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Erimentha Parker's To Do List
Erimentha Parker is a chronic overachiever, bookworm and perfectionist. Joining at Lady Nightingale's School in Year Seven, she is excited and anticipating the term ahead; however, when she gets on the wrong side of Kimberly, one of the most popular girls in her class, everything starts to go wrong. In light of the girls' cruel and relentless behaviour, Erimentha begins to doubt herself, unwilling to confide in anybody and convinced that she can sort it out for herself. 'Erimentha Parker's To Do List' follows the story of a young, ambitious girl and her struggles with one of the greatest hardships for schoolchildren: bullying.
Ruby Granger has a YouTube channel where she posts Study Tips videos and book reviews. She has created Erimentha for her viewers, more than anything, in the hopes that the protagonist can act as a point of motivation when studying and as a guiding force for all those children who are picked on for loving to learn.
Ruby Granger has a YouTube channel where she posts Study Tips videos and book reviews. She has created Erimentha for her viewers, more than anything, in the hopes that the protagonist can act as a point of motivation when studying and as a guiding force for all those children who are picked on for loving to learn.
184 pages, Paperback
Published September 8, 2017
About the author
Ruby Granger
3 books51.9k followersI am a currently studying English Literature at the University of Exeter. I share lifestyle content, advice and motivation on YouTube for those seeking a more productive and intentional life. A massive bookworm, my dream is to one day be a published author. So far, I have written 'Erimentha Parker's To Do List', an eBook which was released in late 2017.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 106 reviews
November 5, 2017
Did not enjoy this at all.
As recognised by most of Ruby Granger's fans, this book is mainly based on her lifestyle, but there are many reasons for my 2-star rating.
The writer has the wrong interpretation and definition of what "being smart" is. So, I'm going to start with a definition. Being "intelligent" is to be able to manipulate and articulate conflicts using OWN LOGIC - e.g. mathematicians are considered intelligent, because they don't recite their textbook, they USE the information from a textbook to solve a complex problem. DOCTORS are intelligent, not because they can memorise the functions of an organ, but use LOGIC to identify problems, based on their information. Thus, Erimentha is clearly just someone who has a very good memory for reciting textbooks, and is NOT HYPOTHETICALLY "SMART". These theories have been debated about the character of e.g. Hermione Granger, is she actually logical, or just good at memorising textbooks that have been made by intelligent people?
Another claimant I can make against Erimentha's "intelligence" is her conspicuous privilege. Those in the upper-class, elite society are in no way, in my perspective, "intelligent". The danger of writing about that is that people with "privilege" cannot see beyond the standards of their class - e.g. if a poor person was to beg for bread, would they be able to empathise with that person and give them food? Nope. The upper-class are short-sighted to a world of privilege, and so "not having bread" is something completely and utterly surreal. So no, Erimentha is not allegedly "smart".
However, the writing style is impressive, and the vocabulary is quite strong, don't get me wrong, but I think the writer needs to reflect on reality outside of her class, and into the "real" world - will all my readers empathise to this?
As recognised by most of Ruby Granger's fans, this book is mainly based on her lifestyle, but there are many reasons for my 2-star rating.
The writer has the wrong interpretation and definition of what "being smart" is. So, I'm going to start with a definition. Being "intelligent" is to be able to manipulate and articulate conflicts using OWN LOGIC - e.g. mathematicians are considered intelligent, because they don't recite their textbook, they USE the information from a textbook to solve a complex problem. DOCTORS are intelligent, not because they can memorise the functions of an organ, but use LOGIC to identify problems, based on their information. Thus, Erimentha is clearly just someone who has a very good memory for reciting textbooks, and is NOT HYPOTHETICALLY "SMART". These theories have been debated about the character of e.g. Hermione Granger, is she actually logical, or just good at memorising textbooks that have been made by intelligent people?
Another claimant I can make against Erimentha's "intelligence" is her conspicuous privilege. Those in the upper-class, elite society are in no way, in my perspective, "intelligent". The danger of writing about that is that people with "privilege" cannot see beyond the standards of their class - e.g. if a poor person was to beg for bread, would they be able to empathise with that person and give them food? Nope. The upper-class are short-sighted to a world of privilege, and so "not having bread" is something completely and utterly surreal. So no, Erimentha is not allegedly "smart".
However, the writing style is impressive, and the vocabulary is quite strong, don't get me wrong, but I think the writer needs to reflect on reality outside of her class, and into the "real" world - will all my readers empathise to this?
