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Zitface
Thirteen-year-old Olivia Hughes has always considered herself a lucky girl. She knows what she wants to do with her life—be an actress. And she’s already on her way. She just landed a national ad campaign that should get her noticed. But then her luck runs out. A little pimple turns into a full-blown case of acne, with serious side effects for her career, her relationships, and her self-esteem. Now all she wants to do is hide, but she can’t. She goes from being the girl at school who everyone wants to be . . . to Zitface, a girl who is teased, dumped, and even fired. What do you do when you’ve lost control of everything in your life? Olivia has to find out the hard way. And maybe, what she finds isn’t so bad after all.
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First published April 1, 2011
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April 7, 2011
ZiTFACE by Emily Howse is one of three books that I recently got from Marshall Cavendish. I’ll admit that I was a little surprised to get three books from one request, but I was also more surprised that all three were aimed squarely at readers “twelve and up.” So, I’m not the target audience once again, but when have I let that stop me? So here’s ZiTFACE from a college kid’s perspective.
Olivia has it all, great friends, good looks, and a job as an actress doing commercials. But then she gets a zit. The zit stresses her out and becomes more zits. She’s stuck feeling as if her life is spiraling out of control with no one to talk to and her agent pressuring her to fix her face immediately. Then, she starts to rethink everything and finds that she likes what she sees.
The first, roughly, half of the book is back story and setting Olivia up for her big fall. Quite a bit is said but aside from the set up for Olivia’s Wacky Water commercial, not much happens. A lot of seemingly insignificant things were gone over multiple times, but that lends an idea of the kind of kid that Olivia is to the narration. There really wasn’t any big fall for Olivia to take the kid that mocked her was already established as being a bit of a jerk, her manager was quickly established as being a control freak and an opportunist, and the shallow romance interest guy that she lost was acknowledged as shallow from his first introduction. The only moment when one of the problems felt like a genuine problem was when she had a fight with her best friend.
I have to admit, this isn’t the kind of book I’d have picked up as a kid. Olivia is introduced as being the girl that everyone should want to be, but she comes across as a bit of a whiner. I can sort of understand her reaction, she does have a lot to lose, but at the same time every problem she has could have been avoided if she’d stopped and talked to her friends. Olivia never sat down and said, “hey, sorry I’ve acted weird lately, problem skin,” instead she gets defensive and suspicious of everyone. On the up side, as the book goes on, Olivia grows up a bit and starts to think about how small her problem is compared to other peoples’. I’m a little luke warm towards ZiTFACE, it isn’t really my kind of book but it’s also fairly well written. My biggest problem was with the way it treated acne like the plague, an attempt at fixing this was made at the end in the author’s note and because of the narrator’s age can be forgiven somewhat. I give it a three and a half out of five.
Olivia has it all, great friends, good looks, and a job as an actress doing commercials. But then she gets a zit. The zit stresses her out and becomes more zits. She’s stuck feeling as if her life is spiraling out of control with no one to talk to and her agent pressuring her to fix her face immediately. Then, she starts to rethink everything and finds that she likes what she sees.
The first, roughly, half of the book is back story and setting Olivia up for her big fall. Quite a bit is said but aside from the set up for Olivia’s Wacky Water commercial, not much happens. A lot of seemingly insignificant things were gone over multiple times, but that lends an idea of the kind of kid that Olivia is to the narration. There really wasn’t any big fall for Olivia to take the kid that mocked her was already established as being a bit of a jerk, her manager was quickly established as being a control freak and an opportunist, and the shallow romance interest guy that she lost was acknowledged as shallow from his first introduction. The only moment when one of the problems felt like a genuine problem was when she had a fight with her best friend.
I have to admit, this isn’t the kind of book I’d have picked up as a kid. Olivia is introduced as being the girl that everyone should want to be, but she comes across as a bit of a whiner. I can sort of understand her reaction, she does have a lot to lose, but at the same time every problem she has could have been avoided if she’d stopped and talked to her friends. Olivia never sat down and said, “hey, sorry I’ve acted weird lately, problem skin,” instead she gets defensive and suspicious of everyone. On the up side, as the book goes on, Olivia grows up a bit and starts to think about how small her problem is compared to other peoples’. I’m a little luke warm towards ZiTFACE, it isn’t really my kind of book but it’s also fairly well written. My biggest problem was with the way it treated acne like the plague, an attempt at fixing this was made at the end in the author’s note and because of the narrator’s age can be forgiven somewhat. I give it a three and a half out of five.
April 1, 2012
ZITFACE is about a beautiful up and coming commercial girl named Olivia Hughes. Her agent Eleanor is her chubby, and strict. Especially when it comes to Olivia's career.
Olivia lives a lustrous life. (Money, Friends, a soon-to-be boo named J.W, and a job that makes her happy, what could be better?) Until one measley little zit ruined it all. Olivia and Mrs. Hughes thought that it was just a phase. Well, lets just say one zit led to another, and she becomes the infamous ZITFACE.
Olivia tries out for the Wacky Water Amusement Park, where she would get her big break. She would be getting more money, more money would lead to more commercials, more commercials would mean more publicty, and well, you get the picture.
In the meantime of the Wacky Water madness, she meets J.W., a guy who is exactly like her. (Except for the whole "ZITFACE, famous part) Brains, looks and talent. They eventually become an 'item'. When Olivia gets called back for the role, pimples pop up more than any amount of makeup could cover.
This is when she is on the verge of losing her career. Her friends turn their back on her because she chooses her job over them. This especially hurts Olivia because her best friend Jenna, who's supposed to be there for her through thick and thin is one of those people.
