Not Otherwise Specified summary

The Struggle of a Young Woman

In Not Otherwise Specified by Hannah Moskowitz, we are introduced to Etta, a teenager who is struggling to find her place in the world. Etta is a young African-American girl living in a small town in Nebraska, and she has to deal with a lot of labels and categories that seem to be very important to everyone around her. She is not gay enough for the gay community, not straight enough for the straight community, not black enough for the black community, and not white enough for the white community.

Etta is also a former ballet dancer who is recovering from an eating disorder. She feels isolated and alienated, and her only solace comes from her best friend, who is going through similar struggles. However, when her best friend leaves for college, Etta is left alone to deal with her complex feelings and the harsh realities of her life.

A New Friendship and a New Struggle

Etta's life takes an unexpected turn when she meets Bianca, a straight, white, Christian girl who is also a part of her therapy group. Despite their differences, the two girls form an unlikely friendship. However, their friendship is tested when they both decide to audition for Brentwood, a prestigious New York theater academy. This creates a new struggle for Etta, as she has to navigate the competitive world of theater while dealing with her personal issues.

As Etta and Bianca prepare for their auditions, their friendship is put to the test. Etta finds herself questioning her feelings for Bianca and her own identity. She also has to confront her past and her struggles with her eating disorder, which resurfaces as the pressure of the auditions intensifies.

A Journey of Self-Discovery

As the story progresses, we see Etta's journey of self-discovery. She starts to understand that she doesn't have to fit into any specific label or category. She is not otherwise specified, and that's okay. Etta learns to embrace her own unique identity and accept herself for who she is.

Etta's friendship with Bianca also evolves, and she realizes that their differences don't have to come between them. Their friendship becomes a source of strength and support for both of them as they navigate the challenges of their auditions and their personal struggles.

The Final Act

In the final act of Not Otherwise Specified, we see Etta and Bianca in New York, auditioning for Brentwood. Etta gives a powerful performance that reflects her journey of self-acceptance. Although she faces rejection from the academy, she realizes that her worth is not defined by their decision.

The novel ends with Etta and Bianca returning home, their friendship stronger than ever. Etta has come to terms with her identity and is ready to face the future, knowing that she is not otherwise specified, and that's what makes her unique and special.