The Science of Breakable Things by Tae Keller is a heartwarming, coming-of-age novel that explores love, friendship, loss, and the complexities of family dynamics. The story follows the journey of a 7th-grader, Natalie, who is frustrated and confused about her mother's depression. Her mother's condition has caused a rift between her parents, leaving Natalie feeling lost and helpless.

As a science enthusiast, Natalie decides to enter an egg-drop competition and use the prize money to buy an elusive African grey parrot that she hopes will help alleviate her mother's depression. Along with her two best friends, Dari and Twig, Natalie embarks on a scientific adventure that teaches her valuable lessons about hope, perseverance, and the true meaning of family.

Throughout the book, Tae Keller expertly balances the themes of science and emotions, allowing readers to connect with the characters on a deeper level. The characters are well-developed and portray the complex, nuanced emotions of young adults. As Natalie navigates through the ups and downs of the competition, she learns that sometimes, the hardest part of science is understanding the human heart.

The Science of Breakable Things is a beautifully written coming-of-age story that is full of humor, heart, and hope. It tackles themes that are relevant to both young and old; depression, hope, loss, and love. Tae Keller's writing is engaging, and her storytelling is immersive, capturing the reader's attention from the first page to the last.

In conclusion, The Science of Breakable Things is more than just a story about science; it's a story about the complexities of human emotion and the power of hope. It's a must-read for anyone who has ever struggled with difficult emotions or has been touched by the impact of mental illness on families. Tae Keller has created a masterpiece, and this book will undoubtedly stay with readers long after they've finished it.