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All the Noise at Once
"Davis masterfully weaves a powerful story and elements of suspense with issues of race, social justice, and disability. Equal parts witty and heartbreaking, All The Noise at Once serves as a window into the Black autistic experience while also serving as a beacon of hope for those our justice system has forgotten and failed. Easily one of the best books I've read all year. "
· Jay Coles, author of Tyler Johnson Was Here and Things We Couldn’t Say
All Aiden ever wanted to do was play football just like his star quarterback brother, Brandon. Unfortunately, due to Aiden’s autism, summer football tryouts did not go well when Aiden finds himself at the bottom of a pile-up resulting in an over-stimulation meltdown. But when the school year starts, a spot on the team opens urgently needing to be filled. Aiden finally gets his chance to play the game he loves most.
However, not every team member is happy about Aiden’s position on the team, wary of how his autism will present itself on game day. Tensions rise. A fight breaks out. Cops are called.
When Brandon tries to interfere on behalf of his brother, he is arrested by the very same cops who, just hours earlier, were chanting his name from the bleachers. When trumped up charges appear for felony assault on an officer, everything Brandon has worked for starts to slip away and the brothers’ relationship is tested. With Brandon’s trial inching closer, Aiden is desperate to find a way to clear his brother’s name while also trying to answer the one looming question plaguing his brain: what does it mean to be Black and autistic?
· Jay Coles, author of Tyler Johnson Was Here and Things We Couldn’t Say
All Aiden ever wanted to do was play football just like his star quarterback brother, Brandon. Unfortunately, due to Aiden’s autism, summer football tryouts did not go well when Aiden finds himself at the bottom of a pile-up resulting in an over-stimulation meltdown. But when the school year starts, a spot on the team opens urgently needing to be filled. Aiden finally gets his chance to play the game he loves most.
However, not every team member is happy about Aiden’s position on the team, wary of how his autism will present itself on game day. Tensions rise. A fight breaks out. Cops are called.
When Brandon tries to interfere on behalf of his brother, he is arrested by the very same cops who, just hours earlier, were chanting his name from the bleachers. When trumped up charges appear for felony assault on an officer, everything Brandon has worked for starts to slip away and the brothers’ relationship is tested. With Brandon’s trial inching closer, Aiden is desperate to find a way to clear his brother’s name while also trying to answer the one looming question plaguing his brain: what does it mean to be Black and autistic?
Unknown Binding
First published April 15, 2025
33 people are currently reading
4296 people want to read
About the author
DeAndra Davis
2 books81 followersDeAndra, an autistic and neurodivergent Jamaican-American author, has been reading since she could remember and writing since anyone put a pen in her hand. When she isn't delving into fantasy worlds or scaring herself with thrilling tales, she is playing some role-playing game (probably The Witcher series). A young adult novelist, she enjoys exploring the intersections of different identities as much as she enjoys exploring her own.
DeAndra graduated with her BA in English Literature from Minot State University and her MFA in Creative Writing from Florida International University. She is an Instructor of English at Florida Atlantic University where she regularly teaches creative writing, literature, and composition courses.
She is a married mother of five, not including her beloved Goldendoodle, Luna, and English Mastiff, Zeke.
DeAndra graduated with her BA in English Literature from Minot State University and her MFA in Creative Writing from Florida International University. She is an Instructor of English at Florida Atlantic University where she regularly teaches creative writing, literature, and composition courses.
She is a married mother of five, not including her beloved Goldendoodle, Luna, and English Mastiff, Zeke.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 149 reviews
May 14, 2025
THE HATE U GIVE, but make it autistic. This story is amazing! And the brotherly love is so, so beautiful!
Do you know that feeling when you find a special book about a special person—in this case, two special people? A book that draws you in immediately and pulls at you like a magnet and won’t let go?
”You’re Black, and you have big emotions, big reactions … but we live in a society where those emotions in a Black body aren’t as acceptable.”
Aiden is Black, autistic, a high school junior, and loves football, even though he’s not on the high school team. His older brother Brandon is the biggest football talent in the US and has a bright future ahead of him. Then, Aiden finally gets his chance to play the game he loves the most. But when a fight breaks out, Brandon defends Aiden as officers walk in, and Brandon ends up being arrested himself.
Football is organized chaos. Rule-driven disorder. A route, perfectly run, is the most beautiful dance. A formation, altered on the fly, is the best improvisational theater. I have always loved it. I have always wanted to be a part of it.
I rarely read a book where the brotherly love is so palpable on every page. Even when Aiden feels guilty, and Brendon blames him. Even then, their bond is powerful. But it’s not only those two brothers who captured my heart. Side characters like Isabella, and Reg and Bernard (two footballers, boyfriends, and such fierce cinnamon rolls) crept inside my heart, too. Even Greg, although I had to warm up to him. I rooted for those two brothers so much and wanted to scream out loud to those cops: just listen to Brandon. Listen to what he has to say! Throughout the story, rage simmered in my chest, but those last couple of chapters made tears shine in my eyes. Not because I was angry but because of those beautiful conversations Aiden had with his parents and Brandon. And I loved Aiden’s nuance, even though I’d fully understood if he wouldn’t hadn’t. In the end, I closed my ereader with a satisfied sigh.
”When people get to know you, they tend to see you as a good person despite being Black, rather than accepting that maybe Black people aren’t what they thought in the first place.
I can’t wait what she has in store for us next! DeAndra Davis is definitely an author to watch out for.
Thank you so much, Simon and Schuster Children’s Books and NetGalley, for this amazing ARC!
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Do you know that feeling when you find a special book about a special person—in this case, two special people? A book that draws you in immediately and pulls at you like a magnet and won’t let go?
”You’re Black, and you have big emotions, big reactions … but we live in a society where those emotions in a Black body aren’t as acceptable.”
Aiden is Black, autistic, a high school junior, and loves football, even though he’s not on the high school team. His older brother Brandon is the biggest football talent in the US and has a bright future ahead of him. Then, Aiden finally gets his chance to play the game he loves the most. But when a fight breaks out, Brandon defends Aiden as officers walk in, and Brandon ends up being arrested himself.
