3.78
Part of "Virginia Shreves" series
"The Earth, My Butt, and Other Big Round Things" by Carolyn Mackler is a young adult novel that explores themes of body image, self-esteem, and self-discovery. The story follows Virginia Shreves, a 15-year-old girl who has always felt overshadowed by her perfect older sister. When Virginia's sister leaves for college, Virginia is left to navigate the challenges of high school and her own insecurities about her weight and appearance. Mackler does an excellent job of capturing the voice and perspective of a teenage girl, making the story relatable and engaging for young adult readers. The novel also addresses important issues such as eating disorders, sexuality, and the pressure to conform to societal standards of beauty. One of the strengths of the book is its honest and unapologetic portrayal of Virginia's struggles with her weight. Mackler avoids perpetuating harmful stereotypes and instead encourages readers to embrace their bodies and appreciate their unique qualities. The novel also features a diverse cast of characters, further adding to its appeal and relevance for contemporary readers. Overall, "The Earth, My Butt, and Other Big Round Things" is a powerful and thought-provoking novel that encourages readers to challenge societal norms and embrace their individuality. Its engaging storyline, relatable characters, and important themes make it a valuable addition to any young adult literature collection...
Laurie Halse Anderson
Speak
Speak is a powerful novel about a high school freshman, Melinda, who stops speaking after being raped at a party. The story follows Melinda's struggle to find her voice and come to terms with her trauma. This book is a great choice for readers of 'The Earth, My Butt, and Other Big Round Things' because it deals with serious issues that affect teenagers, and it shows the importance of standing up for oneself.
Learn MoreJerry Spinelli
Stargirl
Stargirl is the story of a nonconformist girl named Stargirl who enrolls in Mica High School and turns the student body upside down with her unique personality and quirky habits. This book is a good choice for readers of 'The Earth, My Butt, and Other Big Round Things' because it deals with themes of self-acceptance, individuality, and the importance of being true to oneself.
Learn MoreAn Na
A Step from Heaven
A Step From Heaven is a novel about a Korean immigrant family's struggle to adjust to life in America. The story is told from the perspective of young Juil, who experiences the challenges of cultural differences, language barriers, and the pressure to assimilate. This book is a great choice for readers of 'The Earth, My Butt, and Other Big Round Things' because it deals with themes of identity, self-discovery, and the immigrant experience.
Learn MoreSharon G. Flake
The Skin I'm In
The Skin I'm In is a powerful novel about a young African American girl named Maleeka who is teased for her dark skin. The story follows Maleeka's journey to self-acceptance and empowerment as she learns to stand up for herself and embrace her unique identity. This book is a great choice for readers of 'The Earth, My Butt, and Other Big Round Things' because it deals with themes of self-esteem, body image, and the importance of being true to oneself.
Learn MoreLois Lowry
The Giver
The Giver is a dystopian novel about a society where sameness and conformity are valued above all else. The story follows Jonas, a young boy who is chosen to be the Receiver of Memory, and learns about the true nature of his society, including the pain, joy, and love that have been suppressed. This book is a great choice for readers of 'The Earth, My Butt, and Other Big Round Things' because it deals with themes of individuality, conformity, and the importance of questioning societal norms.
Learn MoreStephen Chbosky
The Perks of Being a Wallflower
The Perks of Being a Wallflower is a novel about a high school freshman named Charlie who feels like an outsider. The story follows Charlie's journey as he navigates the challenges of high school, including first love, friendship, and the pain of past traumas. This book is a great choice for readers of 'The Earth, My Butt, and Other Big Round Things' because it deals with themes of self-discovery, mental health, and the importance of finding one's tribe.
Learn MoreMildred D. Taylor
Roll of Thunder, Hear My Cry
Roll of Thunder, Hear My Cry is a novel about a African American family's struggle for justice and equality in the Jim Crow South. The story follows Cassie, a young girl who learns about the importance of standing up for what is right, even in the face of danger. This book is a great choice for readers of 'The Earth, My Butt, and Other Big Round Things' because it deals with themes of identity, social justice, and the importance of standing up for oneself and one's community.
Learn MoreKatherine Paterson
Bridge To Terabithia
Bridge to Terabithia is a novel about two young friends, Jesse and Leslie, who create a magical kingdom in the woods called Terabithia. The story follows their journey as they navigate the challenges of growing up, including friendship, family, and the pain of loss. This book is a great choice for readers of 'The Earth, My Butt, and Other Big Round Things' because it deals with themes of friendship, imagination, and the importance of finding one's place in the world.
Learn MoreEllen Raskin
The Westing Game
The Westing Game is a mystery novel about a group of strangers who are brought together to solve the puzzle of Samuel W. Westing's death. The story follows the characters as they uncover clues, form alliances, and compete to solve the mystery and inherit Westing's fortune. This book is a great choice for readers of 'The Earth, My Butt, and Other Big Round Things' because it deals with themes of problem-solving, teamwork, and the importance of using one's talents to achieve a goal.
Learn MoreSandra Cisneros
The House on Mango Street
The House on Mango Street is a collection of vignettes about a young Latina girl named Esperanza growing up in a poor neighborhood in Chicago. The story follows Esperanza's journey as she comes to terms with her identity, her community, and her dreams for the future. This book is a great choice for readers of 'The Earth, My Butt, and Other Big Round Things' because it deals with themes of identity, community, and the importance of finding one's voice.
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