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Virtually Me
A mysterious package.
A new school.
A chance to be someone new.
A new school.
A chance to be someone new.
A new virtual reality school where students get a fresh start.
The pandemic was rough on everyone, especially since school went from being a fun place where you could hang out with your friends to a bunch of heads in small rectangles all trying to talk at once. For Bradley, Edelle, Hunter, Jasper, and Keiko, that’s about to change.
A mysterious box arrives at each of their houses, and they’re invited to attend a virtual school. More than just being online, they’ll be able to create an avatar of themselves and interact with their friends and other classmates in real time using VR headsets.
For each of them, that presents an opportunity to become someone they’re not, or someone they haven’t been. For Bradley, it’s a chance to come out of a self-imposed shell. Edelle hopes everyone will see her for who she really is, not just for how she looks. Hunter is looking forward to pretending he’s still the person he was last year. Jasper wants to get over past assumptions. And for Keiko, it’ll allow her to disappear into the crowd.
For all of them, it’s a chance to see just how much they’ve assumed about each other in the past and maybe an opportunity to become friends.
256 pages, Hardcover
First published February 7, 2023
10 people are currently reading
4345 people want to read
About the author
Chad Morris
11 books284 followersChad Morris coauthored The Wild Journey of Juniper Berry, Virtually Me, Mustaches for Maddie, Squint, and Willa and the Whale, with his wife, Shelly Brown. He is also the author of the Cragbridge Hall series (The Inventor's Secret, The Avatar Battle, and The Impossible Race). He has won the Utah Book Award, the Buckeye Award, and the Nebraska Book Award, and the Silver Foreword INDIES award for Juvenile fiction. Chad also wrote one of the short stories in True Heroes: A Treasury of Modern-day Fairy Tales Written by Best-selling Authors. His story was based on JP Gibson, an amazing boy who faced cancer with courage, heart, and a basketball dream.
Chad grew up wanting to become a professional basketball player or a rock star. (Inspired by Animal from The Muppets, he has been banging on drums since he was eight years old.) Neither of those plans quite panned out. After high school, he left the Rocky Mountains to live in Brazil for a few years then returned home to write and perform sketch comedy while going to college. He graduated from BYU with a couple of degrees and became a teacher and a curriculum writer.
Chad grew up wanting to become a professional basketball player or a rock star. (Inspired by Animal from The Muppets, he has been banging on drums since he was eight years old.) Neither of those plans quite panned out. After high school, he left the Rocky Mountains to live in Brazil for a few years then returned home to write and perform sketch comedy while going to college. He graduated from BYU with a couple of degrees and became a teacher and a curriculum writer.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 73 reviews
January 16, 2023
Five stars. Amazing! Everyone should own ten copies. Full disclosure, I cowrote it, so I'm biased.
February 9, 2023
I love when middle-grade books share a life lesson but aren't overt about it.
This book focuses on three teens - Hunter, Bradley, and Edelle. It is the height of the pandemic, and they are attending a virtual school. While other issues brought them to the virtual school besides the pandemic, it was a chance for them to start over again. It takes time for them to learn the lessons they are meant to learn, but I enjoyed watching them grow and appreciate life in a whole new way.
These three attended school together before the virtual school, but not all knew who the other was. Part of it is due to the names they gave themself in the virtual school; it was also how their avatar was displayed. Edelle's mom would not approve of an avatar that wasn't "plain" since she wanted Edelle to learn that life is more than how you look. Bradley loves K-Pop and went wild with pink hair and some cool dance moves. Hunter was the only one that didn't try to hide who he was via his avatar. However, because everyone knew who he was and how he acted outside of the virtual school, that had some repercussions for him down the road.
Jasper is a somewhat main character, but none of the chapters are from his point of view. However, he is integral in forming cohesiveness between friends and is just friendly to everyone. We learn more towards the end about Jasper, which is part of what brings everyone together.
This book addresses themes such as bullying, selfishness, image, and self-awareness. Each of the characters, even outside of the main three, contributes to a well-told story that anyone who reads it will walk away with some new perspectives.
We give this book 5 paws up! Wonderful read for everyone.
This book focuses on three teens - Hunter, Bradley, and Edelle. It is the height of the pandemic, and they are attending a virtual school. While other issues brought them to the virtual school besides the pandemic, it was a chance for them to start over again. It takes time for them to learn the lessons they are meant to learn, but I enjoyed watching them grow and appreciate life in a whole new way.
These three attended school together before the virtual school, but not all knew who the other was. Part of it is due to the names they gave themself in the virtual school; it was also how their avatar was displayed. Edelle's mom would not approve of an avatar that wasn't "plain" since she wanted Edelle to learn that life is more than how you look. Bradley loves K-Pop and went wild with pink hair and some cool dance moves. Hunter was the only one that didn't try to hide who he was via his avatar. However, because everyone knew who he was and how he acted outside of the virtual school, that had some repercussions for him down the road.
Jasper is a somewhat main character, but none of the chapters are from his point of view. However, he is integral in forming cohesiveness between friends and is just friendly to everyone. We learn more towards the end about Jasper, which is part of what brings everyone together.
This book addresses themes such as bullying, selfishness, image, and self-awareness. Each of the characters, even outside of the main three, contributes to a well-told story that anyone who reads it will walk away with some new perspectives.
We give this book 5 paws up! Wonderful read for everyone.
Read
March 2, 2023I’ve enjoyed several of the middle-grade books written by Chad Morris and Shelly Brown, so I was delighted to get an early copy of Virtually Me. I ended up reading this one with my son (currently in 2nd grade). We had fun reading it together, and he would often ask for another chapter (or two or three), but I think the book is probably an even better fit for kids who are a little older and dealing with the pressures of middle school and social media. My ARC has been snatched away by one of my middle school kids and I am sure she is loving it.
