Ollie in Between by Jess Callans

Read: August 2025

Rating: 4.5 stars

Format: audiobook

When I first started reading Ollie in Between, it felt like I was eavesdropping on a tween's scattered, internal thoughts. It was a little messy and, at times, hard to follow, but the more I read, the more I was completely drawn in by Ollie's raw honesty. Not since Judy Blume's Margaret has an author so perfectly captured the inner workings of a young mind navigating the complex world of middle school.

Meet Ollie, a twelve-year-old living with their dad and older sister, Lila, after the death of their mom. Ollie finds solace and a way to connect with their mother by sharing their deepest thoughts with a special tree, much like how Margaret had her diary. But middle school brings new challenges, and even Ollie's two best friends are struggling to understand what's going on with them.

In their stream of consciousness, Ollie reveals an inquisitive, curious mind with a deep knowledge of nature, especially mushrooms and fungi. Ollie's reflection that "fungi are way cool, too" is a powerful moment, showing that while some people may "bloom," others have their own unique, beautiful way of growing. Once I adjusted to the book's rhythm, I fell completely in love with Ollie and their journey.

Ollie's story is a powerful exploration of a child questioning their gender and finding themselves. From the awkwardness of receiving a dress they don't want to the struggles with daily life, readers, especially those who may be on a similar journey of self-discovery, will find a friend in Ollie.

Ollie in Between is a book that needed to be written and deserves to be read by every tween and teen. It provides a compassionate look into the challenges of questioning one's identity, offering understanding to some and a sense of belonging to others.

A solid 4.5 stars for Jess Callans' amazing Ollie!