Finding Perfect Hardcover – 18 October 2016

Twelve-year-old Molly stole my heart from page one of this beautifully-crafted debut middle grade novel. She is sweet and tender and trying so hard to show the world "Perfect Molly". But when her symptoms of OCD begin to increase, she knows she needs help. Elly Swartz has written a fiercely independent character who tries to solve her problems on her own. And Molly is brilliant. But it's not enough. As Molly begins to lean on the people who love her, she realizes that no one is perfect. It is her imperfections that make her wholly perfect.I loved this book for Molly's struggle, but Swartz didn't shy away from examining the effects on all kids in a family that is undergoing the change and trauma inherent in parental separation. From Molly's older teen sister to her lovable waist-high brother, each child deals with the pain of their mother's absence in a unique and believable way. I felt for each of these characters and loved the time I spent with them. This book is a heart-wrencher in the best way. I tore through the pages because Molly was just that lovable. I thoroughly enjoyed every second I spent with Molly and can't wait to read what Swartz writes next!

Molly Nathans is a twelve-year-old girl who loves perfection. Then Molly’s mother breaks their perfect family by leaving to take a job in another city but promises to return in a year. Yet Molly knows promises are sometimes broken, so she comes up with a plan to win a contest thinking her mother will have to return for the award banquet. But as Molly continues to worry about her plan and her family, her anxiety and routines start to take Molly over completely.FINDING PERFECT, by Elly Swartz, is the book I needed to read when I was young. I once was a Molly who thought everything needed to be perfect, but I could not control the worry that came along with it. I kept those feeling locked up inside just like Molly did. I felt I couldn’t let anyone see what was happening, just like Molly did. I knew I could fix it all on my own, just like Molly did. I wonder how many other kids out there feel the same way as Molly did. I hope FINDING PERFECT finds its way into their hands. Thank you, Elly Swartz, for writing such an important book.

Elly Swartz has filled a void for middle grade readers dealing with OCD. They finally have a book to share their story. I'm a fifth grade teacher and I notice so much anxiety & OCD tendencies in my fifth graders striving for perfect. Molly's character is perfect for discussing why students need to find perfect in their lives and offer help and hope. This book is a heart print text for me and Elly Swartz's characters and writing captured the hearts of my Mock Newbery book club readers. We have four copies in my classroom and they are still be circulated and passed around. Students with OCD or anxiety or just struggle to find some order and control in their lives would greatly benefit from Molly's story.Molly's character is realistic & lovable. My heart ached to help Molly throughout her journey. I can't wait to read more books from Elly Swartz in the future! This was a favorite of 2016 and a book that should be in all classroom libraries!

Elly Swartz’s heartfelt MG debut, FINDING PERFECT, charts 12-year-old Molly’s struggle with obsessive-compulsive behavior. Molly’s OCD, which at first she doesn’t realize she has, begins to overtake her life as her counting and organizing compulsions worsen. This creates a rift between Molly and her best friend, Hannah. To complicate matters, Molly’s mom has left the family for a new job in Toronto, causing Molly to feel more alone than ever. A beautifully written and compelling debut. Highly recommended!

What a sweet middle grade debut from Elly Swartz about a lovable 12-year-old named Molly. A great voice and gentle touch about things Molly doesn't quite understand about herself make this a great read for kids. I also loved the authenticity of the friendships at this age. And I'm sure many kids (and grown ups) will relate to Molly's seeming need for perfection, even if it manifests in them in different ways. I know I did. I highly recommend this book for the 8+ year-olds in your life!