rgz

readergirlz is a literacy and social media project for teens, awarded the National Book Foundation's Innovations in Reading Prize. The rgz blog serves as a depot for news and YA reviews from industry professionals and teens. As volunteers return full force to their own YA writing, the organization continues to hold one initiative a year to impact teen literacy. All are welcome to "like" us on Facebook!

Thursday, February 18, 2010

Diva Delight: Smile by Raina Telgemeier

http://pwbeat.publishersweekly.com/blog/wp-content/uploads//2009/06/SMILE_COVER_WEB.jpg

Oh, I just have to jump in and say I loved Smile by Raina Telgemeier. Based on her own life, the graphic novel actually begins with one of my worst nightmares: falling and knocking out your front teeth. EEK!

What follows is a journey in dentistry, orthodontics, and a full coming of age story. Do you stay with childhood friends or can you redefine yourself and find other besties? How do you move through a first crush, a first dance, a first day of high school? Raina's pacing is spot on.

The graphic images are expressive and rich. I really enjoyed the color palette and the occasional half spread.

This is a one sitting read, rgz, because it's fun, tender, and real. Definitely a delight! Just watch the trailer and smile. *ding*



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5 comments:

Little Willow said...

Isn't it adorable? I love Raina's artwork and her honesty. Graphic novel memoirs for this age group are rare, making this book even more of a treat.

Raina and I are holding a special giveaway for a copy of SMILE! Anyone who has had an embarrassing dental-related experience is encouraged to enter to win. Check Bildungsroman for details. But hurry - we're only accepting entries until February 28th!

(We have yet to receive any vlog or artwork entries - hint, hint!)

http://slayground.livejournal.com/571318.html

MissA said...

What a cute trailer! Thanks for sharing it. I've heard good things about this novel and I love that it's a graphic novel memoir too, so rare.

Oh and I'm going to enter Little Willow's contest :)

Lorie Ann Grover said...

That's awesome, Miss Attitude!

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