Books What to Say Next by Julie Buxbaum (Author)

"What to Say Next" by Julie Buxbaum is a contemporary young adult novel that explores themes of grief, friendship, and social isolation. The story centers on two main characters: Kit Lowell, a relatively popular girl who is struggling to cope with the sudden death of her father, and David Drucker, a socially isolated boy who keeps to himself and has difficulty reading social cues, partly because he is on the autism spectrum.

The novel alternates perspectives between Kit and David, highlighting their distinct voices and challenges. Kit feels misunderstood by her friends and family, especially as she navigates grief alongside racial identity issues, while David uses a notebook to help him process social interactions and trusts few people. Their unlikely friendship begins when Kit sits at David’s lunch table, offering both characters a much-needed connection and perspective.