Olivia loses her career and loses J.W. to her frenemy, Wendy. But she meets Theo, a well-rounded nice young man. Same age, both 14.
Back to Olivia's career- Olivia's acne clears up and Eleanor comes crawling back. I bet she feels dethroned and hurt when Olivia refused. She was Eleanor's best client. Olivia realizes that friends and family is more important than ANY career.
Emily Howes wrote a perfect book. It describes the different stages through a young females life. I would recommend this book to anyone who likes a girl as the main character, and to anyone who likes realistic-fiction.
Olivia lives a lustrous life. (Money, Friends, a soon-to-be boo named J.W, and a job that makes her happy, what could be better?) Until one measley little zit ruined it all. Olivia and Mrs. Hughes thought that it was just a phase. Well, lets just say one zit led to another, and she becomes the infamous ZITFACE.
Olivia tries out for the Wacky Water Amusement Park, where she would get her big break. She would be getting more money, more money would lead to more commercials, more commercials would mean more publicty, and well, you get the picture.
In the meantime of the Wacky Water madness, she meets J.W., a guy who is exactly like her. (Except for the whole "ZITFACE, famous part) Brains, looks and talent. They eventually become an 'item'. When Olivia gets called back for the role, pimples pop up more than any amount of makeup could cover.
This is when she is on the verge of losing her career. Her friends turn their back on her because she chooses her job over them. This especially hurts Olivia because her best friend Jenna, who's supposed to be there for her through thick and thin is one of those people.
Olivia loses her career and loses J.W. to her frenemy, Wendy. But she meets Theo, a well-rounded nice young man. Same age, both 14.
Back to Olivia's career- Olivia's acne clears up and Eleanor comes crawling back. I bet she feels dethroned and hurt when Olivia refused. She was Eleanor's best client. Olivia realizes that friends and family is more important than ANY career.
Emily Howes wrote a perfect book. It describes the different stages through a young females life. I would recommend this book to anyone who likes a girl as the main character, and to anyone who likes realistic-fiction.
January 21, 2014
The book zit face is about a teenage girl named Olivia, she loves doing commercials. She never thought that anything would stand in her way of acting, but little did she know that one day she was about to wake up with a pimple. After that it gets worse her one pimple turns into a whole face of them! She soon gets really worried about if she can keep doing her commercials. She starts to have drama at school with her friends and with boys. Later on she gets help for her pimples on her face. And you will just have to read the book to see if she get rid of her pimples.
I really liked this book because I could relate to some of the things, like some of the drama at her school was kind of like the drama at my school and I got see how she solved her problems with them. I also liked it because it was a easy read for me, and it was the type of book you like to keep reading. There was nothing that I did not really like about this book.
I really liked this book because I could relate to some of the things, like some of the drama at her school was kind of like the drama at my school and I got see how she solved her problems with them. I also liked it because it was a easy read for me, and it was the type of book you like to keep reading. There was nothing that I did not really like about this book.
June 4, 2012
I chose the book Zitface because I thought that I would really relate to it. Zitface is about a girl named Olivia who thought that nothing could ruin her life especially when she is an actress. She then starts facing problems when she forms acne on her face. I like the quote " A lot of things had happened in my life this spring and most of it , I realized was good. I didn't want to hit the reset button. I wanted to keep moving forward. " because it helps me forget about the past and just move on. I enjoyed Olivia's first person point of view. I thought that the author's writing style was okay. I would definitely recommend this book to all teenage girls.
September 6, 2011
realistic fiction - 2011 - ages 12 and up
I chose this book because of the cover. It was an easy read and I enjoyed it. But it isn't a book that I would reread. Olivia stars in commercials but starts suffering from very bad acne. I only had the occasional pimple so I can't really relate. These breakouts cost her her job and she finds out who her true friends are. She also struggles with her parents divorce and her father moving away but that gets resolved in the end. I knew she'd end up with Theo - he's a good guy!
I chose this book because of the cover. It was an easy read and I enjoyed it. But it isn't a book that I would reread. Olivia stars in commercials but starts suffering from very bad acne. I only had the occasional pimple so I can't really relate. These breakouts cost her her job and she finds out who her true friends are. She also struggles with her parents divorce and her father moving away but that gets resolved in the end. I knew she'd end up with Theo - he's a good guy!
January 5, 2017
The book zit face is a really interesting book however, don't know if i recomend it or not! I suggest you read this book if you're a girl because the book talks about some girly things that most guys don't want to know. It's literally about one zit on an actor's face! First of all,she's an actor that does tv commercials she has never experienced a pimple before she soon starts to think about weird things.
April 8, 2014
This book is for young teenagers, not young adult or adult. But once you get to know the characters, it´s a nice little story about typical teen problems and life changing in high school.
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February 2, 2017Zitface is about a thirteen-year-old girl, Olivia Hughes, who had he future plans practically ready to be her present plans. She enjoyed her career of being a part of many commercials. Olivia had made a decision on signing up for a national advertisement that is for a new water park. Everything was practically going her way until one day she woke up with a zit. This zit meant practically losing not only her career but her social life as well. At this point, she is willing to do almost anything to get the zit off of her face to be able to have her life go back to the way it was. Until then she tends to hide away from her problems…
I did not have any dislikes about the book but I did like how this book is relatable not only with the whole change of having zits but the side effects of going through this change. For example with your self-esteem, your social life, and how people treat you. I also like the fact that this was in first person view point of Olivia. I think that if we would’ve seen it from some other viewpoint i doubt we would’ve gotten the full feel on how Olivia is dealing with things or her thoughts of everything.