Virtually Me follows several characters attending a virtual reality school during the pandemic. The children all have their reasons for going to a VR school. Bradley is sick of people making fun of him. Edelle’s mom wants Edelle to stop worrying so much about what she looks like. And Hunter is embarrassed by a condition that is making him lose his hair.
Bradley was pretty likeable from the beginning of the book. Edelle and Hunter had some long internal journeys to make, and it was satisfying to watch them learn some important life lessons in the unique setting of a virtual school complete with classes, games, and a few hidden identities.
If you’re looking for a heart-felt book about seeing past what people look like, learning to be yourself, and learning to be a good friend, this is one you’ll want to check out!
Virtually Me follows several characters attending a virtual reality school during the pandemic. The children all have their reasons for going to a VR school. Bradley is sick of people making fun of him. Edelle’s mom wants Edelle to stop worrying so much about what she looks like. And Hunter is embarrassed by a condition that is making him lose his hair.
Bradley was pretty likeable from the beginning of the book. Edelle and Hunter had some long internal journeys to make, and it was satisfying to watch them learn some important life lessons in the unique setting of a virtual school complete with classes, games, and a few hidden identities.
If you’re looking for a heart-felt book about seeing past what people look like, learning to be yourself, and learning to be a good friend, this is one you’ll want to check out!
January 19, 2023
Language: G (0 swears, 0 “f”); Mature Content: G; Violence: PG
The school district is trying a new virtual reality school – with VR technology mailed to each student’s home. Bradley is excited for a fresh start, Edelle’s mom thinks Edelle is too worried about being outwardly beautiful, and Hunter has a secret to hide. In their new junior high school full of avatars, can they really get to know anyone if no one wants to simply be themselves?
The journey that these students go on is all about learning to love yourself and being willing to look beyond outward appearances. I love that the story is told through different perspectives because it allows readers to see that people can mess up while still having good intentions. And maybe sometimes they don’t have the best of intentions but they are struggling, too. Everyone wants to be the hero of the story, but the truth is that we become heroes when we work together to be kind.
White, Black, and Asian characters are mentioned. The violence rating is for bullying and descriptions of a RV shooting game (players versus giant bugs).
Reviewed for https://kissthebook.blogspot.com/
The school district is trying a new virtual reality school – with VR technology mailed to each student’s home. Bradley is excited for a fresh start, Edelle’s mom thinks Edelle is too worried about being outwardly beautiful, and Hunter has a secret to hide. In their new junior high school full of avatars, can they really get to know anyone if no one wants to simply be themselves?
The journey that these students go on is all about learning to love yourself and being willing to look beyond outward appearances. I love that the story is told through different perspectives because it allows readers to see that people can mess up while still having good intentions. And maybe sometimes they don’t have the best of intentions but they are struggling, too. Everyone wants to be the hero of the story, but the truth is that we become heroes when we work together to be kind.
White, Black, and Asian characters are mentioned. The violence rating is for bullying and descriptions of a RV shooting game (players versus giant bugs).
Reviewed for https://kissthebook.blogspot.com/
January 31, 2023
“‘And I learned that being good is a lot more important than looking good.’ I took a deep breath. ‘I know, it sounds like a fridge magnet, but it’s true.’ Me. No filter. Smiling.”
Virtually Me is a clever, heartfelt, realistic fiction middle grade readers will enjoy! Three Jr. High students share their hopes, fears, and deepest secrets as they attend an experimental virtual school during the 2021 pandemic year. Through their experiences, they learn valuable lessons about self acceptance, valuing things other than appearance, reinvention, second chances, and true friendship. It’s a thoughtful story with great messages. There are even references to K-pop!
Bradley, Hunter, and Edelle all have their own reasons for attending virtual school. Ever since having a mean prank pulled on him in 3rd grade, Bradley has withdrawn himself and tried to remain in the background. He longs for friendship and acceptance. His secret dreams of sharing his talent for dancing and love of K-pop remain hidden. Attending virtual school gives him an opportunity to reinvent himself. He can design his avatar any way he wants and create a new, more hip persona.
Hunter is hiding a secret from his friends. He’s experiencing a form of alopecia most likely alopecia areata and is embarrassed about his patchy hair loss. He’s extremely competitive and for one so focused on appearance and winning, this trial is extremely difficult. Virtual school allows him to be his popular, competitive self yet hide his real appearance. But, his drive to win may just be his downfall.
Edelle is attending virtual school because her mom hopes to convince her that appearances aren’t everything. For the popular girl who lives for likes on social media, being forced to adopt a plain avatar and miss out on in person school is going to be difficult. Edelle is in for a huge shock when she learns what it’s like to be just average looking. When her supposed best friend who fawned all over her in real life doesn’t recognize her or give her the time of day, she has to decide what real friendship is.
This is one of the first middle grade books I’ve seen that subtly addresses the pandemic and what kids were going through during that time. I loved the lessons each kid learns as they navigate online school The virtual setting allowed the kids to really explore who they were. I liked how each one had a different problem to overcome which made them easily relatable. I also loved Jasper. He’s the glue that keeps everyone together and when you learn his reason for attending virtual school, it really drives home the messages the authors were trying to convey throughout.
It’s well written, fun, and even enjoyable for adults to read. This is definitely one book I’d recommend to ages 10 and up. I received advanced complimentary copies from the publisher and NetGalley. All opinions are my own and I was not required to provide a positive review. 4 1/2 stars
Virtually Me is a clever, heartfelt, realistic fiction middle grade readers will enjoy! Three Jr. High students share their hopes, fears, and deepest secrets as they attend an experimental virtual school during the 2021 pandemic year. Through their experiences, they learn valuable lessons about self acceptance, valuing things other than appearance, reinvention, second chances, and true friendship. It’s a thoughtful story with great messages. There are even references to K-pop!