Football is organized chaos. Rule-driven disorder. A route, perfectly run, is the most beautiful dance. A formation, altered on the fly, is the best improvisational theater. I have always loved it. I have always wanted to be a part of it.
I rarely read a book where the brotherly love is so palpable on every page. Even when Aiden feels guilty, and Brendon blames him. Even then, their bond is powerful. But it’s not only those two brothers who captured my heart. Side characters like Isabella, and Reg and Bernard (two footballers, boyfriends, and such fierce cinnamon rolls) crept inside my heart, too. Even Greg, although I had to warm up to him. I rooted for those two brothers so much and wanted to scream out loud to those cops: just listen to Brandon. Listen to what he has to say! Throughout the story, rage simmered in my chest, but those last couple of chapters made tears shine in my eyes. Not because I was angry but because of those beautiful conversations Aiden had with his parents and Brandon. And I loved Aiden’s nuance, even though I’d fully understood if he wouldn’t hadn’t. In the end, I closed my ereader with a satisfied sigh.
”When people get to know you, they tend to see you as a good person despite being Black, rather than accepting that maybe Black people aren’t what they thought in the first place.
I can’t wait what she has in store for us next! DeAndra Davis is definitely an author to watch out for.
Thank you so much, Simon and Schuster Children’s Books and NetGalley, for this amazing ARC!
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June 12, 2025
This book was so good. This would be great as a movie. I listened to the audiobook mostly but also grabbed the book a few times. The audiobook was excellent. It was narrated by André Santana who fix a great job bringing it to life. The themes of racial and social justice are so timely right now. The main character Aiden is Black, and on the spectrum. He has always wanted to play football like his older brother, Brandon, but his over stimulation has held him back. When a spot opens up and he's finally able to make the team, some kids are not happy about it. When a fight eventually breaks our over it, Brandon sticks up for his brother and he gets arrested and is wrongfully charged. As his trial approaches, Aiden will do anything to get his brother off. I loved the relationship and the love that these brothers had towards each other. At times Aiden feels guilty, like it's his fault that his brother is in trouble and that made me feel so bad for him, and I did feel anger too for what was happening. The way it all comes together makes for such a powerful book. I highly recommend this for people who love YA!
Thank you to the publisher for the gifted copy. All opinions are my own.
Thank you to the publisher for the gifted copy. All opinions are my own.
May 2, 2025
*re-read on audio May 2025 and it was fantastic. Andre Santana can do no wrong in my eyes. The emotion of this was incredible. Story is gorgeous and well written.*
Thank you @simonandschuster @simonteen for the digital copy!
In this compelling, moving story about brotherhood, identity, and social justice, a Black, autistic teen tries to figure out what happened the night his older brother was unjustly arrested.
^from the publisher!
This truly is a perfect book. It starts off with a great hook of two brothers trying out for football, and Brandon (the older brother) taking care of Aiden (the younger brother) when he has an episode related to his autism during tryouts. My heart squeezed for these two.
I absolutely loved the framing of this story told as before and after the incident. Being in Aiden’s head was so incredibly interesting and I loved his thought process. He and Brandon had such a deep love and respect for each other and it is evident throughout.
When Aiden gets on the team, some players aren’t happy and a fight breaks out leading to his brother being arrested and Aiden left feeling incredibly guilty that it was his fault. I felt all of the emotions with him. My heart!! How the story moves on from there left me breathless and turning the pages. I was so sure I knew the ending.
I also really loved the family dynamics, Aiden figuring himself out, Isabella, and the autism portrayal being displayed with such care and compassion. The final few chapters really had me reeling.
In conclusion, it’s a yes from me. Everyone should read this book.
Thank you @simonandschuster @simonteen for the digital copy!
In this compelling, moving story about brotherhood, identity, and social justice, a Black, autistic teen tries to figure out what happened the night his older brother was unjustly arrested.
^from the publisher!
This truly is a perfect book. It starts off with a great hook of two brothers trying out for football, and Brandon (the older brother) taking care of Aiden (the younger brother) when he has an episode related to his autism during tryouts. My heart squeezed for these two.
I absolutely loved the framing of this story told as before and after the incident. Being in Aiden’s head was so incredibly interesting and I loved his thought process. He and Brandon had such a deep love and respect for each other and it is evident throughout.
When Aiden gets on the team, some players aren’t happy and a fight breaks out leading to his brother being arrested and Aiden left feeling incredibly guilty that it was his fault. I felt all of the emotions with him. My heart!! How the story moves on from there left me breathless and turning the pages. I was so sure I knew the ending.
I also really loved the family dynamics, Aiden figuring himself out, Isabella, and the autism portrayal being displayed with such care and compassion. The final few chapters really had me reeling.
In conclusion, it’s a yes from me. Everyone should read this book.
May 8, 2025
5 Stars ✨
All the Noise at Once was excellent! I binged this book in the matter of a few hours. The writing was engaging, the story captivating, and the autism rep of the main character was portrayed well. I didn’t want to put this down, so I listened to some of the audiobook. The narrator evoked emotion so well! Aiden’s stress, anxiety, anger, confusion, etc were palpable!
There were the heavy topics of racism and police brutality. But we also got to see positive portrayals of black families, identity, and blossoming friendships. There were many nuances conversations that are important for you adults to read about.
I’ll absolutely read more from this author! I hope she keeps writing YA.
All the Noise at Once was excellent! I binged this book in the matter of a few hours. The writing was engaging, the story captivating, and the autism rep of the main character was portrayed well. I didn’t want to put this down, so I listened to some of the audiobook. The narrator evoked emotion so well! Aiden’s stress, anxiety, anger, confusion, etc were palpable!
There were the heavy topics of racism and police brutality. But we also got to see positive portrayals of black families, identity, and blossoming friendships. There were many nuances conversations that are important for you adults to read about.
I’ll absolutely read more from this author! I hope she keeps writing YA.
