"Forget Me Not" Summary

Introduction

In "Forget Me Not" by Ellie Terry, we are taken on a heartfelt journey of self-discovery and friendship. This middle-grade novel explores the challenges faced by a young girl named Calliope June, who must navigate the complexities of life with Tourette syndrome while dealing with the typical struggles of fitting in at school. The book beautifully captures the importance of empathy, acceptance, and the power of true friendship.

Brief Synopsis

"Forget Me Not" takes place in the small town of Callaway, Idaho. Calliope June, a twelve-year-old girl with Tourette syndrome, has recently moved to Callaway with her mother. She finds it difficult to control her tics, which often lead to embarrassing situations at school. Calliope's only solace comes from writing poetry in her notebook, where she can truly express herself.

Calliope's life takes an unexpected turn when she meets a boy named Jinsong at her new school. Jinsong has recently moved from California and is also struggling to fit in. As they bond over their shared experiences, Calliope and Jinsong develop a deep connection and become close friends.

However, as Calliope's feelings for Jinsong grow stronger, she becomes torn between her desire to be honest about her Tourette syndrome and her fear of scaring him away. With the help of her supportive teacher, Mrs. White, and her mother, Calliope must find the courage to let her true self shine and embrace her differences.

Main Characters

Character Name	Description
Calliope June	A twelve-year-old girl with Tourette syndrome who loves writing poetry. She struggles to fit in at her new school in Callaway but finds solace in her friendship with Jinsong.
Jinsong	A boy who recently moved to Callaway from California. He becomes friends with Calliope and shares his own struggles of fitting in.
Mrs. White	Calliope's compassionate teacher who goes above and beyond to support her and help her navigate the challenges of her condition.
Calliope's mother	A loving and supportive mother who encourages Calliope to embrace her differences and be true to herself.

Summary of Story Points

Chapter 1-5: Adjusting to a New School

• Calliope starts her new school in Callaway and struggles to control her tics.
• She meets Jinsong, who is also new to the school, and they quickly become friends.
• Calliope discovers her love for writing poetry and starts keeping a notebook to express herself.

Chapter 6-10: Growing Friendship

• Calliope and Jinsong spend more time together, sharing their personal stories and struggles.
• Calliope begins to develop stronger feelings for Jinsong but fears revealing her Tourette syndrome.
• Jinsong confides in Calliope about his own difficulties fitting in, creating a bond between them.

Chapter 11-15: Overcoming Fear

• Calliope's tics become more pronounced, leading to embarrassing situations at school.
• Mrs. White, Calliope's teacher, offers guidance and support to help her navigate her condition.
• Calliope's mother encourages her to be honest with Jinsong about her Tourette syndrome.

Chapter 16-20: Embracing Differences

• Calliope gathers the courage to tell Jinsong about her condition.
• Jinsong reacts with understanding and accepts Calliope for who she is.
• Calliope realizes the importance of embracing her differences and being true to herself.

Main Events

1. Calliope and Jinsong meet at their new school in Callaway.
2. Calliope discovers her love for writing poetry.
3. Calliope's tics become more pronounced, leading to embarrassing situations.
4. Calliope confides in Mrs. White about her struggles with Tourette syndrome.
5. Calliope gathers the courage to tell Jinsong about her condition.
6. Jinsong accepts Calliope for who she is, strengthening their friendship.

Themes and Insights

• Acceptance: "Forget Me Not" highlights the importance of accepting others for who they are, despite their differences or challenges. Calliope's journey teaches us that true friendship is built on empathy and understanding.
• Self-Expression: The book emphasizes the power of self-expression through writing and art. Calliope finds solace in her poetry, allowing her to express her true feelings and thoughts.
• Empathy: Through Calliope's experiences, readers gain a deeper understanding of the struggles faced by individuals with Tourette syndrome. The book encourages empathy and compassion towards those dealing with different conditions.

Reader's Takeaway

"Forget Me Not" is a touching and beautifully written novel that teaches important lessons about acceptance, self-expression, and the power of true friendship. Readers will be inspired by Calliope's courage and resilience as she navigates the challenges of Tourette syndrome, and they will come away with a greater understanding and empathy for those with similar conditions.

Conclusion

"Forget Me Not" by Ellie Terry is a must-read for middle-grade readers and anyone who appreciates heartfelt stories of friendship and self-discovery. Through the journey of Calliope June, the book explores themes of acceptance, self-expression, and empathy. This novel is a reminder that our differences should be celebrated and that true friendship knows no boundaries.