Bradley, Hunter, and Edelle all have their own reasons for attending virtual school. Ever since having a mean prank pulled on him in 3rd grade, Bradley has withdrawn himself and tried to remain in the background. He longs for friendship and acceptance. His secret dreams of sharing his talent for dancing and love of K-pop remain hidden. Attending virtual school gives him an opportunity to reinvent himself. He can design his avatar any way he wants and create a new, more hip persona.
Hunter is hiding a secret from his friends. He’s experiencing a form of alopecia most likely alopecia areata and is embarrassed about his patchy hair loss. He’s extremely competitive and for one so focused on appearance and winning, this trial is extremely difficult. Virtual school allows him to be his popular, competitive self yet hide his real appearance. But, his drive to win may just be his downfall.
Edelle is attending virtual school because her mom hopes to convince her that appearances aren’t everything. For the popular girl who lives for likes on social media, being forced to adopt a plain avatar and miss out on in person school is going to be difficult. Edelle is in for a huge shock when she learns what it’s like to be just average looking. When her supposed best friend who fawned all over her in real life doesn’t recognize her or give her the time of day, she has to decide what real friendship is.
This is one of the first middle grade books I’ve seen that subtly addresses the pandemic and what kids were going through during that time. I loved the lessons each kid learns as they navigate online school The virtual setting allowed the kids to really explore who they were. I liked how each one had a different problem to overcome which made them easily relatable. I also loved Jasper. He’s the glue that keeps everyone together and when you learn his reason for attending virtual school, it really drives home the messages the authors were trying to convey throughout.
It’s well written, fun, and even enjoyable for adults to read. This is definitely one book I’d recommend to ages 10 and up. I received advanced complimentary copies from the publisher and NetGalley. All opinions are my own and I was not required to provide a positive review. 4 1/2 stars
February 26, 2023
Virtually Me is a cute story based on virtual learning during the Covid 19 Pandemic. Each character in this story is dealing with self-esteem issues where they can hide behind a "mask" with their virtual self at the virtual school.
There are so many great lessons for kids to learn from this novel. The main characters all have different reasons for going to the virtual school. The reasons all have to do with their outside appearance but find out a lot about themselves emotionally. Bradley, Edelle, Hunter, Jasper, and Keiko all have such different personalities and find themselves in funny situations. The humor is spot on for the age group that will be reading this novel. OK, the humor made me really LOL too. Chad Morris and Shelly Brown have a knack for writing fun, young characters that kids can relate to. This will be another hit with Middle-Grade readers.
There are so many great lessons for kids to learn from this novel. The main characters all have different reasons for going to the virtual school. The reasons all have to do with their outside appearance but find out a lot about themselves emotionally. Bradley, Edelle, Hunter, Jasper, and Keiko all have such different personalities and find themselves in funny situations. The humor is spot on for the age group that will be reading this novel. OK, the humor made me really LOL too. Chad Morris and Shelly Brown have a knack for writing fun, young characters that kids can relate to. This will be another hit with Middle-Grade readers.
February 23, 2023
What an incredible story. I enjoyed this even more than I thought would. Such a different story, but highly relatable in so many ways for kids. The pandemic was rough on everyone, especially since school went from being a fun place where you could hang out with your friends to a bunch of heads in small rectangles all trying to talk at once. For Bradley, Edelle, Hunter, Jasper, and Keiko, that’s about to change.
A mysterious box arrives at each of their houses, and they’re invited to attend a virtual school. More than just being online, they’ll be able to create an avatar of themselves and interact with their friends and other classmates in real time using VR headsets.
For each of them, that presents an opportunity to become someone they’re not, or someone they haven’t been. For Bradley, it’s a chance to come out of a self-imposed shell. Edelle hopes everyone will see her for who she really is, not just for how she looks. Hunter is looking forward to pretending he’s still the person he was last year. Jasper wants to get over past assumptions. And for Keiko, it’ll allow her to disappear into the crowd.
For all of them, it’s a chance to see just how much they’ve assumed about each other in the past and maybe an opportunity to become friends. I really enjoyed the chapters alternating POV, & getting to know each kid, & their reasons for going to virtual school, & even their reasons behind hiding their identity-for those who chose to. Phenomenal character growth in this with these characters. They learned so much about, not only others, but about themselves through this experience. About true friendship, what's really important, how others see us by our actions, & so much more. Many lessons learned for sure. Everything about the virtual school was intriguing to me, & I loved all the detail the authors put into it. Edelle & Bradley are my favorites in this, & loved both their stories so much. Highly recommend. This is out now! Beautiful cover by
Garth Bruner too.💜
A mysterious box arrives at each of their houses, and they’re invited to attend a virtual school. More than just being online, they’ll be able to create an avatar of themselves and interact with their friends and other classmates in real time using VR headsets.
For each of them, that presents an opportunity to become someone they’re not, or someone they haven’t been. For Bradley, it’s a chance to come out of a self-imposed shell. Edelle hopes everyone will see her for who she really is, not just for how she looks. Hunter is looking forward to pretending he’s still the person he was last year. Jasper wants to get over past assumptions. And for Keiko, it’ll allow her to disappear into the crowd.