I would recommend this to readers but specifically for readers who aren’t looking for a purpose to read but to read just for fun. This is a great entertainment book that is fast-paced. It is not only about zits and whatnot, but it does have life lessons and I think that that is just as good if not better than just having a set topic for a book. I think if you're open minded to different genera books then this is a book you should read. This is why I would recommend Zitface to other readers.
I did not have any dislikes about the book but I did like how this book is relatable not only with the whole change of having zits but the side effects of going through this change. For example with your self-esteem, your social life, and how people treat you. I also like the fact that this was in first person view point of Olivia. I think that if we would’ve seen it from some other viewpoint i doubt we would’ve gotten the full feel on how Olivia is dealing with things or her thoughts of everything.
I would recommend this to readers but specifically for readers who aren’t looking for a purpose to read but to read just for fun. This is a great entertainment book that is fast-paced. It is not only about zits and whatnot, but it does have life lessons and I think that that is just as good if not better than just having a set topic for a book. I think if you're open minded to different genera books then this is a book you should read. This is why I would recommend Zitface to other readers.
July 2, 2018
This book is about a young model/tv actress girl who struggles with becoming a teenager. She started to develop pimples and everything just went downhill from there. She struggled with keeping her appearance based job.
I was interested in this book because of the title. I looked like it would be funny and relatable. I found the main character interesting because she lived a life that most people her age would not live. She was living the perfect life and then zits had to come and ruin it all. I find her journey to fixing the problems that were brought up by pimples. I her developing zits kind of shocking, I did expect it because of the title but her mum never had pimples and she didn't really talk to her dad. I learnt that you can't let appearance run your life. I think that this is an important lesson because so often you feel like you appearances are all that matter and you can let little things like pimples/zits run your life.
The themes and ideas in this text about appearances are really relevant today because of how important appearance are made to be in the modern day. The idealistic girl is so unrealistic these days as looking perfect is almost never a thing.
I think I would probably do the same as what she did but you live and you learn, I have learnt to just ignore mean comments about pimples and continue along with life. I think that if you life (like hers) revolved around appearance I would have felt just as bad as she did.
I was interested in this book because of the title. I looked like it would be funny and relatable. I found the main character interesting because she lived a life that most people her age would not live. She was living the perfect life and then zits had to come and ruin it all. I find her journey to fixing the problems that were brought up by pimples. I her developing zits kind of shocking, I did expect it because of the title but her mum never had pimples and she didn't really talk to her dad. I learnt that you can't let appearance run your life. I think that this is an important lesson because so often you feel like you appearances are all that matter and you can let little things like pimples/zits run your life.
The themes and ideas in this text about appearances are really relevant today because of how important appearance are made to be in the modern day. The idealistic girl is so unrealistic these days as looking perfect is almost never a thing.
I think I would probably do the same as what she did but you live and you learn, I have learnt to just ignore mean comments about pimples and continue along with life. I think that if you life (like hers) revolved around appearance I would have felt just as bad as she did.
January 8, 2019
The book, Zitface by the author Emily Howse is about the actress life of a teenager girl named Olivia Hughes, who just earned a lead spot at a national ad campaign called, “Wacky Waters”. But those itsy-bitsy pimples on her face broke-out into a huge, uncontrollable case of acne, that turned her world upside down. I can relate to the fact that teens who have acne are often very ashamed to be around public. Zitface reflects that an early adolescence is a time of tremendous change. I also enjoyed Olivia’s first person point of view. If you like drama, and romance, well then this realistic fiction book is the best for you!
December 14, 2017
Thirteen-year-old Olivia Hughes has always considered herself a lucky girl. She knows what she wants to do with her life—be an actress. And she’s already on her way. She just landed a national ad campaign that should get her noticed.
But then her luck runs out. A little pimple turns into a full-blown case of acne, with serious side effects for her career, her relationships, and her self-esteem. Now all she wants to do is hide, but she can’t. She goes from being the girl at school who everyone wants to be . . . to Zitface, a girl who is teased, dumped, and even fired.
But then her luck runs out. A little pimple turns into a full-blown case of acne, with serious side effects for her career, her relationships, and her self-esteem. Now all she wants to do is hide, but she can’t. She goes from being the girl at school who everyone wants to be . . . to Zitface, a girl who is teased, dumped, and even fired.
September 11, 2020
Zitface by Emily Howse: Olivia likes being in commercials. She gets paid in a fund for college, and she hopes the ads may be a springboard to more serious acting later. Until she starts breaking out…The main setting in this book is Dallas. Girls shouldn't be self conscious about puberty. I have acne problems which is why I was hooked on this book. The point of conflict was when Eleanor suspended Olivia from wacky Water and J.W. finds out she has acne because she doesn’t wear makeup. I recommend this book to teen readers.
January 7, 2018
I really enjoyed this book. It has great humor, but also includes the darker side of life and how everybody has their own problems. It involves insecurity, poverty, disabilities and along with bullying and really helps the reader understand how everybody has their own difficult circumstances. This has to be one of my favorite books!
May 11, 2019
Not my favorite...felt a bit false for a 13 year old life. More like a TV script life and less relatable for a typical teen. Still some nice messages out personal growth and worth based outside appearances.
May 9, 2020
A silly, vapid exploration of young adulthood. However, I listened to it with my two 9y/o girls, and they giggled several times, so it must be relatable.
Three stars, because there's little positivity of note to be gleaned from the read.
A timeless parable this is not.
Three stars, because there's little positivity of note to be gleaned from the read.
A timeless parable this is not.
