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Greta
J. S. Lemon’s middle grade debut is an utterly transformative, fiercely original, and surprisingly funny story about consent, friendship, healing, and a beauty that transcends all else. Greta Goodwin’s life is changing. On top of moving to a new neighborhood far away from her best friend, Lotti, she’s also starting middle school. Greta isn’t totally ready for boys, bras, and bad cafeteria food. She still feels like a little kid compared to those female classmates who have suddenly matured over the summer. Girls who are now objects of curiosity, scorn, and entertainment for everyone else. So Greta adopts a new “Do not call attention to yourself.” But at her first-ever middle-school party, a boy does pay attention to Greta. At first it feels good. And then it feels awful. Aggressive. Abusive. In the aftermath, Greta can’t make sense of what’s happened, let alone talk about it—even to Lotti. Impossibly, Greta’s body starts to change, and in a vastly different way from everyone else’s. What follows leads Greta to believe the world might finally see her as she truly ethereal, powerful, and free. Reminiscent of Kafka’s Metamorphosis and sensitively told, stunning modern classics like Fighting Words and The Thing About Jellyfish, Greta will transform readers just as Greta herself is transformed.
208 pages, Paperback
First published September 10, 2024
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 66 reviews
May 28, 2024
Interesting and beautiful middle grade book that I really enjoyed reading! I was so hesitant upon reading it regarding it's discussion of sexual violence, but it handled the incident itself very well and also had a very empowering ending that I so appreciate! Nothing was super graphic, and the characters discuss very real questions about middle school. Greta learns that she is beautiful for the sake of beauty itself instead of objectification, which is a vital lesson for developing young ladies everywhere.
There are some issues I had with how Greta chose to respond including not reporting, not talking to anyone, and eventually just disappearing on her own. That was something I found quite disappointing, BUT the transformation she undergoes is lovely and beautiful for any young lady feeling confused about her changing body! For actual middle grade readers, I would hesitate to recommend this book without INTENTIONAL supervision and conversation with a parent that this would lead to genuine discussion instead of concealing. Sexual violence is a traumatizing thing, and this book touches on the trauma aspect but does not present a solid community-based and realistic form of help that survivors need from those around them. As a survivor of various forms of male violence, not seeing help being given or asked for is problematic in a book supposedly about sexual violence.
Another issue I had was that the ending of the book was not as well explained in writing as it could have been. She transforms, she flies away from her family and friends, and that's it. It doesn't well cover the grief she leaves behind in going missing. Young children especially will not be able to understand what this book is talking about in the fact that all of the sudden she is a butterfly and her problems have magically disappeared because her skin changed.
Overall, strong concept and idea. Weak execution and lack of realistic response to sexual violence which is disappointing to this survivor. Would hesitate to recommend without extensive conversation with young ones.
There are some issues I had with how Greta chose to respond including not reporting, not talking to anyone, and eventually just disappearing on her own. That was something I found quite disappointing, BUT the transformation she undergoes is lovely and beautiful for any young lady feeling confused about her changing body! For actual middle grade readers, I would hesitate to recommend this book without INTENTIONAL supervision and conversation with a parent that this would lead to genuine discussion instead of concealing. Sexual violence is a traumatizing thing, and this book touches on the trauma aspect but does not present a solid community-based and realistic form of help that survivors need from those around them. As a survivor of various forms of male violence, not seeing help being given or asked for is problematic in a book supposedly about sexual violence.
Another issue I had was that the ending of the book was not as well explained in writing as it could have been. She transforms, she flies away from her family and friends, and that's it. It doesn't well cover the grief she leaves behind in going missing. Young children especially will not be able to understand what this book is talking about in the fact that all of the sudden she is a butterfly and her problems have magically disappeared because her skin changed.
Overall, strong concept and idea. Weak execution and lack of realistic response to sexual violence which is disappointing to this survivor. Would hesitate to recommend without extensive conversation with young ones.
February 29, 2024
It's probably not surprising that J.S. Lemon's middle-grade debut "Greta" centers around a middle-grade girl named Greta.
Greta Goodwin is going through a lot. She lives with her mom, dad, and little brother known as Fej. As we meet her, she's going through the motions of packing up her room for the family's big move to a new neighborhood far away from best friend Lotti.
There's never a page where we don't feel the deep friendship that exists between Greta and Lotti, two young girls who practically define what it means to be BFFs and to feel safe with another human being.
Greta doesn't quite feel ready for middle school. It means boys, bras, and more busyness than she's used to in her daily life.
Greta attends her first middle school party with loyal friend Lotti by her side. She's more than a little surprised when a boy pays a lot of attention to her. That surprise turns into discomfort and disorientation as what initially feels good suddenly feels awful. With a life experience it seems like she can't tell anyone, Greta's body starts to change in new and mysterious ways as she transforms into something wondrous and wholly unique.
"Greta" is a deeply felt, transformative, vulnerable, and honest middle grade novel that tackles difficult yet meaningful material with storytelling that is surprisingly funny, remarkably tender, and immensely respectful to its characters. I found myself enchanted by Greta and her life journey even through an ending that will resonate with many, trouble others, and just plain confuse some folks.
It makes sense. I promise.
There aren't a lot of times these days that I read a middle-grade novel and think to myself "This feels original!" This is precisely what happens with "Greta." While there are certainly middle grade novels that tackle difficult subject matter, "Greta" does so in a way that it could be interpreted in a myriad of ways both sad and exhilarating.
"Greta" could have easily gone wrong and yet never does. It's clear that J.S. Lemon not only writes these characters well but cares for them. Lemon has crafted a sensitive portrayal filled with exceptional dialogue and little nuances that allowed me to connect with each character in profound and meaningful ways.
"Greta" is likely to resonate most with the more mature middle-grade reader and would likely be a great selection for a trauma-informed reading shelf. It is important to know that "Greta" does deal with sexual assault in a manner that is discreet and respectful yet also easily understood. It is a book that is respectful of traumatic life experiences and big feelings and events for younger people.
At just over 200 pages, "Greta" is a relatively quick read, perhaps a tad too quick, but this allows for a move from trauma to transformation that feels both grounded in reality and possessing of hints of fantasy.
Greta Goodwin is going through a lot. She lives with her mom, dad, and little brother known as Fej. As we meet her, she's going through the motions of packing up her room for the family's big move to a new neighborhood far away from best friend Lotti.
There's never a page where we don't feel the deep friendship that exists between Greta and Lotti, two young girls who practically define what it means to be BFFs and to feel safe with another human being.
Greta doesn't quite feel ready for middle school. It means boys, bras, and more busyness than she's used to in her daily life.
Greta attends her first middle school party with loyal friend Lotti by her side. She's more than a little surprised when a boy pays a lot of attention to her. That surprise turns into discomfort and disorientation as what initially feels good suddenly feels awful. With a life experience it seems like she can't tell anyone, Greta's body starts to change in new and mysterious ways as she transforms into something wondrous and wholly unique.
"Greta" is a deeply felt, transformative, vulnerable, and honest middle grade novel that tackles difficult yet meaningful material with storytelling that is surprisingly funny, remarkably tender, and immensely respectful to its characters. I found myself enchanted by Greta and her life journey even through an ending that will resonate with many, trouble others, and just plain confuse some folks.