For all of them, it’s a chance to see just how much they’ve assumed about each other in the past and maybe an opportunity to become friends. I really enjoyed the chapters alternating POV, & getting to know each kid, & their reasons for going to virtual school, & even their reasons behind hiding their identity-for those who chose to. Phenomenal character growth in this with these characters. They learned so much about, not only others, but about themselves through this experience. About true friendship, what's really important, how others see us by our actions, & so much more. Many lessons learned for sure. Everything about the virtual school was intriguing to me, & I loved all the detail the authors put into it. Edelle & Bradley are my favorites in this, & loved both their stories so much. Highly recommend. This is out now! Beautiful cover by
Garth Bruner too.💜
February 7, 2023
Initially when I read the premise of the book, I was a little skeptical and wasn't sure about reviewing it. After hearing about a fiction book that my son read with virtual reality in it for a book report, that didn't have that great of a message...I realized that kids wanted books on virtual reality. Kids are interested in the virtual world with the new technology and games that are coming out. I wasn't sure if I would like Virtually Me, but I was pleasantly surprised. I really liked the messaging and themes in this book. It's something that I think every preteen, teen, and even adult should read. It hits on the importance on being yourself and not worrying about your appearance to others. Each of the characters come from different backgrounds and groups, but most of them struggle with being themselves and putting too much pressure on themselves or others around them. The author shows what each of the characters are like in their own home or comfort zone and how they then project themselves in the virtual world. The character are likeable and relatable. A reader can probably identify with at least one of the main characters. I felt like it was a quality book. Meaning, that it was well written, well-developed, had a message for the readers and something that readers could relate to. It's something that you want on your shelves and parents will want their kids to read. The story was easy-to-read and had a great pacing. The author does a good job at describing the characters, the scenes and the action. It's a book I hope that my kids will read and internalize the messages for themselves. I would highly recommend this book.
Please note that I received a free copy to review, however, this is my honest opinion.
Please note that I received a free copy to review, however, this is my honest opinion.
October 2, 2022
After schools shut down for the pandemic, a new and experimental "Virtual School" opens for middle school students. Like many middle school experiences, a first day at a new school can be an opportunity for reinventing oneself, and for the three main characters, that is definitely their plan. Made even easier by the choice of avatars and the elimination of in-person interactions, the characters in this story are even better set up to become whoever they want to be. Edelle, previously obsessed with popularity, is forced to change her appearance by her mother. Bradley had negative experiences at his old school related to teasing, but now he takes on the persona of a pop star. And Hunter has the opportunity to resume his ways of life prior to the health issues he currently is facing. With a fun video-game themed premise yet including all of the elements familiar to middle school readers, this book is a fun and exciting read for this age group. I would definitely recommend this book to parents and teachers of students in the grade 6-9 range who enjoy sci-fi books! Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for giving me the chance to read and review this book!
August 7, 2022
An experimental Virtual School has just begun, and several students from a local Middle School are attending for one reason or another. Illness, emotional health, grades, peer pressure; whatever the reason, most are there unwillingly--forced into it by concerned parents after the shut-down has been lifted (caused by the pandemic).
It's a chance to start over with a new look, and a new name, for some. Edelle was obsessed with looking beautiful, being voted "hottest girl" in school, and having followers on social media. Her mother forced her to look plain and boring; she chose the name Vanya.
Bradley was depressed, withdrawn, and hated attending school because he was teased by unthinking and unkind "popular and beautiful" people. Virtually, he became Daebak, a stylish, pink-haired pop star.
Hunter had stress and health issues on his mind; losing his hair. Online he was his former self; Hunter the popular, competitive, athletic, enthusiastic, only-beautiful-people-need-apply guy he'd always been. But it wasn't working as well as he'd hoped. And he really craved cheering crowds.
Jasper and Keiko are unknowns early on in the story, but they play important parts. It's going to be a very interesting year!
The story was immersive once I noted that each chapter is from the viewpoint of a different character, and it works well for this book. It offers points of view we may not see presented in one package.
4/5 Stars
Score: After a particular event, the story effectively ends dot dot dot, new scene after school ends and the following summer is over. What? It's the opposite of a cliff-hanger, because we are assured that nothing of note happened at all in that time, however unlikely we believe that to be.
Thanks to Shadow Mountain Publishing and NetGalley for this preview of the uncorrected proof; the review is voluntary.
#VirtuallyMe #NetGalley
#ShadowMountainPublishing
#ChadMorris #ChadMorrisAuth
#Shelly Brown #Shelly BrownAuth
#MiddleSchoolFictionExperimentalVirtualSchool
#MiddleSchoolFictionBelonging
#MiddleSchoolFictionMentalHealth
#MiddleSchoolFictionFriendship
#MiddleSchoolFictionTeammates
#MiddleSchoolFictionLoyaltyandSupport
#MiddleSchoolFictionIllness
#MiddleSchoolFictionAlopecia
#MiddleSchoolFictionCysticFibrosis
#MiddleSchoolFictionPeerApproval
It's a chance to start over with a new look, and a new name, for some. Edelle was obsessed with looking beautiful, being voted "hottest girl" in school, and having followers on social media. Her mother forced her to look plain and boring; she chose the name Vanya.
Bradley was depressed, withdrawn, and hated attending school because he was teased by unthinking and unkind "popular and beautiful" people. Virtually, he became Daebak, a stylish, pink-haired pop star.
Hunter had stress and health issues on his mind; losing his hair. Online he was his former self; Hunter the popular, competitive, athletic, enthusiastic, only-beautiful-people-need-apply guy he'd always been. But it wasn't working as well as he'd hoped. And he really craved cheering crowds.
Jasper and Keiko are unknowns early on in the story, but they play important parts. It's going to be a very interesting year!
The story was immersive once I noted that each chapter is from the viewpoint of a different character, and it works well for this book. It offers points of view we may not see presented in one package.
4/5 Stars
Score: After a particular event, the story effectively ends dot dot dot, new scene after school ends and the following summer is over. What? It's the opposite of a cliff-hanger, because we are assured that nothing of note happened at all in that time, however unlikely we believe that to be.
Thanks to Shadow Mountain Publishing and NetGalley for this preview of the uncorrected proof; the review is voluntary.
#VirtuallyMe #NetGalley
#ShadowMountainPublishing
#ChadMorris #ChadMorrisAuth
#Shelly Brown #Shelly BrownAuth
#MiddleSchoolFictionExperimentalVirtualSchool
#MiddleSchoolFictionBelonging
#MiddleSchoolFictionMentalHealth
#MiddleSchoolFictionFriendship
#MiddleSchoolFictionTeammates
#MiddleSchoolFictionLoyaltyandSupport
#MiddleSchoolFictionIllness
#MiddleSchoolFictionAlopecia
#MiddleSchoolFictionCysticFibrosis
#MiddleSchoolFictionPeerApproval
August 18, 2022
I just reviewed Virtually Me by Chad Morris; Shelly Brown. #VirtuallyMe Thank you, NetGalley and #Shadow Mountain, for sending me a digital copy.
