Unlikely Allies & Elementary Intrigue: "Snoopers & Sneakers" is a Wholesome Win

There are books you read because you have to. Then there are books like Snoopers & Sneakers—the kind you fly through because you need to know what happens next and find yourself smiling (and maybe tearing up a little) by the final chapter. Written by Cristina Rouvalis and Lydia Wayman, and published by Orange Blossom Publishing, this middle grade novel is a heartfelt whodunit with something extra: a spot-on, respectful, and often funny portrayal of autism that is both refreshing and necessary in kids’ literature.

I received this book as part of a Rockstar Book Tour, and the publisher sent me the book complete with the cutest orange-themed goodie box: stickers, highlighter, candy, and a bookmark! While I haven’t been given an official date to post my tour review yet, I loved this story so much that I’m jumping ahead with my own take. I'm also going to giveaway the book and the goodies. Scroll down to learn more!

Title: Snoopers & Sneakers

Author(s): Cristina Rouvalis and Lydia Wayman

Publisher: Orange Blossom Publishing

Pub. Date: January 21, 2025

Genre: Middlegrade Mystery

Book Buy Links: Amazon | B&N | Goodreads | Bookshop.org

Synopsis:

Jane is a wiz at facts and numbers, but she's clueless when it comes to other kids. Her autism and all-consuming love of cats make her a target for bullies. She's nothing like Ashley. Ashley is bubbly and excitable and has always been best friends with the queen bee of Monroe Elementary. When Ashley refuses to lie to keep her best friend out of serious trouble, she loses her seat at the popular table--and her whole identity along with it.

The one thing Jane and Ashley have in common is the best teacher in the world, Miss DiMicco. When Miss DiMicco is arrested after being accused of stealing at a school fundraiser, and a miserable sub takes her place, the girls form an unlikely alliance to clear their teacher's name. As they butt heads over cats, makeup, and the rules of sixth grade, the girls fight to get their teacher back and to keep their friendship from falling apart.

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My Review of "Snoopers & Sneakers" by Cristina Rouvalis and Lydia Wayman

The Quick Scoop 📚

Jane is a sixth grader who thrives on facts and structure. She’s brilliant when it comes to numbers and cats, but social dynamics? Not so much. Jane is autistic and doesn't always know how to navigate the tricky world of school friendships—especially when bullies make her a frequent target.

Then there's Ashley—bubbly, dramatic, and until recently, sitting at the top of Monroe Elementary’s social pyramid. But after she refuses to lie to protect her best friend, Ashley finds herself cast out of the popular crowd, questioning who she even is without their approval.

The two girls couldn’t be more different, but they share one big thing in common: they love their teacher, Miss DiMicco. When Miss DiMicco is falsely accused of stealing money at a school fundraiser and suddenly replaced by the worst sub ever, Jane and Ashley team up to prove her innocence. It’s a classic case of “opposites attract” friendship with a twist of mystery and a whole lot of heart.

What Makes This Book Shine ✨

First, let’s talk representation. Autism is often misunderstood or oversimplified in fiction, especially in books for younger readers. Not here. Jane’s autism isn’t just a label thrown in for diversity points—it’s thoughtfully written and fully integrated into her character. Her love of cats, her obsession with facts, her anxiety about unstructured situations—they’re all portrayed with realism and empathy. And most importantly? Her neurodivergence isn’t seen as something that needs to be “fixed.” It’s just part of who she is, and she still gets to be a hero.

The authors clearly did their homework (or, more likely, wrote from a place of lived or closely informed experience), and it shows. Jane’s inner world is layered and honest, and at no point does her character feel reduced to a stereotype.

Another standout? The friendship dynamic. Jane and Ashley are an odd couple, to say the least. Ashley’s world revolves around makeup, popularity, and being liked. Jane… couldn’t care less. Watching them try to work together—awkwardly, hilariously, and sometimes painfully—is both entertaining and touching. Their journey from tolerating each other to genuine connection is a testament to how different kinds of people can support and understand one another when given the chance.

And let’s not forget the plot. The mystery of who really stole the fundraiser money keeps things moving fast. It’s the kind of tight, middle-grade caper that doesn’t talk down to readers. The pacing is spot-on for kids who might not love long, dense reads—quick chapters, clear stakes, and fun twists make this book incredibly accessible.

What I Loved Most 💖

• ✅ ASD representation that felt authentic, positive, and never patronizing

• ✅ A fast-paced plot that keeps readers engaged from page one

• ✅ Humor that’s kid-friendly but never cheesy

• ✅ Strong messaging about standing up for what’s right, even when it’s hard

• ✅ Complex, believable friendships that grow in unexpected ways

  
  

Anything I Didn’t Love?

Honestly, not much! If I had to nitpick, I’d say I would’ve loved a few more scenes showing Jane and Ashley bonding outside of their mystery mission—but that’s mostly because I didn’t want the book to end. (And maybe a few more cat facts. Because Jane's cat obsession is adorable.)

Final Thoughts

Snoopers & Sneakers is a gem of a middle-grade novel. It checks all the boxes: engaging plot, lovable characters, real emotional depth, and a commitment to authentic representation that’s long overdue in children’s lit. Whether you're a teacher looking for inclusive classroom reads, a parent of a neurodivergent child, or just a fan of smart, heartwarming middle grade fiction—this one’s for you.

So thank you, Cristina Rouvalis and Lydia Wayman, for giving readers a story that’s both meaningful and madcap. And thank you, Orange Blossom Publishing, for the adorable swag box that made reading this even sweeter.

Final Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

(5/5—Full of heart, humor, and hope.)

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Meet the authors:

I couldn't find any information about the authors on the publisher's website, but I did find this YouTube video from The Kelly Clarkson Show, which features the authors, and they talk about themselves and what inspired them to write the book.

Giveaway:

One (1) paperback copy of "Snoopers & Sneakers" by Cristina Rouvalis and Lydia Wayman, stickers, a bookmark, and a highlighter. (Not sure the Starburst candy will be available 😂!)

USA only, ends on June 30, 2025, at Midnight EST. Enter below!