Review: "The Skin I'm In," by Sharon Flake

Maleeka isn't comfortable in her own skin. She's got a very dark complexion and is bullied because of it. She also hangs out with girls who don't treat her very well, but she does what she needs to so she can survive middle school. When a new teacher comes in with a large birthmark across her face, Maleeka starts to understand that you have to embrace what you've got. In addition to learning to love the skin she's in, Maleeka has to face the challenges that come with bullying and peer pressure, and has to figure out if she wants to let people walk all over her or stand up for herself. She also discovers a talent for writing and expresses herself in that way. Overall, I think Maleeka is a character that a lot of girls will relate to and faces the insecurities that come with being a teenager really well.

Mrs. Denney's Rating: ***

#review #bullying #family #friendship #realisticfiction #selfacceptance #school