It makes sense. I promise.
There aren't a lot of times these days that I read a middle-grade novel and think to myself "This feels original!" This is precisely what happens with "Greta." While there are certainly middle grade novels that tackle difficult subject matter, "Greta" does so in a way that it could be interpreted in a myriad of ways both sad and exhilarating.
"Greta" could have easily gone wrong and yet never does. It's clear that J.S. Lemon not only writes these characters well but cares for them. Lemon has crafted a sensitive portrayal filled with exceptional dialogue and little nuances that allowed me to connect with each character in profound and meaningful ways.
"Greta" is likely to resonate most with the more mature middle-grade reader and would likely be a great selection for a trauma-informed reading shelf. It is important to know that "Greta" does deal with sexual assault in a manner that is discreet and respectful yet also easily understood. It is a book that is respectful of traumatic life experiences and big feelings and events for younger people.
At just over 200 pages, "Greta" is a relatively quick read, perhaps a tad too quick, but this allows for a move from trauma to transformation that feels both grounded in reality and possessing of hints of fantasy.
September 29, 2024
Deeply poignant, occasionally hilarious, pleasingly strange, and ultimately hopeful. That’s a very simplified summary of how I experienced this insightful book that captures what it is to be an on-the-verge-of-adolescent girl. I love that this book takes seriously this very complicated time in a young person’s life. And that it doesn’t wrap it up neatly with a bow, because life doesn’t usually work that way. When middle school literature avoids the sometimes uncomfortable truths of life, that usually means it’s kowtowing to adult fears versus meeting young people where they really are.
As someone who is, ahem, many decades past middle school, I was surprised at how it brought back a flood of emotions by bringing me along as a witness to Greta’s deep friendship bond with Lottie (is there anything like your middle school bestie?) to the confusion of first crushes, and to the painful events that lead to her magical metamorphosis.
I am buying copies for young friends, friends with kids, friends who are educators and social workers, and perhaps most surprisingly my friends who are navigating menopause because this theme of transformation on our own terms resonates so deeply and powerfully.
Some reviews I’ve read express concerns about Greta not telling anyone what had happened to her. To that, I would say two things. First, a reminder that this is literature, not a how to/self-help book. Second, perhaps it is the author’s intent to coach us to sit with our discomfort with this aspect of the story and remind us that statistically the majority of assaults never get reported. Perhaps we should use this book as a powerful vehicle to discuss that with our children, and maybe even our tender younger selves.
As someone who is, ahem, many decades past middle school, I was surprised at how it brought back a flood of emotions by bringing me along as a witness to Greta’s deep friendship bond with Lottie (is there anything like your middle school bestie?) to the confusion of first crushes, and to the painful events that lead to her magical metamorphosis.
I am buying copies for young friends, friends with kids, friends who are educators and social workers, and perhaps most surprisingly my friends who are navigating menopause because this theme of transformation on our own terms resonates so deeply and powerfully.
Some reviews I’ve read express concerns about Greta not telling anyone what had happened to her. To that, I would say two things. First, a reminder that this is literature, not a how to/self-help book. Second, perhaps it is the author’s intent to coach us to sit with our discomfort with this aspect of the story and remind us that statistically the majority of assaults never get reported. Perhaps we should use this book as a powerful vehicle to discuss that with our children, and maybe even our tender younger selves.
September 11, 2024
I'm going to make every attempt not to leave any spoilers in my review, but it will be challenging. Greta tackles the sensitive subject of sexual assault very delicately. It conveys Greta's immediate responses and the subsequent challenges she faces upon returning to school and seeing Derek again. Derek's behavior is depicted as reprehensible, yet it was troubling to me that he didn't face any consequences for his actions.
The story features short chapters of roughly four to six pages. The early descriptions of Lotti and Greta's friendship really conveys the deep connection or bond that the two girls share. They are best friends who share everything with one another, from the excitement to the nervousness about the first day of middle school. Even their fears, anxieties, and apprehensions about how things will change. It's therefore surprising that Greta didn't feel comfortable in sharing what happened to her with Derek to Lotti, given how close they are. And yet, people often respond to a trauma in different ways too.
My biggest challenge with the story is the conclusion, which left me with mixed feelings. I appreciated how Greta's transformation symbolized her seeing herself as beautiful and how she felt empowered. Greta reclaiming her body as something that shouldn't be objectified was also a very powerful statement. I guess my difficulty lied in her eventual disappearance following her transformation, being concerned with how that messaging could be perceived. I had wished that she could have conveyed the sexual assault to Lotti, her parents even a trusted adult.
The speed at which Greta processed the trauma also felt too quick to me. There's a myriad of emotions that I'd expected Greta to navigate her way through, including guilt, sadness, and anger. Some were briefly touched on, like her blow up at school resulting in her suspension, it still appeared that her fantastical transformation overshadowed the ending. The story is intended to be hopeful, but the resolution still involved her disappearing from the people in her life who were closest to her. Although, she visited each of them briefly, and they seemed to recognize her presence in her current form, I still felt a sense of sadness in those last few pages. Greta might have felt liberated and free, but I couldn't help feeling sad.
While I enjoyed the messaging the book was trying to convey and the magical realism mixed with fantasy, I think this might be confusing to some and will be best read by a more mature reader who can appreciate the symbolism of Greta's metamorphosis. At the back of the book, Dr. Alycia Davis, a clinical psychologist provides valuable information on sexual assault, the accompany emotions and ways to get help.
**A huge thank you to Banholzer PR and Farrar, Straus and Giroux Books for Younger Readers for the hardcover copy in exchange for an honest review. **
The story features short chapters of roughly four to six pages. The early descriptions of Lotti and Greta's friendship really conveys the deep connection or bond that the two girls share. They are best friends who share everything with one another, from the excitement to the nervousness about the first day of middle school. Even their fears, anxieties, and apprehensions about how things will change. It's therefore surprising that Greta didn't feel comfortable in sharing what happened to her with Derek to Lotti, given how close they are. And yet, people often respond to a trauma in different ways too.
My biggest challenge with the story is the conclusion, which left me with mixed feelings. I appreciated how Greta's transformation symbolized her seeing herself as beautiful and how she felt empowered. Greta reclaiming her body as something that shouldn't be objectified was also a very powerful statement. I guess my difficulty lied in her eventual disappearance following her transformation, being concerned with how that messaging could be perceived. I had wished that she could have conveyed the sexual assault to Lotti, her parents even a trusted adult.
The speed at which Greta processed the trauma also felt too quick to me. There's a myriad of emotions that I'd expected Greta to navigate her way through, including guilt, sadness, and anger. Some were briefly touched on, like her blow up at school resulting in her suspension, it still appeared that her fantastical transformation overshadowed the ending. The story is intended to be hopeful, but the resolution still involved her disappearing from the people in her life who were closest to her. Although, she visited each of them briefly, and they seemed to recognize her presence in her current form, I still felt a sense of sadness in those last few pages. Greta might have felt liberated and free, but I couldn't help feeling sad.
