Millington, Allie. Olivetti. Macmillan/Feiwel & Friends, 03/2024. 246[+3]pp. Fiction. Trade $17.99. 978-1-250-32693-5. GRADES 4–7. HIGH ADDITIONAL.
Olivetti Brindle, a vintage typewriter, will go to any length to keep his beloved family together, even if that means breaking the only rule of all typewriters: to never type back. With strong alternating POVs, Olivetti’s witty dialog appears as inky typewriter font, visually distinguishing it from his secret communication with Ernest Brindle, the family’s twelve-year-old middle child who is written with neurodivergent characteristics. The Brindles are depicted as a warm yet chaotic family recovering from an unnamed “past event.” There is no content build-up or warning, potentially leaving readers unprepared to handle difficult topics that are addressed mid-way through the compact novel, including cancer and suicidal ideation. Younger readers who can handle the surprise reveal may appreciate the book’s friendly and at times comical tone, as well as the warm and fuzzy ending.
Brianna Arellano-Meli—Oakland Public Library