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Picky
Editor’s Choice — BookLife Reviews (Publishers Weekly)
and
Bardsy First Chapter winner
Zillah’s twenty-three and stuck. She’s stuck living with her quirky mother, stuck with a diet of ten toddler-approved foods, and stuck in a relationship with a man who thinks sharks are immortal. Zillah desperately wants to move out on her own, but first she needs to prove she’s brave enough and that her mom won’t self-destruct. Things change when she secretly listens to her neighbor’s exposure therapy and decides to DIY her own mental health. But her first therapy experiment accidentally injures her mom, and life gets even stranger when she befriends the neighbor she’s been spying on.
Zillah gets to see the power of leaning into fear up close. But she also topples her carefully constructed home life, questions the “facts” of her childhood, and risks her mother’s stability as long-buried truths start to unravel. Zillah must decide who she wants to be and what she’s willing to leave behind.
Tender, funny, and full of nervy optimism, PICKY celebrates the courage it takes to reject the meal you were handed and instead choose from the buffet.
Zillah’s twenty-three and stuck. She’s stuck living with her quirky mother, stuck with a diet of ten toddler-approved foods, and stuck in a relationship with a man who thinks sharks are immortal. Zillah desperately wants to move out on her own, but first she needs to prove she’s brave enough and that her mom won’t self-destruct. Things change when she secretly listens to her neighbor’s exposure therapy and decides to DIY her own mental health. But her first therapy experiment accidentally injures her mom, and life gets even stranger when she befriends the neighbor she’s been spying on.
Zillah gets to see the power of leaning into fear up close. But she also topples her carefully constructed home life, questions the “facts” of her childhood, and risks her mother’s stability as long-buried truths start to unravel. Zillah must decide who she wants to be and what she’s willing to leave behind.
Tender, funny, and full of nervy optimism, PICKY celebrates the courage it takes to reject the meal you were handed and instead choose from the buffet.
296 pages, Paperback
Published July 1, 2026
About the author
Julie T. Kinn
6 books35 followersJulie T. Kinn is a writer and clinical psychologist based in the American Pacific Northwest. Since earning her PhD in 2009, she has dedicated her career to making mental health information interesting and engaging through technology, media, and story. Julie entertains readers while sneakily offering insight from a psychological perspective. When she's not writing or working with her clients, Julie's in the woods with her children and dogs, trying a new hobby, or experimenting with butter and sugar in the kitchen.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 258 reviews
July 11, 2026
What a beautiful, unexpected, and heartwarming read. Picky by Julie T. Kinn is a contemporary fiction novel that explores mental health, anxiety, OCD, and ARFID (Avoidant/Restrictive Food Intake Disorder) in such a unique and refreshing way. What stood out to me most was how the author approached such important subjects with kindness, sensitivity, and humour, making the story both educational and completely engaging.
The story centres around 23-year-old Zillah and her mum, Pauline, who has spent much of her life living with OCD, anxiety, and ARFID. Pauline has always only known ten foods that feel safe for her to eat, as trying anything outside of that comfort zone could cause overwhelming panic or the fear of vomiting. Watching her journey as she slowly begins to challenge those fears was incredibly moving. Seeing her take those small but courageous steps as she introduces new foods and discovers things she enjoys was such a wonderful part of the story.
I really enjoyed the relationship between Zillah and Pauline. It felt honest, warm, and full of love, while also showing the challenges that come with supporting someone through anxiety and mental health struggles. I also loved the clever way the author explored anxiety through the thin walls between neighbours, as Zillah overhears her neighbour talking with her therapist about anxiety and ways to overcome it. These moments added depth to the story and showed how powerful understanding and support can be.
Julie T. Kinn’s writing is warm, engaging, and filled with compassion. She tackles difficult topics in a way that never feels too heavy, instead bringing humour, sensitivity, and hope throughout. I loved how she balanced the educational side of mental health with a storyline that was entertaining, uplifting, and easy to connect with.
Picky is a gentle reminder that progress happens one small step at a time and that every achievement deserves to be celebrated. A thoughtful, sensitive, and beautifully written story that I thoroughly enjoyed.
Thank you NetGalley, Kennedy Creek Press, and author Julie T. Kinn for this ARC in exchange for my honest review.
Publishing date: July 1st 2026
The story centres around 23-year-old Zillah and her mum, Pauline, who has spent much of her life living with OCD, anxiety, and ARFID. Pauline has always only known ten foods that feel safe for her to eat, as trying anything outside of that comfort zone could cause overwhelming panic or the fear of vomiting. Watching her journey as she slowly begins to challenge those fears was incredibly moving. Seeing her take those small but courageous steps as she introduces new foods and discovers things she enjoys was such a wonderful part of the story.
I really enjoyed the relationship between Zillah and Pauline. It felt honest, warm, and full of love, while also showing the challenges that come with supporting someone through anxiety and mental health struggles. I also loved the clever way the author explored anxiety through the thin walls between neighbours, as Zillah overhears her neighbour talking with her therapist about anxiety and ways to overcome it. These moments added depth to the story and showed how powerful understanding and support can be.
Julie T. Kinn’s writing is warm, engaging, and filled with compassion. She tackles difficult topics in a way that never feels too heavy, instead bringing humour, sensitivity, and hope throughout. I loved how she balanced the educational side of mental health with a storyline that was entertaining, uplifting, and easy to connect with.
Picky is a gentle reminder that progress happens one small step at a time and that every achievement deserves to be celebrated. A thoughtful, sensitive, and beautifully written story that I thoroughly enjoyed.
Thank you NetGalley, Kennedy Creek Press, and author Julie T. Kinn for this ARC in exchange for my honest review.
Publishing date: July 1st 2026
August 20, 2026
4⭐️ as someone with my own anxieties around food, i read the description for this one and was immediately intrigued! and i’m really glad i picked it up because i felt like the author handled zillah’s narrative with SO much care. the author is a licensed psychologist, and you can tell she knew what she was talking about without making the book feel too clinical. it presented a lot of ideas around anxiety and exposure in such an approachable, low-stress way!
but oh my GOD zillah’s mom drove me CRAZY 😭 i do think that was part of the point though!! their relationship ended up being one of the most interesting parts of the book for me, especially the nature vs. nurture question of how much of zillah’s struggles are her own vs. how much has been shaped and reinforced by her mom’s anxieties and enabling.
i was a little disappointed that the author’s note stops short of actually confirming that zillah has ARFID, because to me it felt pretty clear that’s what the book was portraying? especially when that kind of representation is so rare, i’m not totally sure what was gained by leaving it unnamed? i also wish zillah’s progress had felt a little more gradual! given how deeply rooted some of her anxieties are, parts of her growth felt a little unrealistic, and i would’ve loved to see more of the smaller steps and setbacks with that.
this wasn’t quite a new all-time fave, and some of the dialogue felt a little clunky, but i thought it was really well paced and such a strong debut! overall, picky felt warm and hopeful without making any of these issues seem simple or easily fixed. it’s such a compassionate story about being brave enough to want more for yourself 🍓
thank you to netgalley for the review copy! picky is out now!
but oh my GOD zillah’s mom drove me CRAZY 😭 i do think that was part of the point though!! their relationship ended up being one of the most interesting parts of the book for me, especially the nature vs. nurture question of how much of zillah’s struggles are her own vs. how much has been shaped and reinforced by her mom’s anxieties and enabling.
i was a little disappointed that the author’s note stops short of actually confirming that zillah has ARFID, because to me it felt pretty clear that’s what the book was portraying? especially when that kind of representation is so rare, i’m not totally sure what was gained by leaving it unnamed? i also wish zillah’s progress had felt a little more gradual! given how deeply rooted some of her anxieties are, parts of her growth felt a little unrealistic, and i would’ve loved to see more of the smaller steps and setbacks with that.
this wasn’t quite a new all-time fave, and some of the dialogue felt a little clunky, but i thought it was really well paced and such a strong debut! overall, picky felt warm and hopeful without making any of these issues seem simple or easily fixed. it’s such a compassionate story about being brave enough to want more for yourself 🍓
thank you to netgalley for the review copy! picky is out now!