Three classmates, Bradley, Edelle, and Hunter, are in a virtual classroom with different identities. Their interaction is based on an avatar they have designed.
The story is unique with virtual reality learning, customising avatars, and meeting people without interaction. However, I find it unrelatable with the futuristic setting and the lack of connection I feel towards the characters.
Overall, I would find this appealing to the younger audience or anyone who is into virtual reality.
Three classmates, Bradley, Edelle, and Hunter, are in a virtual classroom with different identities. Their interaction is based on an avatar they have designed.
The story is unique with virtual reality learning, customising avatars, and meeting people without interaction. However, I find it unrelatable with the futuristic setting and the lack of connection I feel towards the characters.
Overall, I would find this appealing to the younger audience or anyone who is into virtual reality.
March 31, 2023
I decided to read this after the author came and did an assembly at the school I teach at a couple weeks ago. It was a fun read and I think very relatable for middle grade readers. I listened to the audio book but will be getting a physical copy to add to my class library.
January 17, 2025
I read this with my 9 year old and he really enjoyed the story. He loved the virtual school concept and was invested in the characters. He gives it 4.5 stars
There are really great lessons in this book. The main one being looks aren't everything. Meaningful relationships are.
There are really great lessons in this book. The main one being looks aren't everything. Meaningful relationships are.
December 28, 2023
**I received a free advance copy of this book from the publisher. My responses and words are completely my own, as always**
Even with the blurb from the publisher, I wasn’t exactly sure what to expect from this book. For the first half, it was fine. Good.
But then I picked it up again and the second half kicked in to high gear. I was ready for the quicker pace and all the plot twists.
I kept reading and finding excuses to read, and soon I was quoting parts out loud to my family. I was laughing with the characters one minute and livid with them the next. This book about friendships between a diverse cast of characters was all the good and hard and hoped-for that a middle school life can throw, with a satisfying end. I would have been so mad if it wasn’t.
Don’t give up on this too early. You will miss one of the most enjoyable resolutions I’ve read in many books. I can’t wait to hand this to my teens.
Even with the blurb from the publisher, I wasn’t exactly sure what to expect from this book. For the first half, it was fine. Good.
But then I picked it up again and the second half kicked in to high gear. I was ready for the quicker pace and all the plot twists.
I kept reading and finding excuses to read, and soon I was quoting parts out loud to my family. I was laughing with the characters one minute and livid with them the next. This book about friendships between a diverse cast of characters was all the good and hard and hoped-for that a middle school life can throw, with a satisfying end. I would have been so mad if it wasn’t.
Don’t give up on this too early. You will miss one of the most enjoyable resolutions I’ve read in many books. I can’t wait to hand this to my teens.
January 24, 2023
Plot:
Bradley had the best summer vacation. Sure it was not what popular people would call fun, but in the middle of the pandemic, Bradley had the best summer of watching K-pop music videos, dancing along to them in his living room, and spending all day in the living room recliner. After an unfortunate incident in grade 3, Bradley had a hard time making friends and hated school. That was until it went online. Going to class in his PJ with no video camera, Bradley was in heaven. When the school, Bladerstein Virtual Junior High was announced, Bradley begged his mom to sign him up - and she did. Receiving a VR headset and gloves, Bradley was able to make his own custom avatar and a new name. Going undercover as the Bradley he could have been, his avatar was the definition of cool, with pink hair and a leather jacket, Bradley started off school to be known as Daebak, giving himself a new start. Like Bradley, other students had a chance to make a new start, whether they wanted to know. Edelle's mother signed her up for virtual school, hoping the school will make her daughter less obsessed with her physical appearance. After having her avatar rejected three times by her mother, Edelle went with the basic model, a shirt with a star on it, jeans, no makeup, and no jewelry. Edelle wanted to prove to her mother that she could make the same friends as Vanya without her looks, and who could not be the more perfect candidate than Hunter. Hunter was Edelle's friend in real life and was also attending virtual school, but unlike the others, Hunter was going in as himself, well almost himself. During the pandemic, Hunter has been diagnosed with alopecia, which means that part of his head has been balding, which totally kills his cool guy vibe. Being sat with Daebak, Vanya, and Jasper, the four of them decide to be a team for the school-wide tournament, the closest thing they have for sports. As our unlikely friends navigate their way through virtual reality middle school, they are faced with the test of friendship, learning who they truly are, and accepting others for who they are, throughout this wacky adventure that contains alien bugs, science, and fluffy bunnies.
Thought:
Chad Morris and Shelly Brown write this fantastic tale about a made-up VR school for kids trying to do junior high during a pandemic. With a fast writing pace, you could not tell the difference between the two authors, as they kept the story flowing with multiple plot points to keep you interested. To keep the story hype we constantly switch between the point of view of Bradley, Edelle, and Hunter, getting their point of view of how things are going, and the emotions as the story is told from their first perspective. Slightly disappointed that we never got to hear from the perspective of Jasper, despite them being the fourth member of our team, Morris and Brown did a fantastic job fully developing our character as they each had some insecurities about themselves that they wanted to change in this VR school world. After all, Morris and Brown really capture the idea of students in middle school wishing they could reinvent themselves like Bradley and go from a kid who always got bullied, into the cool kid everyone says hi to in the hallway. For Bradley, he needed an image change, which allowed him to grow his confidence so high he could dance in the hallway to his favorite K-pop songs. For Edella it was to prove that she was more than just her looks, and with her funny personality and helpfulness, she gained good friends like Bradley and Jasper, whereas Hunter seemed to only be friends with her because she was pretty. Hunter, his insecurity was a bit harder to find, as throughout the story Hunter was mainly the bully through putting Edelle down when she was bad at games, making friends with the other avatar that looked good, and constantly worrying about his image, even his online one. Throughout the story, Morris and Brown make Hunter kind of the villain to Edelle and Bradley, which is why including his perspective was so valuable to this story. It showed Hunter not to be the uncaring guy that he acted, but someone who does not know the pain they are causing because they focus on not letting others know how uncomfortable they are in these situations, that Hunter was literally losing his hair. Overall, Morris and Brown write a fun story with a diverse cast of characters that explores the ideas of insecurity and belonging from the point of view of our three middle schoolers just trying to survive online school during a pandemic.