April 24, 2025
2025 reads: 90/300
i received a digital review copy from the publisher as part of their influencer program. this did not affect my rating.
content warnings: police brutality, racism, ableism
aiden’s always wanted to play football like his big brother, brandon, but summer tryouts did not go well when he experienced a meltdown in front of everybody. when the school year starts, though, there’s a spot desperately needing to be filled, and aiden gets his second chance. but not everyone is happy about this, and soon enough, a fight breaks out, the cops are called, and brandon is arrested after trying to help aiden. now, despite his innocence, he’s being charged for felony assault on an officer, and aiden blames himself. as the trial approaches, aiden is desperate to find anything that could help save brandon, while also investigating what it means to be black and autistic.
this book did such a great job of exploring a loving, yet tense, brotherly relationship, which i feel like i don’t see a lot of in very many books. as the older brother, brandon is used to having the role of “protector,” which is what he was trying to do on that fateful day. now, the roles are more or less reversed, with aiden doing everything in his power to save brandon. he’s sure everything is his fault because of his autism. this also leads to some difficult conversations with himself and his family about his place in the world as a black and autistic boy. overall, this was an emotional read, while still providing hope and warmth. highly recommended to YA contemporary readers.
i received a digital review copy from the publisher as part of their influencer program. this did not affect my rating.
content warnings: police brutality, racism, ableism
aiden’s always wanted to play football like his big brother, brandon, but summer tryouts did not go well when he experienced a meltdown in front of everybody. when the school year starts, though, there’s a spot desperately needing to be filled, and aiden gets his second chance. but not everyone is happy about this, and soon enough, a fight breaks out, the cops are called, and brandon is arrested after trying to help aiden. now, despite his innocence, he’s being charged for felony assault on an officer, and aiden blames himself. as the trial approaches, aiden is desperate to find anything that could help save brandon, while also investigating what it means to be black and autistic.
this book did such a great job of exploring a loving, yet tense, brotherly relationship, which i feel like i don’t see a lot of in very many books. as the older brother, brandon is used to having the role of “protector,” which is what he was trying to do on that fateful day. now, the roles are more or less reversed, with aiden doing everything in his power to save brandon. he’s sure everything is his fault because of his autism. this also leads to some difficult conversations with himself and his family about his place in the world as a black and autistic boy. overall, this was an emotional read, while still providing hope and warmth. highly recommended to YA contemporary readers.
anticipating
July 4, 2023you had me at black autistic rep omggg
April 24, 2025
A powerful and moving story of brotherhood, justice, community, identity and being Black and autistic in a society that prioritises white and neurotypical voices.
All the Noise at Once expertly explores topics such as ableism, social justice, racism and brotherhood through the eyes of Aiden, an autistic Black teen, whose strong voice is both endearing and memorable. This is a book that will make you angry, whilst simultaneously pulling at your heartstrings with moments of warmth. It’s nuanced, honest and beautifully compassionate and a book I will be happily recommending.
TW: police brutality, racism, ableism, ableist slurs
All the Noise at Once expertly explores topics such as ableism, social justice, racism and brotherhood through the eyes of Aiden, an autistic Black teen, whose strong voice is both endearing and memorable. This is a book that will make you angry, whilst simultaneously pulling at your heartstrings with moments of warmth. It’s nuanced, honest and beautifully compassionate and a book I will be happily recommending.
TW: police brutality, racism, ableism, ableist slurs
April 7, 2025
4.5 ★. what a masterpiece from DeAndra Davis. this is such a thoughtful and meaningful novel that tells the important story of Blackness, ASD, and police injustice. Aiden is such a powerful character and you get to see how he perseveres. this is a story of family, community, defying the odds, and resistance.
April 10, 2025
Thank you to #simonteenpartner @simonteen for early access & @simon.audio for my ALC.
All the Noise at Once is a journey that put me in Aiden’s world, a vivid blend of highs and lows, challenges and triumphs. Reading this one gave me all the feels that felt incredibly real. The audiobook narration doesn’t just tell his story, it breathes life into his experiences, letting me feel his thoughts, emotions, and struggles, deeply. It was as if Aiden himself was sharing his reality with me, one heartbeat at a time while telling me his story. There was one point while listening I has to stop to gather myself.
The themes are layered and thought-provoking, tackling identity, resilience, and family dynamics with sensitivity and grace. This book explores heavy topics like racial injustice and autism acceptance in a way that’s raw yet uplifting, never shying away from the complexities. Aiden’s relationship with his brother Brandon is a highlight, sometimes tense, sometimes tender, but always authentic.
While both the ebook and audiobook shine, the audiobook offers a certain intimacy. It amplifies the heart of the story and connected me even more to the Aiden and Brandon. If you want a story that lingers in your mind long after it ends, this is it, an unforgettable tale of finding your voice amid the noise.
All the Noise at Once is a journey that put me in Aiden’s world, a vivid blend of highs and lows, challenges and triumphs. Reading this one gave me all the feels that felt incredibly real. The audiobook narration doesn’t just tell his story, it breathes life into his experiences, letting me feel his thoughts, emotions, and struggles, deeply. It was as if Aiden himself was sharing his reality with me, one heartbeat at a time while telling me his story. There was one point while listening I has to stop to gather myself.
The themes are layered and thought-provoking, tackling identity, resilience, and family dynamics with sensitivity and grace. This book explores heavy topics like racial injustice and autism acceptance in a way that’s raw yet uplifting, never shying away from the complexities. Aiden’s relationship with his brother Brandon is a highlight, sometimes tense, sometimes tender, but always authentic.
While both the ebook and audiobook shine, the audiobook offers a certain intimacy. It amplifies the heart of the story and connected me even more to the Aiden and Brandon. If you want a story that lingers in your mind long after it ends, this is it, an unforgettable tale of finding your voice amid the noise.
February 26, 2025
Powerful, passionate, and painfully real.
May 24, 2025
This has taught me that I actually know much, much less about American Football than I assumed.
Same goes for the American legal system.
Same goes for the American legal system.
July 29, 2025
I have less than zero interest in football and I still loved this. It is perfect for teens who might not be ready for “The Hate U Give,” and for anyone who wants to better understand racial profiling and autism. I especially loved the brother relationship and the nuanced take on blame and guilt.
March 15, 2025
Thank you to Simon Teen for this digital ARC.
While this book stressed me so much and angered me, I loved it. There are many stories like this, but adding the additional detail of having an character with autism sheds a new light. When you're Black there is already so much that we have against us. Black people can do all the right things, but we are going to be treated differently not matter what. This is what made it so frustrating because this is reality. Their parents even tried to move them to an environment to show them that Black people are just like them, and honestly, I understood. But instead the people around them only viewed the family as good despite being Black. You can still be a "respectable" person and you will still get treated different, which is the unfortunate truth.
