This Is Not the Abby Show

by Debbie Reed Fischer

Fans of Joey Pigza, Meg Cabot, and Because of Mr. Terupt will root for hilarious, one-of-a-kind Abby as she navigates ADHD, middle school, family, and friendships.
 
Abby was born for the spotlight. Now it’s her time to shine!
 
Abby is twice exceptional—she is gifted in math and science, and she has ADHD. Normally, she has everything pretty-much-sorta-kinda under control. But when Abby makes one HUGE mistake that leads to “The Night That Ruined My Life,” or “TNTRML,” she lands in summer school.
     Abby thinks the other summer school kids are going to be total weirdos. And what with her parents’ new rules, plus all the fuss over her brother’s bar mitzvah, her life is turning into a complete disaster.
     But as Abby learns to communicate better and finds friends who love her for who she is, she discovers that her biggest weaknesses could be her greatest assets.
     Hilarious and heartwarming, This Is Not the Abby Show is for everyone who knows that standing out is way more fun than blending in.

Genres: Middle Grade, Realistic Fiction, Adhd, Humor, Fiction, Disability, Mental Health

320 pages, Kindle Edition

First published January 1, 2016

About the author

Debbie Reed Fischer is the award-winning author of novels for teens and tweens. Her latest middle grade novel This is not the Abby Show (Random House/ Delacorte) won the Royal Palm Literary Award, and was twice honored as a PJ Library selection in 2017 and 2020. Abby Show has been compared to Jack Gantos’s Joey Pigza series (Publisher’s Weekly), as well as Jeff Kinney’s Diary of a Wimpy Kid and Renee Russell’s The Dork Diaries series (Booklist). Kveller.com selected Abby Show for its Beyond Judy Blume: Must-Reads for Jewish Girls list. Debbie has been teaching writing workshops as well as speaking on author panels, at schools and literary conferences for many years. In addition to writing novels, Debbie has contributed to anthologies, non-fiction books, magazines, newspapers, and TV scripts. A graduate of the University of Miami, Debbie has a degree in Screenwriting and worked for many years as an agent for film and TV, then as a middle and high school English teacher before achieving her dream of becoming an author. Her short story This is What I'll Tell You, will be in the forthcoming anthology Coming of Age, published by Whitman, set for release in March 2022, with a portion of the proceeds donated to organizations fighting antisemitism. www.debbiereedfischer.com

Reviews

[Medeia Sharif · Rating 5 out of 5]

Abby has ADHD and cannot help being the center of attention, despite getting into trouble for it. She is intelligent and talented, with a good heart. She's a character to root for in this funny and insightful middle grade novel.

[Mickey · Rating 5 out of 5]

Middle grade books are something I rarely read, but this one's terrific for all ages. In this first person, present tense account, Abby tells us why she gets all the attention--at home, in school, wherever she goes. You know the annoying kid who disrupts classes, distracts in restaurants, and is always making a scene? That's Abby. But when you read this hilarious and heartfelt story from HER point of view, you'll understand how ADHD can influence a person's behavior. I tend not to root for the person who takes up all the airtime, but I was on Abby's side from the first page.

Great book for kids, parents and teachers, This Is Not the Abby Show is a fun read that provides much information for discussion.

[Sarah · Rating 4 out of 5]

Based on the title I was expecting some sort of Disney Show book, rather dull and all too rosy. Fortunately, I was pleasantly surprised to discover Fischer's novel contains some valuable lessons. Not having ADHD myself I have been a bit of a disbeliever. I do believe there is such a condition, albeit over diagnosed, but I had no idea the enormous impact it can have on a young student's life. This heart-filled novel does an excellent job of depicting life through the lens of a twelve-year-old struggling to succeed in school and pursue her goal of becoming a comedic actress. The book also deals with making new friends and an innocent first romance.

[Micki U · Rating 5 out of 5]

This definitely IS the Abby show. Abby is a middle schooler struggling with her ADHD. She longs to be able to control her impulses and her off the cuff comedy.

Through the support of her family, the teacher every kid deserves, and her own "Breakfast Club," Abby learns more about herself during summer school than the content.

I have to admit I am a chapter title junky. This book does not disappoint with its comedic one-liners!

This is Not the Abby Show is heartwarming and endearing!

[Joyce Sweeney · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a sparkling, bubbly, very funny novel about Abby, whose ADHD is both a blessing and a curse. Debbie Reed Fischer has a voice that makes Abby come to life and will keep the reader in stitches as this budding 'star' and comedienne learns when to pop off, speak out, speak up and shine...and when to 'filter'. A great novel about finding yourself, finding your tribe and being the star of your own life.

