Quit It

Quit It

Cover of the book Quit It

Quit It is a children's novel written by Marcia Byalick, first published in 2002. The book is notable for its sensitive portrayal of a young girl dealing with Tourette syndrome, a neurological disorder characterized by involuntary tics and vocalizations. The novel is aimed at middle-grade readers and addresses themes of acceptance, understanding, and self-discovery.

Plot Summary

The story follows Carrie, an eleven-year-old girl who has recently been diagnosed with Tourette syndrome. The novel begins with Carrie experiencing her first tics, which include blinking and throat clearing. As the tics become more pronounced, Carrie faces challenges both at home and at school. Her classmates do not understand her condition, leading to feelings of isolation and embarrassment.

Carrie's journey is one of self-acceptance and resilience. With the support of her family, particularly her mother, and a sympathetic teacher, Carrie learns to navigate the social challenges posed by her condition. The novel explores how Carrie educates her peers about Tourette syndrome, helping them to understand that her tics are not something she can control.

Themes

Quit It addresses several important themes:

• Acceptance: The novel emphasizes the importance of accepting oneself and others, regardless of differences. Carrie's journey is one of learning to accept her condition and helping others to do the same.

• Understanding: By educating her classmates about Tourette syndrome, Carrie fosters a sense of understanding and empathy among her peers.

• Resilience: Despite the challenges she faces, Carrie demonstrates resilience and determination, refusing to let her condition define her.

Characters

• Carrie: The protagonist, an eleven-year-old girl with Tourette syndrome. Her character is portrayed with depth and sensitivity, highlighting her struggles and triumphs.

• Carrie's Mother: A supportive figure who helps Carrie navigate her diagnosis and encourages her to educate others about her condition.

• Mr. Frank: Carrie's teacher, who plays a crucial role in fostering an inclusive environment in the classroom.

Reception

Quit It has been praised for its realistic portrayal of a child living with Tourette syndrome. Critics have noted the book's ability to educate young readers about the condition while providing an engaging and relatable story. The novel is often recommended for classroom discussions on diversity and inclusion.

Related Pages

• Tourette syndrome
• Children's literature
• Neurological disorders