While I enjoyed the messaging the book was trying to convey and the magical realism mixed with fantasy, I think this might be confusing to some and will be best read by a more mature reader who can appreciate the symbolism of Greta's metamorphosis. At the back of the book, Dr. Alycia Davis, a clinical psychologist provides valuable information on sexual assault, the accompany emotions and ways to get help.
**A huge thank you to Banholzer PR and Farrar, Straus and Giroux Books for Younger Readers for the hardcover copy in exchange for an honest review. **
March 25, 2024
I wasn't totally sure what to expect from this book, but it far surpassed my expectations. I was really taken with Greta, her family situation and her going into middle school. I wanted to punch Derek as soon as his BS started up and I don't blame Greta for going into her spiral because of his actions.
Middle school is and can be hard and our society certainly has a double standard regarding the behavior of boys and girls and what is acceptable. This is a huge fault of the system and the lack of awareness and capability to make it better.
I have been teaching for 24 years and I have seen how this stuff can drive a wedge between kids, parents, and teachers. We need to be better about helping our young people see what is appropriate and inappropriate when dealing with one another. We need to teach them about respect and honor. Greta gets there in some ways. Seeing the true value of self is vital to all young people. We need to guide these kids to see that they all have value. We'll get there someday, I have faith, and it's books like Greta that will help us get there. Way to go Lemon... you wrote a good one here.
Middle school is and can be hard and our society certainly has a double standard regarding the behavior of boys and girls and what is acceptable. This is a huge fault of the system and the lack of awareness and capability to make it better.
I have been teaching for 24 years and I have seen how this stuff can drive a wedge between kids, parents, and teachers. We need to be better about helping our young people see what is appropriate and inappropriate when dealing with one another. We need to teach them about respect and honor. Greta gets there in some ways. Seeing the true value of self is vital to all young people. We need to guide these kids to see that they all have value. We'll get there someday, I have faith, and it's books like Greta that will help us get there. Way to go Lemon... you wrote a good one here.
March 18, 2024
Greta is a very interesting, metaphorical, and poetic middle grade book that tackles the topic of sexual harassment. I can see this being a powerful conversation starter for middle schoolers (or earlier) on topics like consent and healthy relationships. There is some beautiful symbolism going on, though I will say I wasn’t expecting the magical realism!
However, I did find some of this symbolism… an interesting choice. I don’t want to get spoilery, but the ending left me unsatisfied for Greta, despite the hopefulness. I can see the ending prompting some good discussion in classrooms or book groups.
I also found some of the plot points rushed; I would’ve liked to see more development, like with Greta’s new friend Astrid.
thank you to netgalley for an arc.
However, I did find some of this symbolism… an interesting choice. I don’t want to get spoilery, but the ending left me unsatisfied for Greta, despite the hopefulness. I can see the ending prompting some good discussion in classrooms or book groups.
I also found some of the plot points rushed; I would’ve liked to see more development, like with Greta’s new friend Astrid.
thank you to netgalley for an arc.
February 5, 2025
Reviewing this book is hard for me. I don't know if I would really recommend it often, but I think it covers a really important subject and does a good job of relaying how girls might feel in this situation. For the right reader, I think this book would be essential. But I think it is a little bit high-brow for a lot of readers and the transformation into butterfly (though powerful) might be beyond some readers.
September 29, 2024
A beautiful story about a young girl who is touched in an inappropriate way. And the mixed and confused way she feels.
August 29, 2024
A truly magical (and incredibly original) middle-grade book that this reader found thoroughly enchanting. With humor, pathos, and a highly relatable heroine, this book also contains a potential triggering happening and its follow-on effects (portrayed very sensitively) that younger readers may need help in understanding. To that end, there is a discussion in the book, following the epilogue, with a psychiatrist, who helps to walk a reader through the event and an appropriate real-life process for handling and healing.
Greta Goodwin, our third person POV narrator, is thirteen years old, and, as an independent thinker, who has never really found herself fitting in with her larger social circle, is feeling particularly on the outs as she enters her first year in middle-school.
Aided by the support of her level-headed and lovely best friend Lottie, Greta nonetheless finds herself facing the inevitable life-altering physical and social changes in her very own (unique and quirky) way.
No spoilers here, but when Greta is forced to experience an inconceivably awful event, (one that unfortunately, will read as not all that unfamiliar to many female readers), Greta’s deep underlying and intrinsic “refusal to accept things as they are”, sees her undertaking a slow and brilliant “metamorphosis” — revealing her as as “willing to go to great lengths to make changes”. And what lengths they are, as these changes, whether fantastical and real (in the story) or largely metaphorical ( I choose to favor the latter), are both spectacular and controversial (in the eyes of many readers before me).
A truly lovely lesson on coming to view one’s own skin as one’s own, and the burst of transformative freedom that follows, Greta’s journey is more than a little heartbreaking, and a hugely inspirational read.
I reviewed the audio version of this book, loving the easy approachability in the voice of the heroine as portrayed by the narrator, and taking my enjoyment of the story to a whole new level.
A great big thank you to Netgalley, the publisher and the author for an ARC of this book. All thoughts presented are my own.
Greta Goodwin, our third person POV narrator, is thirteen years old, and, as an independent thinker, who has never really found herself fitting in with her larger social circle, is feeling particularly on the outs as she enters her first year in middle-school.
Aided by the support of her level-headed and lovely best friend Lottie, Greta nonetheless finds herself facing the inevitable life-altering physical and social changes in her very own (unique and quirky) way.
No spoilers here, but when Greta is forced to experience an inconceivably awful event, (one that unfortunately, will read as not all that unfamiliar to many female readers), Greta’s deep underlying and intrinsic “refusal to accept things as they are”, sees her undertaking a slow and brilliant “metamorphosis” — revealing her as as “willing to go to great lengths to make changes”. And what lengths they are, as these changes, whether fantastical and real (in the story) or largely metaphorical ( I choose to favor the latter), are both spectacular and controversial (in the eyes of many readers before me).
A truly lovely lesson on coming to view one’s own skin as one’s own, and the burst of transformative freedom that follows, Greta’s journey is more than a little heartbreaking, and a hugely inspirational read.
I reviewed the audio version of this book, loving the easy approachability in the voice of the heroine as portrayed by the narrator, and taking my enjoyment of the story to a whole new level.
A great big thank you to Netgalley, the publisher and the author for an ARC of this book. All thoughts presented are my own.
November 1, 2024
I thought this book was amazing. The perspective it was written with really resonated with me and I think would with the experiences of any young girl. The relationship between her and her best friend I think was especially well written and I cried a few times while reading.
This isn't a typical "coming of age" story, though. It's more about trauma and how those experiences change you. It has a very raw and real look on girlhood, that you exist you be ripped apart, chewed up, and spit out by the world. It's about the desperate battle to claim ownership of your own body and your own beauty.
I rated this a 4 star rather than a 5 because while I understand the themes and what the book was trying to put across I think it's something that may go over the heads of its target audience. The supernatural transformation Greta experiences is written in a very literal way, and I think the ending especially could be confusing for young readers.