I really loved the brotherhood between Aiden and Brandon. I felt for the both of them because they both had such conflicting emotion. Brandon quietly questioning everything and wondering why all of this is happening to him despite doing everything right, and then Aiden feeling guilty about what happened and constantly blaming himself because he's different. It was complicated despite the love they had for each other. I also loved the brotherhood between SOME of the football team. They obviously loved Brandon, but I loved how they showed up for Aiden throughout the book too. I also loved the friendship Aiden developed with Isabella. It was a tough time for him but he experienced so much growth on his own.
Brandon need to go to a HBCU or something. My God.
While this book stressed me so much and angered me, I loved it. There are many stories like this, but adding the additional detail of having an character with autism sheds a new light. When you're Black there is already so much that we have against us. Black people can do all the right things, but we are going to be treated differently not matter what. This is what made it so frustrating because this is reality. Their parents even tried to move them to an environment to show them that Black people are just like them, and honestly, I understood. But instead the people around them only viewed the family as good despite being Black. You can still be a "respectable" person and you will still get treated different, which is the unfortunate truth.
I really loved the brotherhood between Aiden and Brandon. I felt for the both of them because they both had such conflicting emotion. Brandon quietly questioning everything and wondering why all of this is happening to him despite doing everything right, and then Aiden feeling guilty about what happened and constantly blaming himself because he's different. It was complicated despite the love they had for each other. I also loved the brotherhood between SOME of the football team. They obviously loved Brandon, but I loved how they showed up for Aiden throughout the book too. I also loved the friendship Aiden developed with Isabella. It was a tough time for him but he experienced so much growth on his own.
Brandon need to go to a HBCU or something. My God.
April 30, 2025
AMAZING. No notes. Aiden is an autistic, Black boy who only talks around the people he’s comfortable with (basically just his family.) He and his brother Brandon share a beautiful bond, and a lot of that has to do with their love for football. When Aiden gets into a fight with another player on the football team who thinks Aiden doesn’t deserve to be on the team because of his selective mutism and meltdowns, Brandon backs him up and this book about brotherhood and autism turns into a book about police brutality and racism. By the end of the book, Aiden has found so many more people he feels comfortable enough to talk to and has a new understanding of himself, the world, and the people around him. I thoroughly enjoyed listening to this and getting inside Aiden’s head.
Thank you Libro.fm for the ALC!
Thank you Libro.fm for the ALC!
May 1, 2025
4.5 stars, rounded up
And the only reason I'm giving it 4.5 and not 5 is because while I love it and recommend it, I can't see myself re-reading it. Too many feels!! The range of emotions. I swear I love these boys like they're my own! DeAndra is such a good writer to be able to capture Aiden's thought processes consistently. My experience was enchanced by seeing the author when I was about halfway through listening (I did audiobook) and hearing her talk about it. So glad I took the time for this one!
And the only reason I'm giving it 4.5 and not 5 is because while I love it and recommend it, I can't see myself re-reading it. Too many feels!! The range of emotions. I swear I love these boys like they're my own! DeAndra is such a good writer to be able to capture Aiden's thought processes consistently. My experience was enchanced by seeing the author when I was about halfway through listening (I did audiobook) and hearing her talk about it. So glad I took the time for this one!
April 7, 2025
Long review. Thank you NetGalley, Simon & Schuster Children's Publishing, and Atheneum Books for Young Readers for the digital arc.
“This is real for you today, but Blackness is not your reality.”
Wow! DeAndra was writing in this. You can tell her pen is blessed. She wrote the autism representation with so much care and strength. This book is so amazing. She did a really good job of capturing what it's like to be black in America. Especially for a black man at any age and it doesn't matter what disability you have because all they see first is, black. These friends, coaches and so on seen Brandon as the one to make them look good with football and how they look good being linked to him. The moment something horrible happens they all turn their backs.
I really love this family. Brandon and Aiden are such a beautiful bond of brotherly love and kindness. I enjoyed, while also being hurt, how we get to experience first hand how this is effecting each member of the family. We see the change as the trial starts. Also see how people would rather hide the truth knowing that this moment can destroy someone’s future before it even begins. All because they rather not be exposed for the privilege they use day in and day out. Care more about protecting a nasty parasite in your family, in your community than focusing on right vs wrong no matter who it is.
Aiden was a stellar character. I absolutely loved his growth and honesty. I mean the he was serving those other characters up with things to make them think and expose them for who they are. You want to talk about proud. I don’t know if I’ve ever been more proud of a character. This book deserves every blessing.
Quotes/moments:
-“Is his freedom worth less than your comfort?”
-When Aiden spoke facts at football practice and in the locker room with the coach.
-Aiden and Isabella ♥️.
-When Marica told Aiden she was sorry and he said “Yes. You are.”
-When Aiden had to break down autism to Carter.
-“When have you had to be perfect, Aiden? You get to mess up! You get to mess up and keep messing up and Mom and Dad will accept it, they’ll even expect it. I’m the one who has to be perfect. I have to be the perfect son, the easy one. I have to be the perfect brother to be—” Brandon presses his lips together.
-I am used to people making assumptions about me the second they find out that I am autistic. People who believe I am either a problem to be had or fixed. People who believe I am either incapable or somehow super capable due to autism being some “secret superpower.” I am used to watching that shift from a normal interaction to a stereotypical one the second the word “autism” is uttered.
“This is real for you today, but Blackness is not your reality.”
Wow! DeAndra was writing in this. You can tell her pen is blessed. She wrote the autism representation with so much care and strength. This book is so amazing. She did a really good job of capturing what it's like to be black in America. Especially for a black man at any age and it doesn't matter what disability you have because all they see first is, black. These friends, coaches and so on seen Brandon as the one to make them look good with football and how they look good being linked to him. The moment something horrible happens they all turn their backs.
