BOY UNDERGROUND

Hugo, an autistic boy with a deep fondness for maps, explores the tunnels beneath Paris, seeking lost treasure and the friendship he craves.

Smells, loud sounds, and bright lights can be overwhelming for 12-year-old Hugo; his habit of wearing sunglasses indoors has led to the nickname “Spy,” used even by his former friend Alex. Most of the time, Hugo appreciates his photographic memory and other neurodivergent abilities, although they’ve gradually distanced him from Alex and his other former friend, Julie. Even reviewing the social story cards used by his perceptive occupational therapist, Mathilde, doesn’t help his attempts at friendship. During a school field trip, Hugo learns of the network of tunnels beneath Paris, extending far beyond the famous catacombs. This revelation leads him to research historical maps at the public library. The librarian tells him of the cataphiles, underground explorers, and their accepting and nonjudgmental ways. She also tells him about the Urban eXperiment, a secretive cataphile group, and a bottle of chartreuse that was discovered beside the skeleton of the man who got lost while trying to steal it. It’s rumored to be belowground in a secret wine cellar—and Hugo wants to find it. Hugo’s self-aware first-person narration invites readers into his sensory experiences. Charming illustrations add to the enjoyment. Occasional French words and Briticisms can be deduced from context. Julie is of Chinese descent, and most other characters read white.

A thoughtful adventure about navigating changing friendships and the mysterious tunnels beneath Paris.