July 21, 2026
A great audio listen! This story follows a mother living with OCD and her 23-year-old daughter, Zillah, who copes with her own anxiety and a majorly restricted diet.
Zillah's world begins to open up when she 'accidentally' starts attending her neighbor's therapy sessions, realizing she isn't quite as alone as she thought. This leads to a blossoming friendship and introduces her to a fuller life outside the strict boundaries she's always known.
While I respect the complex nature of her mother's mental health struggles, I still found it hard to justify or forgive some of her actions as the story unfolded. That said, I was so proud of Zillah’s growth despite the difficult hand she was dealt. At its core, this is a story about empathy, connection, and learning to branch out.
Written and narrated by a clinical psychologist, the book provides an authentic look into these mental health struggles. The author's note provides a wealth of insight and knowledge, and the narrative balances heavy topics with grace, nuance, and a welcome touch of humor.
*(thank you Kennedy Creek Press, NetGalley for this audio copy)
Zillah's world begins to open up when she 'accidentally' starts attending her neighbor's therapy sessions, realizing she isn't quite as alone as she thought. This leads to a blossoming friendship and introduces her to a fuller life outside the strict boundaries she's always known.
While I respect the complex nature of her mother's mental health struggles, I still found it hard to justify or forgive some of her actions as the story unfolded. That said, I was so proud of Zillah’s growth despite the difficult hand she was dealt. At its core, this is a story about empathy, connection, and learning to branch out.
Written and narrated by a clinical psychologist, the book provides an authentic look into these mental health struggles. The author's note provides a wealth of insight and knowledge, and the narrative balances heavy topics with grace, nuance, and a welcome touch of humor.
*(thank you Kennedy Creek Press, NetGalley for this audio copy)
July 21, 2026
Picky is a thoughtful, quietly powerful look at a young woman learning to untangle fear, routine, and the weight of old family patterns. Zillah’s world is shaped by anxiety, OCD, and a lifetime of “safe foods,” and Kinn writes her inner spirals with a level of honesty that feels both intimate and deeply human.
What really resonated was the way Zillah's progress comes quietly through little acts of bravery, meaningful connections, and the gradual recognition that she’s been holding onto fears passed down rather than created.
It’s an immersive, sometimes uncomfortable read, but ultimately a hopeful one about reclaiming your life one choice at a time.
What really resonated was the way Zillah's progress comes quietly through little acts of bravery, meaningful connections, and the gradual recognition that she’s been holding onto fears passed down rather than created.
It’s an immersive, sometimes uncomfortable read, but ultimately a hopeful one about reclaiming your life one choice at a time.
March 29, 2026
I received an advanced copy of the audiobook.
I easily fell into this audiobook. Julie’s voice provided the perfect narration to the story. The topic resonated with me, as the mum of a former picky eater. The book provides an insight into what life is like in a household where mental illness controls everything, and the generational impacts. As the story unravelled, I was enthralled by the connections between Zillah and Paula’s behaviours. A very listenable story, and I hope to hear more from Julie in the near future!
I easily fell into this audiobook. Julie’s voice provided the perfect narration to the story. The topic resonated with me, as the mum of a former picky eater. The book provides an insight into what life is like in a household where mental illness controls everything, and the generational impacts. As the story unravelled, I was enthralled by the connections between Zillah and Paula’s behaviours. A very listenable story, and I hope to hear more from Julie in the near future!
April 14, 2026
4/5
Picky follows the story of Zillah, a quirky 23-year-old woman, who lives with her equally quirky mother. Zillah was brought up in a unique environment, only eating foods that are listed in her Excel spreadsheet (contains only 10 foods); and doesn't have many friends. She maintains a relationship with her boyfriend, because she thinks that's what society expects to do at 23 years old and to prove to her mother that she can eventually move out. Because she lives in an apartment building with very thin walls, she is able to hear her neighbor's therapy session and applies some of the advice the therapy gives her neighbor to her own life.
Throughout the story, we continue to follow Zillah on her journey to become more independent, new friendships and relationships.
The author did an amazing job with the narration; her pacing and tone were perfect for depicting the characters in this story.
Thank you Kennedy Creek Press for providing this Audio ARC for review consideration via NetGalley. All opinions are my own.
Picky follows the story of Zillah, a quirky 23-year-old woman, who lives with her equally quirky mother. Zillah was brought up in a unique environment, only eating foods that are listed in her Excel spreadsheet (contains only 10 foods); and doesn't have many friends. She maintains a relationship with her boyfriend, because she thinks that's what society expects to do at 23 years old and to prove to her mother that she can eventually move out. Because she lives in an apartment building with very thin walls, she is able to hear her neighbor's therapy session and applies some of the advice the therapy gives her neighbor to her own life.
Throughout the story, we continue to follow Zillah on her journey to become more independent, new friendships and relationships.
The author did an amazing job with the narration; her pacing and tone were perfect for depicting the characters in this story.
Thank you Kennedy Creek Press for providing this Audio ARC for review consideration via NetGalley. All opinions are my own.
October 29, 2026
In a Nutshell: A contemporary fiction novel about a picky eater who still wants to embrace life. Character-driven and medium-paced. This didn’t go the way I expected, and in a very good way. The main character is amazing and not typical of picky leads. Loved the other characters and the story development as well. A debut worth reading.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Plot Preview:
Bookish Yays:
🍓 Zillah. I love how she isn't a typical young character who moans about her fate. Rather, she embraces her quirks and sees herself as much more than “picky”. She is a bit immature at times, but this can be attributed to her upbringing.
🍓 Zillah’s mom Paula, who battles her own anxiety issues. Again, the author hasn’t turned her into a caricature of an anxious character.
🍓 Both Zillah and Paula have layers, which might not work with those who want likeable characters but I always like realistically-nuanced characters better.
🍓 The first-person narration, which sounds exactly the way a young person would narrate their experiences instead of like a lyrical novel.
🍓 The way Zillah’s picky eating habits are portrayed without turning the whole thing into a joke.
🍓 Zillah’s neighbour Lisa and her entire family, including their dog Halstead. They add heart to the plot. I love how the friendship between Zillah and Lisa was mutually beneficial rather than one-sided.
🍓 The in-between reveal that makes the reader ponder upon nature vs. nurture.
🍓 The author’s background as a clinical psychologist, which shows in the sensitive and sensible way she writes about the various mental health issues faced by her characters. At the same time, the book doesn’t go too technical about the psychological issues.
🍓 The humour and the positivity despite handling so many tough topics.
Bookish Okays:
🧀 Zillah is perfect for her age, but this also means that the story reads a bit young. It feels like YA at times, though not necessarily in a bad way. But some adult readers might be turned off by the simplistic approach.
🧀 The content often relies on bodily-fluid references such as vomiting, pooping, and so on. This is necessitated by Zillah’s thinking being so dominated by her eating habits and their effect on her body, but it feels like too much at times.
🧀 The ending. I like that it settled on a note of hope than on perfect happiness. But Zillah’s turnaround felt too sudden and remarkable to be realistic. A journey of small wins would have been much more believable.