I really love this family. Brandon and Aiden are such a beautiful bond of brotherly love and kindness. I enjoyed, while also being hurt, how we get to experience first hand how this is effecting each member of the family. We see the change as the trial starts. Also see how people would rather hide the truth knowing that this moment can destroy someone’s future before it even begins. All because they rather not be exposed for the privilege they use day in and day out. Care more about protecting a nasty parasite in your family, in your community than focusing on right vs wrong no matter who it is.
Aiden was a stellar character. I absolutely loved his growth and honesty. I mean the he was serving those other characters up with things to make them think and expose them for who they are. You want to talk about proud. I don’t know if I’ve ever been more proud of a character. This book deserves every blessing.
Quotes/moments:
-“Is his freedom worth less than your comfort?”
-When Aiden spoke facts at football practice and in the locker room with the coach.
-Aiden and Isabella ♥️.
-When Marica told Aiden she was sorry and he said “Yes. You are.”
-When Aiden had to break down autism to Carter.
-“When have you had to be perfect, Aiden? You get to mess up! You get to mess up and keep messing up and Mom and Dad will accept it, they’ll even expect it. I’m the one who has to be perfect. I have to be the perfect son, the easy one. I have to be the perfect brother to be—” Brandon presses his lips together.
-I am used to people making assumptions about me the second they find out that I am autistic. People who believe I am either a problem to be had or fixed. People who believe I am either incapable or somehow super capable due to autism being some “secret superpower.” I am used to watching that shift from a normal interaction to a stereotypical one the second the word “autism” is uttered.
January 20, 2025
Such a Necessary Story
This book really tugged at my heartstrings. Aiden and Brandon were such lovable characters both individually and collectively. I wanted to protect them from this big bad world. I loved getting Aiden’s inner thoughts. He made autism feel a lot less foreign to me. His commentary on always being excluded made me so sad for him. I was just as sad for Brandon and the unfair treatment that he received. It was so special how they leaned on each other to get through it all. Their parents were amazing. They were patient and incredibly bright. There were a lot of special characters in this story. Aiden’s potential love story was super sweet.
With all of the love poured into this story, there were still a lot of tough issues to tackle. Racism and classism were front and center. It led the way for a portrait of how police brutality is covered up, celebrated, and encouraged. The fallout of what happens when white girl tears are weaponized was addressed as well. All of it made me so angry. This book truly made me feel all of the feels. I appreciated the suspense of waiting to see how it would all work out.
I’m excited about this story being shared with the world. I’m already planning to gift this book to a few friends. I want them to experience the range of emotions that I did. Thank you to NetGalley, Simon & Schuster, and DeAndra Davis for this advanced copy for me to review. #AllTheNoiseAtOnce #NetGalley
This book really tugged at my heartstrings. Aiden and Brandon were such lovable characters both individually and collectively. I wanted to protect them from this big bad world. I loved getting Aiden’s inner thoughts. He made autism feel a lot less foreign to me. His commentary on always being excluded made me so sad for him. I was just as sad for Brandon and the unfair treatment that he received. It was so special how they leaned on each other to get through it all. Their parents were amazing. They were patient and incredibly bright. There were a lot of special characters in this story. Aiden’s potential love story was super sweet.
With all of the love poured into this story, there were still a lot of tough issues to tackle. Racism and classism were front and center. It led the way for a portrait of how police brutality is covered up, celebrated, and encouraged. The fallout of what happens when white girl tears are weaponized was addressed as well. All of it made me so angry. This book truly made me feel all of the feels. I appreciated the suspense of waiting to see how it would all work out.
I’m excited about this story being shared with the world. I’m already planning to gift this book to a few friends. I want them to experience the range of emotions that I did. Thank you to NetGalley, Simon & Schuster, and DeAndra Davis for this advanced copy for me to review. #AllTheNoiseAtOnce #NetGalley
March 31, 2025
Aiden’s dream of playing football is shattered when summer tryouts end in disaster—a chaotic pile-up triggers an overstimulation meltdown, leaving him sidelined. But when the school year begins, an unexpected roster spot opens, giving Aiden a second chance at the game he loves.
Not everyone on the team is thrilled. Some players doubt his ability to handle the pressure, fearing how his autism might show up on game day. Tensions rise. A fight breaks out. Then the cops arrive.
Brandon, Aiden’s older brother, steps in to defend him—only to be arrested by the same officers who had been cheering his name from the bleachers just hours before. When he’s hit with trumped-up charges of felony assault on an officer, everything he’s worked for is suddenly at risk.
With Brandon’s trial looming, Aiden is determined to clear his brother’s name. But as he fights for justice, another question weighs heavily on him: What does it mean to be both Black and autistic in a world that refuses to see him for who he truly is?
Amazing, heartfelt, angry, empathetic...not enough words describe the feelings I had reading this book. The emotions of Aiden and Brandon are written in a way that helped me understand where they are coming from and what it was like to "walk in their shoes". I cannot WAIT to interview DeAndra and ask her a million questions about this book. This is an absolute must have for HS library collections!
Not everyone on the team is thrilled. Some players doubt his ability to handle the pressure, fearing how his autism might show up on game day. Tensions rise. A fight breaks out. Then the cops arrive.
Brandon, Aiden’s older brother, steps in to defend him—only to be arrested by the same officers who had been cheering his name from the bleachers just hours before. When he’s hit with trumped-up charges of felony assault on an officer, everything he’s worked for is suddenly at risk.
With Brandon’s trial looming, Aiden is determined to clear his brother’s name. But as he fights for justice, another question weighs heavily on him: What does it mean to be both Black and autistic in a world that refuses to see him for who he truly is?
Amazing, heartfelt, angry, empathetic...not enough words describe the feelings I had reading this book. The emotions of Aiden and Brandon are written in a way that helped me understand where they are coming from and what it was like to "walk in their shoes". I cannot WAIT to interview DeAndra and ask her a million questions about this book. This is an absolute must have for HS library collections!
April 7, 2025
It has been a long, long time since a book has captivated me so deeply. Aiden and Brandon’s brotherly love is beautiful while still being complicated and real. The suspense is masterfully woven. The depiction of Autism is skillful and nuanced. I will be forever touched by this book that made me smile, cry, grimace and cheer as I devoured it in less than 24 hours. A gorgeous, stunning, touching debut that is the first book in what I imagine will be an extraordinary career.