Bradley had the best summer vacation. Sure it was not what popular people would call fun, but in the middle of the pandemic, Bradley had the best summer of watching K-pop music videos, dancing along to them in his living room, and spending all day in the living room recliner. After an unfortunate incident in grade 3, Bradley had a hard time making friends and hated school. That was until it went online. Going to class in his PJ with no video camera, Bradley was in heaven. When the school, Bladerstein Virtual Junior High was announced, Bradley begged his mom to sign him up - and she did. Receiving a VR headset and gloves, Bradley was able to make his own custom avatar and a new name. Going undercover as the Bradley he could have been, his avatar was the definition of cool, with pink hair and a leather jacket, Bradley started off school to be known as Daebak, giving himself a new start. Like Bradley, other students had a chance to make a new start, whether they wanted to know. Edelle's mother signed her up for virtual school, hoping the school will make her daughter less obsessed with her physical appearance. After having her avatar rejected three times by her mother, Edelle went with the basic model, a shirt with a star on it, jeans, no makeup, and no jewelry. Edelle wanted to prove to her mother that she could make the same friends as Vanya without her looks, and who could not be the more perfect candidate than Hunter. Hunter was Edelle's friend in real life and was also attending virtual school, but unlike the others, Hunter was going in as himself, well almost himself. During the pandemic, Hunter has been diagnosed with alopecia, which means that part of his head has been balding, which totally kills his cool guy vibe. Being sat with Daebak, Vanya, and Jasper, the four of them decide to be a team for the school-wide tournament, the closest thing they have for sports. As our unlikely friends navigate their way through virtual reality middle school, they are faced with the test of friendship, learning who they truly are, and accepting others for who they are, throughout this wacky adventure that contains alien bugs, science, and fluffy bunnies.
Thought:
Chad Morris and Shelly Brown write this fantastic tale about a made-up VR school for kids trying to do junior high during a pandemic. With a fast writing pace, you could not tell the difference between the two authors, as they kept the story flowing with multiple plot points to keep you interested. To keep the story hype we constantly switch between the point of view of Bradley, Edelle, and Hunter, getting their point of view of how things are going, and the emotions as the story is told from their first perspective. Slightly disappointed that we never got to hear from the perspective of Jasper, despite them being the fourth member of our team, Morris and Brown did a fantastic job fully developing our character as they each had some insecurities about themselves that they wanted to change in this VR school world. After all, Morris and Brown really capture the idea of students in middle school wishing they could reinvent themselves like Bradley and go from a kid who always got bullied, into the cool kid everyone says hi to in the hallway. For Bradley, he needed an image change, which allowed him to grow his confidence so high he could dance in the hallway to his favorite K-pop songs. For Edella it was to prove that she was more than just her looks, and with her funny personality and helpfulness, she gained good friends like Bradley and Jasper, whereas Hunter seemed to only be friends with her because she was pretty. Hunter, his insecurity was a bit harder to find, as throughout the story Hunter was mainly the bully through putting Edelle down when she was bad at games, making friends with the other avatar that looked good, and constantly worrying about his image, even his online one. Throughout the story, Morris and Brown make Hunter kind of the villain to Edelle and Bradley, which is why including his perspective was so valuable to this story. It showed Hunter not to be the uncaring guy that he acted, but someone who does not know the pain they are causing because they focus on not letting others know how uncomfortable they are in these situations, that Hunter was literally losing his hair. Overall, Morris and Brown write a fun story with a diverse cast of characters that explores the ideas of insecurity and belonging from the point of view of our three middle schoolers just trying to survive online school during a pandemic.
December 24, 2022
Four seventh graders attending Virtual Reality School for difference reasons, and a story told from four points of view.
Hunter, popular, good looking, lacrosse star, and “the guy that all the girls liked” has Alopecia and is starting to bald in spots. For school he designs his avatar to look just like him, wearing his lacrosse shirt, with still-flowing blond hair.
Edelsabeth Dahan-Miller is enrolled in VR school by her mother who thinks she may be too obsessed with her looks, fashion, and appearing in the top three on Parker’s website which ranks the cuteness of the girls in school. She also could be mean to others and judgmental, and her mother wants her to just be happy and learn that she is worth knowing “No matter how you look.” Her mother requires Edelle to design her avatar as simple, just her with no high fashion or makeup. She actually goes more basic and, embarrassed, changes her avatar’s name to Vanya.
Bradley Horvath is a big, awkward guy who loves to dance and has been bullied and made fun of since third grade. He is delighted to go to a virtual school and reinvent himself; with the approval of his parents, he designs his avatar with a totally new look—tall, square-jawed, with pink hair and fashionable clothes—and a new name, Daebak.
Last year Hunter, Edelle, and Bradley attended the same middle school where Edelle and Hunter were good friends who flirted, and where Bradley made fun of Bradley and, as she rose in popularity, Edelle ignored Bradley. Of course, only Edelle/Vanya and Bradley/Daebak recognize Hunter.
At school orientation Hunter comes into direct competition shooting baskets with a boy in a yellow tracksuit. As the three much later learn, Jasper, who has become their teammate and coach in the school’s VR Games competition and friend, has cystic fibrosis.
