A middle-grade adventure novel following autistic protagonist Paige as she discovers a chip implanted in her brain without consent, leading her to uncover a sinister plot by a tech company to control minds and sell private data, prompting her to unite with other kids in the study to thwart the merger and reclaim their autonomy. The story delves into themes of consent, privacy, neurodiversity, and friendship, offering a compelling narrative with diverse representation and a timely exploration of ethical dilemmas in the digital age.

"Paige Not Found" by Jen Wilde is a captivating middle-grade novel that tackles important themes of consent, privacy, and neurodiversity in an increasingly digital age. This #ownvoices story follows Paige, a 12-year-old autistic and queer protagonist, as she navigates a world turned upside down after discovering her parents enrolled her in a study that implanted a chip in her brain without her knowledge or consent.

One of the book's greatest strengths lies in its authentic and positive representation of autism. As an autistic author, Wilde brings a unique perspective and sensitivity to Paige's character, creating a relatable and empowering figure for neurodiverse readers. The story expertly portrays Paige's experiences, from stimming to meltdowns, while also highlighting her strengths, determination, and the joy she finds in her identity.

The central conflict revolves around Paige's fight against Nucleus Nanotech, the company responsible for the brain implant, and their impending merger with a social media giant known for selling user data. This timely plotline raises essential questions about bodily autonomy, privacy, and the potential misuse of technology. Wilde crafts an engaging and thought-provoking adventure as Paige and her friends work together to stop the merger and reclaim control over their minds and personal information.

The story's secondary plot focuses on Paige's evolving relationships, particularly with her best friend Mara. Wilde sensitively explores the complexities of middle-grade friendships, as Paige learns to navigate new group dynamics and the fear of losing her closest confidant. Additionally, the book tenderly portrays Paige's journey of self-discovery as she comes out to her parents and grapples with her nonbinary identity, providing much-needed representation for queer and gender-diverse readers.

While some readers might find the premise of children taking on a powerful corporation a bit far-fetched, Wilde grounds the story in realistic emotions and challenges faced by the characters. The book's conclusion is satisfying, with Paige and her friends making a meaningful impact and the adults in their lives stepping up to support them.

"Paige Not Found" is a compelling and timely novel that empowers readers to embrace their unique identities and advocate for their rights in an increasingly connected world. With its authentic representation, engaging plot, and important themes, this book is a must-read for middle-grade readers and beyond. Jen Wilde has created a powerful story that celebrates neurodiversity, queer identity, and the unbreakable bonds of friendship.