We Are All Made of Molecules by Susin Nielsen

A nerd and a fashionista become step-siblings.  All the implied hilarity does occur, along with some incredibly heartwarming moments in learning what family really means.

Stewart is likely on the Spectrum, perhaps an Aspie.  He admits to be an intellectual genius but way below on social skills.  He's a list maker and a tinkerer.  Stewart and his Dad Len are on their own after the death of his mother from cancer.

Ashley is on the top of the social ladder.  She is Queen Bee at her local school.  Ashley and her mother Caroline are shocked when her father Phil comes out as gay.  To help him get on his feet, Caroline allows him to move into their laneway house (a smaller home on their property).  He has started dating.  Although she doesn't care, she is afraid a homophobic friend will discover the truth.

Caroline and Len had been long time friends when they find themselves single and alone.  One thing leads to another and suddenly Stewart finds himself moving in the Caroline and Ashley.  He's happy to have a sister.  Ashley doesn't feel the same way.

I have to admit I hated Ashley at first.  She was mean, cold hearted, and stuck up.  I know this is intentional on the author's part, making her a stereotypical airhead with a pissy attitude.  Her boyfriend Jared I hated even more.

There are multiple lessons within the story, about friendship, family, acceptance, and reputation.

I am happy to say it's on the wish list.

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