When the Extraordinary Bursts In

A heartwarming and illuminating novel about the unlikely, yet unbreakable friendship between a high school bully and a boy with Down syndrome

A riddle doesn't make sense the first time you hear it. Neither does the friendship between Dane and Billy D.: what do a high school bully and a boy with Down syndrome have in common? In Billy and Dane's case, they have the same problem: Dane doesn't know who his father is, and Billy is determined to be reunited with his. Their friendship might lead them to discover the truth... but what will they discover about themselves?

Touching and insightful, When the Extraordinary Breaks Through is an unforgettable story about second chances, friendship, and love: a celebration of the unexpected people and events that turn our lives upside down.

Critics have said...

«The story of two imperfect and memorable characters.»

Booklist

«Dane is not a hero and Billy D. is not an innocent victim: Lange is too good for that. Both boys are flesh-and-blood people with the ability to amuse, charm, and infuriate the reader, whose emotions delightfully oscillate between adoration and wanting to bang their heads together out of sheer exasperation.»

The Guardian