🎧 The Audiobook Experience;
The audiobook, clocking at 9 hrs 9 min, is narrated by the author herself, and what a fabulous job she does! I loved her expressiveness and the way she differentiated her voice well across the characters. The voice she used for Paula was a bit annoying; then again, Paula herself was more than a bit annoying. I’d definitely recommend the audio version as the great way of experiencing this story.
Overall, I liked that the book isn't about Zillah’s pickiness but about how she wants a normal life while being accepting of her pickiness. The characters, with their flaws and all, are the heart of this story. It might not work for those who want flowery prose or darker narratives or likeable characters, but to readers looking for an easy-going read tackling serious issues, this ought to work.
Recommended to readers of contemporary fiction and up-lit.
4 stars.
My thanks to Kennedy Creek Press for providing the ALC of “Picky” via NetGalley. This review is voluntary and contains my honest opinion about the audiobook.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
I follow the Goodreads rating policy:
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ - Lifelong favourite!
⭐⭐⭐⭐ - I loved the book.
⭐⭐⭐ - I liked the book.
⭐⭐ - I found the book average.
⭐ - I hated the book.
The decimals indicate the degree of the in-between feelings.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Connect with me through:
My Blog || The StoryGraph || Instagram || Facebook ||
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Plot Preview:
Twenty-three-year-old Zillah lives with her mother, eats a diet of ten toddler-approved foods, and is in a relationship with a man-child. She wants to move out of her childhood home, but she first needs to prove to her mother that she can survive on her own. When Zillah secretly overhears her new neighbour’s therapy session, she decides to implement some of the suggestions for her own benefit. She starts questioning some of her life choices, and soon needs to decide how much she is willing to risk in order to embrace life better.
The story comes to us in Zillah’s first-person perspective.
Bookish Yays:
🍓 Zillah. I love how she isn't a typical young character who moans about her fate. Rather, she embraces her quirks and sees herself as much more than “picky”. She is a bit immature at times, but this can be attributed to her upbringing.
🍓 Zillah’s mom Paula, who battles her own anxiety issues. Again, the author hasn’t turned her into a caricature of an anxious character.
🍓 Both Zillah and Paula have layers, which might not work with those who want likeable characters but I always like realistically-nuanced characters better.
🍓 The first-person narration, which sounds exactly the way a young person would narrate their experiences instead of like a lyrical novel.
🍓 The way Zillah’s picky eating habits are portrayed without turning the whole thing into a joke.
🍓 Zillah’s neighbour Lisa and her entire family, including their dog Halstead. They add heart to the plot. I love how the friendship between Zillah and Lisa was mutually beneficial rather than one-sided.
🍓 The in-between reveal that makes the reader ponder upon nature vs. nurture.
🍓 The author’s background as a clinical psychologist, which shows in the sensitive and sensible way she writes about the various mental health issues faced by her characters. At the same time, the book doesn’t go too technical about the psychological issues.
🍓 The humour and the positivity despite handling so many tough topics.
Bookish Okays:
🧀 Zillah is perfect for her age, but this also means that the story reads a bit young. It feels like YA at times, though not necessarily in a bad way. But some adult readers might be turned off by the simplistic approach.
🧀 The content often relies on bodily-fluid references such as vomiting, pooping, and so on. This is necessitated by Zillah’s thinking being so dominated by her eating habits and their effect on her body, but it feels like too much at times.
🧀 The ending. I like that it settled on a note of hope than on perfect happiness. But Zillah’s turnaround felt too sudden and remarkable to be realistic. A journey of small wins would have been much more believable.
🎧 The Audiobook Experience;
The audiobook, clocking at 9 hrs 9 min, is narrated by the author herself, and what a fabulous job she does! I loved her expressiveness and the way she differentiated her voice well across the characters. The voice she used for Paula was a bit annoying; then again, Paula herself was more than a bit annoying. I’d definitely recommend the audio version as the great way of experiencing this story.
Overall, I liked that the book isn't about Zillah’s pickiness but about how she wants a normal life while being accepting of her pickiness. The characters, with their flaws and all, are the heart of this story. It might not work for those who want flowery prose or darker narratives or likeable characters, but to readers looking for an easy-going read tackling serious issues, this ought to work.
Recommended to readers of contemporary fiction and up-lit.
4 stars.
My thanks to Kennedy Creek Press for providing the ALC of “Picky” via NetGalley. This review is voluntary and contains my honest opinion about the audiobook.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
I follow the Goodreads rating policy:
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ - Lifelong favourite!
⭐⭐⭐⭐ - I loved the book.
⭐⭐⭐ - I liked the book.
⭐⭐ - I found the book average.
⭐ - I hated the book.
The decimals indicate the degree of the in-between feelings.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Connect with me through:
My Blog || The StoryGraph || Instagram || Facebook ||
Currently Reading
April 8, 2026DNF’d at 5%. Profanity.
April 2, 2026
Initially, this book is about an infantilized 23-year-old woman living with her mother. Zillah wants to be an adult and move into an apartment with her boyfriend, but her mother says she is not ready. She and her mother only eat 10 foods. But then, Zillah overhears her neighbor (who also lives with her brother and their mother) having a therapy session via Zoom. She can't help but listen. As a result, their lives change dramatically as they meet and become friends. I was initially bored with Zillah's timidity, but came to really like the character and root for her. Obviously, there is a mental illness theme, but it is handled very well by the author, who is a psychotherapist and also narrates the novel. In the end, I found it fun and uplifting. 4.4
My thanks to the author, @KennedyCreekPress, and #NetGalley for early access to the audiobook #Picky for review purposes. Publication date: 1 July 2026.
My thanks to the author, @KennedyCreekPress, and #NetGalley for early access to the audiobook #Picky for review purposes. Publication date: 1 July 2026.
June 4, 2026
Picky was a deeeeeeeply relatable book for me, but I don't think it will necessarily be for everyone. I think readers who enjoy flawed and often frustrating characters, stories about mental illness, OCD/ADHD/other neurodivergent experiences, and/or character-driven novels that don't rely on a heavy plot will likely really enjoy this story.
What I loved most about this book was the writing. It managed to be funny, heartbreaking, suspenseful, and deeply honest in such a short span. I felt for all of the characters, and I found myself really relating to our MC Zillah in particular FAR more often than I expected. As someone who grew up with a mentally ill mother who certainly passed down many of her issues to me, I felt like Julie was pulling a Zillah on me (iykyk haha)
I zoomed through the audiobook in a single sitting because I was so invested. I loved that it was narrated by the author because I really enjoyed how she brought her characters to life.
My only real criticism is that I wish the side characters had been developed a bit more. While the focus on the main character worked well for the story being told, there were a few supporting characters I would have loved to spend more time with. For instance, Paula's sister Bethany seemed rather one-dimensional.
Overall, I really loved this book. It won't be for every reader, but it absolutely worked for me. 4.5 stars, and I will definitely be picking up more books by this author in the future.
Thank you to NetGalley and Kennedy Creek Press for an advanced digital copy in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
What I loved most about this book was the writing. It managed to be funny, heartbreaking, suspenseful, and deeply honest in such a short span. I felt for all of the characters, and I found myself really relating to our MC Zillah in particular FAR more often than I expected. As someone who grew up with a mentally ill mother who certainly passed down many of her issues to me, I felt like Julie was pulling a Zillah on me (iykyk haha)
I zoomed through the audiobook in a single sitting because I was so invested. I loved that it was narrated by the author because I really enjoyed how she brought her characters to life.
My only real criticism is that I wish the side characters had been developed a bit more. While the focus on the main character worked well for the story being told, there were a few supporting characters I would have loved to spend more time with. For instance, Paula's sister Bethany seemed rather one-dimensional.