November 16, 2018
I'm sure my 13 year old self would have liked this book; but, it's not one of those middle grade books that transcends age. I'll just keep it on the shelf in my classroom for my kiddos.
July 13, 2021
read this in like 5th-6th grade and i just remembered it
June 6, 2023
This book was good but definitely great for a middle school audience 🙂
November 4, 2023
olivia better than me cus I would of had to pop a few people in this book for the way they was acting towards her 😭
March 6, 2011
Zitface was a unique and realistic debut that presents acne in a very believable way. At thirteen, Olivia Hughes has never so much as broken out before. She is popular at school, has a great group of friends, and the new guy JW is noticing her. Throw in the fact that she just secured a spot on the national Wacky Water ad campaign and her life is set. But then Olivia gets a pimple. And then another. And suddenly Olivia is suffering from full blown acne. The way people reacted to her and treated her was terrible. She was bullied and teased at school and on top of that her agent and the Wacky Water people didn't want her in the commercial. That was all it took for Olivia to go from the top to the bottom.
My heart broke for Olivia because how many of us haven't suffered from a pimple at least once over the years? It's a normal occurrence for teenagers and Olivia's peers, and even those adults close to her, treated her so terribly. Instead of being there to support her, they chose to tear her down instead. I couldn't believe anyone could be so mean. Olivia was strong though, and luckily she had a few nice people at her side, including some she may never have noticed if she had never lost her acting gigs. Olivia's dream was to become a professional actress, but all of those hopes were shot down when her agent realized she was no longer "perfect". Olivia's struggle was so sad and I just wanted to just go over and give her a hug. She's definitely not alone with her skin problems but she truly felt like she was.
There are a lot of sub plots in Zitface and over the course of the novel Olivia learned a lot about both herself and the people she cared about.
I've never read a book where the main character suffered from acne, or at least none that I can recall, so this was a refreshing and touching look at how someone's life can be completely changed just by one, small pimple. Readers who have suffered from acne can relate to Olivia and those who haven't will be just as moved by her story and may learn something about it in the process.
Zitface is a solid debut that encourages readers to stay true to who they are and never let anyone make you feel inferior. The Author's Note in the back further expands on what Olivia was dealing with and gives some advice from the author and she also talks about her own struggle with acne.
Overall, I recommend picking this up if you get a chance. It is targeted more to the middle grade age group but I think everyone, even adults, can take something from it. I'm looking forward to seeing what Emily Howse writes next.
Overall: 4 out of 5 stars
My heart broke for Olivia because how many of us haven't suffered from a pimple at least once over the years? It's a normal occurrence for teenagers and Olivia's peers, and even those adults close to her, treated her so terribly. Instead of being there to support her, they chose to tear her down instead. I couldn't believe anyone could be so mean. Olivia was strong though, and luckily she had a few nice people at her side, including some she may never have noticed if she had never lost her acting gigs. Olivia's dream was to become a professional actress, but all of those hopes were shot down when her agent realized she was no longer "perfect". Olivia's struggle was so sad and I just wanted to just go over and give her a hug. She's definitely not alone with her skin problems but she truly felt like she was.
There are a lot of sub plots in Zitface and over the course of the novel Olivia learned a lot about both herself and the people she cared about.
I've never read a book where the main character suffered from acne, or at least none that I can recall, so this was a refreshing and touching look at how someone's life can be completely changed just by one, small pimple. Readers who have suffered from acne can relate to Olivia and those who haven't will be just as moved by her story and may learn something about it in the process.
Zitface is a solid debut that encourages readers to stay true to who they are and never let anyone make you feel inferior. The Author's Note in the back further expands on what Olivia was dealing with and gives some advice from the author and she also talks about her own struggle with acne.
Overall, I recommend picking this up if you get a chance. It is targeted more to the middle grade age group but I think everyone, even adults, can take something from it. I'm looking forward to seeing what Emily Howse writes next.
Overall: 4 out of 5 stars
January 26, 2017
Olivia was always a successful girl. She is pretty, friendly, and knows what she wants to be when she grows up. She wants to be an actress, and she just nailed another shoot at a commercial company. But then one day all her success runs out when a red pimple shows up, and ruins her life. In the book Zitface by Emily Howse, Olivia is a rising actress who stars in commercials. She has her best friend, and isn't failing in school. She starts to create a future for herself, but when a pimple shows up her life takes an unexpected turn. She loses everything she thought she once had. She is looking for a way out, and maybe what she finds isn't so bad. This book is realistic fiction because everything that happens in the book could happen in real life. The author also had pimple problems in her teenage years so you know this could actually happen. Throughout the story Olivia goes through many problems and has many conflicts. One of them is character vs. self an internal conflict. Throughout the story Olivia is battling with herself because of all he problems she goes through. When Olivia gets her zits, her whole life changes, and because of that Olivia has to go through a lot of rough times. Which she blames on herself because it is her face. She gets dumped and looses her job and she blames it all on herself. Another conflict is external character vs. character. Olivia fights with a lot of people in the story but one of the main ones is her father. Her parents are divorced and Olivia lives with her sister and her mom. Olivia never really like her father because of the divorce but even when her parents were together her father was never really there for her. Throughout the story Olivia fights with her dad about her face, her job, and her social life which Olivia feels is not his business because he was never there for her before. I like this books because it is really realistic, and many girls go through the same conflicts in their teenage years that Olivia went through. This book also adds in some comedy and romance. I liked that because while you were feeling bad for Olivia she meets some pretty amazing people that help her turn her life around.
I liked this book because the author makes you stay on the edge and want to read more. Someone who would like this book is a girl who is s teenager because it is about a girl who is going into high school. This book gives you a gist of the ordinary problems a girl can go through. Overall this books takes you through the life of a teenage life in a way of that might make you laugh or cry. This book is a great book to read and you will enjoy it.