September 6, 2019
The description for two stars seems to cover this: it was OK. I think Ruby's talent is in descriptive language. She is at her best when describing nature, rain, sky and so on. However, she is a young author and I think she seriously needs to work on her dialogue writing. For example, there is a scene where her friend's father drops her off in an eco-friendly car, which prompts the lead character to ask "is your family otherwise eco-friendly? As in, do you use renewable energy sources to power your home?" This is simply not authentic dialogue, and it grates.
Perhaps even more importantly, there is a scene towards the end of the book, where Kimberly, the main antagonist, destroys a book that had been lent to Erimentha by her teacher. It was quite obvious this was going to happen, and it was a great opportunity for raw emotion to come through in the dialogue. Instead, Erimentha says "you can't draw all over it. Not only will she (Miss Solomon) be upset, but it is vandalism." Erimentha is very upset, and this was a fantastic opportunity for an emotional display, but she still speaks with poise, as though she has swallowed a grammar book and/or dictionary - she does this a lot, but it is especially egregious here as it makes for poorer narrative.
Let's come on to the main character herself, Erimentha. I simply did not think she was likeable. Nothing excuses the torment to which she is subjected, and you do feel sympathy for her, but the dislike that her classmates take to her is, frankly, understandable. Nobody likes a brown-noser. Ever. Not in the workplace, not at university, not at school. Work colleagues may be a little more professional in their attitude, but that is not to say they are going to like anyone who sucks up to the boss. Erimentha does this constantly, for example researching Cambodia where her form tutor has recently been on holiday to curry favour. Can we really blame her 11-year old classmates for resenting this? Also her unusual name sets her apart from her classmates, who otherwise have typical names like Kimberly or Simone (it is a little odd too that her parents choose a poncy, middle-class name for their daughter, while their son is simply "Nathan". Erimentha and Nathan.
Yikes).
For these reasons, the reader cannot relate to Erimentha as a character. At times, I was reminded of reading "The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Nighttime". This is ingeniously written from the perspective of a character with Asperger's syndrome. The main character there is not intended to be relatable, but rather the book offers an insight into the mindset of someone who suffers from this syndrome. I honestly wasn't sure if the writer was going for something similar here, but a POV from someone with OCD. I suspect this is not actually the writer's intention, as Erimentha is set up as role model for young readers, and her behaviour as something to aspire towards.
But this is a problem. Just as Ruby Granger's YouTube channel gives the false impression that successful students need to study for 15-hours a day, Erimentha offers a rather black and white world view. There is absolutely no reason why a young school girl can't be a conscientious student while also maintaining a healthy interest in normal teenage preoccupations such as pop music and fashion. Erimentha listens to Radio 4, Classic FM, and watches documentaries on Calvinism. She dresses like she has warped in from 1950. This is not a role model to aspire to, but rather someone to compare yourself negatively to and worry that you don't add up. In fact, you can complete your homework to an excellent standard and still enjoy a cheeky episode of Love Island. This is completely normal, yet not according to the strictures of Erimentha Parker.
Another reviewer has commented that Erimentha's intelligence is not based upon reflective criticism of what she reads, but more like simple memorisation. I agree, this does not equate to intelligence. The character of Hermione Granger is an obvious comparison, but Hermione does show reflective and critical application of her learning. For instance, when she disagrees with Professor Umbridge about the opinions presented in textbook and the course aims for the year, or when she points out that the Minister for Magic is misapplying magical law when confiscating artefacts left to the main trio in Dumbledore's will. Such moments are what Erimentha is seriously in need of. One gets the impression she studies to impress others, to show-off, and for good grades, and that if this motivation is taken away, then learning for its own sake would conceivably become redundant.
It is also interesting that Malory Towers is mentioned on a few occasions as one of Erimentha's favourite books. This series is about a school where cliques are the norm, outsiders are frowned upon, and the character of Gwendoline is bullied throughout her school career for the crime of missing her family and her home. Is it any wonder dear Gwen rebels and acts maliciously on occasion? But I suppose bullying is OK when it comes from those with the correct world view. In all seriousness, it is a problem that in a book about bullying, the author is promoting a series populated with truly nasty main characters.
But, it is an engaging read. It was fairly obvious what would happen with the email scenario, and also unbelievable that no one recognised it as spam, but the climax does feel earned, with the bullying escalating constantly throughout towards the climax, even if it is a little rushed. Ruby Granger has great potential as an author, and I look forward to her next book.