[Jeri Silfies · Rating 4 out of 5]

I wish I had read this book many years ago. It would have made me a better teacher, a more compassionate human being and more self aware. Abby opens a window into the reality of living with ADHD. Everyone who deals with children and youth should read a book like this. Thank you, Debbie Reed Fischer!

[Bethe · Rating 4 out of 5]

Bookaday #80. Hilarious & honest & heartfelt, Abby's summer vacation through her ADHD eyes. Resources at the end.

[Ivy Desjardin · Rating 5 out of 5]

Good for kids with ADHD.

I like the honesty used about this family and student dealing with ADHD. It may be uncomfortable to hear how negative everyone is but that's the reality that must be confronted. It shows that you need understanding and acceptance but also personal responsibility. Good for kids and families to read.

[Leslie Barberie Blount · Rating 4 out of 5]

My son has ADHD, so I read this book to try to understand him better. I think it is and entertaining book and we are rooting for Abby all the way as she struggles to do well in school and follow the rules.

[Kelly · Rating 5 out of 5]

Count me in as another fan of this author. Abby is hilarious, endearing and perfectly flawed. Fischer isn’t out to explain, fix, or demonize ADHD; she’s out to help kids (of all ages) with this issue shine. Abby’s finding her self confidence will resonate with the middle-grade demographic. Looking forward to more from Debbie.
So pick up your laptop, lady, and let’s get moving!

[Sharon Tyler · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is Not the Abby Show by Debbie Reed Fischer is a charming middle grade novel. Abby is twice exceptional—she is gifted in math and science, and she has ADHD. Normally, she has everything pretty-much-sorta-kinda under control. But when Abby makes one HUGE mistake that leads to “The Night That Ruined My Life" and lands in summer school. Abby thinks the other summer school kids are going to be total weirdos. And what with her parents’ new rules, plus all the fuss over her brother’s bar mitzvah, her life is turning into a complete disaster. But as Abby learns to communicate better and finds friends who love her for who she is, she discovers that her biggest weaknesses could be her greatest assets.

This is Not the Abby Show is a wonderful coming of age story about a young girl that just happens to have ADHD. She faces the family trouble and social conflicts that most children do, along with the self doubt and struggles. However, she has the added challenge of ADHD. It does not define her, but it is a part of her. I loved her personality and how hard she works to be a good person, and the best Abby she could be. I found the book to be heart warming and relatable- and I think that anyone that feels like an outsider will relate to the story as well. Young readers with ADHD might see something of themselves in Abby, but like the book points out every person, regardless of diagnosis, is different. The secondary characters felt just as real as Abby. I thought all of the situations, conflicts, and resolutions were very realistic and well done. It stayed with me long after I finished the book.

This is Not the Abby Show is a realistic, heart warming story about a girl finding her talents and forging new friendships while facing the daily struggles of ADHD. I think this is a great read for those facing similar challenges and for those that love someone facing them. I thought the authors notes afterward were also particularly helpful for adults that want to help and understand.

[Barbara · Rating 3 out of 5]

Middle grader Abby Green dreams of starring in her own show, and often she uses her clever way with words and her antics to keep her classmates in stitches. But many students with ADHD, she can go too far and get out of control. Although she is gifted in math and science, she struggles in her English class, partly because of the constant battle for control of the classroom between her and the teacher, Mr. Finsecker. When she ends up having to attend summer school and is grounded, Abby is devastated because she won't be able to attend drama camp with her best friend Caitlin. As it turns out, summer school introduces her to another English teacher, Tony, who patiently helps her channel her positive energy and creativity to a better direction, as well as three classmates she had dismissed previously--Trina, Max, and Amy. With their support and advice from her new doctor, Dr. Catalano, Abby starts to learn how to think before speaking and hurting others, and she grows increasingly confident about her own identity. The book tackles some tough issues, including family dynamics and the fine line between humor and cruelty in an honest fashion. I can't think of many other books that deal with someone with a double exceptionality, and this one handles that topic quite well. Abby herself is irresistible, partly because she tries so hard to do the right thing, but her mouth often moves faster than her self-censor can. Naturally, even without its references to the classic Molly Ringwald film, "The Breakfast Club," it brings to mind the relationship that grew between those unlikely teens as well. This one raises a lot of questions about friendship since Abby often feels undercut by her friend Caitlin as well as different parenting styles.

