Starred ReviewStarred Review The Color of Sound

“An emotionally moving story about the ways that generational trauma can affect parent-child relationships and how the past persists into the present.”—Horn Book Magazine

“A really nice look at how independence is often hard-fought and can come through unexpected paths. A solid upper middle grade read.”—Teen Librarian’s Toolbox

“This is great for exploring the complex world of neurodivergence, specifically as it relates to synesthesia, a real life fascinating condition that allows people to experience unrelated sensory experiences at the same time. Reviewer Rating: 5”—Children’s Literature

“A moving and pensive read. . .”—Booklist

“Isler crafts an exceptionally honest portrayal of complicated mother-daughter dynamics, and a protagonist whose independence and kindness is a stunning solo. . . a perfect book club pick and a reminder to all that patience and understanding can change lives.”—starred, School Library Journal

“Intricately entwining interpersonal growth with each character’s relationship to their Jewish faith and culture, Isler highlights the role of family history in identity formation through metaphorical time travel. Color-centric imagery rendered in immersive prose translates Rosie’s synesthesia in this salient celebration of family, music, and neurodiversity.”—starred, Publishers Weekly

“The Color of Sound is a valentine to families everywhere. Isler explores multiple intergenerational relationships lovingly and honestly, while keeping a gifted and vulnerable girl firmly at the center. It’s hard to imagine a book that I would want both my parents and my children to read, and yet, here is one.” —John Cho, New York Times bestselling author of Troublemaker

“This beautiful, intergenerational coming-of-age story about families, secrets, and self-discovery will stay with you long after you finish reading it.”—Gail Lerner, author of The Big Dreams of Small Creatures

“A deeply resonant story of finding your own song through the noise of everyone else’s expectations.”—Jimmy Matejek-Morris, author of My Ex-Imaginary Friend and Forsooth

“The Color of Sound is the perfect summer read, sure to become a perennial favorite.”—Joanne Levy, award-winning author of Sorry for Your Loss

“Well-crafted, heartfelt, and affecting.”—Barbara Dee, author of Maybe He Just Likes You and Unstuck

“This tale of connection, family, and generational secrets will tug on your heart as you root for Rosie to find her song and herself.”—Elly Swartz, author of Dear Student

“This bright, brilliant symphony of a story will play on in your head long after you’ve turned the last page.”—Sally J. Pla, author of The Someday Birds