This isn't a typical "coming of age" story, though. It's more about trauma and how those experiences change you. It has a very raw and real look on girlhood, that you exist you be ripped apart, chewed up, and spit out by the world. It's about the desperate battle to claim ownership of your own body and your own beauty.
I rated this a 4 star rather than a 5 because while I understand the themes and what the book was trying to put across I think it's something that may go over the heads of its target audience. The supernatural transformation Greta experiences is written in a very literal way, and I think the ending especially could be confusing for young readers.
September 9, 2024
Trigger Warnings: Assault
In this reminiscent of Kafka’s Metamorphosis Greta Goodwin’s life is changing - not only is she moving across town and far away from her best friend, Lottie, she’s also starting middle school. Greta doesn’t feel like she’s up there with everyone else: she could care less about boys, makeup, and cafeteria food. Instead, Greta lives by the motto, “Do not call attention to yourself”. But, at her first party, a boy does pay attention to Greta. At first, it feels good, but then it feels awful. In the aftermath, Greta can’t make sense of what happened, she can’t talk about it, not even to Lotti. Then, Greta’s body begins to change, in a vastly different way than those around her.
I was immediately interested in this novel as soon as it said it was reminiscent of Kafka’s Metamorphosis. I’ve always loved Kafka and enjoyed retellings, reimaginings, or reminiscences of his works. I’ve never really read a Kafka inspired novel that was aimed towards Middle Grade readers, so I was curious to see how this one was written.
First off, I absolutely adored Greta and Lotti’s relationship and the love that they had for one another. It reminded me of my childhood girlfriends who were my ride and die growing up.
Secondly, I think J.S. Lemon did a fantastic job writing Greta’s “metamorphosis” after the incident at the party. I don’t want to give away any spoilers, but the lesson at the end of the story is that one’s own skin (body) is their own.
Overall, I believe Middle Grade readers will get a good understanding of the message(s) Lemon writes about and will hopefully bring attention to how they may interact within their own lives.
*Thank you Farrar, Straus and Giroux and NetGalley for an advance digital copy of this book in exchange for an honest review
In this reminiscent of Kafka’s Metamorphosis Greta Goodwin’s life is changing - not only is she moving across town and far away from her best friend, Lottie, she’s also starting middle school. Greta doesn’t feel like she’s up there with everyone else: she could care less about boys, makeup, and cafeteria food. Instead, Greta lives by the motto, “Do not call attention to yourself”. But, at her first party, a boy does pay attention to Greta. At first, it feels good, but then it feels awful. In the aftermath, Greta can’t make sense of what happened, she can’t talk about it, not even to Lotti. Then, Greta’s body begins to change, in a vastly different way than those around her.
I was immediately interested in this novel as soon as it said it was reminiscent of Kafka’s Metamorphosis. I’ve always loved Kafka and enjoyed retellings, reimaginings, or reminiscences of his works. I’ve never really read a Kafka inspired novel that was aimed towards Middle Grade readers, so I was curious to see how this one was written.
First off, I absolutely adored Greta and Lotti’s relationship and the love that they had for one another. It reminded me of my childhood girlfriends who were my ride and die growing up.
Secondly, I think J.S. Lemon did a fantastic job writing Greta’s “metamorphosis” after the incident at the party. I don’t want to give away any spoilers, but the lesson at the end of the story is that one’s own skin (body) is their own.
Overall, I believe Middle Grade readers will get a good understanding of the message(s) Lemon writes about and will hopefully bring attention to how they may interact within their own lives.
*Thank you Farrar, Straus and Giroux and NetGalley for an advance digital copy of this book in exchange for an honest review
January 15, 2024
This was lovely. Initially the ending had me sad, but it was poetic and I understood it.
I plan on purchasing this to be a part of my 8th grade classroom library - in both topic and relatability, I feel it will be well-loved.
As someone who was assigned female at birth I connected with Greta in her reactions and experiences as an adolescent. The concept of transformation was a common theme in this novel and was developed beautifully as Greta came to terms with who she was at her core and found her freedom in a truly unique way.
I plan on purchasing this to be a part of my 8th grade classroom library - in both topic and relatability, I feel it will be well-loved.
As someone who was assigned female at birth I connected with Greta in her reactions and experiences as an adolescent. The concept of transformation was a common theme in this novel and was developed beautifully as Greta came to terms with who she was at her core and found her freedom in a truly unique way.
June 2, 2024
A powerful book about transformation, growing up, puberty, and consent.
I am unsure how to rate this. I adored Greta and felt for her greatly - a middle school aged girl who was not ready for all the things that come with middle school, including body changes, unwanted attention from others, and peer pressure. When she's assaulted by a classmate at a party, she begins to transform.
This part of the book was fascinating. Magical realism mixed with fantasy, as Greta sheds her skins and starts to morph into a body that is noticeable but one she feels comfortable in, even with orange and green skin. It's a magical way of showing how adolescents change during these middle school years ... and how sometimes it feels like shedding of one's skin and growing wings.
I liked the book and think it's a valuable and important one for kids. But I didn't really get the ending and think it might be a little confusing for tween readers. Still, it's a powerful message and the imagery really brings the message home in a unique and creative way.
Recommended for ages 10+.
I am unsure how to rate this. I adored Greta and felt for her greatly - a middle school aged girl who was not ready for all the things that come with middle school, including body changes, unwanted attention from others, and peer pressure. When she's assaulted by a classmate at a party, she begins to transform.
This part of the book was fascinating. Magical realism mixed with fantasy, as Greta sheds her skins and starts to morph into a body that is noticeable but one she feels comfortable in, even with orange and green skin. It's a magical way of showing how adolescents change during these middle school years ... and how sometimes it feels like shedding of one's skin and growing wings.
I liked the book and think it's a valuable and important one for kids. But I didn't really get the ending and think it might be a little confusing for tween readers. Still, it's a powerful message and the imagery really brings the message home in a unique and creative way.
Recommended for ages 10+.
July 4, 2024
Greta is incredibly moving - I can’t stop thinking about this book! it is the most honest description of surviving sexual assault on the survivor's own terms that I have ever read, which sounds like a bizarre way to describe a book of magical realism. But maybe that is the gift of magical realism, allowing us to connect in ways we could not otherwise? Greta’s delight in her transformation is awe inspiring but also heartbreaking - just like the assault that led to that transformation, and the fact that so many of us, still, survive this every day.
September 11, 2024
Black Mirror for Middle Grade meets Fighting Words, by Kimberly Brubaker Bradley, I have always been drawn to genre-bending stories that push boundaries or utterly surprise me, and this is one of those books.
Contains spoilers:
Using paranormal elements, this book successfully allows readers to witness and understand the very real issues of trauma from an entirely unexpected and fantastical perspective, through the transformative journey of main-character, Greta.
Greta and best friend Lotti begin seventh grade, and over the summer, there have been some transformations. Some, like Greta, look the same, some guys are suddenly six-foot tall, and one poor lone girl developed boobs. Through rich character development, I found myself transported back to middle school, cringing, laughing and wanting to cry, and finding myself thinking, “Yes… so true… ugh.”