Overall, I really loved this book. It won't be for every reader, but it absolutely worked for me. 4.5 stars, and I will definitely be picking up more books by this author in the future.
Thank you to NetGalley and Kennedy Creek Press for an advanced digital copy in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
April 2, 2026
Is it OCD? Anxiety? Or just plain Zillah? I found myself laughing, cringing, and oddly rooting for Zillah as she and her mother, Paula, navigated their whirlwind of quirky habits and enabling behaviors.
Zillah is a “failing-to-launch adult” whose immaturity is simultaneously frustrating and endearing. Her longtime boyfriend Cliff… well, he’s not winning any sympathy points from me. Enter Lise, a socially anxious friend who nudges Zillah to face her fears and start growing up—finally.
The story digs into the mother-daughter dynamic, exploring how Paula’s anxieties may have shaped Zillah’s pickiness and life choices. And yes, while Zillah’s eventual growth felt a little rushed, I still thoroughly enjoyed the ride. Funny, relatable, and just messy enough to feel real, Picky made me root for a character I fully expected to annoy me.
Thanks to NetGalley and Kennedy Creek Press for the advanced copy. All opinions are my own.
Zillah is a “failing-to-launch adult” whose immaturity is simultaneously frustrating and endearing. Her longtime boyfriend Cliff… well, he’s not winning any sympathy points from me. Enter Lise, a socially anxious friend who nudges Zillah to face her fears and start growing up—finally.
The story digs into the mother-daughter dynamic, exploring how Paula’s anxieties may have shaped Zillah’s pickiness and life choices. And yes, while Zillah’s eventual growth felt a little rushed, I still thoroughly enjoyed the ride. Funny, relatable, and just messy enough to feel real, Picky made me root for a character I fully expected to annoy me.
Thanks to NetGalley and Kennedy Creek Press for the advanced copy. All opinions are my own.
July 18, 2026
I really enjoyed this book. It’s a sweet, comforting story that centers on severe anxiety, but what surprised me most was its tone. Before picking it up, I expected it to fall into the “weird girl” fiction category. Instead, it approaches mental health through dark humor, which made it feel much more refreshing and authentic. Despite dealing with difficult topics, the book has a cozy atmosphere, and I found that balance worked really well. The ending is especially hopeful without feeling unrealistic, making it a genuinely uplifting read.I think a lot of people who struggle with anxiety will recognize parts of themselves in this novel. It does a wonderful job of portraying not only the fears and limitations that come with living with anxiety but also the importance of friendship, family, and support in learning how to navigate it. Overall, I found it both heartfelt and reassuring.
April 9, 2026
Picky by Julie T. Kinn is a really warm, optimistic story that mixes humour with a thoughtful look at mental health.
At its heart, it’s a genuinely uplifting read. It touches on things like anxiety, OCD, and how mental health can affect families across generations. Without giving too much away, I liked that it doesn’t just focus on the struggles, but also shows the messy, very real ways the characters deal with and work through them.
That said, the tone did feel quite young at times, which made me wonder if it’s aimed more at a YA audience. It didn’t take away from the story (and actually worked in places, especially in showing the main character’s upbringing) but it did mean some parts weren’t explored as deeply as I would’ve liked. I definitely wanted more about the mum’s background, as that felt like it could’ve added a lot. And while the ending was really lovely and uplifting, I was left wishing we got a bit more of what happens next (honestly, I’d take a sequel!).
Overall, Picky is a light but meaningful read that handles mental health with care and positivity. I’d recommend it if you’re after something uplifting, a bit funny, and centred around family and connection.
⭐️3.5 stars
Thank you to Netgalley & Kennedy Creek Press for the ARC!
At its heart, it’s a genuinely uplifting read. It touches on things like anxiety, OCD, and how mental health can affect families across generations. Without giving too much away, I liked that it doesn’t just focus on the struggles, but also shows the messy, very real ways the characters deal with and work through them.
That said, the tone did feel quite young at times, which made me wonder if it’s aimed more at a YA audience. It didn’t take away from the story (and actually worked in places, especially in showing the main character’s upbringing) but it did mean some parts weren’t explored as deeply as I would’ve liked. I definitely wanted more about the mum’s background, as that felt like it could’ve added a lot. And while the ending was really lovely and uplifting, I was left wishing we got a bit more of what happens next (honestly, I’d take a sequel!).
Overall, Picky is a light but meaningful read that handles mental health with care and positivity. I’d recommend it if you’re after something uplifting, a bit funny, and centred around family and connection.
⭐️3.5 stars
Thank you to Netgalley & Kennedy Creek Press for the ARC!
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher Kennedy Creek Press for the ARC of "Picky"!
Initially, I wasn’t sure if the story would fully capture me, but as I read on, it did. Zillah’s journey, from a life shaped by her mother’s anxiety and picky eating, to finding her independence, felt both heartwarming and authentic.
The twist, revealing how much her mother’s behavior had shaped her life, added depth. I only wished we got even more after that moment—more detail on Zillah’s experience and perhaps more accountability from family who stayed silent. Still, it was balanced: an easy, dialogue-heavy read with short chapters, making a serious topic accessible.
I appreciated the nuanced portrayal of mental health. It’s not black and white, and the mom wasn’t “evil.” I was rooting for Zillah to break out of patterns, and her friendship with Liza and budding connection with Liza's brother Ben felt hopeful. Overall, it’s a charming, introspective, and surprising story in its warmth.
Initially, I wasn’t sure if the story would fully capture me, but as I read on, it did. Zillah’s journey, from a life shaped by her mother’s anxiety and picky eating, to finding her independence, felt both heartwarming and authentic.
The twist, revealing how much her mother’s behavior had shaped her life, added depth. I only wished we got even more after that moment—more detail on Zillah’s experience and perhaps more accountability from family who stayed silent. Still, it was balanced: an easy, dialogue-heavy read with short chapters, making a serious topic accessible.
I appreciated the nuanced portrayal of mental health. It’s not black and white, and the mom wasn’t “evil.” I was rooting for Zillah to break out of patterns, and her friendship with Liza and budding connection with Liza's brother Ben felt hopeful. Overall, it’s a charming, introspective, and surprising story in its warmth.
Read
June 4, 2026I kindly received an advanced copy of this audiobook from the publisher via NetGalley
I really enjoyed this book! It follows a young women who is an extremely picky eater and explores how it effects her life and how this came to be. I enjoyed the relationships explored, the plot and pacing. There was an incredibly strong narrative voice so I felt I really understood the main character. There were twists and turns and it’s very rare a book will make my jaw drop but this definitely did! While touching on very serious topics, these were handled responsibly and sensitively while maintaining a sense of humour and ease throughout. Additionally, I think the narrator did a great job breathing life into the story.
I really enjoyed this book! It follows a young women who is an extremely picky eater and explores how it effects her life and how this came to be. I enjoyed the relationships explored, the plot and pacing. There was an incredibly strong narrative voice so I felt I really understood the main character. There were twists and turns and it’s very rare a book will make my jaw drop but this definitely did! While touching on very serious topics, these were handled responsibly and sensitively while maintaining a sense of humour and ease throughout. Additionally, I think the narrator did a great job breathing life into the story.
May 18, 2026
My Selling Pitch:
OCD nature vs nurture in a quirky girl lit fic family drama.
Pre-reading:
I love messy girl lit fic.
(obviously potential spoilers from here on)
Thick of it:
So a neurotic Mom, and is this OCD or autism or both?
I too am weirdly afraid of stairs I think largely because my balance is so bad.