May 28, 2025
This book snapped me out of my reading rut. It felt fresh and genuine. I loved Aiden's perspective and the nuances shown in the brothers' relationship.
..
..
January 8, 2025
“This is real for you today, but Blackness is not your reality. And look, I am not judging. I have been Black all my life, but until recently, autism has been my whole reality. I never paid attention to how my Blackness made autism much more dangerous until now. And now I see it. I see it, and Marcia, I cannot unsee it. You see something. Do not close your eyes. Do not try to unsee it. “
I LOVE this book. I love Aiden. I deeply relate to aspects of Aiden and appreciate so much things he articulates that I lack the awareness to describe. There is incredible thoughtfulness and nuance in this story as it tackles such critical and necessary conversations on continued injustice in this country and world in regards to race, power and privilege--and particularly the intersection of race and neurodivergence. This should be required reading.
GIVE THIS BOOK A SCHNEIDER!!!!!
***
Just started--already in love with Aiden's voice!
CANNOT WAIT TO READ THIS!
I LOVE this book. I love Aiden. I deeply relate to aspects of Aiden and appreciate so much things he articulates that I lack the awareness to describe. There is incredible thoughtfulness and nuance in this story as it tackles such critical and necessary conversations on continued injustice in this country and world in regards to race, power and privilege--and particularly the intersection of race and neurodivergence. This should be required reading.
GIVE THIS BOOK A SCHNEIDER!!!!!
***
Just started--already in love with Aiden's voice!
CANNOT WAIT TO READ THIS!
Want to read
June 17, 2025such a stunning cover!
can't wait for a ya contemporary with a black autistic mc
can't wait for a ya contemporary with a black autistic mc
May 20, 2025
All the Noise at Once interested me because of the Black autistic protagonist, which is still rare in fiction. I enjoyed the exploration of justice and the autistic experience, especially while Black, with interesting characters to round things out. Many have described this book as "The Hate U Give" with an autistic protagonist and football, and I feel that's an accurate description of the narrative.
Aiden is on the autism spectrum with a special interest in football, and he's dreamed of playing with his older brother, Brandon, on the high school football team. However, a meltdown from Aiden during tryouts turns his potential teammates off. He eventually gets on the team, but shortly afterward, is involved in a police brutality incident that leads to several teammates being arrested. While Aiden is not in the hottest seat in the situation, he's very much affected by what comes after the police incident.
Aiden's a fully realized character, trying to live through life with social skills class, dealing with romance, football, family and trying to make sure it doesn't fall apart. Of course being autistic does affect him quite a bit, and I enjoyed his voice and quirks that feel authentic, counting the exact amount of steps to places, and showing his adeptness for football, his special interest, which a diagram in the book. I like the detail that he has life skills classes to help him integrate with our neurotypical (NT) world. Many autistics have a sense of justice, and that was evident with Aiden as well, considering what's going on. Autism is not presented in a "tragic child" narrative or "savant genius" story. It shows the pluses and minuses. I do like that Aiden does feel like his autism has a negative effect on the family considering the situation they are in, but doesn't always dwell on that. In the end, he's not a burden, just has different needs, and that's okay. It's society that sadly doesn't understand.
The brotherly relationship was done very well. Brandon is in the protection role as the (likely) NT big brother to Aiden, but unlike many stories where Aiden is only seasoning, Aiden gets the majority of the development as the main protagonist, and both have to evaluate their roles as their lives are flipped upside down, with Aiden trying to help his brother, and how autism can affect a sibling relationship. The family is very supportive of Aiden, which is also great.
The rest of the cast was intriguing with their own storylines to go through and depth, each adding in the tapestry of the situation, adding to the conflict and being a complicated narrative in a good way.
The story takes place in South Florida, which felt personal to me as I live in the region. From some context clues, I suspect the book takes place in a fictional version of Doral, a suburb west of Miami, where mini-mansions and gated communities rule the day, and plays a big role in the story.
The pacing is good, but there were some small sections that dragged a bit, but otherwise, the story was solid and flowed naturally. However, what upped the tension, especially early on, was how the start of each chapter notes how much time it is before and after the incident. It also gives us an indication of time throughout the story. The themes were developed well, exploring what it's like to be Black and autistic, and having to deal with two ways people can misunderstand Aiden, dealing with both racism and ableism can make things that much more dangerous.
Overall, I enjoyed my time with this and learned some valuable lessons about how messed up society can be for those with multiple marginalizations.
*I received an ARC from Netgalley and Atheneum Books. All opinions are my own.*
Aiden is on the autism spectrum with a special interest in football, and he's dreamed of playing with his older brother, Brandon, on the high school football team. However, a meltdown from Aiden during tryouts turns his potential teammates off. He eventually gets on the team, but shortly afterward, is involved in a police brutality incident that leads to several teammates being arrested. While Aiden is not in the hottest seat in the situation, he's very much affected by what comes after the police incident.
Aiden's a fully realized character, trying to live through life with social skills class, dealing with romance, football, family and trying to make sure it doesn't fall apart. Of course being autistic does affect him quite a bit, and I enjoyed his voice and quirks that feel authentic, counting the exact amount of steps to places, and showing his adeptness for football, his special interest, which a diagram in the book. I like the detail that he has life skills classes to help him integrate with our neurotypical (NT) world. Many autistics have a sense of justice, and that was evident with Aiden as well, considering what's going on. Autism is not presented in a "tragic child" narrative or "savant genius" story. It shows the pluses and minuses. I do like that Aiden does feel like his autism has a negative effect on the family considering the situation they are in, but doesn't always dwell on that. In the end, he's not a burden, just has different needs, and that's okay. It's society that sadly doesn't understand.
The brotherly relationship was done very well. Brandon is in the protection role as the (likely) NT big brother to Aiden, but unlike many stories where Aiden is only seasoning, Aiden gets the majority of the development as the main protagonist, and both have to evaluate their roles as their lives are flipped upside down, with Aiden trying to help his brother, and how autism can affect a sibling relationship. The family is very supportive of Aiden, which is also great.
The rest of the cast was intriguing with their own storylines to go through and depth, each adding in the tapestry of the situation, adding to the conflict and being a complicated narrative in a good way.