The author does a great job recapturing the pain and peer pressures around these years, and through Greta and Lotti we feel the moments of shared experience, the newness of middle school—the possibilities, the judgements, the scrutinies—with spot-on humor, snappy dialog, witty narrative, and smart characters, despite the book’s heavy themes.
The story involves lots of first’s—the first day in a new place, first crushes, first kisses—including one that turns rough, holding Greta, forcefully touching her, and trying to take it further before she escapes. Greta doesn’t share what happened. Instead, she begins a process I describe as “becoming.”
One night, Greta’s skin “shreds” away, literally peels off “like a fruit rollup,” and she awakens with orange skin. (Orange like a Cheeto. An Oompa Loompa.) Doctors find nothing wrong, prescribe a cream and a vague promise that whatever’s wrong will probably go away. But it doesn’t. And Greta must return to school, where it goes exactly how you could imagine middle schoolers would greet a seventh-grade girl who turned neon overnight. Yet, Greta’s new skin ends up making her stronger, shielding her from outside barbs, like the exoskeleton of an insect.
This book will not be what you expect. With the paranormal touch, the author has created an allegory on finding peace with and loving oneself, determining what one’s values are outside of those of parents and peers. Finding and accepting one’s “inner light,” Essentially, coming of age.
Though the book contains no retribution or recognition of what happened to her, making the situation even more realistic, the readers know in the end Greta becomes “beautiful” and free.
Side note: A separate resource section at the end includes a letter to readers from a clinical psychologist, Dr. Alycia Davis, on what to do if you or a friend experience any situations of sexual assault, including talking to a safe adult.
Genre/BISAC: Juvenile, Fiction, Contemporary Realistic, Touch of Paranormal, Tough Topics, Coming of Age, Middle School Life, Family, Friends, Relationships, Adolescence, Insects, Entomology, Mental Health, Budding Sexuality, Boundaries
(Trigger warning: Sexual Assault)
Find more reviews at Ink-a-Dink.com, an online children's bookstore and boutique
Contains spoilers:
Using paranormal elements, this book successfully allows readers to witness and understand the very real issues of trauma from an entirely unexpected and fantastical perspective, through the transformative journey of main-character, Greta.
Greta and best friend Lotti begin seventh grade, and over the summer, there have been some transformations. Some, like Greta, look the same, some guys are suddenly six-foot tall, and one poor lone girl developed boobs. Through rich character development, I found myself transported back to middle school, cringing, laughing and wanting to cry, and finding myself thinking, “Yes… so true… ugh.”
The author does a great job recapturing the pain and peer pressures around these years, and through Greta and Lotti we feel the moments of shared experience, the newness of middle school—the possibilities, the judgements, the scrutinies—with spot-on humor, snappy dialog, witty narrative, and smart characters, despite the book’s heavy themes.
The story involves lots of first’s—the first day in a new place, first crushes, first kisses—including one that turns rough, holding Greta, forcefully touching her, and trying to take it further before she escapes. Greta doesn’t share what happened. Instead, she begins a process I describe as “becoming.”
One night, Greta’s skin “shreds” away, literally peels off “like a fruit rollup,” and she awakens with orange skin. (Orange like a Cheeto. An Oompa Loompa.) Doctors find nothing wrong, prescribe a cream and a vague promise that whatever’s wrong will probably go away. But it doesn’t. And Greta must return to school, where it goes exactly how you could imagine middle schoolers would greet a seventh-grade girl who turned neon overnight. Yet, Greta’s new skin ends up making her stronger, shielding her from outside barbs, like the exoskeleton of an insect.
This book will not be what you expect. With the paranormal touch, the author has created an allegory on finding peace with and loving oneself, determining what one’s values are outside of those of parents and peers. Finding and accepting one’s “inner light,” Essentially, coming of age.
Though the book contains no retribution or recognition of what happened to her, making the situation even more realistic, the readers know in the end Greta becomes “beautiful” and free.
Side note: A separate resource section at the end includes a letter to readers from a clinical psychologist, Dr. Alycia Davis, on what to do if you or a friend experience any situations of sexual assault, including talking to a safe adult.
Genre/BISAC: Juvenile, Fiction, Contemporary Realistic, Touch of Paranormal, Tough Topics, Coming of Age, Middle School Life, Family, Friends, Relationships, Adolescence, Insects, Entomology, Mental Health, Budding Sexuality, Boundaries
(Trigger warning: Sexual Assault)
Find more reviews at Ink-a-Dink.com, an online children's bookstore and boutique
August 22, 2024
I loved the idea of this book and how realistic Greta's transformation was throughout the book, but it just didn't fully land for me. I'll call it Judy Blume meets Fighting Words meets whatever author you can think of that writes unsatisfying stories.
This book both felt dated and was one of the few books I've read that I felt incorporated cell phones in a believable way into the story. It is really hard for me to picture such "advanced" 7th graders compared to my own experience, so I would love to know what other people thought about this aspect. This is another detail that made the story feel of another time to me. (After Derek's consultation apparently this is a new reality; I am a million years old.)
The fact that the sexual assault was never truly addressed is just insane to me. I like the idea of Greta realizing that her body is hers and it belongs to her alone, but it felt like a wild way to pivot from that moment. AND AN INSANE SOLUTION. I wanted to know so much more about why Greta wouldn't tell her parents right away; I don't think the author built that reasoning into the story well enough. And you can say that good kids or kids with healthy parent relationships might be scared or whatever to tell their parents, but I still wanted to know that Greta understood she was making a decision to not tell her parents.
Greta's parents also really bugged me; I hated how they didn't intervene when her brother called her names or teased her. I think a lot of my criticisms are lending themselves to wanting a more didactic story, but that's not how I feel at all. I just wanted a more satisfying story.
Thanks to Netgalley for the advance reader copy of this one!
This book both felt dated and was one of the few books I've read that I felt incorporated cell phones in a believable way into the story. It is really hard for me to picture such "advanced" 7th graders compared to my own experience, so I would love to know what other people thought about this aspect. This is another detail that made the story feel of another time to me. (After Derek's consultation apparently this is a new reality; I am a million years old.)
The fact that the sexual assault was never truly addressed is just insane to me. I like the idea of Greta realizing that her body is hers and it belongs to her alone, but it felt like a wild way to pivot from that moment. AND AN INSANE SOLUTION. I wanted to know so much more about why Greta wouldn't tell her parents right away; I don't think the author built that reasoning into the story well enough. And you can say that good kids or kids with healthy parent relationships might be scared or whatever to tell their parents, but I still wanted to know that Greta understood she was making a decision to not tell her parents.
Greta's parents also really bugged me; I hated how they didn't intervene when her brother called her names or teased her. I think a lot of my criticisms are lending themselves to wanting a more didactic story, but that's not how I feel at all. I just wanted a more satisfying story.
Thanks to Netgalley for the advance reader copy of this one!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 2, 2024
A sweet coming-of-age story about a young girl who experiences some of the things we all do growing up, and some very unusual things indeed. Greta and her best friend Lotti share a deep bond of friendship, and are joined by their creative friend Astrid in navigating some of the trials and tribulations of middle school - social events, homework, and boys. They feel the thrills of being noticed by someone they like, and then the disappointment and stress when things may not go the way they hoped. One of them is even sexually assaulted by the person she thought was a nice admirer, which coincides with changes that start inside her body but are soon noticeable to everyone.