I liked this book because the author makes you stay on the edge and want to read more. Someone who would like this book is a girl who is s teenager because it is about a girl who is going into high school. This book gives you a gist of the ordinary problems a girl can go through. Overall this books takes you through the life of a teenage life in a way of that might make you laugh or cry. This book is a great book to read and you will enjoy it.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 26, 2011
Review posted at
Amaterasu Reads
If Olivia was standing beside me, she'd probably say "See how acne can ruin your life?" and point at the ones scattered all over her face, and I'd roll my eyes and pat her. To this day I get pimples, and I know for a fact that you break out, most of the time, because you are stressed. There's no getting away from it when Olivia is stressed out because she doesn't want to have acne, and that's why she's getting them.
Readers get sucked in to Olivia's life and the various conflicts that surrounds her. She's beautiful and she loves commercials, with her face as her ticket to fame, and it's quite understandable that she freaks out when acne got in the way.
Zitface is a read filled with awkward firsts, crushes, cliques and bullying. I love how it also covers issues about families and how Olivia is dealing with having divorced parents. You can tell that Emily Howse was able to present to the readers realistic characters and situations we can all relate to. Through Olivia's experience with acne, readers will learn how important appearances are, and how people can sometimes judge another based on what they look like, and that acne is not something to belittle, as it can also have serious repercussions (like Olivia's depression because of it) physically and emotionally especially to a teen growing up.
I loved Theo. Despite his sickness, he's a great kid who deserves Olivia's attention any time of the day compared to his cousin. I also loved how Olivia had such a supportive friend, Jenna, though I'm a bit irked with Wendy. But most of all, I loved how through Olivia's unfortunate acne break out, she was able to think and stand up for herself and not let others dictate her actions and gain confidence as a person, which, I think is what's important, more than anything else, and that she was finally able to do what she loves, acting.
Zitface is a fantastic read for teens and those who feel young at heart. Filled with realistic characters, emotions and situations, Zitface is a highly entertaining read. It's short, sweet and really fun.
If Olivia was standing beside me, she'd probably say "See how acne can ruin your life?" and point at the ones scattered all over her face, and I'd roll my eyes and pat her. To this day I get pimples, and I know for a fact that you break out, most of the time, because you are stressed. There's no getting away from it when Olivia is stressed out because she doesn't want to have acne, and that's why she's getting them.
Readers get sucked in to Olivia's life and the various conflicts that surrounds her. She's beautiful and she loves commercials, with her face as her ticket to fame, and it's quite understandable that she freaks out when acne got in the way.
Zitface is a read filled with awkward firsts, crushes, cliques and bullying. I love how it also covers issues about families and how Olivia is dealing with having divorced parents. You can tell that Emily Howse was able to present to the readers realistic characters and situations we can all relate to. Through Olivia's experience with acne, readers will learn how important appearances are, and how people can sometimes judge another based on what they look like, and that acne is not something to belittle, as it can also have serious repercussions (like Olivia's depression because of it) physically and emotionally especially to a teen growing up.
I loved Theo. Despite his sickness, he's a great kid who deserves Olivia's attention any time of the day compared to his cousin. I also loved how Olivia had such a supportive friend, Jenna, though I'm a bit irked with Wendy. But most of all, I loved how through Olivia's unfortunate acne break out, she was able to think and stand up for herself and not let others dictate her actions and gain confidence as a person, which, I think is what's important, more than anything else, and that she was finally able to do what she loves, acting.
Zitface is a fantastic read for teens and those who feel young at heart. Filled with realistic characters, emotions and situations, Zitface is a highly entertaining read. It's short, sweet and really fun.
May 26, 2011
It is a YA fictional contemporary novel (or MG?), I don't know if this is my 3rd or 4th book in this genre. Anyway, I am very honored to provide a review on this one. Shall we?
The Plot. The whole storyline is completely fictional but it targeted a realistic scene. Having acne is very annoying. And highlighting it in a book is pretty new for me. The truth is, I am pleased that this book is focused on a very issue of a typical ordinary teenager. Issues that actually occurred normally on a teenager's life.
Aside from that, it blended with other teenage problems like in family, friends, relationship with the opposite sex and life career. It's a very good thing that it does not only focused on the highlight of the story. That it makes the book more expanded, fun to read and actually -- not boring.
The writing is simple and very understandable. I haven't got any issues on how I should understand it. So it was easy for me to grasp it. Then it was perfectly good book! :]
The Characters. All of the characters are very entertaining. Olivia, our protagonist, is very adorable, I really liked her so much. Her popularity is not just like the other contemporary novels I read. She is not mean or a bully. She is downright kind, friendly and remained being true to herself which is totally to be admired. Her experience of having her first zit/acne is funny but sometimes over reacting. Of course I wouldn't blame that her life being a commercial model is at stake.
Anyway, her relationship between J.W. and Theo really surprises me. It was... kinda unexpected. In a good way of course and it was pretty awesome. Other than that, the other who contributes to the story is a good touch up. I really enjoyed it! :]
Flaw? Nope, I don't have any. It's simple yet very entertaining. :]
I do recommend this for girls at young age most likely. To know how to survive puberty. It also sends us a great deal of moral lessons that it will truly help you to survive growing up. Dealing problems, learning from mistakes and giving forgiveness and a lot more. You may be able to understand on how to survive on this stage of your life. And this book truly fits the description! I admire and salute Emily Howse's Zitface! :D
The Plot. The whole storyline is completely fictional but it targeted a realistic scene. Having acne is very annoying. And highlighting it in a book is pretty new for me. The truth is, I am pleased that this book is focused on a very issue of a typical ordinary teenager. Issues that actually occurred normally on a teenager's life.