The story takes place in South Florida, which felt personal to me as I live in the region. From some context clues, I suspect the book takes place in a fictional version of Doral, a suburb west of Miami, where mini-mansions and gated communities rule the day, and plays a big role in the story.
The pacing is good, but there were some small sections that dragged a bit, but otherwise, the story was solid and flowed naturally. However, what upped the tension, especially early on, was how the start of each chapter notes how much time it is before and after the incident. It also gives us an indication of time throughout the story. The themes were developed well, exploring what it's like to be Black and autistic, and having to deal with two ways people can misunderstand Aiden, dealing with both racism and ableism can make things that much more dangerous.
Overall, I enjoyed my time with this and learned some valuable lessons about how messed up society can be for those with multiple marginalizations.
*I received an ARC from Netgalley and Atheneum Books. All opinions are my own.*
March 22, 2025
Characters: 4.5⭐️
Setting: 4.50⭐️
Plot: 5.00⭐️
Themes: 5.00⭐️
Personal enjoyment: 4.50⭐️
Emotional Impact: 4.50⭐️
Overall rating: 4.50⭐️
All the Noise At Once is a story that focuses on two brothers; Brandon who is the star quarterback of his highschool's football team, and Aiden who is on the autism spectrum who just wants to play football and be like his older brother. One night, when the team goes to the diner to celebrate, a fight ensues and Brandon is wrongfully arrested on charges of trespassing and assault. Aiden is now trying to navigate the after effects and try to find justice for his brother.
This story is so important to read, and covers some pretty heavy topics like social injustice and racism. Even though this is a YA contemporary novel, it was written and done so wonderfully which made it both difficult and harder to read. There is great representation within this book of autism and how the justice systems continues to fail young, black men in our country.
Told through the eyes of Aiden, you get a first hand glimpse of how something traumatic could affect an entire family and community. This book was out of my comfort zone, and I am so glad I read it. I think this is perfect for the younger generation to read to understand the injustices of the judicial system and the racism that people still face to this day.
Thank you very much to Simon Teen for sending me a copy of the eARC in exchange for an honest review.
Setting: 4.50⭐️
Plot: 5.00⭐️
Themes: 5.00⭐️
Personal enjoyment: 4.50⭐️
Emotional Impact: 4.50⭐️
Overall rating: 4.50⭐️
All the Noise At Once is a story that focuses on two brothers; Brandon who is the star quarterback of his highschool's football team, and Aiden who is on the autism spectrum who just wants to play football and be like his older brother. One night, when the team goes to the diner to celebrate, a fight ensues and Brandon is wrongfully arrested on charges of trespassing and assault. Aiden is now trying to navigate the after effects and try to find justice for his brother.
This story is so important to read, and covers some pretty heavy topics like social injustice and racism. Even though this is a YA contemporary novel, it was written and done so wonderfully which made it both difficult and harder to read. There is great representation within this book of autism and how the justice systems continues to fail young, black men in our country.
Told through the eyes of Aiden, you get a first hand glimpse of how something traumatic could affect an entire family and community. This book was out of my comfort zone, and I am so glad I read it. I think this is perfect for the younger generation to read to understand the injustices of the judicial system and the racism that people still face to this day.
Thank you very much to Simon Teen for sending me a copy of the eARC in exchange for an honest review.
April 8, 2025
Sixteen year old Aiden loves football more than almost everything else in the world. Aiden also has Autism, and the overwhelm created by human contact and noise makes playing on a football team difficult. Aiden's older brother Brandon is the senior quarterback and Aiden's greatest supporter, though, which helps give Aiden second chances to prove his abilities on the field. But when Brandon is wrongly accused of assaulting a police officer, Aiden must bring out his own inner advocate to help his brother in a time of greatest need. This contemporary fiction young adult novel is told in the first person from Aiden's perspective, beginning seventy seven days before the incident that will change his life forever. Throughout the narrative, readers are offered a front row seat to Aiden's feelings and challenges, and readers observe the strategies Aiden uses to better participate in the world around him. Whether carefully observing expressions and body language or thinking critically about a specific football play, Aiden is constantly working to better understand his world and the people in it. The inequity of the justice system in the United States plays a significant role in this novel, and profound moments and interactions are placed strategically throughout the narrative. While these scenes can weigh heavily, they open the door for conversation and growth among readers of all ages. Lovingly presented and achingly heartfelt, this book is a standout in the young adult genre and an excellent addition to library collections for mature readers.
February 4, 2025
This book was the perfect first read for my February TBR. Thank you Simon Teen for sending me a copy, I am highly recommending everyone to read it. Books like ‘All the noise at once’ are so important to read even if it doesn’t feel like it 100% relates to you.
This book will tug on your heart strings, especially as we follow the our MC Aiden who is an autistic Black teenage boy. All he is trying to do is navigate high school and join the football team. He is lucky to have his older brother Brandon to help him along the way. There are moments where I cheered these boys on, questioned what they were doing and cried for them. I felt every emotion while reading this book. The love these boys share is honorable, it made my heart want to explode.
I can’t even cover all the important topics that were mentioned through out the book. We see a lot into racism in high school, even how adults treat black teens. We cover corrupt law enforcements, how teenage girls tears can change lives… not in a good way. It really shows the difference power and privilege plays in our lives. How race and gender can change things. Then when you add neurodivergence to all of it.
I repeat, EVERYONE should read this book.
This book will tug on your heart strings, especially as we follow the our MC Aiden who is an autistic Black teenage boy. All he is trying to do is navigate high school and join the football team. He is lucky to have his older brother Brandon to help him along the way. There are moments where I cheered these boys on, questioned what they were doing and cried for them. I felt every emotion while reading this book. The love these boys share is honorable, it made my heart want to explode.
I can’t even cover all the important topics that were mentioned through out the book. We see a lot into racism in high school, even how adults treat black teens. We cover corrupt law enforcements, how teenage girls tears can change lives… not in a good way. It really shows the difference power and privilege plays in our lives. How race and gender can change things. Then when you add neurodivergence to all of it.
I repeat, EVERYONE should read this book.
