‘Smile’ Book Review by Vibisha L.M, 13, Bangalore- Book Reviews with Sara#9

Hi there, book lovers, your friend Sara here! If a book is written for kids, shouldnt we ask the kids to tell us how they liked it? That is exactly what we do in this wonderful section –  ‘book reviews for young readers, by young readers’! Thanks for pouring in all your wonderful entries.

Here is a delightful review by Vibisha L.M studying in 7th grade in The Samhita Academy, Bangalore. She enjoys reading both non-fiction and fiction stories! She has a blog where she writes poems and stories and aspired to be an author Her favourite library is Kahaani Box Library- Bangalore.

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Book: Smile

Author & Illustrator: Raina Telgemeier

Publisher: Scholastic

“Weird…something happens when you smile at people. They smile back”―  Smile  

When I saw the cover I was excited to read the book as I was too getting my braces soon and was at the same age as the protagonist of the story, Raina.

I borrowed this book from my favourite library in Banglore, This book was suggested by my friend. 

Smile is a wonderful story written by award-winning author Raina Telgemeier who received many awards, the recent one is the Eisner Award for best writer. This graphic novel takes us through the feelings and changes that we undergo when moving from middle school to high school.  The book is based on Raina Telgemeier’s real-life experiences with boys, dental drama, family, friends and earthquakes,yes earthquakes! 

Raina just wants to be a normal teenager but on the night of returning from girl scouts, she trips and injures her two front teeth. Resulting in a long journey of on and off braces, headgear and retainers with fake teeth. Between all this drama, Raina is struggling with her not- so-friendly friends, boy trouble and an earthquake in her city! Will Raina be able to clear out the confusion in her feelings and stand up to her friends?

This novel taught me about standing up for myself and being proud of who I am. I was able to relate to Raina as she is the same age as me. The book is filled with colourful illustrations and fun characters. I couldn’t stop reading! 

If I could change something in this book, I would have added a little bit more about Raina’s new friends at the end.

This novel is a must-read for teenagers(12+) who may be facing the same issues with its entertaining graphics and fun story line.

It keeps you on the edge and keeps you turning the pages. I enjoyed reading this book.I would rate it 4.5 stars out of 5. And would continue to read the series by Raina Telgemeier.

Suitable for age group : 12+
Rating : 4.5/5