Perhaps even more importantly, there is a scene towards the end of the book, where Kimberly, the main antagonist, destroys a book that had been lent to Erimentha by her teacher. It was quite obvious this was going to happen, and it was a great opportunity for raw emotion to come through in the dialogue. Instead, Erimentha says "you can't draw all over it. Not only will she (Miss Solomon) be upset, but it is vandalism." Erimentha is very upset, and this was a fantastic opportunity for an emotional display, but she still speaks with poise, as though she has swallowed a grammar book and/or dictionary - she does this a lot, but it is especially egregious here as it makes for poorer narrative.
Let's come on to the main character herself, Erimentha. I simply did not think she was likeable. Nothing excuses the torment to which she is subjected, and you do feel sympathy for her, but the dislike that her classmates take to her is, frankly, understandable. Nobody likes a brown-noser. Ever. Not in the workplace, not at university, not at school. Work colleagues may be a little more professional in their attitude, but that is not to say they are going to like anyone who sucks up to the boss. Erimentha does this constantly, for example researching Cambodia where her form tutor has recently been on holiday to curry favour. Can we really blame her 11-year old classmates for resenting this? Also her unusual name sets her apart from her classmates, who otherwise have typical names like Kimberly or Simone (it is a little odd too that her parents choose a poncy, middle-class name for their daughter, while their son is simply "Nathan". Erimentha and Nathan.
Yikes).
For these reasons, the reader cannot relate to Erimentha as a character. At times, I was reminded of reading "The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Nighttime". This is ingeniously written from the perspective of a character with Asperger's syndrome. The main character there is not intended to be relatable, but rather the book offers an insight into the mindset of someone who suffers from this syndrome. I honestly wasn't sure if the writer was going for something similar here, but a POV from someone with OCD. I suspect this is not actually the writer's intention, as Erimentha is set up as role model for young readers, and her behaviour as something to aspire towards.
But this is a problem. Just as Ruby Granger's YouTube channel gives the false impression that successful students need to study for 15-hours a day, Erimentha offers a rather black and white world view. There is absolutely no reason why a young school girl can't be a conscientious student while also maintaining a healthy interest in normal teenage preoccupations such as pop music and fashion. Erimentha listens to Radio 4, Classic FM, and watches documentaries on Calvinism. She dresses like she has warped in from 1950. This is not a role model to aspire to, but rather someone to compare yourself negatively to and worry that you don't add up. In fact, you can complete your homework to an excellent standard and still enjoy a cheeky episode of Love Island. This is completely normal, yet not according to the strictures of Erimentha Parker.
Another reviewer has commented that Erimentha's intelligence is not based upon reflective criticism of what she reads, but more like simple memorisation. I agree, this does not equate to intelligence. The character of Hermione Granger is an obvious comparison, but Hermione does show reflective and critical application of her learning. For instance, when she disagrees with Professor Umbridge about the opinions presented in textbook and the course aims for the year, or when she points out that the Minister for Magic is misapplying magical law when confiscating artefacts left to the main trio in Dumbledore's will. Such moments are what Erimentha is seriously in need of. One gets the impression she studies to impress others, to show-off, and for good grades, and that if this motivation is taken away, then learning for its own sake would conceivably become redundant.
It is also interesting that Malory Towers is mentioned on a few occasions as one of Erimentha's favourite books. This series is about a school where cliques are the norm, outsiders are frowned upon, and the character of Gwendoline is bullied throughout her school career for the crime of missing her family and her home. Is it any wonder dear Gwen rebels and acts maliciously on occasion? But I suppose bullying is OK when it comes from those with the correct world view. In all seriousness, it is a problem that in a book about bullying, the author is promoting a series populated with truly nasty main characters.
But, it is an engaging read. It was fairly obvious what would happen with the email scenario, and also unbelievable that no one recognised it as spam, but the climax does feel earned, with the bullying escalating constantly throughout towards the climax, even if it is a little rushed. Ruby Granger has great potential as an author, and I look forward to her next book.
October 23, 2017
Good writing. Ruby creates images that are coherent. She has the potential to be a best selling author someday.
If she can get over making unrealistic characters. Kimberly is real enough, but its problematic when your protagonist is worse than your antagonist. Erimentha is 11. As a 11 year old I was a nerd myself and had nerdy friends. None of us knew half the things Erimentha finds out through her self projects. Erimentha is a 17 year old girl written as a prepubescent girl which is very jarring. Her enthusiasm is very forced and invasive at times. Kimberly's antics too are rather more grown up than you see at that age specially in a girls' school.
