Fire, the Water an Maudie McGinn was no different. Maudie has A LOT to deal with; her own self, her Mom, her stepdad, her current living situation and more all while trying to figure out who she is, why she is important and how she fits in to crazy middle school.
I absolutely loved the journey Maudie went on. I cried. I cringed. I laughed. I smiled. It was a sad/happy book and I highly recommend it to readers!"

"This beautifully written book is so moving � there were two moments in it that literally brought tears to my eyes. Although the main character, Maudie, is neurodivergent, you don’t need to know someone or love someone who is neurodivergent to love Maudie, relate to her, and root for her all the way. There is so much wisdom in the pages of this book � some imparted from Etta, Maudie’s surfing mentor who teaches her not only about surfing, but about life, and some that comes from Maudie herself as she learns to navigate her very changed world, and to stand up for herself and to ride, with skill and grace, all the waves that come her way.
"