Aside from that, it blended with other teenage problems like in family, friends, relationship with the opposite sex and life career. It's a very good thing that it does not only focused on the highlight of the story. That it makes the book more expanded, fun to read and actually -- not boring.
The writing is simple and very understandable. I haven't got any issues on how I should understand it. So it was easy for me to grasp it. Then it was perfectly good book! :]
The Characters. All of the characters are very entertaining. Olivia, our protagonist, is very adorable, I really liked her so much. Her popularity is not just like the other contemporary novels I read. She is not mean or a bully. She is downright kind, friendly and remained being true to herself which is totally to be admired. Her experience of having her first zit/acne is funny but sometimes over reacting. Of course I wouldn't blame that her life being a commercial model is at stake.
Anyway, her relationship between J.W. and Theo really surprises me. It was... kinda unexpected. In a good way of course and it was pretty awesome. Other than that, the other who contributes to the story is a good touch up. I really enjoyed it! :]
Flaw? Nope, I don't have any. It's simple yet very entertaining. :]
I do recommend this for girls at young age most likely. To know how to survive puberty. It also sends us a great deal of moral lessons that it will truly help you to survive growing up. Dealing problems, learning from mistakes and giving forgiveness and a lot more. You may be able to understand on how to survive on this stage of your life. And this book truly fits the description! I admire and salute Emily Howse's Zitface! :D
May 27, 2011
Originally Posted at: http://iliveforreading.blogspot.com/2...
**This Review is based on an ARC (Advanced Readers Copy). The final text/cover may be different!**
When I first saw this book, I immediately though, "THAT's the book for me!" because you know why? I severe acne problems too. No biggie. It's one of the the things of being a teen. Sure, it gets annoying and hideous even, but it's natural. So I was dying to get my hands on this book, and so the lovely people at Marshall Cavendish sent me this along with 2 other books (Memento Nora and Crystal Bones).
This book is for pre-teens and teens alike, we can see that the problem spreads around these age groups. The writing is hilarious and includes pop-references which makes it great for girls from 11 onward to love this book! It's about coming-of-age, which really does help and it's painful and funny at the same time to see the things Olivia goes through to get rid of the acne.
Howse's characters are so fresh and new, although they can be outright annoying at times. I love Olivia– I totally understand the pain she goes through trying to be normal, get her crush's attention, and yet still work around her crazy career, AND help out at home with her mom and sister. Crazy eh?? But I always hated JW...blech. Her friend as well, Wendy. I hated her too. You'll find out why...but LOVE THEO!! :D I find Olivia's little sister adorable as well...although she is a bit of a blabber-mouth, but still, she's cute!
I really like how the plot always adds some sort of twist, just when you think it's ending perfectly to shake up the story. I like it! It adds unexpected elements, characters and we get a more realistic outcome than the usual plasticky fairy tale. It turns out to be alright in the end. Kinda unexpected, but a good ending :).
Zitface is a book which all girls (and yes, guys of course!) can relate to and find the funnier side to the story. This is an amazing debut for Middle Grade and Young Adult readers by Emily Howse, and I can't wait to read more from her! Her writing is quick, enthralling, and will have you giggling at hilarious dialogues and wincing at painful acne treatments.
**Thank You so much to Marshall Cavendish for sending me Zitface for review!**
**This Review is based on an ARC (Advanced Readers Copy). The final text/cover may be different!**
When I first saw this book, I immediately though, "THAT's the book for me!" because you know why? I severe acne problems too. No biggie. It's one of the the things of being a teen. Sure, it gets annoying and hideous even, but it's natural. So I was dying to get my hands on this book, and so the lovely people at Marshall Cavendish sent me this along with 2 other books (Memento Nora and Crystal Bones).
This book is for pre-teens and teens alike, we can see that the problem spreads around these age groups. The writing is hilarious and includes pop-references which makes it great for girls from 11 onward to love this book! It's about coming-of-age, which really does help and it's painful and funny at the same time to see the things Olivia goes through to get rid of the acne.
Howse's characters are so fresh and new, although they can be outright annoying at times. I love Olivia– I totally understand the pain she goes through trying to be normal, get her crush's attention, and yet still work around her crazy career, AND help out at home with her mom and sister. Crazy eh?? But I always hated JW...blech. Her friend as well, Wendy. I hated her too. You'll find out why...but LOVE THEO!! :D I find Olivia's little sister adorable as well...although she is a bit of a blabber-mouth, but still, she's cute!
I really like how the plot always adds some sort of twist, just when you think it's ending perfectly to shake up the story. I like it! It adds unexpected elements, characters and we get a more realistic outcome than the usual plasticky fairy tale. It turns out to be alright in the end. Kinda unexpected, but a good ending :).
Zitface is a book which all girls (and yes, guys of course!) can relate to and find the funnier side to the story. This is an amazing debut for Middle Grade and Young Adult readers by Emily Howse, and I can't wait to read more from her! Her writing is quick, enthralling, and will have you giggling at hilarious dialogues and wincing at painful acne treatments.
**Thank You so much to Marshall Cavendish for sending me Zitface for review!**
April 14, 2011
Zitface is a very relatable book because during the teen years, acne will constantly make you break out, at least, for some of us.