The theme of the story is growth and change, sometimes painful, and in a small way, loss of innocence and becoming more aware of the dangers that can beset young girls. Greta feels herself growing stronger and more able to deal with teasing and ostracizing, and even defends - loudly - her friend Lotti when she is called names by some cruel peers. While in some ways Greta is finding change hard to deal with, especially the prospect and preparations for the upcoming family move to a larger house, the ways that she adapts and even embraces the visible and invisible changes happening to her body and personality are admirable and engaging.
The language of the book is simple and relatable, and I think middle grade readers will really enjoy the story. Thanks to NetGalley and publisher MacMillan for the advance copy in exchange for an honest review.
The theme of the story is growth and change, sometimes painful, and in a small way, loss of innocence and becoming more aware of the dangers that can beset young girls. Greta feels herself growing stronger and more able to deal with teasing and ostracizing, and even defends - loudly - her friend Lotti when she is called names by some cruel peers. While in some ways Greta is finding change hard to deal with, especially the prospect and preparations for the upcoming family move to a larger house, the ways that she adapts and even embraces the visible and invisible changes happening to her body and personality are admirable and engaging.
The language of the book is simple and relatable, and I think middle grade readers will really enjoy the story. Thanks to NetGalley and publisher MacMillan for the advance copy in exchange for an honest review.
August 29, 2024
It's quite the middle grade. Solidly focused on Greta's start to middle school in seventh grade with her best friend Lottie by her side, Greta is apprehensive about how to approach new friendships, school, and the attention of boys. Each of these segments of her life are authentic and then her mom adds in that they'll be moving to a new home, their dream home, but that means changes in Greta's already chaotic internal life as a middle schooler and moving farther away from Lottie.
She begins to receive attention from a boy that turns out to be anything but positive at a party and because of this experience, shifts begin happening in Greta- it starts with an orange pigmentation of her skin that draws attention at school (it's middle school EVERYONE is looking at her) and then there's a luminescence and it goes from there. While her parents are concerned and seek the advice of doctors, her goofy younger brother is intrigued.
This is to say the magical takes precedent over the realistic as she metamorphoses a la Kafka as she struggles with the violation to her body that this love interest (who now pretends she doesn't exist) attacked her with.
At its core, the book is about friendship and body autonomy and I don't quite know how I feel about the magical transformation as a result of the trauma- for Greta it is freeing but does it help make real the message its trying to send for the intended audience? Either way, unique and memorable with a Barbara Dee /Kimberley Brubaker Bradley feel.
She begins to receive attention from a boy that turns out to be anything but positive at a party and because of this experience, shifts begin happening in Greta- it starts with an orange pigmentation of her skin that draws attention at school (it's middle school EVERYONE is looking at her) and then there's a luminescence and it goes from there. While her parents are concerned and seek the advice of doctors, her goofy younger brother is intrigued.
This is to say the magical takes precedent over the realistic as she metamorphoses a la Kafka as she struggles with the violation to her body that this love interest (who now pretends she doesn't exist) attacked her with.
At its core, the book is about friendship and body autonomy and I don't quite know how I feel about the magical transformation as a result of the trauma- for Greta it is freeing but does it help make real the message its trying to send for the intended audience? Either way, unique and memorable with a Barbara Dee /Kimberley Brubaker Bradley feel.
September 23, 2024
Thank you NetGalley and Farrar, Straus and Giroux for inviting me to read this book!
I want to start off this review by giving a trigger warning for sexual assault.
Greta is the story about a young, middle school girl who is experiencing a lot of transitions. Her family is moving and she's starting middle school. To make matters worse, everyone seems to have changed overnight. Girls are maturing and boys are behaving inappropriately. Overall, Greta is under a lot of stress. Then everything takes a turn after Greta attends her first party and is sexually assaulted by a classmate. This incident precedes Greta's gradual transformation. What starts with strange dreams and skin change eventually evolves into a unique metamorphosis.
This book was so interesting and unique. It made me think of Kafka's Metamorphosis for a modern audience that addresses important issues at the middle school level. As much as some don't want to think about it, these things do happen at middle school, and middle schoolers deserve to be seen and heard. I could see this book giving countless opportunities for classroom discussions like Speak did for generations in the past.
With that being said, I also fear that at times the execution of some of the things was a bit too abstract and could potentially go over the head's of younger readers. The way the themes are presented is very unique and special way. It spoke so much about how one changes as they age but also as they experience events in their lives.
Perhaps the thing I appreciated the most was the resources part at the end of the book that was written by Dr. Alycia Davis. I think it was important to have at the end because not a lot of the information was not presented in the book itself. It really did bother me that there was no true resolution concerning this issue. As a therapist, I approved of this addition at the end. I think it was necessary to bring the story into the real world for readers, especially for middle schoolers who may have not had any conversations around sexual assault and what are not safe touches.
Overall, this was a very unique new read that I hope gets more attention the longer it is out in stores!
I want to start off this review by giving a trigger warning for sexual assault.
Greta is the story about a young, middle school girl who is experiencing a lot of transitions. Her family is moving and she's starting middle school. To make matters worse, everyone seems to have changed overnight. Girls are maturing and boys are behaving inappropriately. Overall, Greta is under a lot of stress. Then everything takes a turn after Greta attends her first party and is sexually assaulted by a classmate. This incident precedes Greta's gradual transformation. What starts with strange dreams and skin change eventually evolves into a unique metamorphosis.
This book was so interesting and unique. It made me think of Kafka's Metamorphosis for a modern audience that addresses important issues at the middle school level. As much as some don't want to think about it, these things do happen at middle school, and middle schoolers deserve to be seen and heard. I could see this book giving countless opportunities for classroom discussions like Speak did for generations in the past.
With that being said, I also fear that at times the execution of some of the things was a bit too abstract and could potentially go over the head's of younger readers. The way the themes are presented is very unique and special way. It spoke so much about how one changes as they age but also as they experience events in their lives.
Perhaps the thing I appreciated the most was the resources part at the end of the book that was written by Dr. Alycia Davis. I think it was important to have at the end because not a lot of the information was not presented in the book itself. It really did bother me that there was no true resolution concerning this issue. As a therapist, I approved of this addition at the end. I think it was necessary to bring the story into the real world for readers, especially for middle schoolers who may have not had any conversations around sexual assault and what are not safe touches.
Overall, this was a very unique new read that I hope gets more attention the longer it is out in stores!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 13, 2024
Our main character is Greta Goodwin and she has a LOT on her mind. She lives with her mom, dad, and little brother, Jeff also known as Fej. The family is in the process of moving to a new home and Greta is completely reluctant. After all the new neighborhood far away from her best friend Lotti.
Coming of age, Greta, doesn't quite feel ready for middle school. It means boys, bras, and more work than she's used to in her daily life.