April 22, 2025
I really enjoyed this book. It covered a lot of heavy and important topics, but it didn’t feel too heavy. It had such great representation, too, including a Black male autistic teen. I’ve never really considered how dangerous being both autistic and Black is, particularly dealing with the police. This book could have really dove into the deep end with that possibility alone, so I’m glad I was saved from waterworks from an extremely sad scenario.
I loved the MMC Aiden and seeing life through his eyes. (I loved the “notes” spread throughout the book, too.) I also loved his new friend Isabella. Just a book about the two of them would be so cute. But that’s not the main plot of the book. (Just a fun side dish!)
I loved all the themes and issues dealt with in this book, the main of course being racism and other prejudices. However, identity and self-love were such a sweet, added bonus.
𝑾𝒉𝒐 𝑰'𝒅 𝑹𝒆𝒄𝒐𝒎𝒎𝒆𝒏𝒅 𝒕𝒐:
Honestly probably everyone! To those that it represents, but also to others so they can see things from a new perspective. I think it should almost be a requirement for all middle-schoolers and above to read.
I loved the MMC Aiden and seeing life through his eyes. (I loved the “notes” spread throughout the book, too.) I also loved his new friend Isabella. Just a book about the two of them would be so cute. But that’s not the main plot of the book. (Just a fun side dish!)
I loved all the themes and issues dealt with in this book, the main of course being racism and other prejudices. However, identity and self-love were such a sweet, added bonus.
𝑾𝒉𝒐 𝑰'𝒅 𝑹𝒆𝒄𝒐𝒎𝒎𝒆𝒏𝒅 𝒕𝒐:
Honestly probably everyone! To those that it represents, but also to others so they can see things from a new perspective. I think it should almost be a requirement for all middle-schoolers and above to read.
July 20, 2025
⭐️5 out of 5⭐️
All the Noise at Once is the most anxiety inducing book I’ve ever read. And I say that as a good thing. Davis crafts a truly harrowing story that somehow comes around to be enlightening, heartwarming, curious, and inspiring.
All the Noise at Once captures the story of two brothers who share a love of football. Their brotherhood and companionship are a strength they both value but when the worst case scenario becomes their reality, it is tested to the extremes. Aiden is forced out of his comfort zone when his brother, Brandon, is arrested and falsely accused of assaulting an officer when he tried to come to Aiden’s aid. Brandon has kept Aiden safe for years, maybe to a fault. Racism and ableism come to a head and Aiden must now use his strengths to defend his brother.
I’d recommend this book to anyone who’s ever leaned on a sibling like a lifeline, football fans who know the game is never just a game, who see poetry in the plays, readers who like their tears with a side of justice, and teachers searching for a text that tackles ableism and racism head-on without losing heart. Fans of Monday’s Not Coming: this is a must-read.
All the Noise at Once is the most anxiety inducing book I’ve ever read. And I say that as a good thing. Davis crafts a truly harrowing story that somehow comes around to be enlightening, heartwarming, curious, and inspiring.
All the Noise at Once captures the story of two brothers who share a love of football. Their brotherhood and companionship are a strength they both value but when the worst case scenario becomes their reality, it is tested to the extremes. Aiden is forced out of his comfort zone when his brother, Brandon, is arrested and falsely accused of assaulting an officer when he tried to come to Aiden’s aid. Brandon has kept Aiden safe for years, maybe to a fault. Racism and ableism come to a head and Aiden must now use his strengths to defend his brother.
I’d recommend this book to anyone who’s ever leaned on a sibling like a lifeline, football fans who know the game is never just a game, who see poetry in the plays, readers who like their tears with a side of justice, and teachers searching for a text that tackles ableism and racism head-on without losing heart. Fans of Monday’s Not Coming: this is a must-read.
July 28, 2025
Real rating: 4.25
White tears. White comfort. White guilt.
I wanted to read this book because it published on my birthday on top of the fact that it had a black neurodivergent main character. I’m also on the spectrum, and it’s not often I see myself represented in novels like this.
Aiden and I have a lot of similarities and that warmed me a lot to see, down to nearly identical conversations I’ve had with people in my own life.
Brandon is an incredible older brother and I love his and Aiden’s relationship. I feared for Brandon’s safety and future throughout the entirety of the story, and I was so relieved to finally exhale towards the end. Brandon and Aiden’s friends are amazing, Isabella included.
I don’t like Georgia and Marsha, regardless of their ‘change of heart’. I will not applaud a fish for swimming. Like I said, white tears, white comfort, white guilt.
White tears. White comfort. White guilt.
I wanted to read this book because it published on my birthday on top of the fact that it had a black neurodivergent main character. I’m also on the spectrum, and it’s not often I see myself represented in novels like this.
Aiden and I have a lot of similarities and that warmed me a lot to see, down to nearly identical conversations I’ve had with people in my own life.
Brandon is an incredible older brother and I love his and Aiden’s relationship. I feared for Brandon’s safety and future throughout the entirety of the story, and I was so relieved to finally exhale towards the end. Brandon and Aiden’s friends are amazing, Isabella included.
I don’t like Georgia and Marsha, regardless of their ‘change of heart’. I will not applaud a fish for swimming. Like I said, white tears, white comfort, white guilt.
April 10, 2025
CW: ableism, racism, bullying, violence, police brutality, racial slurs
I would like to thank Edelweiss and Antheneum Books for Young Readers for providing me with a free e-ARC of this book in exchange for a fair and honest review.
All the Noise at Once is a powerful story of social justice, being autistic in a neurotypical world, and the power of brotherly love. So many relevant issues are presented in this book, varying from over-policing on Black individuals to challenging innate stereotypes about being autistic, and I appreciate the care that Davis took with addressing these issues as well as discussing the intersectionality of being Black and autistic. I can see this book being talked about for a long time and being regarded as important reading for YA autistic literature.
I would like to thank Edelweiss and Antheneum Books for Young Readers for providing me with a free e-ARC of this book in exchange for a fair and honest review.
All the Noise at Once is a powerful story of social justice, being autistic in a neurotypical world, and the power of brotherly love. So many relevant issues are presented in this book, varying from over-policing on Black individuals to challenging innate stereotypes about being autistic, and I appreciate the care that Davis took with addressing these issues as well as discussing the intersectionality of being Black and autistic. I can see this book being talked about for a long time and being regarded as important reading for YA autistic literature.
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