Too many of the paragraphs sounded like product placement, good in a video, but not in a book. I rather enjoyed the details on productivity Ruby has worked in.
All in all, skip if you're not an ardent fan of Ruby Granger and older than 15. Don't get me wrong; I do enjoy her YouTube channel, but this book is more like a propaganda piece.
If she can get over making unrealistic characters. Kimberly is real enough, but its problematic when your protagonist is worse than your antagonist. Erimentha is 11. As a 11 year old I was a nerd myself and had nerdy friends. None of us knew half the things Erimentha finds out through her self projects. Erimentha is a 17 year old girl written as a prepubescent girl which is very jarring. Her enthusiasm is very forced and invasive at times. Kimberly's antics too are rather more grown up than you see at that age specially in a girls' school.
Too many of the paragraphs sounded like product placement, good in a video, but not in a book. I rather enjoyed the details on productivity Ruby has worked in.
All in all, skip if you're not an ardent fan of Ruby Granger and older than 15. Don't get me wrong; I do enjoy her YouTube channel, but this book is more like a propaganda piece.
March 8, 2018
The fact that Erimentha is upper class is brilliant, because it shows that ANYONE can be a victim of bullying. Honestly, it's refreshing to see a protagonist that ISN'T suffering from poverty. I mean, how many novels have you read in which the main character was oh so poor and humble? It's a cliche that is used SO often. So what if Erimentha is partially based on yourself? It doesn't matter where the inspiration COMES from so long as it's there! It's great (especially as a young writer) to write what you KNOW. If you attempted to write as someone TOO differently from yourself, that would risk you getting important information wrong and it's good to start with what you know. I like this book, because your characters have FLAWS. I am disappointed that some of your readers didn't grasp the message that you were portraying. They don't realize that Erimentha's flaws are INTENTIONAL and it's a GOOD thing that they're there. They also don't reflect who YOU are as a person. This is an excellent first book!
May 19, 2018
As a big fan of Ruby Granger, I was very excited to read her work, especially as she was so excited to release it. However I must say it wasn’t what I was expecting.
The language used, although at times rather beautiful (I loved ‘stars seep through my bay window, regarding the house from their heavenly thrones’) often proved confusing; not in complexity as such, but more from the aspect of the strange similes used throughout the book. The description also felt a little much at times, like it were being used purely to lengthen the book rather than to provide necessary detail.
One of my main issues is I feel the characters have been written in the wrong age group. The facetious nature of the bullying is certainly not of what an actual eleven year old would participate in. I have a younger sister who was very badly bullied in Year 7, and the bullying was directly spiteful, for example they’d take her glasses and call her names rather than make sarcastic, indirect comments and create websites. The latter feels more like bullying teenagers would participate in. Erimentha, although at times sweet-natured and likeable, I felt was created as more of a caricature of a typical smart kid. The fact that she read such complex works at a very young age, organised everything with an almost irritating neatness and used such vast vocabulary, although not entirely unrealistic, made the character seem too out of place in a naturalistic book.
I also felt the ending was rushed. The story was resolved in a matter of few pages, and I think the redemption of Kimberly still made her an unlikeable character. Maybe if the resolution was extended and we were given more into why Kimberly participated in such vile behaviour, as well as what happened to the other girls (where did June go? What was that one thing the girls wanted to tell Erimentha about June? I can assume but it would have been nice to have a definitive answer. What about Kimberly’s friends? How did the rest of the girls treat Erimentha? It feels very unfinished) instead of pages of description boasting about how Erimentha likes to eat porridge with rice milk and jam, it would have felt more complete.
This review is not a direct attack on Ruby Granger. For a young author’s first novel, I think it was still a sound attempt, and given her inspiring passion for English, I have no doubt she will only improve with time and write greater works; for now, however, I would label this book as a fair first novel for a seventeen-year-old, but definitely needs improving.
The language used, although at times rather beautiful (I loved ‘stars seep through my bay window, regarding the house from their heavenly thrones’) often proved confusing; not in complexity as such, but more from the aspect of the strange similes used throughout the book. The description also felt a little much at times, like it were being used purely to lengthen the book rather than to provide necessary detail.
One of my main issues is I feel the characters have been written in the wrong age group. The facetious nature of the bullying is certainly not of what an actual eleven year old would participate in. I have a younger sister who was very badly bullied in Year 7, and the bullying was directly spiteful, for example they’d take her glasses and call her names rather than make sarcastic, indirect comments and create websites. The latter feels more like bullying teenagers would participate in. Erimentha, although at times sweet-natured and likeable, I felt was created as more of a caricature of a typical smart kid. The fact that she read such complex works at a very young age, organised everything with an almost irritating neatness and used such vast vocabulary, although not entirely unrealistic, made the character seem too out of place in a naturalistic book.