I fear this book is diagnosing me lol.
An ironic kickball league! Oh my god, she read him for filth!
She’s just like me, for real!
Painting a personal O’Keefe over flick the bean is so good.
I touched a cantaloupe, and I liked it!
This is reminding me so much of Big Swiss.
The dog vs cat people made me guffaw.
I would die for Halsted.
I love bratty banter.
I thought she couldn’t eat the applesauce because there was lemon in it?
Detritus sin
Stahging like hodge not staging like a play, no? Or is that just my restaurant? (Audiobook mispronounced it. Just a hiccup I noticed.)
Ben and these kids are really cute.
So much about pooping in this book.
I think this is a 3.5 I’ll round up. Just a good character study.
The audiobook is so well acted, especially with the shrill mother character.
A red cap in this political environment is a choice.
I’m surprised how common thinking you ran someone over is with OCD. I was just reading the Noah Kahan article where he talks about his experience with it.
I think fiestaware is hideous.
Post-reading:
A solid little character study. I always enjoy quirky lit fics. I like inhabiting a character’s consciousness and watching them spiral. I think this book did a really good job at representing OCD and how it’s not really about obsessive cleanliness but rather distressing, almost magical thinking. I think it was a unique spin to ask how much of an anxiety disorder is nature vs nurture. I wish we got a little more backstory as to how Elise developed all of her phobias besides one traumatizing incident.
I think the audiobook was phenomenally acted. The shrill voice she put on for Paula is appropriately annoying and grating.
I think there were some great food flavor and texture descriptions in this, and they never felt overdone which I think would’ve been an easy trap for a book about a picky eater to fall into. There was however way, way too much about bathroom habits and poop. It’s icky the first time, but it was mentioned constantly.
I think the pacing for this book was also excellent. It moves at a steady clip, and the short chapters propel you through it. There’s no annoying time jumps just to flashback. You just get to plow through the piece.
It’s not a new favorite, but I really enjoyed the story, and I’m glad I read it. I think if you like quirky girl lit fics, you’ll probably like this one too. It’s got that Fleabag, deadpan humor that a lot of this genre uses, and I enjoy it every time.
Who should read this:
Quirky lit fic fans
Mental health representation fans
Family drama fans
Character study fans
Ideal reading time:
Anytime
Do I want to reread this:
Maybe? I feel like I would reach for other similar titles before this one
Would I buy this:
Yes!
Similar books:
* Eleanor Oliphant is Completely Fine by Gail Honeyman-lit fic, family drama, autism
* Interesting Facts About Space by Emily R. Austin-lit fic, cozy mystery, family drama, queer romance, autism
* Big Swiss by Jen Beagin-lit fic, queer romance
* Open Wide by Jessica Gross-lit fic, psychological horror, family drama, autism
* Cleaner by Jess Shannon-lit fic, family drama, autism
* Sky Daddy by Kate Folk-lit fic, family drama, autism
* Paradise Logic by Sophie Kemp-lit fic, psychological horror, autism
Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
OCD nature vs nurture in a quirky girl lit fic family drama.
Pre-reading:
I love messy girl lit fic.
(obviously potential spoilers from here on)
Thick of it:
So a neurotic Mom, and is this OCD or autism or both?
I too am weirdly afraid of stairs I think largely because my balance is so bad.
I fear this book is diagnosing me lol.
An ironic kickball league! Oh my god, she read him for filth!
She’s just like me, for real!
Painting a personal O’Keefe over flick the bean is so good.
I touched a cantaloupe, and I liked it!
This is reminding me so much of Big Swiss.
The dog vs cat people made me guffaw.
I would die for Halsted.
I love bratty banter.
I thought she couldn’t eat the applesauce because there was lemon in it?
Detritus sin
Stahging like hodge not staging like a play, no? Or is that just my restaurant? (Audiobook mispronounced it. Just a hiccup I noticed.)
Ben and these kids are really cute.
So much about pooping in this book.
I think this is a 3.5 I’ll round up. Just a good character study.
The audiobook is so well acted, especially with the shrill mother character.
A red cap in this political environment is a choice.
I’m surprised how common thinking you ran someone over is with OCD. I was just reading the Noah Kahan article where he talks about his experience with it.
I think fiestaware is hideous.
Post-reading:
A solid little character study. I always enjoy quirky lit fics. I like inhabiting a character’s consciousness and watching them spiral. I think this book did a really good job at representing OCD and how it’s not really about obsessive cleanliness but rather distressing, almost magical thinking. I think it was a unique spin to ask how much of an anxiety disorder is nature vs nurture. I wish we got a little more backstory as to how Elise developed all of her phobias besides one traumatizing incident.
I think the audiobook was phenomenally acted. The shrill voice she put on for Paula is appropriately annoying and grating.
I think there were some great food flavor and texture descriptions in this, and they never felt overdone which I think would’ve been an easy trap for a book about a picky eater to fall into. There was however way, way too much about bathroom habits and poop. It’s icky the first time, but it was mentioned constantly.
I think the pacing for this book was also excellent. It moves at a steady clip, and the short chapters propel you through it. There’s no annoying time jumps just to flashback. You just get to plow through the piece.
It’s not a new favorite, but I really enjoyed the story, and I’m glad I read it. I think if you like quirky girl lit fics, you’ll probably like this one too. It’s got that Fleabag, deadpan humor that a lot of this genre uses, and I enjoy it every time.
Who should read this:
Quirky lit fic fans
Mental health representation fans
Family drama fans
Character study fans
Ideal reading time:
Anytime
Do I want to reread this:
Maybe? I feel like I would reach for other similar titles before this one
Would I buy this:
Yes!
Similar books:
* Eleanor Oliphant is Completely Fine by Gail Honeyman-lit fic, family drama, autism
* Interesting Facts About Space by Emily R. Austin-lit fic, cozy mystery, family drama, queer romance, autism
* Big Swiss by Jen Beagin-lit fic, queer romance
* Open Wide by Jessica Gross-lit fic, psychological horror, family drama, autism
* Cleaner by Jess Shannon-lit fic, family drama, autism
* Sky Daddy by Kate Folk-lit fic, family drama, autism
* Paradise Logic by Sophie Kemp-lit fic, psychological horror, autism
Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
July 9, 2026
Thank you @tlcbooktours @juliekinnphd #partner for the gifted copy of this book!
This was one of those books where I couldn’t help but fall in love with the characters. ❤️
Picky follows Zillah as she navigates her life and all of her perceived challenges that come with stepping outside of her comfort zone. This book is funny, sweet and full of wonderfully memorable characters.
Seriously...Zillah and her mom had me rolling. I just thought they were so quirky and awkward! Definitely cringeworthy but seriously so completely lovable. Their interactions were easily one of my favorite parts of the book. I liked that this book repped neurodivergence, anxiety and OCD. One thing I love about reading is getting a glimpse into experiences that are so different from my own. Cheers to that!
I’ll be honest...I cannot personally relate to Zillah and with moving out because of the unknown or the anxiety around things like talking to people or using a public restroom. My personality is basically the exact opposite. 🤣 You’ll find me over here hugging strangers asking them if they want to be my neighbor or chatting with a wall if it’ll listen. Ope. That’s the sales in me :) But that is exactly why I enjoy books like this! These sort of books help me step into someone else’s shoes for a little while and better understand experiences that I haven’t lived myself. I found perspectives like this really fascinating!
This book was a good one for chuckles! It made me smile and gave me characters I’ll definitely remember. I would also love to mention that the audiobook fit the character perfectly! I think it helped deliver the quirkiness of these characters. This was a perfect reset for some of the books I’ve been reading lately. I loved it!