As the four become more involved with each other, new friends, and the school, a last new team member is Keiko who appears not to want to make friends or participate in really anything as she answers every query or comment with “Whatever.” The four feel they want to bring her out of her shell especially Vanya who designs a school dance section for those uncomfortable with traditional school dances.
Readers will enjoy getting to know these characters and following their interactions and growing friendship as they navigate VR school, their new identities, and the lessons they learn through their experiences. And what occurs when disaster strikes at the school dance,leading to a in-person meet.
I was mesmerized as I read Chad Morris and Shelly Brown’s newest novel. Not familiar with virtual reality in the least, young readers may be more adept visualizing the scenes than I, but I just put on my virtual-reading mentality and soon was able to participate. This story of identity, self-acceptance, acceptance of others, and belonging will appeal to all middle-grade readers.
Hunter, popular, good looking, lacrosse star, and “the guy that all the girls liked” has Alopecia and is starting to bald in spots. For school he designs his avatar to look just like him, wearing his lacrosse shirt, with still-flowing blond hair.
Edelsabeth Dahan-Miller is enrolled in VR school by her mother who thinks she may be too obsessed with her looks, fashion, and appearing in the top three on Parker’s website which ranks the cuteness of the girls in school. She also could be mean to others and judgmental, and her mother wants her to just be happy and learn that she is worth knowing “No matter how you look.” Her mother requires Edelle to design her avatar as simple, just her with no high fashion or makeup. She actually goes more basic and, embarrassed, changes her avatar’s name to Vanya.
Bradley Horvath is a big, awkward guy who loves to dance and has been bullied and made fun of since third grade. He is delighted to go to a virtual school and reinvent himself; with the approval of his parents, he designs his avatar with a totally new look—tall, square-jawed, with pink hair and fashionable clothes—and a new name, Daebak.
Last year Hunter, Edelle, and Bradley attended the same middle school where Edelle and Hunter were good friends who flirted, and where Bradley made fun of Bradley and, as she rose in popularity, Edelle ignored Bradley. Of course, only Edelle/Vanya and Bradley/Daebak recognize Hunter.
At school orientation Hunter comes into direct competition shooting baskets with a boy in a yellow tracksuit. As the three much later learn, Jasper, who has become their teammate and coach in the school’s VR Games competition and friend, has cystic fibrosis.
As the four become more involved with each other, new friends, and the school, a last new team member is Keiko who appears not to want to make friends or participate in really anything as she answers every query or comment with “Whatever.” The four feel they want to bring her out of her shell especially Vanya who designs a school dance section for those uncomfortable with traditional school dances.
Readers will enjoy getting to know these characters and following their interactions and growing friendship as they navigate VR school, their new identities, and the lessons they learn through their experiences. And what occurs when disaster strikes at the school dance,leading to a in-person meet.
I was mesmerized as I read Chad Morris and Shelly Brown’s newest novel. Not familiar with virtual reality in the least, young readers may be more adept visualizing the scenes than I, but I just put on my virtual-reading mentality and soon was able to participate. This story of identity, self-acceptance, acceptance of others, and belonging will appeal to all middle-grade readers.
January 23, 2023
Virtually Me by Chad Morris and Shelly Brown tells the story of three students as they navigate a new schoolyear at an online school. It’s the fall of 2021 and each of them has a reason for attending an online school. This isn’t any online school, though, it’s a Virtual Reality school. They each get VR goggles and a laptop to start off the schoolyear.
Disclosure: I am VERY biased against online school. You may read the reasons why on my blog post. It’s a bit of a rant. So, in order to read this book I had to look at it from a different angle. Looking at it from that angle, this is a cute story. There are some great characters, and they learn many valuable lessons. The characters make the story. They’re each so different, and that’s what is so great! It’s how a normal class would be.
I liked that each character had a reason to be going to the VR school, and how it showed a struggle they were having. The reason I liked that was because it helps to know that you’re not the only one struggling with something difficult, and it gave each of them something hard to overcome.
I didn’t like that some of these students were allowed to create avatars that were completely different because they wanted to hide their real selves. It's too easy to hide your real self in the virtual world.
Thankfully, these characters made real connections, worked through, or overcame some of their struggles, and learned many great lessons. These students learned to be themselves and not be ashamed. They learned not to judge people by their looks or social statuses. Another thing they learned was that a virtual world isn’t the best kind of world—real life connections are what make life worth living.
Despite not agreeing with the premise of the book, I did think it had a good moral in the end. Middle-graders will love it! I’d just make sure to talk to my child about proper online etiquette and how hiding behind these avatars (masks) didn’t solve their problems. Being vulnerable and making connections with real-life people doesn’t always solve problems, either, but at least you have someone to help you through so you’re not alone.
This book is rated PG, recommended for middle-graders and early YA, and I gave it 3/5 stars.
If you'd like to read my full review and rant, you may read it on my book blog: thereadathon.com.
Disclosure: I am VERY biased against online school. You may read the reasons why on my blog post. It’s a bit of a rant. So, in order to read this book I had to look at it from a different angle. Looking at it from that angle, this is a cute story. There are some great characters, and they learn many valuable lessons. The characters make the story. They’re each so different, and that’s what is so great! It’s how a normal class would be.
I liked that each character had a reason to be going to the VR school, and how it showed a struggle they were having. The reason I liked that was because it helps to know that you’re not the only one struggling with something difficult, and it gave each of them something hard to overcome.
I didn’t like that some of these students were allowed to create avatars that were completely different because they wanted to hide their real selves. It's too easy to hide your real self in the virtual world.
Thankfully, these characters made real connections, worked through, or overcame some of their struggles, and learned many great lessons. These students learned to be themselves and not be ashamed. They learned not to judge people by their looks or social statuses. Another thing they learned was that a virtual world isn’t the best kind of world—real life connections are what make life worth living.