I also felt the ending was rushed. The story was resolved in a matter of few pages, and I think the redemption of Kimberly still made her an unlikeable character. Maybe if the resolution was extended and we were given more into why Kimberly participated in such vile behaviour, as well as what happened to the other girls (where did June go? What was that one thing the girls wanted to tell Erimentha about June? I can assume but it would have been nice to have a definitive answer. What about Kimberly’s friends? How did the rest of the girls treat Erimentha? It feels very unfinished) instead of pages of description boasting about how Erimentha likes to eat porridge with rice milk and jam, it would have felt more complete.
This review is not a direct attack on Ruby Granger. For a young author’s first novel, I think it was still a sound attempt, and given her inspiring passion for English, I have no doubt she will only improve with time and write greater works; for now, however, I would label this book as a fair first novel for a seventeen-year-old, but definitely needs improving.
August 13, 2019
I follow Ruby on every social media so I know the story that lies behind this book and its
exaggerated semi-autobiographical characteristics... but still, I really didn't like it.
I think it is boring and predictable, as a matter of fact I started skipping parts of it because I couldn't stand avoidable descriptions of landscapes, clothing and moments in which the protagonist talks about something insignificant (in my opinion).
Besides, this book is written in first person and the narration can't be that of a 11-year-old girl because it is far too... erudite! I understand that the author is smart and wanted to represent a mini version of herself, but I find that she just transposed her 19-year-old amplified attitude into a Year Seven child, maybe without even realizing it.
Overall, the story is nice and could suit a teenage public (with some modifications); however, it lacks of originality and of interaction with the reader because, even though the topic is current, it does not hit them morally and does not push to reflect on it.
(PS. I want to specify that I love Ruby and her sunny personality, I simply didn't enjoy her writing style and how the content of the book has been put down on paper)
exaggerated semi-autobiographical characteristics... but still, I really didn't like it.
I think it is boring and predictable, as a matter of fact I started skipping parts of it because I couldn't stand avoidable descriptions of landscapes, clothing and moments in which the protagonist talks about something insignificant (in my opinion).
Besides, this book is written in first person and the narration can't be that of a 11-year-old girl because it is far too... erudite! I understand that the author is smart and wanted to represent a mini version of herself, but I find that she just transposed her 19-year-old amplified attitude into a Year Seven child, maybe without even realizing it.
Overall, the story is nice and could suit a teenage public (with some modifications); however, it lacks of originality and of interaction with the reader because, even though the topic is current, it does not hit them morally and does not push to reflect on it.
(PS. I want to specify that I love Ruby and her sunny personality, I simply didn't enjoy her writing style and how the content of the book has been put down on paper)
November 11, 2021
Note to writers: fictional autobiographies do not exist. Either write a story about your own life with factual details or don't write anything at all. Knowing who Ruby Granger is and what her online presence and personality is like, this was downright creepy (and utterly boring) to read.
September 7, 2017
The book was well written,although the constant flowery descriptions of everything really draws the reader away from the story. The ending to the story was solved in only a few pages and more time spent on this part to flesh it out instead of rushing through it would give the book a solid four stars. Although, I find it hard to place an audience for this story as the younger readers -whom I believe this story is targeted towards- might be turned off by the superfluous language.
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July 6, 2019While the writing was good there was so much wrong with this book. It portrays an attitude towards bullying that I believe to be very unhelpful and even harmful especially when read by younger children.
If you are being bullied PLEASE speak up and seek help !!
If you are being bullied PLEASE speak up and seek help !!
September 9, 2017
An amazing book with a wonderful narrative.
I can really see how Ruby put so much of herself in the protagonist.
I can really see how Ruby put so much of herself in the protagonist.
May 2, 2022
Funniest book I’ve read for a while, I enjoyed the main character judging someone for using the wrong your/you’re and then the author doing it herself!