[Tori Kelley · Rating 5 out of 5]

It was such a pleasure to read Debbie Reed Fischer’s newest book, THIS IS NOT THE ABBY SHOW. Fischer’s comedic timing is pitch perfect as well as portraying the life of a kid with ADHD. I laughed out loud with Abby and felt her frustration, too. I also found her family highly relatable. Fischer tackles real issues such as the systemic effect a child with a mental illness has on the entire family and her surrounding community. I cheered Abby along as she learned to increase her awareness and empathy and in doing so, improved her relationships with friends and family. The characters are drawn from real-life, at least that is how they feel, just a group of imperfect folks all trying their best. All the characters’ motivations were well thought out and believable. As a psychologist who has treated children with ADHD, I found the book useful therapeutically for families and patients, as well as highly entertaining. And who doesn’t love an intimate peek at another culture? Abby’s family is Jewish and I was fascinated to learn how Abby’s brother’s Bar Mitzvah effected family dynamics.

Bottom line: This is a Must Read book for any family with a child struggling with ADHD and by far the most fun you will have learning about the very real disorder.

[Cindy Mitchell *Kiss the Book* · Rating 4 out of 5]

Fischer, Debbie Reed This is NOT the Abby Show, 311 pgs. Random House (Penguin) 2016. $16.99. Language: G ( 0 swears, 0 “f”); Mature Content: PG ; Violence: G.

12-year-old Amy is gifted in math and science, but she also has ADHD, so she is impulsive and often does/says things she instantly regrets. She is in so much trouble with her Language Arts teacher, she has been suspended until the end of the year and has failed the class. Now, instead of going to theater camp, Abby is stuck in summer school. But the new teacher seems to know how to work with her, plus, for the first time since she can remember, she has a group of friends. Maybe Abby can finally pull herself together and stop getting in trouble all the time.

Reminiscent of the Joey Pigza books, you don’t see a girl with this kind of ADHD very often. It’s humorous and full of heart. Abby is genuine and sweet, she is surrounded by both caring people and people who do not understand her. A good example of what may be going on in the life of a child struggling with ADHD.

EL - ADVISABLE Lisa Librarian
http://kissthebook.blogspot.com/2016/...

[Lisa · Rating 4 out of 5]

12-year-old Amy is gifted in math and science, but she also has ADHD, so she is impulsive and often does/says things she instantly regrets. She is in so much trouble with her Language Arts teacher, she has been suspended until the end of the year and has failed the class. Now, instead of going to theater camp, Abby is stuck in summer school. But the new teacher seems to know how to work with her, plus, for the first time since she can remember, she has a group of friends. Maybe Abby can finally pull herself together and stop getting in trouble all the time.

Reminiscent of the Joey Pigza books, you don’t see a girl with this kind of ADHD very often. It’s humorous and full of heart. Abby is genuine and sweet, she is surrounded by both caring people and people who do not understand her. A good example of what may be going on in the life of a child struggling with ADHD.

Cross posted to http://kissthebook.blogspot.com CHECK IT OUT!

[Mindy Alyse Weiss · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love, love, LOVE This Is Not the Abby Show! It's truly an amazing book. The plot is great and the characters are so fleshed out. I laughed my way through it yet felt Abby's pain at constantly having to apologize and being misunderstood even though she tried hard to change. Plus, it really gave me a feel of what having ADHD can be like (and that there are several different kinds of ADHD). Not only will kids with ADHD love this book, but I'm sure that teachers/librarians/parents will love sharing it with their kids, so they'll have a better understanding of what some of their peers go through.

This book also showed that some teachers and parents definitely need this insight, too. Mr. Finsecker was an awful teacher who never understood Abby or any child who wasn't 'easy'. I hope the Mr. Finsecker's of the world read this book and treat their students better because of it.

[Kerry Cerra · Rating 5 out of 5]

I am notoriously tough when it comes to judging a book for its humor content, but I can honestly say I laughed my way through most of this one. Prior to reading THIS IS NOT THE ABBY SHOW, I had little knowledge of ADD/ADHD other than the negative stigma that is so often attached to the diagnosis. I’m grateful that this book allowed me inside Abby’s head to truly experience her thoughts, her desperate desire to control her impulses, but mostly witness her hope to be accepted for who she is despite all of those things. Every single character touched my heart, yet I was especially fond of Abby’s circle of new friends—each phenomenally unique and warm. The world is better for having this book to offer, and I applaud Debbie Reed Fischer for tackling this subject, not only from a female point-of-view, but also in a way that will impact readers for generations. Get ready to laugh, you guys!

