RECOMMENDED READS
RECOMMENDED READS
Nurturing, Notable and Novel Narratives.
Smile
By Raina Telgemeier
“Weird...something happens when you smile at people. They smile back”
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“Raina just wants to be a normal sixth grader. But one night after Girl Scouts she trips and falls, severely injuring her two front teeth, and what follows is a long and frustrating journey with on-again, off-again braces, surgery, embarrassing headgear, and even a retainer with fake teeth attached. And on top of all that, there’s still more to deal with: a major earthquake, boy confusion, and friends who turn out to be not so friendly. This coming-of-age true story is sure to resonate with anyone who has ever been in middle school, and especially those who have ever had a bit of their own dental drama.” (Goodreads)
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The journey in "Smile" is about navigating through the often challenging world of adolescence, filled with laughter, new challenges, and yes, those inevitable awkward situations. What sets this story apart is its focus on personal growth and resilience. It beautifully illustrates that growing up isn't just about the external changes, but also about the internal ones – learning to accept and love yourself, even when things get tough.
This book connects with its readers through a blend of humor and heartfelt honesty. It's not just a story; it's a reflection of the real struggles and triumphs of being a teenager. "Smile" is more than just a good read; it's a journey of self-discovery and learning to embrace your true self. It teaches the importance of self-confidence and being proud of who you are, no matter what life throws your way. This book is a must-read for anyone navigating the exciting, confusing, and sometimes daunting path of growing up.
Popularity Papers
By Amy Ignatow
“Even though I had friends, I still missed writing notes and talking with Lydia, because I never had to explain jokes to her.”
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“Lydia Goldblatt and Julie Graham-Chang are best friends with one goal: to crack the code of popularity. Lydia’s the bold one: aspiring theater star, stick-fighting enthusiast, human guinea pig. Julie’s the shy one: observer and artist, accidental field hockey star, faithful recorder. In this notebook they write down their observations and carry out experiments to try to determine what makes the popular girls tick. But somehow, when Lydia and Julie try to imitate the popular girls, their efforts don’t translate into instant popularity. Lydia ends up with a bald spot, their parents won’t stop yelling, and Julie finds herself the number-one crush of Roland Asbjørnsen. Worse, they seem to be drifting farther and farther from their goal—and each other.
Amy Ignatow’s hilarious debut novel introduces the intrepid fifth-graders Julie and Lydia, whose quest to understand popularity may not succeed in the ways they want, but will succeed in keeping readers in stitches.” (Goodreads)
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In "Popularity Papers," Lydia and Julie experience all the typical stuff of middle school – the laughs, crushes, and those unavoidable awkward moments. What makes their story stand out is how they consistently remain true to themselves. Through their adventures, they show us that being cool isn't about fitting into a specific group.
This book series invites you to join in on Lydia and Julie's experiences. It's written in a way that's both humorous and genuine, making it super relatable. "Popularity Papers" is a fantastic read mainly because it focuses on the importance of real friendships and embracing your individuality. Reading about Lydia and Julie, you learn that it's okay not to blend in with the crowd. This story is a great reminder about the value of self-confidence and taking pride in who you are, while also navigating the sometimes tricky journey of growing up.
Rupi Kaur Poetry
By Rupi Kaur
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“Milk and Honey is a collection of poetry and prose about survival. About the experience of violence, abuse, love, loss, and femininity.
It is split into four chapters, with each chapter dealing with a different pain. Healing a different heartache. Milk and Honey takes readers through a journey of the most bitter moments in life and finds sweetness in them -- because there is sweetness everywhere if you are just willing to look.” (Goodreads)
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“From Rupi Kaur, the #1 New York Times bestselling author of milk and honey, comes her long-awaited second collection of poetry. A vibrant and transcendent journey about growth and healing. Ancestry and honoring one’s roots. Expatriation and rising up to find a home within yourself. Divided into five chapters and illustrated by Kaur, the sun and her flowers is a journey of wilting, falling, rooting, rising, and blooming. A celebration of love in all its forms. this is the recipe of life said my mother as she held me in her arms as i wept think of those flowers you plant in the garden each year they will teach you that people too must wilt fall root rise in order to bloom.” (Goodreads)
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“Rupi Kaur constantly embraces growth, and in home body, she walks readers through a reflective and intimate journey visiting the past, the present, and the potential of the self. home body is a collection of raw, honest conversations with oneself – reminding readers to fill up on love, acceptance, community, family, and embrace change. Illustrated by the author, themes of nature and nurture, light and dark, rest here.” (Goodreads)
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In Rupi Kaur's powerful trilogy of poetry books, including "Milk and Honey," "Homebody," and "The Sun and Her Flowers," readers are taken on an extraordinary journey through the depths of emotion, self-discovery, and the complexities of human relationships.
With a blend of raw honesty and elegant simplicity, Rupi Kaur delves into the intricacies of self-acceptance, healing, and empowerment. Just as Lydia and Julie embrace their individuality in middle school, Kaur's poems encourage us to embrace our own uniqueness and find strength in our vulnerability.
These three poetry collections are not just books; they are emotional journeys that remind us of the beauty in our imperfections. Reading Rupi Kaur's work is a poignant reminder that it's perfectly okay to stand out from the crowd, to embrace our own stories, and to find solace in the power of self-confidence. In a world that often demands conformity, Kaur's poetry serves as a testament to the enduring value of authenticity and self-love. So, whether you are seeking solace, inspiration, or simply a profound connection with the human experience, Rupi Kaur's poetry is an enriching and enlightening read that will touch your heart and leave you with a renewed sense of appreciation for your own unique journey.
