2020, Juvenile Fiction
WISE Score
A middle schooler navigates the sudden appearance of white spots on her skin and the loss of her grandmother through a journal that might just be writing back.
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If your kid liked Wonder, this is an essential follow-up. It's a deeply empathetic look at vitiligo and grief that doesn't talk down to its audience.
While it deals with the 'heavy stuff'—death, bullying, and medical stress—it does so with a dash of magical realism that keeps the pages turning. It’s the kind of book that builds a kid's emotional vocabulary without feeling like a lecture.
Perfect for the 8-12 crowd. It hits that sweet spot where kids are starting to worry about their appearance and social standing but still want a little bit of magic in their stories.
It tackles heavy emotional territory—grief and a chronic skin condition—with a grounded, healthy perspective. The focus on multigenerational connection and self-acceptance is top-tier.
The inclusion of magical realism through a journal that 'writes back' elevates this from a standard medical-issue novel to something more curious and wonder-filled.
As a middle-grade novel, it is exceptionally safe. The primary 'danger' is emotional weight and some realistic school bullying, which are handled with care.
Excellent for building empathy regarding vitiligo and visible differences. It provides a roadmap for kids navigating grief and the shifting identity that comes with middle school.
There's a specific sub-genre of middle-grade fiction that parents often call 'sad books,' but that educators call 'empathy builders.' How to Disappear Completely sits right in the center of this, alongside titles like Wonder or Out of My Mind. What makes Ali Standish's 2020 novel stand out is the specific focus on vitiligo, a condition that is often misunderstood by kids as being contagious or 'weird.'
Emma’s journey isn't just about her skin; it's about the void left by her grandmother. The 'magic' in the book—the journal that seems to respond to her—is a brilliant narrative device. It allows Emma (and the reader) to process internal thoughts in a way that feels active rather than just moping. It’s a great choice for a kid who prefers character-driven stories over high-octane action.
This is a fantastic 'read-together' book if you have a child who is particularly anxious about school or their physical appearance. It opens the door to talking about stress-induced conditions and the fact that everyone is carrying something invisible. If your kid is a 'sensitive soul,' they’ll feel seen by Emma. If they’re more of a 'tough kid,' it’s a gentle way to show them what their peers might be going through behind the scenes.
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