Puberty is hard enough without having to deal with some kind of ongoing physical problem, like a chronic illness. Or scoliosis. Or eczema. Or falling and damaging your two front teeth and having to endure braces, surgeries, dorky headgear, and a retainer with fake teeth attached over the course of several years.
Yes, this really happened...to professional illustrator Raina Telgemeier when she was in middle and high school back in the late 80's and early 90's. Fortunately for us, she survived to tell the tale with "Smile," her autobiographical graphic novel just published this month by Scholastic. Through funny yet realistic illustrations, honest narration, and totally relatable dialogue, "Smile" takes us from the moment Raina's young life changed with a simple trip and fall (doh!) through cringe-worthy doctor visits (you may have trouble reading these if you're eating or have an upcoming dentist or orthodontist appointment!) and self-esteem issues ("You look like a vampire!"), with some crushes, friend problems, and an earthquake thrown in for good measure.
You'll enjoy taking Raina's journey and coming out on the other side, especially if you have braces. You can also check out her website, which features online comics and a blog, at www.GoRaina.com.
Don't forget to check out our I Have Braces You Said It page full of IML'ers thoughts on the whole metal mouth thing!
IML's Rating: A
Yes, this really happened...to professional illustrator Raina Telgemeier when she was in middle and high school back in the late 80's and early 90's. Fortunately for us, she survived to tell the tale with "Smile," her autobiographical graphic novel just published this month by Scholastic. Through funny yet realistic illustrations, honest narration, and totally relatable dialogue, "Smile" takes us from the moment Raina's young life changed with a simple trip and fall (doh!) through cringe-worthy doctor visits (you may have trouble reading these if you're eating or have an upcoming dentist or orthodontist appointment!) and self-esteem issues ("You look like a vampire!"), with some crushes, friend problems, and an earthquake thrown in for good measure. You'll enjoy taking Raina's journey and coming out on the other side, especially if you have braces. You can also check out her website, which features online comics and a blog, at www.GoRaina.com.
Don't forget to check out our I Have Braces You Said It page full of IML'ers thoughts on the whole metal mouth thing!
IML's Rating: A