[Melissa · Rating 5 out of 5]

Summer school: the ultimate nightmare or a personal game changer? That’s the question 12-year-old Abby Green grapples with when a prank gone wrong (aka “The Night That Ruined My Life”) lands the wannabe actress in the summer-school clink. Worse still? Her best friend, Caitlin, gets to go to Star Lake drama camp while STEM-loving Abby, who struggles with English and has ADHD, is forced to study Shakespeare with a crew of Breakfast Club-worthy misfits. No wonder Abby hates her life. But a funny thing happens on the way to the SMART board. Abby finds the support and encouragement she needs from Tony, her understanding teacher, and the kids she labeled “misfits” turn out to be kinder and less judgmental than her so-called best friend. This pitch-perfect middle-grade novel will tickle your funny bone and tug at your heart. A true delight!

[Julie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved this funny, heart-warming book (and learned a thing or two about ADHD!) Definitely a book to share with kids, teachers, and parents who may be facing these kinds of challenges :)

[Julie · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was a refreshing read for me because it was funny and informative, all at the same time! I actually had a friend who, years ago, had a daughter with similar issues in school. Poor thing was bounced all over the place because teachers and administrators didn’t understand her or her needs. This author has shed light on an important topic that for years was overlooked. What’s worse than not being understood? Being MISunderstood. “This is Not the Abby Show” will help parents, teachers, administrators – even family members – gain insight regarding the struggles of ADHD and ways to help kids cope both in school and at home.

[Karla]

Abby is strong, smart, and funny. She also has ADHD. Throughout the story, she learns a great deal about how to live with her condition and even make the most of it. I feel especially connected to this story because my own middle grade novel, MEENA MEETS HER MATCH, is about a scrappy, imaginative girl who is facing a new diagnosis of epilepsy. There is a high incidence of ADHD among kids with a history of seizures. Abby's present is, in all likelihood, Meena's future. I'm glad to see Abby face her challenges with so much courage, resilience, and humor!

[Liza Tabita · Rating 5 out of 5]

As a teacher I read about ADHD students and how teacher and parents struggle with a child that has ADHD, but I never wonder how a child's life looks like when he has ADHD. Teenage years are hard enough without ADHD. This book opened my eyes.
Abby is a great child that has a lot on her plate. Even so she improves, she is willing to get over her problems and be a better person! And that is what life is all about! Get better, do better!

[Laurie]

Abby is a funny, self-aware, and endearing main character, and this is an entertaining story about the summer she spends in summer school instead of at drama camp, after her impulsiveness and attentional challenges get her in big trouble. Abby is a fun character to root for, and her growth is satisfying to watch. Fischer also offers an informative author's note about ADHD. A great choice for younger middle school readers who enjoy funny, character-driven books.

[Mia Del · Rating 5 out of 5]

Was very exciting!!! I hung on every word!! I give this book 5 stars.

[Shannon Hitchcock · Rating 5 out of 5]

I adored this book! Sometimes issues books, (Abby has ADHD), are not much fun to read, but THIS IS NOT THE ABBY SHOW is the opposite of that. Sure, Abby struggles, but there's a generous dose of humor to combat Abby's many problems. I think kids will enjoy this book and learn a lot about kids coping with ADHD in the process.

[Kim Clement · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was hilarious! Just plain fun to read. I grew up with ADHD and I felt she captured the trauma and shame of ADHD very well. I also liked the theme of picking good friends. Also, I just like authors who treat writing as an art. While the book was light and fun, I felt the author put real heart into this story. Thanks Debbie Reed Fischer!

[Abby Cooper · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved this book! The voice is so very wonderfully MG. Abby is a great character, and I love how the book explores and discusses the many different symptoms of ADHD. Kids will love it, but I think it should be a must-read for teachers, too.

[Jonathan Rosen · Rating 5 out of 5]

I'm a huge fan of this author and loved this book. I appreciate humor in a story and this book was very funny throughout, but also made me learn things about kids with ADHD without preaching. It was a quick read, in the fact that I didn't put it down. I highly recommend.

[Marcy · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is GREAT: entertaining, heart-breaking and heart-warming all at the same time. As a parent of a child (named Abby) with ADHD, it really illuminated some of what goes on in my Abby's brain. Thank you Debbie Reed Fischer for such a great, informative, enjoyable read.

[alyssa · Rating 5 out of 5]

Review to comeeeeeee