February 25, 2018
I think this book is amazing!! First of all there is a insanely wide range of vocabulary here, this is without a doubt one of my favourite books ever!! I love this book so much I read in just two days(that’s with a busy schedule of course) but I really love that the story is true to real life and it captures every single bit of it, every single little detail is being emphasised and I love how this book turned out and I am fascinated by this book and I find this book extremely relatable and I am one of ruby granger’s fans and she is already a role model in my life, I love her channel and this book not because that I love her videos is because I connect to Erimentha so much that I just get so absorbed in the story it self and I really have been inspired to work harder and better to get the results that I want academically, if you are really into motivating books I really do suggest this, Ruby is a great model in the study community and I appreciated her hard work writing this book and creating amazing content and after you read this you will certainly be touched and motivated. P.s I really wish that this is printed into an actual book that way I can take it to school with me, but anyways, this book is AWESOME GO. READ. THIS. BOOK. RIGHT. NOW
January 25, 2018
I fairly enjoyed this novel due to the fact that it was very well written (you couldn't tell whether it was a 30-year-old or a teenager writning it,her writing skills are amazing) and also because it portrayed the reality of being bullied very clearly without exaggerating anything or it becoming tedious or over-dramatic. It was a very good job indeed. Congratulations Ruby!
September 23, 2017
Erimentha's character was very inspiring and enjoyable to read about. I myself have even been motivated to adopt the stick-note/reminders method. Truthfully, a fantastic read.
August 22, 2018
I don't like to give ratings to books I don't finish, so I gave it a middle rating since Goodreads requires it in order to leave a review. After I read 20% of the book I skimmed through the rest and read the end. Miss Granger writes well enough, but the characters are very black and white and not very realistic.
I did find Erimentha to be annoying because she reminded teachers and always wanted to answer questions, but she was also sweet. I think she really did enjoy school and learning, but she was so socially awkward that it was a little heart breaking. I did well in school, but also realized the importance of letting others shine.
Also the MC did not grow, evolve or change during the story. That's okay as long as the characters around her do. Perhaps a case could be made for Kimberly at the end, but it wasn't really growth. It was a resolution.
I'm disappointed because I think Miss Granger is a sweet girl with a lot going for her, as well as having a good head on her shoulders. I hope Erimentha isn't what she sees as the perfect model because although Erimentha is well-meaning, she doesn't understand others and is a bit too self-absorbed.
I did find Erimentha to be annoying because she reminded teachers and always wanted to answer questions, but she was also sweet. I think she really did enjoy school and learning, but she was so socially awkward that it was a little heart breaking. I did well in school, but also realized the importance of letting others shine.
Also the MC did not grow, evolve or change during the story. That's okay as long as the characters around her do. Perhaps a case could be made for Kimberly at the end, but it wasn't really growth. It was a resolution.
I'm disappointed because I think Miss Granger is a sweet girl with a lot going for her, as well as having a good head on her shoulders. I hope Erimentha isn't what she sees as the perfect model because although Erimentha is well-meaning, she doesn't understand others and is a bit too self-absorbed.
January 12, 2019
I absolutely loved this book! Firstly, it brings light to the problem of bullying which is a very important topic and I like that you incorporated it into your own book! Also the main character, Erimentha Parker, was truly inspirational I love her positive attitude and she inspires me to work hard. The story line was very clear and I loved the style of writing you used. I have to admit that I did cry once or twice- it was very well written! Overall I loved this book very much and would definitely recommend it to anyone- I really hope that you make another book like this Ruby, and keep up the good work!
September 27, 2017
I liked this book very much! It’s realistic and I love how the protagonist is so similar to Ruby.. but I didn’t like the ending. I was bullied in my middle school and first years of high school and it took me eight years to forgive the people who bullied me. I forgive them because we were naive (me but also them) and we were kids. On the other hand, I don’t think a 11 years old could really and truly do something like Erimentha did.
January 2, 2018
This book is definitely one that contains a role model. Erimentha is just the person to be like if you want to be more productive. I loved the book even though there were some errors but it didn't change the content for me.
November 5, 2017
Great story.
January 20, 2018
Great book and it has many ideas that I have incorporated into my own life :)
January 25, 2018
this was a very expecting book . I would recommend it to my class
February 6, 2018
easy read great book
August 26, 2018
Absolutely amazing Ruby!! I cannot stop re-reading this book :) I cant wait until it comes out in hard copy hopefully...😉💗xx
August 27, 2021
Recommend reading. Love this story so much and the writing is absolutely beautiful!
July 25, 2021
Overall, I really enjoyed reading this story based on bullying. I found this book through Ruby's you tube channel a few days ago and I wasn't expecting the book to be so sophisticated just because I think she was only around 15 when she wrote it. However, was pleasantly surprised with phenomenal descriptions capturing every scene brilliantly, interesting and new vocabulary and great character development. One thing that I think might do with some improvement is the speech. I found it to be quite robotic sounding at times, and it would be impossible to tell some of the characters apart by just their voices. In conclusion, this was a great read.
