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Reviewed by Sally Kruger, aka "Readingjunky" for TeensReadToo.com

I picked this book up from a display of books celebrating Black History Month. I'm really glad I did. It's perfect for anyone seeking the answers to those soul-searching questions of "Who am I?" and "Why am I the way I am?"

THE SKIN I'M IN is the story of Maleeka Madison and her struggle to accept who she is and discover what she can accomplish.

Maleeka is uncomfortable in her life. Her father died and to cope with his absence her mother has become a "sewing fool." Maleeka hates the awful clothes her mother makes for her, but she loves her mother and doesn't want to hurt her feelings. Maleeka is also self-conscious because she is black - very black. Her classmates have teased her since
elementary school. Her only friends are the others who don't seem to fit in.

Life begins to change for Maleeka. First her wardrobe improves when she meets Charlese. Maleeka agrees to do Char's homework in exchange for the chance to borrow Char's designer clothes. Unfortunately, Char takes control of way more than Maleeka's clothing style.

Another change is a new teacher in Maleeka's life. Miss Saunders is part of a business exchange program with the schools. Business executives have been invited to teach in the public schools as part of a program to improve education and allow the business community to "give back" to the schools. Miss Saunders has her own difficulties. She dresses well and carries herself proudly despite a disfiguring facial scar. Viewing her students' files shows Miss Saunders that Maleeka is filled with untapped potential, and she makes it her goal to help Maleeka recognize her true gifts and develop them.

Sharon G. Flake was awarded the 1999 Coretta Scott King John Steptoe Award for new writers for this debut novel. It speaks strongly of how hard it is to gain acceptance for the good one has to offer, instead of earning fame by taking a sometimes easier, yet more dangerous path. I highly recommend this book for middle grade classrooms. It's filled with great opportunities for group discussion. ( )

This story is about a young girl named Maleeka, who is very insecure about her dark skin. She rejects the support of a new teacher, Miss Saunders, whose skin looks blotched because of a rare medical condition. But soon, Maleeka begins to see that Miss Saunders could be a role model, and that she must learn to love herself and accept love from others. Students will enjoy this book. The themes are African Americans, self-esteem, teachers, schools, and fitting in.

Classic story of being really black and yet coming to grips with yourself. Very good book -- school assignment quite frequently.

This book is outstanding. Sharon allows you to "see" each scene. You will feel so much empathy for the main character, Maleeka. Sharon shows you a glimpse of how terrible peer pressure can be. Many lessons are woven throughout the story. One very important lesson is the importance of honesty. When Maleeka is finally honest at the end of the story, things work out in her favor. ( )