This was one of those books where I couldn’t help but fall in love with the characters. ❤️
Picky follows Zillah as she navigates her life and all of her perceived challenges that come with stepping outside of her comfort zone. This book is funny, sweet and full of wonderfully memorable characters.
Seriously...Zillah and her mom had me rolling. I just thought they were so quirky and awkward! Definitely cringeworthy but seriously so completely lovable. Their interactions were easily one of my favorite parts of the book. I liked that this book repped neurodivergence, anxiety and OCD. One thing I love about reading is getting a glimpse into experiences that are so different from my own. Cheers to that!
I’ll be honest...I cannot personally relate to Zillah and with moving out because of the unknown or the anxiety around things like talking to people or using a public restroom. My personality is basically the exact opposite. 🤣 You’ll find me over here hugging strangers asking them if they want to be my neighbor or chatting with a wall if it’ll listen. Ope. That’s the sales in me :) But that is exactly why I enjoy books like this! These sort of books help me step into someone else’s shoes for a little while and better understand experiences that I haven’t lived myself. I found perspectives like this really fascinating!
This book was a good one for chuckles! It made me smile and gave me characters I’ll definitely remember. I would also love to mention that the audiobook fit the character perfectly! I think it helped deliver the quirkiness of these characters. This was a perfect reset for some of the books I’ve been reading lately. I loved it!
March 28, 2026
This book is an excellent example of the right way to combine humor and the painful process of evolving as a young woman.
The tone here reminded me a little of Green Dot, starting out almost flippant and gradually moving toward something far more serious and at times achingly sad. It’s a good way to guide a character through change and self-improvement, but most authors can’t quite pull off the tonal shift without destroying the original voice.
Kinn, however, does so flawlessly, and the result is an oft-hilarious but sometimes sharply painful look at a young woman desperate to expand her tiny world but unable to navigate how to do so.
Zilla’s situation is an interesting take on food/eating issues and a bit of Munchausen Syndrome. For the reader it feels fairly obvious what the big reveal is going to be for Zilla in terms of why she is the way she is, but it’s also all too clear why Zilla herself can’t see what’s right in front of her.
She’s an intensely lovable character, and I rooted hard for her to become the person she desperately wants to be. In all, this is a sweet, uplifting story with a lot of humor and a lot of charm that still manages to address some fairly serious issues.
*I received an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.*
The tone here reminded me a little of Green Dot, starting out almost flippant and gradually moving toward something far more serious and at times achingly sad. It’s a good way to guide a character through change and self-improvement, but most authors can’t quite pull off the tonal shift without destroying the original voice.
Kinn, however, does so flawlessly, and the result is an oft-hilarious but sometimes sharply painful look at a young woman desperate to expand her tiny world but unable to navigate how to do so.
Zilla’s situation is an interesting take on food/eating issues and a bit of Munchausen Syndrome. For the reader it feels fairly obvious what the big reveal is going to be for Zilla in terms of why she is the way she is, but it’s also all too clear why Zilla herself can’t see what’s right in front of her.
She’s an intensely lovable character, and I rooted hard for her to become the person she desperately wants to be. In all, this is a sweet, uplifting story with a lot of humor and a lot of charm that still manages to address some fairly serious issues.
*I received an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.*
May 16, 2026
Picky is an authentic, relatable, and at times deeply stressful, portrayal of life with OCD.
Picky is written in first person following our main character Zillah, an infantilized 23-year-old woman living with her mother. Both Zillah and her mother are consumed by a wide range of “quirks” and compulsions that leave Zillah feeling trapped and unable to move forward in life. The title perfectly captures one of Zillah’s most visible struggles: only tolerating ten toddler-style safe foods (calling all other foods “yuck foods”). However, it quickly becomes clear to the reader that this food-thing is only the surface of the complex OCD tendencies shaping both of their lives.
Julie T. Kinn’s background as a psychologist is evident throughout the novel, particularly in the painfully accurate depictions of intrusive thought spirals, anxiety, and therapy practices. As a reader who struggles with OCD personally, I often find fictional portrayals of the disorder exaggerated or misunderstood, so it was incredibly refreshing to read something that felt so raw, honest, and true to my own experiences.
The author’s note at the end was a wonderful addition to the conclusion of this story. While the descriptions throughout the novel did feel accurate, I appreciated learning that the book was cross-checked by multiple psychology clinicians to ensure clinical authenticity. I think readers without personal experience with OCD would especially benefit from that context.
Despite dealing with such a heavy subject matter, Picky somehow manages to maintain a fun, quirky, and occasionally silly tone. And the fact that Julie T. Kinn narrated the audiobook herself made the experience even more personal and impactful.
This was a truly fabulous work. I LOVED it. Literally left me in tears. Thank you, Julie, for capturing the exhausting reality of OCD with compassion, humor, and honesty.
“In all, we followed the campsite rule and left each other better than we started”
Thank you to NetGalley and the author for the advanced listening copy of Picky in exchange for an honest review.
Picky is written in first person following our main character Zillah, an infantilized 23-year-old woman living with her mother. Both Zillah and her mother are consumed by a wide range of “quirks” and compulsions that leave Zillah feeling trapped and unable to move forward in life. The title perfectly captures one of Zillah’s most visible struggles: only tolerating ten toddler-style safe foods (calling all other foods “yuck foods”). However, it quickly becomes clear to the reader that this food-thing is only the surface of the complex OCD tendencies shaping both of their lives.
Julie T. Kinn’s background as a psychologist is evident throughout the novel, particularly in the painfully accurate depictions of intrusive thought spirals, anxiety, and therapy practices. As a reader who struggles with OCD personally, I often find fictional portrayals of the disorder exaggerated or misunderstood, so it was incredibly refreshing to read something that felt so raw, honest, and true to my own experiences.
The author’s note at the end was a wonderful addition to the conclusion of this story. While the descriptions throughout the novel did feel accurate, I appreciated learning that the book was cross-checked by multiple psychology clinicians to ensure clinical authenticity. I think readers without personal experience with OCD would especially benefit from that context.
Despite dealing with such a heavy subject matter, Picky somehow manages to maintain a fun, quirky, and occasionally silly tone. And the fact that Julie T. Kinn narrated the audiobook herself made the experience even more personal and impactful.
This was a truly fabulous work. I LOVED it. Literally left me in tears. Thank you, Julie, for capturing the exhausting reality of OCD with compassion, humor, and honesty.
“In all, we followed the campsite rule and left each other better than we started”
Thank you to NetGalley and the author for the advanced listening copy of Picky in exchange for an honest review.
March 31, 2026
audio / 4.25* / netgalley
Picky is a wonderful novel all about overcoming nature vs nurture. How fear of the unknown overtakes you, how overthinking can actually stop you from progressing in life. In the end I was left feeling incredible proud of Zilly for everything she chose to do for herself. Mental Health struggles can really change how someone is raised and how finding new people can broaden your experiences.
The narration was extremely well done and I found that overall this book was eye opening into a world that most of us don’t live in, and an interesting take on recovery.
Thank you to NetGalley and Kennedy Creek Press for the opportunity to listen to and review this book in advance of it's release, always an honour.
Picky is a wonderful novel all about overcoming nature vs nurture. How fear of the unknown overtakes you, how overthinking can actually stop you from progressing in life. In the end I was left feeling incredible proud of Zilly for everything she chose to do for herself. Mental Health struggles can really change how someone is raised and how finding new people can broaden your experiences.
The narration was extremely well done and I found that overall this book was eye opening into a world that most of us don’t live in, and an interesting take on recovery.
