Smile (edition 2010)

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This graphic novel is based on the author’s real experience of losing her two front teeth when she was twelve years old. Her painful recovery involves extensive dental work while she survives middle school and finds out what real friends are.

After an unlucky accident Raina severely messes up her two front teeth. This novel chronicles the many experiences with various dental fixes and embarrassment. Many middle school students will be able to relate to the character of Raina and will love to read about the hilarious struggles she has.

Liked: Nice story about standing up for yourself and liking who you are instead of who you're supposed to be. Art was full of small winks for those looking (Certain games they were playing, magazines read, etc...)
Disliked: A little heavy handed with the inside/outside comparison at the end, but it did add a coda to the story in case someone missed it. Seemed to maybe be aimed at 28-35 year olds (based on when the story takes place). All the winks I mentioned earlier may not be understood by the audience the book is aiming for. ( )

I'm so glad I finally made time to read this. Just as good as it's touted to be and a quick read to boot. Empathetic main character (the author in her younger years). You don't even need to have gone through the braces saga yourself to appreciate her story. ( )

Very Funny! This book has a great message: You have to be able to laugh at yourself once in awhile. Raina has to wear braces for 4 1/2 years. By the end of her journey, she states: "I realized that I had been letting the way I looked on the outside affect how I felt on the inside." She learned to focus on things she enjoyed. If you're tired of spending your life at the orthodontist's office, read this book! Raina is now a best selling author. ( )