Randi Lewis is a month into seventh grade, and things definitely aren't going as planned. After a terrible sixth-grade year, she was hoping to really turn her life around.
But the same old problems are still haunting
Bullying, middle school girl drama, teachers who don't want her around, an incarcerated father, an abusive mother, acute poverty, a home with no food...
Just to name a few...
But after her life is threatened during a late-night home invasion, Randi is left with a
Finally open up and seek help or add one more thing to a long list of painful secrets.
As she struggles with the choice, she knows she can't take much more before she finally breaks...
Written by a public school educator, this book is a touching, entertaining, "I read it in one sitting"-worthy look at the issues of childhood trauma and adverse childhood experiences.
Read the book series that readers tout as a "must read for all students, parents, and teachers."
You'll laugh, you'll cry, you'll emerge with a new perspective and a fresh empathy.
I found this book and Ugly Me on my FaceBook feed. As a Librarian of an Elementary school I was intrigued. I immediately got attach to Randi the main character of the story. I would try to compare her to current students or students of my past. This book really opens eyes and tugs at the heart. A must read for anyone but definitely for educators.
Every middle school child, and teachers should have to read this series. This is the second of the series that gave us a glimpse into Miranda's life. Not only do we see her struggles but we see how others treat her. How she deals with being bullied for things that are out of her control. It's a sad story, but one I enjoyed!
Never read a story quite like this and I loved book 1 but I loved book 2 every more. Such a good read and very necessary for anyone who is working with kids or are about to. This book should be a part of every school curriculum. Every teacher should make these books a mandatory read in their English classes.
Book one gave you an insight to the life of a girl from the wrong side of town and tugs at your heart strings. Book two really lets you know more about Miranda and her life. It brought tears to my eyes. It really makes me think twice about my past students and definite will be more perceptive to my future students.
This book was not as good as the first book that Stamper wrote. It still provides an inside look as to how children are good at hiding things in their home situation. This book reminds me to slow down when working with students and give them the second chance if they need it.
I hope this series never ends! Mr. Stamper’s writing is exquisite & tells a student’s story like others can’t! I’m very impressed & glad he decided to write! There are so many students out there who need a voice!
Great read, both books, for anyone. Helps to open your mind to troubles that so many students face. As I was reading faces of students, present and past, popped in my mind. Teach our kids patience and understanding because you never know what someone's situation is.
Incredible reading for parents, middle schoolers, teachers, anyone who deals with teenagers but especially the teens themselves. We never truly know what the story is behind what you think you see. This book and its predecessor, Ugly Me, will give you much food for thought.
I would recommend this book to every teacher in every grade. I would also recommend this book for all students in middle and high school. They may either see a bit of themselves or someone they know in this story.
Very good, written from teens point of view, so me language but written authentically. I love this book, educators who have been in for a long time should consider reading this.
The sequel to "Ugly Me", this book continues the plight of young Randi. It is heartbreaking to think of the number of children who are not provided with love and care. I wish services and help were available for all children in need. Disturbing.
Another great book by J.E. Stamper! His books are eye-opening for educators, families, and students. My students have enjoyed his books as well. It helps them be more empathetic with their classmates who appear similar to the character in this series.
Where do I begin? I can't wait to read the third book in this series. Again, the authors words left me in tears! It takes a lot of courage for two people to share emotions. Really wonderful book!
A vivid tapestry of the horror and despair of neglect and poverty and the cleansing power of empathy and love. Everyone over the age of eight should read these stories, maybe in a group setting. If only to start some difficult conversations.
Second in a series of three short "novellas." I recommend for all, especially teachers. Really puts many students' lives in perspective. Read all three of the books. I'm not sure why they aren't all part of one novel.
Wow this story is full of abuse but some people are making it better. It is a shame how these kids fall between the cracks and adults don't notify someone. I can't imagine not being able to be clean and fed. I enjoyed this book from start to finish.
This series is a must read for students and teachers alike. Hopefully through this story we can all develop the empathy needed to show love to everyone around us... regardless of their situation or demeanor.
Cannot wait to finish the series and share with my students.
I love this little series so much. Randi is so likable and you can’t help but feel invested in her story. Such a beautiful illustration of how impactful one caring adult can be to a child ❤️
Easy read, meant for middle schoolers. Interesting story line. Type of book I always read in school. Always interested in reading a book about kids in need.
I'm hoping this isn't the end of the series...? I loved how this one showed the miracle of what people can do when they care enough and how a life can be changed because of it. Wish it was longer.
Well written short story. I wish the author would put the two volumes together and flesh out the story. Perhaps turn it into a graphic novel? I think it would illustrate very well!!
A realistic book about what some kids go through on a daily basis. I witnessed similar heart wrenching situations for some of my students! Loved the ending!