Thank you to NetGalley and Kennedy Creek Press for the opportunity to listen to and review this book in advance of it's release, always an honour.
May 18, 2026
This short novel centers a young adult navigating “picky” eating, a stale relationship and an uncertain future. Zillah lives at home with her mom but wants to move out. She’s held back by fear of the unknown, as well as her mother’s anxieties. It doesn’t read like a therapy book per se. There are some subplots involving a dog, romance, and being a child of divorce. However a solid chunk of the book is about dealing with anxiety, so if that is not of interest to the reader they might not enjoy this book.
The perfect reader for this book is a young adult struggling with OCD, ARFID or anxiety. It would also be a good fit for someone seeking to understand their family member with an anxiety disorder. (There’s some sexual content so it would be best for a young adult audience.)
This is a good introduction to OCD, ARFID and exposure therapy, and it covers these disorders and their therapeutic treatments in a clinically sound way.
(I received an ARC from the author in exchange for my honest review)
The perfect reader for this book is a young adult struggling with OCD, ARFID or anxiety. It would also be a good fit for someone seeking to understand their family member with an anxiety disorder. (There’s some sexual content so it would be best for a young adult audience.)
This is a good introduction to OCD, ARFID and exposure therapy, and it covers these disorders and their therapeutic treatments in a clinically sound way.
(I received an ARC from the author in exchange for my honest review)
April 7, 2026
I really enjoyed this book! What starts as a story about a wonderfully quirky FMC navigating the messy landscape of her own mind slowly becomes something that feels deeply personal. The way Kinn handles anxiety, mental illness, and trauma is not heavy-handed, but rather tender and a little funny and bracingly honest. She weaves in CBT (cognitive behavioral therapy) and exposure therapy in a way that feels organic to the story rather than instructional.
It is worth noting here that Julie T. Kinn narrates her own audiobook, and she is genuinely wonderful in the role. It’s hit and miss when authors read their own work because it so rarely goes well, but Kinn is the exception. There is an authenticity to her performance that a professional narrator might not have been able to replicate. She knows exactly where the humor lives and where the weight is, and does a great job. The production quality was excellent.
Reading this felt like spending time with an Emily Austin novel, which is just about the highest compliment I can offer. There is that same deadpan warmth, that same willingness to let a character be strange and wounded and still completely worth rooting for. The story is meaningful, the writing is sharp, and the emotional core is genuine. If you are a fan of Emily Austin or just a fan of fiction that takes mental health seriously without losing its sense of humor, this one belongs on your list.
Thank you to Kennedy Creek Press and NetGalley for the ARC.
It is worth noting here that Julie T. Kinn narrates her own audiobook, and she is genuinely wonderful in the role. It’s hit and miss when authors read their own work because it so rarely goes well, but Kinn is the exception. There is an authenticity to her performance that a professional narrator might not have been able to replicate. She knows exactly where the humor lives and where the weight is, and does a great job. The production quality was excellent.
Reading this felt like spending time with an Emily Austin novel, which is just about the highest compliment I can offer. There is that same deadpan warmth, that same willingness to let a character be strange and wounded and still completely worth rooting for. The story is meaningful, the writing is sharp, and the emotional core is genuine. If you are a fan of Emily Austin or just a fan of fiction that takes mental health seriously without losing its sense of humor, this one belongs on your list.
Thank you to Kennedy Creek Press and NetGalley for the ARC.
May 9, 2026
I went into Picky by Julie T. Kinn a little uncertain, but underneath the humour and awkwardness is a genuinely thoughtful and surprisingly emotional story about anxiety, control, family dynamics, and figuring out who you are outside of the life you’ve always known.
What I appreciated most is how well this balances humour with heavier themes. Zillah is such a specific type of character - awkward, sheltered, frustrating at times, but also incredibly endearing. The fact she only eats ten “safe foods" could have easily felt gimmicky, but instead it becomes a really interesting reflection of fear, routine, and the ways anxiety can quietly shape someone’s entire world.
Her anxieties and dependence on familiarity slowly stopped feeling quirky and started feeling quite sad in a very human way. Watching her question the systems and relationships she’s grown up with was honestly one of the strongest parts of the book. There’s this underlying loneliness to the story that really worked for me.
I listened to the audiobook and really enjoyed the fact it was narrated by Julie T. Kinn herself. I love an author narration, and here there’s an authenticity to the delivery that made Zillah’s inner thoughts, spirals, and emotional growth feel even more natural and believable. One minute something would genuinely make me laugh, and the next there’d be this quiet emotional weight underneath it all surrounding family, fear, and identity.
Overall, I found this really engaging and unexpectedly heartfelt - a strange, quirky, and quietly emotional story that ended up having a lot more depth than I initially expected.
Thank you Julie T. Kinn, Kennedy Creek Press, and NetGalley for this ALC.
What I appreciated most is how well this balances humour with heavier themes. Zillah is such a specific type of character - awkward, sheltered, frustrating at times, but also incredibly endearing. The fact she only eats ten “safe foods" could have easily felt gimmicky, but instead it becomes a really interesting reflection of fear, routine, and the ways anxiety can quietly shape someone’s entire world.
Her anxieties and dependence on familiarity slowly stopped feeling quirky and started feeling quite sad in a very human way. Watching her question the systems and relationships she’s grown up with was honestly one of the strongest parts of the book. There’s this underlying loneliness to the story that really worked for me.
I listened to the audiobook and really enjoyed the fact it was narrated by Julie T. Kinn herself. I love an author narration, and here there’s an authenticity to the delivery that made Zillah’s inner thoughts, spirals, and emotional growth feel even more natural and believable. One minute something would genuinely make me laugh, and the next there’d be this quiet emotional weight underneath it all surrounding family, fear, and identity.
Overall, I found this really engaging and unexpectedly heartfelt - a strange, quirky, and quietly emotional story that ended up having a lot more depth than I initially expected.
Thank you Julie T. Kinn, Kennedy Creek Press, and NetGalley for this ALC.
April 18, 2026
Audiobook ARC provided by NetGalley
May 12, 2026
I have received an advance copy via NetGalley in exchange for a honest review, so here my thoughts:
Picky was a hilarious, uncomfortable, and almost annoyingly relatable read. The author does an incredible job weaving humor into really heavy topics like anxiety and eating disorders, generational trauma and mental illness without ever making them feel watered down or overly dramatic.
What I appreciated most was how nuanced the story felt. Watching the heroine slowly find her truth, grow, and learn was genuinely moving, especially because the book refuses to create clear-cut villains. Her mother is awful, but you also understand how much she’s a product of her own trauma, which made the whole story feel very human.
I also loved that the audiobook is narrated by the author herself: she’s incredibly talented and adds so much personality and emotion to the story. I hated every time Paula spoke, which honestly just proves how good she was!
Overall, it’s such a tender, heartwarming story, one that somehow manages to handle deeply painful topics with an incredible amount of humor and warmth.
I would absolutely recommend it to anybody that has ever experienced any of the issues listed above, or honestly, to anyone who just wants a genuinely funny, moving read.
Picky was a hilarious, uncomfortable, and almost annoyingly relatable read. The author does an incredible job weaving humor into really heavy topics like anxiety and eating disorders, generational trauma and mental illness without ever making them feel watered down or overly dramatic.
What I appreciated most was how nuanced the story felt. Watching the heroine slowly find her truth, grow, and learn was genuinely moving, especially because the book refuses to create clear-cut villains. Her mother is awful, but you also understand how much she’s a product of her own trauma, which made the whole story feel very human.
