Smile

Telgemeier, R. (2010). Smile. NY: Scholastic Press.

Summary

This book is autobiographical about the author, Raina Telgemeier.  6th grade is tough enough when you have to deal with zits, boys, and bullies, but it is even worse when you have to deal with insecurities. Raina's stress skyrockets when she trips and knocks out her 2 front teeth. Now she has to spend the next 4 years dealing with braces and headgear on top of the normal adolescent drama. When she has her final surgery, she finally able to smile with confidence.

Commentary

I loved this book! I feel that it is very relatable to young readers because they all are dealing with insecurities in one way or another. They have to find a way to discover their inner confidence. The author used language that is appropriate for middle school students and is similar to how they would talk. I know that my students love graphic novels, so I feel that the illustrations add to the appeal of this book.

Book Trailer:

Discussion Questions: https://www.scholastic.com/teachers/lesson-plans/teaching-content/discussion-questions-smile-raina-telgemeier/

Author's Website: http://goraina.com/