Greta attends her first middle school party with loyal friend Lotti by her side. She's more than a little surprised when a boy pays a lot of attention to her. That surprise turns into discomfort as what initially feels good suddenly feels invasive, wrong and violated.
The theme of the story is growth and change, sometimes painful, and in a small way, loss of innocence and becoming more aware of the dangers that can confront young girls. Greta feels herself growing stronger and more able to deal with teasing and ostracizing, and even LOUDLY AND PUBLICLY defends her friend Lotti when she is called names by some cruel peers.
To me this was a really good story until it bridged into wired fantasy, bur I think middle grade female readers will really enjoy the story f they don’t mind a fantastical ending.
Coming of age, Greta, doesn't quite feel ready for middle school. It means boys, bras, and more work than she's used to in her daily life.
Greta attends her first middle school party with loyal friend Lotti by her side. She's more than a little surprised when a boy pays a lot of attention to her. That surprise turns into discomfort as what initially feels good suddenly feels invasive, wrong and violated.
The theme of the story is growth and change, sometimes painful, and in a small way, loss of innocence and becoming more aware of the dangers that can confront young girls. Greta feels herself growing stronger and more able to deal with teasing and ostracizing, and even LOUDLY AND PUBLICLY defends her friend Lotti when she is called names by some cruel peers.
To me this was a really good story until it bridged into wired fantasy, bur I think middle grade female readers will really enjoy the story f they don’t mind a fantastical ending.
August 24, 2024
This middle-grade debut follows Greta Goodwin as she grapples with starting middle school and moving houses. It's a lot of change at once, and it overwhelms her. Throughout the story, Greta leans on her best friend, Lotti, as she enters this new chapter of her life. I adored Greta and Lotti's friendship. It was true to middle school friendships: they spent every hour possible together and rushed to find each other during lunch to catch up on the day.
While I enjoyed this story overall, I found the fantasy aspect hurt the story's strength instead of helping it. As the fantasy aspect of Greta's transformation took hold, I found myself disconnected from the story. Additionally, I am not a fan of how Greta's assault was handled. After a boy at a party ignored Greta's boundaries, she was able to run away, but Greta became a shell of herself. She was scared and shut down. While this part was handled well, I didn't like how she didn't tell even her best friend what happened. Additionally, her healing was glossed over and it felt like all of a sudden she was not afraid anymore.
So, while this was a fine novel, the way the story evolved meant the story just got weaker as the pages went on.
While I enjoyed this story overall, I found the fantasy aspect hurt the story's strength instead of helping it. As the fantasy aspect of Greta's transformation took hold, I found myself disconnected from the story. Additionally, I am not a fan of how Greta's assault was handled. After a boy at a party ignored Greta's boundaries, she was able to run away, but Greta became a shell of herself. She was scared and shut down. While this part was handled well, I didn't like how she didn't tell even her best friend what happened. Additionally, her healing was glossed over and it felt like all of a sudden she was not afraid anymore.
So, while this was a fine novel, the way the story evolved meant the story just got weaker as the pages went on.
September 28, 2024
Started well...
After the end, the epilogue, and the acknowledgements, there's a resource section written by a psychologist. They say if you, or a friend, have been assaulted to tell a trusted adult.
However, the main character never tells anyone and nothing is truly resolved.
She uses her assault to transform her thoughts about herself to be powerful and beautiful. But she never deals with what happened. At one point, she overhears the boy who assaulted her tell someone else that he doesn't know her so she decides if he can do that she will just forget what happened.
I see what the book was trying to convey, but it didn't do a good job. And could be potentially very dangerous if internalized in a certain way: if you're assaulted and feel the need to build strength from the experience by removing yourself from the world, that's okay! Leave your family and friends behind, they'll be sad but you will be free!
I thought there was a strong undercurrent of suicide as the ending. She braids together a rope cocoon, transforms within it, and jumps out a window...
But yeah, hide the note from the psychologist in the last three pages where I'm sure all the mid grade readers will read through.
After the end, the epilogue, and the acknowledgements, there's a resource section written by a psychologist. They say if you, or a friend, have been assaulted to tell a trusted adult.
However, the main character never tells anyone and nothing is truly resolved.
She uses her assault to transform her thoughts about herself to be powerful and beautiful. But she never deals with what happened. At one point, she overhears the boy who assaulted her tell someone else that he doesn't know her so she decides if he can do that she will just forget what happened.
I see what the book was trying to convey, but it didn't do a good job. And could be potentially very dangerous if internalized in a certain way: if you're assaulted and feel the need to build strength from the experience by removing yourself from the world, that's okay! Leave your family and friends behind, they'll be sad but you will be free!
I thought there was a strong undercurrent of suicide as the ending. She braids together a rope cocoon, transforms within it, and jumps out a window...
But yeah, hide the note from the psychologist in the last three pages where I'm sure all the mid grade readers will read through.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 29, 2024
A 6th grader experiences the transformation of a lifetime.
Greta is about to start 6th grade, which is plenty of change on its own, but her mom is also moving the family to a new home. Greta is more than apprehensive, but at least she has her best friend Lotti to help her get through it all.
Greta experiences something traumatic at an unsupervised party, and between that and all the other changes around her, she finds herself changing inside and outside (well beyond what puberty entails).
The author really captured the voice of a 6th grade girl in this novel. I loved Greta's perspective and it really reminded me of my own middle school experiences. Greta was so funny! The friendship between Greta and Lotti is truly one for the ages. Their friendship was my favorite part of the book.
The magical realism of this book was delightful and quite effective. Although I was confused at first, I think the author reallt brought it home. "Greta" is like a 6th grade girl's "Metamorphosis."
I really enjoyed this book. It was snappy in its pacing, funny, sad, relatable, and bittersweet right at the end.
Greta is about to start 6th grade, which is plenty of change on its own, but her mom is also moving the family to a new home. Greta is more than apprehensive, but at least she has her best friend Lotti to help her get through it all.
Greta experiences something traumatic at an unsupervised party, and between that and all the other changes around her, she finds herself changing inside and outside (well beyond what puberty entails).
The author really captured the voice of a 6th grade girl in this novel. I loved Greta's perspective and it really reminded me of my own middle school experiences. Greta was so funny! The friendship between Greta and Lotti is truly one for the ages. Their friendship was my favorite part of the book.
The magical realism of this book was delightful and quite effective. Although I was confused at first, I think the author reallt brought it home. "Greta" is like a 6th grade girl's "Metamorphosis."
I really enjoyed this book. It was snappy in its pacing, funny, sad, relatable, and bittersweet right at the end.
June 25, 2024
Thank you to NetGalley for the eARC, all opinions are my own.
I was intrigued by the cover of this book, that is the main factor that caused me to read it. I am a fan of middle grade books for light and relaxing reading between nonfiction or more difficult reads. I was a bit hesitant of how the author would handle the sexual assault scenes but it was not triggering or upsetting. However, I didn't like that Greta never told an adult or anyone what happened to her and she wasn't able to overcome her feelings of being wrong or feeling gross in her own body. The way that the aftermath of the situation was handled was a little bit confusing to me and maybe not the best way to explain it to children because Greta turned into someone different and only then was she able to feel comfortable in her skin again. I think a better ending to this book would be if Greta talked to her parents and having some consequences for Derek. This would show young girls that speaking up is the right thing to do.