January 1, 2022
J'avais de grandes attentes à propos de ce livre, car il a été écrit par une de mes YouTubeuse préférée, Ruby Granger. Elle publie des vidéos de "Dark Academia", d'étude, de vlogs universitaires, de littérature (c'est une vraie bookworm!), etc. Elle étudie à l'Université de Exeter en littérature anglaise. Bref, je l'aime beaucoup, et c'est son premier roman qu'elle a publié alors qu'elle n'avait que 17 ans. Ça traite de l'intimidation à l'école.
J'ai observé plusieurs fautes flagrantes en anglais, par exemple des mélanges entre "your" et "you're", j'ai vu un "what'ss", j'ai vu des "the" en plein milieu de certaines phrases, comme si elle avait changé les phrases en oubliant d'enlever certains mots. Donc j'ai vraiment l'impression que le roman n'a pas été révisé.
Côté histoire, c'est vraiment frustrant à lire. Les intimidatrices sont vraiment frustrantes, mais la personnage principale l'est aussi. Elle aime bien faire la leçon aux autres sur tout, mais elle ne suit pas ses propres conseils. Elle conseille une fillette qui se fait intimider d'aller avertir un adulte, même qu'elle la force à le faire, mais pour elle-même, elle refuse d'en parler. Mais je comprend quand même un peu ça, ayant été victime d'intimidation au secondaire, mais pas aussi pire qu'elle. Aussi, elle a 11 ans, et bien qu'elle soit mature, elle est vraiment TROP mature et elle lit des livres vraiment trop avancés pour elle, elle ne fait vraiment pas son âge. Je lui donne minimum 17 ans.
Ceci étant dit, j'ai eu de la misère à déposer le livre, je l'ai lu d'une traite. Ses descriptions sont super belles. Je me reconnais quand même dans son personnage qui est super organisée avec ses post-its et ses to-do-lists - juste pas à 11 ans
C'est pourquoi je donne 3 citrouilles, et non 2.
Next !
J'ai observé plusieurs fautes flagrantes en anglais, par exemple des mélanges entre "your" et "you're", j'ai vu un "what'ss", j'ai vu des "the" en plein milieu de certaines phrases, comme si elle avait changé les phrases en oubliant d'enlever certains mots. Donc j'ai vraiment l'impression que le roman n'a pas été révisé.
Côté histoire, c'est vraiment frustrant à lire. Les intimidatrices sont vraiment frustrantes, mais la personnage principale l'est aussi. Elle aime bien faire la leçon aux autres sur tout, mais elle ne suit pas ses propres conseils. Elle conseille une fillette qui se fait intimider d'aller avertir un adulte, même qu'elle la force à le faire, mais pour elle-même, elle refuse d'en parler. Mais je comprend quand même un peu ça, ayant été victime d'intimidation au secondaire, mais pas aussi pire qu'elle. Aussi, elle a 11 ans, et bien qu'elle soit mature, elle est vraiment TROP mature et elle lit des livres vraiment trop avancés pour elle, elle ne fait vraiment pas son âge. Je lui donne minimum 17 ans.
Ceci étant dit, j'ai eu de la misère à déposer le livre, je l'ai lu d'une traite. Ses descriptions sont super belles. Je me reconnais quand même dans son personnage qui est super organisée avec ses post-its et ses to-do-lists - juste pas à 11 ans
C'est pourquoi je donne 3 citrouilles, et non 2.
Next !
May 27, 2019
WARNING: This review is NOT anything against the author. This is just a honest review on a book and FICTIONAL CHARACTERS
I'm editing this review because I'm out of "I-want-to-be-just-like-Ruby-Granger phase", so I'm going to review this book justly (and I was also VERY pretentious in my old review hehe) First of all, Erimentha is a little annoying. I personally wouldn't appreciate her "did you know-" because I'm at school to learn from the teacher, not you. The know-it-all character is far too much. And the books she's reading is far too advanced, and reflects more of Ruby instead of an 11 year old. Erimentha's denial that she's being bullied is hard to understand and so so frustrating. Like you're being bullied. Period. Kimberly's actions are far too mature for a 11 year old to be honest, and it seemed more like a high-school girl's doings instead of a 11 year old. I usually would read this book for studying motivation, though. It's not a very complex book, and it is a really light read. But lastly, Erimentha is far too pretentious, and I don't like her very much.