I also loved that the audiobook is narrated by the author herself: she’s incredibly talented and adds so much personality and emotion to the story. I hated every time Paula spoke, which honestly just proves how good she was!
Overall, it’s such a tender, heartwarming story, one that somehow manages to handle deeply painful topics with an incredible amount of humor and warmth.
I would absolutely recommend it to anybody that has ever experienced any of the issues listed above, or honestly, to anyone who just wants a genuinely funny, moving read.
May 12, 2026
Thanks to NetGalley for the advanced copy of this audiobook.
As someone who has been a picky eater my whole life, Picky immediately caught my attention, but it turned out to be so much more than a story about food. Zillah is eager to start her life, yet she is held back by fears, anxieties, and uncertainty about the world around her. When she accidentally overhears a neighbor’s therapy session, it sets her on an unexpected path that slowly begins to turn her life upside down.
At first, I honestly wasn’t sure this book was for me. Zillah’s inner monologue made me anxious, and I found myself annoyed with her at times. But as the story unfolded, I started to genuinely care about her and became deeply invested in where her journey would take her. Watching her navigate fear, growth, and self-discovery made this a surprisingly heartfelt and engaging read. By the end, I was glad I stuck with it.
As someone who has been a picky eater my whole life, Picky immediately caught my attention, but it turned out to be so much more than a story about food. Zillah is eager to start her life, yet she is held back by fears, anxieties, and uncertainty about the world around her. When she accidentally overhears a neighbor’s therapy session, it sets her on an unexpected path that slowly begins to turn her life upside down.
At first, I honestly wasn’t sure this book was for me. Zillah’s inner monologue made me anxious, and I found myself annoyed with her at times. But as the story unfolded, I started to genuinely care about her and became deeply invested in where her journey would take her. Watching her navigate fear, growth, and self-discovery made this a surprisingly heartfelt and engaging read. By the end, I was glad I stuck with it.
May 4, 2026
A tender, honest look at what it means to take up space on your own terms.
Picky by Julie T. Kinn is a thoughtful story that explores identity, expectations, and the complicated relationships we have with food and family. Kinn does a great job capturing the emotional nuances of being labeled “picky” and how that label can shape self-perception over time.
What stood out most to me was the authenticity of the voice. The narrative feels personal and grounded, with moments that are both tender and quietly powerful. The author balances humor with deeper emotional beats, making the story engaging without feeling heavy-handed. I listened to the audiobook (ALC), and the narration added an extra layer of personality to the story that really brought it to life.
The pacing moves steadily, the character development made it easy to stay invested, and I appreciated how the story avoided overly neat resolutions in favor of something more realistic.
Overall, Picky is a heartfelt and relatable read that will resonate with anyone who’s ever felt out of place at the table—literally or figuratively. It’s a strong 4-star read for me, and I’d definitely recommend it to readers who enjoy character-driven stories with emotional depth.
Thank you to the author and Kennedy Creek Press for gifting me this ALC through NetGalley. As always, this review contains my candid thoughts and opinions.
Trigger warning: there is profanity throughout, so readers/listeners who are sensitive to language may want to keep that in mind.
Picky by Julie T. Kinn is a thoughtful story that explores identity, expectations, and the complicated relationships we have with food and family. Kinn does a great job capturing the emotional nuances of being labeled “picky” and how that label can shape self-perception over time.
What stood out most to me was the authenticity of the voice. The narrative feels personal and grounded, with moments that are both tender and quietly powerful. The author balances humor with deeper emotional beats, making the story engaging without feeling heavy-handed. I listened to the audiobook (ALC), and the narration added an extra layer of personality to the story that really brought it to life.
The pacing moves steadily, the character development made it easy to stay invested, and I appreciated how the story avoided overly neat resolutions in favor of something more realistic.
Overall, Picky is a heartfelt and relatable read that will resonate with anyone who’s ever felt out of place at the table—literally or figuratively. It’s a strong 4-star read for me, and I’d definitely recommend it to readers who enjoy character-driven stories with emotional depth.
Thank you to the author and Kennedy Creek Press for gifting me this ALC through NetGalley. As always, this review contains my candid thoughts and opinions.
Trigger warning: there is profanity throughout, so readers/listeners who are sensitive to language may want to keep that in mind.
May 15, 2026
This ARC was provided by the publisher via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review
This audiobook was awesome! I didn’t even take a whole day to finish. I love how authentic the thoughts are. This book reminds me of how awkward trying to make friends can be as an adult, with anxiety.
Zilla is learning how to be an adult while her mom is continuing to treat her like a child. She makes mistakes and has to learn how to handle them on her own. I loved the ending and I’m so proud of her!
This audiobook was awesome! I didn’t even take a whole day to finish. I love how authentic the thoughts are. This book reminds me of how awkward trying to make friends can be as an adult, with anxiety.
Zilla is learning how to be an adult while her mom is continuing to treat her like a child. She makes mistakes and has to learn how to handle them on her own. I loved the ending and I’m so proud of her!
May 10, 2026
This started out as a comic story of a twenty something who is struggling to fit into the adult world but then developed into something quite lovely.
Zillah only eats ten foods which is quite limiting but she makes it work, then one day she hears a neighbours online therapy session through the thin walls of her apartment. This leads her to try and help her neighbour which is the first step to helping herself to grow.
It was very funny in places and I really liked the ending. The author narrates the audiobook and she made the characters feel real.
Thanks to NetGalley and Kennedy Creek Press for the arc.
Zillah only eats ten foods which is quite limiting but she makes it work, then one day she hears a neighbours online therapy session through the thin walls of her apartment. This leads her to try and help her neighbour which is the first step to helping herself to grow.
It was very funny in places and I really liked the ending. The author narrates the audiobook and she made the characters feel real.
Thanks to NetGalley and Kennedy Creek Press for the arc.
May 2, 2026
This was a really enjoyable read. I found something endearing and likable about every character, which makes a difference in a character-driven novel.
The story centers on mental illness and intergenerational trauma, but it’s written in a way that feels relatable even if your life looks nothing like the characters’. There’s a real tenderness in how it shows the humanity behind the quirks - these aren’t flat, two-dimensional portrayals of mentally unwell people. The people around them are, for the most part, empathetic and helpful instead of just judgmental, which adds a lot of warmth.
As the story progresses, Zillah begins to want more autonomy and new experiences, and it was genuinely nice to watch her step outside her comfort zone - even if that’s something as small as touching a melon at the grocery store. The book could have easily gone in a more insular direction, with Zillah clinging to her mother and their rigid rules, so I’m glad it didn’t. Her curiosity, sparked in part by overhearing her neighbor, opens the door to something bigger.
It fits into the “weird girl” category, but with the sense that Zillah might grow beyond that label and become more than just the misunderstood girl who only eats ten foods.
I received this book as an ARC.
The story centers on mental illness and intergenerational trauma, but it’s written in a way that feels relatable even if your life looks nothing like the characters’. There’s a real tenderness in how it shows the humanity behind the quirks - these aren’t flat, two-dimensional portrayals of mentally unwell people. The people around them are, for the most part, empathetic and helpful instead of just judgmental, which adds a lot of warmth.
As the story progresses, Zillah begins to want more autonomy and new experiences, and it was genuinely nice to watch her step outside her comfort zone - even if that’s something as small as touching a melon at the grocery store. The book could have easily gone in a more insular direction, with Zillah clinging to her mother and their rigid rules, so I’m glad it didn’t. Her curiosity, sparked in part by overhearing her neighbor, opens the door to something bigger.
It fits into the “weird girl” category, but with the sense that Zillah might grow beyond that label and become more than just the misunderstood girl who only eats ten foods.
I received this book as an ARC.
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