I was intrigued by the cover of this book, that is the main factor that caused me to read it. I am a fan of middle grade books for light and relaxing reading between nonfiction or more difficult reads. I was a bit hesitant of how the author would handle the sexual assault scenes but it was not triggering or upsetting. However, I didn't like that Greta never told an adult or anyone what happened to her and she wasn't able to overcome her feelings of being wrong or feeling gross in her own body. The way that the aftermath of the situation was handled was a little bit confusing to me and maybe not the best way to explain it to children because Greta turned into someone different and only then was she able to feel comfortable in her skin again. I think a better ending to this book would be if Greta talked to her parents and having some consequences for Derek. This would show young girls that speaking up is the right thing to do.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 29, 2024
Thanks to NetGalley and Farrar Straus Giroux Books for Young Readers for this ARC to review. Greta is a beautifully written, wildly different book for middle grades. It explores the transformation of a 7th grade girl, as she changes into a version of herself she loves more than ever — despite the perils of being different in middle school. Greta’s best friendship with Lotti beautifully captured the bond that can be shared with a “soulmate” of a friend, someone who loves you through all of your changes even when you can’t love yourself. All the “typical” teenage plights are here: mean kids, moving, changing relationships, unwanted attention, the blasé attitude kids have towards forced literature at school…with an added component of dealing with sexual assault and a kafkaesque twist. This book could be just the story some middle schoolers need in order to feel like the world will one day make sense again.
March 30, 2024
"This new skin of mine felt protective and proud and although it wasn’t hard like bones, I felt safe underneath. Now when boys looked at me, or didn’t look at me, I felt powerful. I wasn’t just a collection of body parts waiting for inspection."
When Greta experiences a sexual assault at a party, her relationship with her body changes. It doesn't feel like hers anymore and she doesn't feel safe in it. With a nod to Kafka's Metamorphosis, Greta experiences changes in her body that give her back control as she turns into a moth. I felt sad that she wasn't able to reclaim herself in her own body but the novel also makes it clear that female presenting bodies are always under attack by the male gaze. Her relationship with her friends and family show the contrast of healthy relationships with that of her abuser. A well written novel that will be an important addition to middle school libraries.
When Greta experiences a sexual assault at a party, her relationship with her body changes. It doesn't feel like hers anymore and she doesn't feel safe in it. With a nod to Kafka's Metamorphosis, Greta experiences changes in her body that give her back control as she turns into a moth. I felt sad that she wasn't able to reclaim herself in her own body but the novel also makes it clear that female presenting bodies are always under attack by the male gaze. Her relationship with her friends and family show the contrast of healthy relationships with that of her abuser. A well written novel that will be an important addition to middle school libraries.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 4, 2024
When best friends Greta and Lottie get invited to their first middle school party, both girls are ecstatic. They show up excited to see that both of their crushes are also at the party. Unfortunately, the party stops being fun when Greta has a horrible/traumatizing experience. Greta now has to figure out how to move forward in life with this deep feeling that everything has changed.
Greta and Lottie's friendship is deep and beautifully portrayed. Both girls benefit from having moms that may not always understand them but do always love and care about them. The story is moving and also surprisingly funny at times. Greta perfectly captures the excitement and trepidation that middle school can bring.
The ending may be too abstract for some young teenage readers to enjoy or understand.
Thank you to #NetGalley and #Macmillan Audio for an advanced copy of the audio book in exchange for a fair unbiased review.
Greta and Lottie's friendship is deep and beautifully portrayed. Both girls benefit from having moms that may not always understand them but do always love and care about them. The story is moving and also surprisingly funny at times. Greta perfectly captures the excitement and trepidation that middle school can bring.
The ending may be too abstract for some young teenage readers to enjoy or understand.
Thank you to #NetGalley and #Macmillan Audio for an advanced copy of the audio book in exchange for a fair unbiased review.
March 6, 2024
What started as a cute book about the transitioning into middle school, also did a great job bringing the topic of peer pressure and even SA. I was unsure where this was headed. I truly loved Greta’s character and the fact that not many times you have a girl that stands up for herself! The friendship between Greta and Lotti is surely a breath of fresh air. Not many, keep the same friends in MS but these girls got through it together. Many can take the ending as a positive end of a characters growth and development. Others can take this as a sad ending where SA took a toll . In the end she is free, however you want to see it. It is a beautiful book and loved that it encourages readers to seek help if needed. As middle school mother and remembering what MS was like, I know MS can be brutal for kids. This was kept innocent and clean. I appreciated very much!
Read
July 27, 2024I chose this book from advanced readers editions because it sounded interesting.
The beginning of the book and the coming of age story is well done, the author captures feelings of going through awkward changes and those moments of being caught between a teenager and a child.
The ending however wasn’t for me, it wasn’t fantastical enough to be fantasy nor did feel like magical realism. I sat with it trying to figure it out because I did enjoy the book.
I think the ending needs a stronger closing.
Did she die? Runaway? If she is truly a butterfly, then why? I needed a stronger explanation to help me accept the why of it.
While Greta doesn’t address her assault, or her grief, the back of the book encourages talking to someone and reporting assaults. I appreciated it as this is for young readers and it’s important to address the topic.
The beginning of the book and the coming of age story is well done, the author captures feelings of going through awkward changes and those moments of being caught between a teenager and a child.
The ending however wasn’t for me, it wasn’t fantastical enough to be fantasy nor did feel like magical realism. I sat with it trying to figure it out because I did enjoy the book.
I think the ending needs a stronger closing.
Did she die? Runaway? If she is truly a butterfly, then why? I needed a stronger explanation to help me accept the why of it.
While Greta doesn’t address her assault, or her grief, the back of the book encourages talking to someone and reporting assaults. I appreciated it as this is for young readers and it’s important to address the topic.
September 14, 2024
GRETA is a story about regaining your sense of self after a traumatic event. Overall, I really enjoyed this story. It tackles the concept of sexual assault and consent in a way that I found to be appropriate for a middle grade audience.
I was a little bit frustrated by the ending. I thought Greta’s transformation into her new body was absolutely beautiful and tragic at the same time and I hoped that the ending would have wrapped up a bit more nicely. Instead I left the story feeling bad for Greta, Lottie, and her family.
The narrator for the audiobook was fantastic. It was easy and fun to listen to and I felt like the tone represented a middle schooler very well.
*Big thanks to J.S. Lemon, Macmillan Audio, and NetGalley for proving me with a free audiobook ARC in exchange for honest review.*
I was a little bit frustrated by the ending. I thought Greta’s transformation into her new body was absolutely beautiful and tragic at the same time and I hoped that the ending would have wrapped up a bit more nicely. Instead I left the story feeling bad for Greta, Lottie, and her family.
The narrator for the audiobook was fantastic. It was easy and fun to listen to and I felt like the tone represented a middle schooler very well.
*Big thanks to J.S. Lemon, Macmillan Audio, and NetGalley for proving me with a free audiobook ARC in exchange for honest review.*
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