I can really relate to Olivia Hughes because when I first reached my teenage years, I would also break out. Olivia is in a different circumstance than I am because she is a star. She stars in commercials and appearance has everything to do with her career. As acne starts sprouting on her face, she goes to see a dermatologist. Olivia is good at starring in commercials and she really enjoys her job. However, when she starts breaking out, everything seems to be different and a boy she really liked, looked the other way.
Something about Olivia has made me like her when she starts to break out. I like the determination she has to continue to be in commercials even though she had to suffer through acne and the things she does to just try and get rid of acne. I don’t necessarily agree with all the things she does, but you can see how serious and committed she is. I also like that she was able to see who really likes her and cares for her after all the things she has to go through because in the end, people will see her for who she really is and not just because of her appearance. I also like that even though she has acne, she still wants to pursue her interest in commercials and acting.
I think many teenagers can relate to Olivia because no one wants to break out. Acne is another thing that many teenagers, even adults, have to go through. It was part of life for some people. Acne can be ugly and starts to make us feel down, but people who really see you for who you are and not because of your appearances are your real friends.
I thought this book was okay and I liked it. It’s a very relatable book and I do recommend it those who are in their early teen years and those who are going through acne because you guys are not alone.
I can really relate to Olivia Hughes because when I first reached my teenage years, I would also break out. Olivia is in a different circumstance than I am because she is a star. She stars in commercials and appearance has everything to do with her career. As acne starts sprouting on her face, she goes to see a dermatologist. Olivia is good at starring in commercials and she really enjoys her job. However, when she starts breaking out, everything seems to be different and a boy she really liked, looked the other way.
Something about Olivia has made me like her when she starts to break out. I like the determination she has to continue to be in commercials even though she had to suffer through acne and the things she does to just try and get rid of acne. I don’t necessarily agree with all the things she does, but you can see how serious and committed she is. I also like that she was able to see who really likes her and cares for her after all the things she has to go through because in the end, people will see her for who she really is and not just because of her appearance. I also like that even though she has acne, she still wants to pursue her interest in commercials and acting.
I think many teenagers can relate to Olivia because no one wants to break out. Acne is another thing that many teenagers, even adults, have to go through. It was part of life for some people. Acne can be ugly and starts to make us feel down, but people who really see you for who you are and not because of your appearances are your real friends.
I thought this book was okay and I liked it. It’s a very relatable book and I do recommend it those who are in their early teen years and those who are going through acne because you guys are not alone.
April 18, 2011
It’s no secret that a teen’s worst enemy (you know, after mean girls and final exams and parents and skinny jeans and, you know, all that other stuff) is acne. So when thirteen-year-old actress Olivia Hughes gets her first pimple, it’s no surprise that she pretends she’s having an allergic reaction rather than admit she has less-than clear skin. The thing is, even if it weren’t for the fact that she’s barely getting by as one of the cool kids and is desperately trying to keep the interest of the new hottie in school, a few pimples could more than derail her social life — they could derail her career.
Olivia dreams of doing TV and movies, but for now she’s working in commercials. Sure, she wishes her dad would understand her passion, but her mom gets it, and her crazy agent seems to love her. In fact, she’s just landed a great campaign with a local amusement park, Whacky Water. Of course, that’s when the pimple shows up, followed by an acne diagnosis. Desperate to maintain the status quo across the board, Olivia tries everything to hide her zits. From pancake makeup to risky steroid injections, she’ll do anything to have pretty skin. Of course, if Olivia isn’t who she appears to be — fancy up-and-coming star — nobody is. And that hottie? He’s kind of a jerk. Her friends at school? Well, at least one of them is a bit shallow. And her agent? Let’s just say things are about to get ugly.
In this sweet tween debut, Emily Howse tackles some tough issues with poise and humor, and ZITFACE is sure to resonate with fans of Lauren Myracle and Judy Blume. Out now from Marshall Cavendish, readers looking for something cute, contemporary, and girlie should definitely give ZITFACE a read.
Olivia dreams of doing TV and movies, but for now she’s working in commercials. Sure, she wishes her dad would understand her passion, but her mom gets it, and her crazy agent seems to love her. In fact, she’s just landed a great campaign with a local amusement park, Whacky Water. Of course, that’s when the pimple shows up, followed by an acne diagnosis. Desperate to maintain the status quo across the board, Olivia tries everything to hide her zits. From pancake makeup to risky steroid injections, she’ll do anything to have pretty skin. Of course, if Olivia isn’t who she appears to be — fancy up-and-coming star — nobody is. And that hottie? He’s kind of a jerk. Her friends at school? Well, at least one of them is a bit shallow. And her agent? Let’s just say things are about to get ugly.
In this sweet tween debut, Emily Howse tackles some tough issues with poise and humor, and ZITFACE is sure to resonate with fans of Lauren Myracle and Judy Blume. Out now from Marshall Cavendish, readers looking for something cute, contemporary, and girlie should definitely give ZITFACE a read.
Read
February 2, 2017Zitface is about a thirteen-year-old girl, Olivia Hughes, who had he future plans practically ready to be her present plans. She enjoyed her career of being a part of many commercials. Olivia had made a decision on signing up for a national advertisement that is for a new water park. Everything was practically going her way until one day she woke up with a zit. This zit meant practically losing not only her career but her social life as well. At this point, she is willing to do almost anything to get the zit off of her face to be able to have her life go back to the way it was. Until then she tends to hide away from her problems…
I did not have any dislikes about the book but I did like how this book is relatable not only with the whole change of having zits but the side effects of going through this change. For example with your self-esteem, your social life, and how people treat you. I also like the fact that this was in first person view point of Olivia. I think that if we would’ve seen it from some other viewpoint I doubt we would’ve gotten the full feel on how Olivia is dealing with things or her thoughts of everything.
