Rosie Project

Graeme Simsion’s debut novel introduces readers to Don Tillman, a genetics professor whose methodical approach to life extends into his search for a romantic partner. Operating on the premise that compatibility can be measured through data, Don designs a rigorous scientific questionnaire to identify an ideal spouse. The process takes an unexpected turn when his research assistant, Rosie Jarman, systematically fails every criterion yet consistently disrupts his carefully ordered routines. Through Don’s precise, first-person narration, the narrative explores how logic and emotion intersect in human relationships. The novel examines themes of neurodiversity, social navigation, and the quiet courage required to step outside established patterns. Simsion’s character-driven approach balances dry humor with genuine insight, offering a thoughtful portrayal of how connection often emerges from the most unscientific of circumstances. The narrative’s distinctive voice and nuanced depiction of an autistic protagonist invite readers to consider how love operates beyond conventional frameworks.