________ OLD REVIEW_______
Personally, I really enjoyed this book. For some reason, I just related so much to Erimentha. Perhaps it is because I am quite the book worm myself and enjoys learning as much as Erimentha. I can really relate to the complex feelings that Erimentha has. I also must compliment the author for making the story truly come to life with the detailed descriptions and the little details in the story are just what, I think, makes it so good. It's really difficult to put this book down because of the complexity of the story and the overall plot of this book was just so interesting.
I'm editing this review because I'm out of "I-want-to-be-just-like-Ruby-Granger phase", so I'm going to review this book justly (and I was also VERY pretentious in my old review hehe) First of all, Erimentha is a little annoying. I personally wouldn't appreciate her "did you know-" because I'm at school to learn from the teacher, not you. The know-it-all character is far too much. And the books she's reading is far too advanced, and reflects more of Ruby instead of an 11 year old. Erimentha's denial that she's being bullied is hard to understand and so so frustrating. Like you're being bullied. Period. Kimberly's actions are far too mature for a 11 year old to be honest, and it seemed more like a high-school girl's doings instead of a 11 year old. I usually would read this book for studying motivation, though. It's not a very complex book, and it is a really light read. But lastly, Erimentha is far too pretentious, and I don't like her very much.
________ OLD REVIEW_______
Personally, I really enjoyed this book. For some reason, I just related so much to Erimentha. Perhaps it is because I am quite the book worm myself and enjoys learning as much as Erimentha. I can really relate to the complex feelings that Erimentha has. I also must compliment the author for making the story truly come to life with the detailed descriptions and the little details in the story are just what, I think, makes it so good. It's really difficult to put this book down because of the complexity of the story and the overall plot of this book was just so interesting.
March 26, 2021
This is a reread - as a fan of Ruby I read this book when it was first released, and I decided to read it again in hopes that I would perhaps like it more this time around. Unfortunately, if anything, I liked it less. While Ruby is a talented descriptive writer, there is definitely too much of a focus on this. There are pages of description about leaves and water, yet the dialogue is clunky and the characters are poorly developed. The main problem is, the characters are eleven-year-olds and yet their personalities are that of fifteen- and sixteen-year-olds, and so the plot itself is simply not believable - the form of bullying that Erimentha faced is something you would expect of teenagers, not children fresh out of primary school. Not only this, but Erimentha herself is an unlikeable protagonist. She has an air of superiority, looks down on the other girls for liking lipgloss and pop music, on her brother for liking rock music not just classical and shows no character development at all throughout the book. Of course, she's not a bad person, and doesn't deserve the horrific bullying she faces, but being friends with someone who constantly seems to think she is better than you because she likes Radio Four seems a tall order for any eleven-year-old (although choosing not to be friends with someone and bullying them is a completely different thing). If Ruby adapted this story and gave Erimentha and the other characters less two-dimensional personalities, and fleshed out the very rushed ending, this could be a powerful story about bullying and its effects. However, for now, regrettably, it is 1.75 stars.
January 4, 2019
It is a fairly good book about bullying and raises awareness, which is great! If you are being bullied there are some helpful tipps, which are worth looking at.
Nevertheless it does not really get down to the root of bullying and seems to only scrape at the surface of the topic. The intentions, feelings, actions and characters could have had more depth to them. (I'm being overly critical here, it is still a good book, which is easily read in a few days)
In the beginning I found it hard to feel sympathy for the main character, as I didn't like all character traits and found it hard to identify myself with her, which was actually good for the story, as the antagonists probably have the same problem, which still does not justify bullying. It puts the reader in a difficult place, on the one hand disagreeing with the protagonist and on the other hand seeing her thought process and on top of that seeing the unjustified reaction from others.
As I watch the videos of the author it was probably more easy to forgive and oversee the "Flaws" or character traits I personally don't like that much.
Nevertheless it does not really get down to the root of bullying and seems to only scrape at the surface of the topic. The intentions, feelings, actions and characters could have had more depth to them. (I'm being overly critical here, it is still a good book, which is easily read in a few days)
In the beginning I found it hard to feel sympathy for the main character, as I didn't like all character traits and found it hard to identify myself with her, which was actually good for the story, as the antagonists probably have the same problem, which still does not justify bullying. It puts the reader in a difficult place, on the one hand disagreeing with the protagonist and on the other hand seeing her thought process and on top of that seeing the unjustified reaction from others.
As I watch the videos of the author it was probably more easy to forgive and oversee the "Flaws" or character traits I personally don't like that much.
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