I would recommend this to readers but specifically for readers who aren’t looking for a purpose to read but to read just for fun. This is a great entertainment book that is fast-paced. It is not only about zits and whatnot, but it does have life lessons and i think that that is just as good if not better than just having a set topic for a book. I think if you're open minded to different genera books then this is a book you should read. This is why i would recommend Zitface to other readers.
I did not have any dislikes about the book but I did like how this book is relatable not only with the whole change of having zits but the side effects of going through this change. For example with your self-esteem, your social life, and how people treat you. I also like the fact that this was in first person view point of Olivia. I think that if we would’ve seen it from some other viewpoint I doubt we would’ve gotten the full feel on how Olivia is dealing with things or her thoughts of everything.
I would recommend this to readers but specifically for readers who aren’t looking for a purpose to read but to read just for fun. This is a great entertainment book that is fast-paced. It is not only about zits and whatnot, but it does have life lessons and i think that that is just as good if not better than just having a set topic for a book. I think if you're open minded to different genera books then this is a book you should read. This is why i would recommend Zitface to other readers.
Read
October 17, 2013The book Zitface takes place in Olivia's 8th grade year and the summer of her freshman year of high school.Olivia is a very popular girl and she likes to be in commercials. Olivia really enjoys acting in commercials and hanging out with her friends. She is chosen to be in the Wacky Water commercial and everyone is very jealous of her.Olivia gets acne and and her friends and family start making fun of her. Her friends start to ignore her and she feels very lonely for a little while. People who like teenage girls as the main character who have similar problems to Olivia should definitely read this book to find out what happens to her.
The author explained Olivia's feelings really well. Something I really liked that the author did was giving great detail about the main character but not her relationship with her friends and explaining the plot. I think the author could have talked more about Olivia's friends. I liked that at the end, Olivia and her friends made up and they were not mad at each other anymore. I really liked how some of the characters related to each other really well and they could talk about their feelings. I think that the writing was very descriptive. When I was reading this book, I couldn't put it down because I was enjoying it so much. This book would be good for someone with similar problems to Olivia. I would give it 2 thumbs up because most things were great.
July 8, 2011
Olivia likes being in commercials; she’s saving the money she gets paid in a fund for college, and she hopes the ads may be a springboard to more serious acting later. So she’s thrilled when she gets hired to be the daughter in a new ad campaign for Wacky Water…that is until her face breaks out with acne for the first time ever. Soon Olivia is seeing a dermatologist and taking medication, and her life is full of stress. She’s worried that her new boyfriend, J.W., won’t like her if she’s broken out, that she’ll be fired from the ad campaign, and that her single mom doesn’t have much time to be with her any more.
Zitface by Emily Howse takes a look at several big issues for teens: the desire to look perfect, the fear of rejection by your friends and others if you don’t, getting acne, having a first boyfriend, and dealing with recently divorced parents (one of whom is starting to date again). It’s a lot to tackle in a novel, but Howse does a nice job of taking the reader into Olivia’s world. She’s cute and well liked, but she’s still vulnerable to rejection when her body starts to change. Her friends are changing too, and Olivia isn’t sure she likes the way they act anymore. In the end, she has to decide what’s really important to her, and let go of what’s not. Mother-daughter book clubs with girls aged 11 to 14 should find lots to talk about.
Zitface by Emily Howse takes a look at several big issues for teens: the desire to look perfect, the fear of rejection by your friends and others if you don’t, getting acne, having a first boyfriend, and dealing with recently divorced parents (one of whom is starting to date again). It’s a lot to tackle in a novel, but Howse does a nice job of taking the reader into Olivia’s world. She’s cute and well liked, but she’s still vulnerable to rejection when her body starts to change. Her friends are changing too, and Olivia isn’t sure she likes the way they act anymore. In the end, she has to decide what’s really important to her, and let go of what’s not. Mother-daughter book clubs with girls aged 11 to 14 should find lots to talk about.
June 9, 2011
Thirteen-year-old Olivia Hughes thinks she has her life figured out - even though she's only in eighth grade, she's an actress who's just landed a national ad campaign. Olivia's life is going well, even with her parents' recent divorce; the cute new guy at school seems to be noticing her, and she has some great friends. But all of this might change with one little thing: a zit that morphs into a full-blown case of acne and threatens her career, self-esteem, and relationships.
Despite the seemingly trivial nature of the book (come on, all of this drama over acne?!), I found Zitface to be an enjoyable read. Acne isn't the only issue covered in the novel; it's joined by puberty, first dates, middle school gossip, divorce, parent-child relationships, and a bit of bullying. Olivia's voice matches that of your typical thirteen-year-old, and while those of us who are older may underestimate the importance of what eighth-graders consider major drama, this book is perfect for middle school girls who are dealing with many of the issues being covered. To you parents still watching what your daughters read, did I also mention that this is a completely clean read?
Review originally posted on my blog: http://susie-bookworm.blogspot.com/20...
Despite the seemingly trivial nature of the book (come on, all of this drama over acne?!), I found Zitface to be an enjoyable read. Acne isn't the only issue covered in the novel; it's joined by puberty, first dates, middle school gossip, divorce, parent-child relationships, and a bit of bullying. Olivia's voice matches that of your typical thirteen-year-old, and while those of us who are older may underestimate the importance of what eighth-graders consider major drama, this book is perfect for middle school girls who are dealing with many of the issues being covered. To you parents still watching what your daughters read, did I also mention that this is a completely clean read?
Review originally posted on my blog: http://susie-bookworm.blogspot.com/20...
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