Despite not agreeing with the premise of the book, I did think it had a good moral in the end. Middle-graders will love it! I’d just make sure to talk to my child about proper online etiquette and how hiding behind these avatars (masks) didn’t solve their problems. Being vulnerable and making connections with real-life people doesn’t always solve problems, either, but at least you have someone to help you through so you’re not alone.
This book is rated PG, recommended for middle-graders and early YA, and I gave it 3/5 stars.
If you'd like to read my full review and rant, you may read it on my book blog: thereadathon.com.
February 6, 2023
Virtually Me
By Chad Morris
and Shelly Brown
This school year will be different than any they have ever experienced before. With a pandemic changing everything, a new VR school is how Bradley, Edelle, and Hunter will experience the upcoming school year.
Seeing this as a chance to reset their lives could make this the best year for some, while others see this as a significant setback to their entire existence.
Bradley decides to make his avatar everything he isn't. He hopes to make friends and escape the public perception of who he is. And taking on a new persona is just how he plans to do this.
Edelle is in VR school because her mother doesn't like who she has become. Popularity was Edelle's goal, which affected her in ways she hadn't even realized. All Edelle wants is to get back to the life she had. And she refuses to let anyone know who she is in this new school since her mom insists that her avatar not be fashion heavy.
Hunter has a secret and doesn't want anyone to know about it. Attending this school is the perfect way to keep everyone in the dark. Now he just has to make sure he is the star that he was before.
The virtual reality portion of the book is interesting as it provides a chance for the various characters to change something about themselves. I can't say whether this was a realistic portrayal as I'm not familiar with VR personally, but I liked how this was the catalyst that allowed the main characters to change. Before appearance was the driving factor in who was considered worthy of friendship or notice. This actually proved to be an equalizer in some respects.
I highly recommend this book to middle-grade readers. It is an eye-opening experience. It entertains while sharing an important message about accepting a person for who they are as a whole and not because of outward appearance, athletic abilities, or other skills. Everyone is more than they appear at first. In this age of social media, I think this book is a must-read. As someone who was judged on the clothes I wore and even bullied in school, I applaud the authors on a well-delivered message. Sometimes we need to get in someone else's head to truly understand how they see a situation.
I was provided a complimentary copy of this book with no expectations but that I provide my honest opinion. All thoughts expressed are my own.
By Chad Morris
and Shelly Brown
This school year will be different than any they have ever experienced before. With a pandemic changing everything, a new VR school is how Bradley, Edelle, and Hunter will experience the upcoming school year.
Seeing this as a chance to reset their lives could make this the best year for some, while others see this as a significant setback to their entire existence.
Bradley decides to make his avatar everything he isn't. He hopes to make friends and escape the public perception of who he is. And taking on a new persona is just how he plans to do this.
Edelle is in VR school because her mother doesn't like who she has become. Popularity was Edelle's goal, which affected her in ways she hadn't even realized. All Edelle wants is to get back to the life she had. And she refuses to let anyone know who she is in this new school since her mom insists that her avatar not be fashion heavy.
Hunter has a secret and doesn't want anyone to know about it. Attending this school is the perfect way to keep everyone in the dark. Now he just has to make sure he is the star that he was before.
The virtual reality portion of the book is interesting as it provides a chance for the various characters to change something about themselves. I can't say whether this was a realistic portrayal as I'm not familiar with VR personally, but I liked how this was the catalyst that allowed the main characters to change. Before appearance was the driving factor in who was considered worthy of friendship or notice. This actually proved to be an equalizer in some respects.
I highly recommend this book to middle-grade readers. It is an eye-opening experience. It entertains while sharing an important message about accepting a person for who they are as a whole and not because of outward appearance, athletic abilities, or other skills. Everyone is more than they appear at first. In this age of social media, I think this book is a must-read. As someone who was judged on the clothes I wore and even bullied in school, I applaud the authors on a well-delivered message. Sometimes we need to get in someone else's head to truly understand how they see a situation.
I was provided a complimentary copy of this book with no expectations but that I provide my honest opinion. All thoughts expressed are my own.
February 12, 2023
The pandemic changed school, going from in person to online. At the start of the school year, some kids have decided to attend a virtual reality school. They are sent a headset and accessories to attend the school from their homes. Each student can create an avatar and name to represent themselves in the game. It can be created from real photos or made up. Bradley, Edelle, and Hunter all came from the same school to attend this virtual reality school, but they don’t realize they know each other. Bradley and Edelle both have fresh starts, using avatars that don’t look like their real selves. Meanwhile, Hunter has changed in real life, but he’s masquerading as the same person in the VR school. Though they each have a different reason for attending a virtual school, they each have to deal with different problems in this new environment.
This is a great story about contemporary issues. The pandemic changed the way school is taught, and I think the effects of that will be felt for many years to come. There have also been new opportunities for learning such as a virtual option. This story took it a step further by having students act like they were at a real school with a virtual reality set rather than sitting in front of a screen all day.
Bradley, Edelle, and Hunter each had different reasons for attending a virtual school. Bradley was uncomfortable with the way he looked and wanted to get away from the bullies from school. He gave himself a completely different look and persona with his avatar at the new school. Edelle got in trouble for bullying a girl at school, and her mom wanted her to learn to be less superficial. She gave her avatar a plainer look that didn’t have the beautifully styled appearance that she liked to have in real life. Hunter decided to attend virtual school because he had developed alopecia and he was uncomfortable with the way he looked. He made his avatar look like he did the year before at school. It was interesting to see how a new appearance at school made the kids behave differently. However, they still had to deal with the same school problems like bullying and peer pressure.
Virtually Me is a great new middle grade story!
Thank you Shadow Mountain for sending me a copy of this book.
This is a great story about contemporary issues. The pandemic changed the way school is taught, and I think the effects of that will be felt for many years to come. There have also been new opportunities for learning such as a virtual option. This story took it a step further by having students act like they were at a real school with a virtual reality set rather than sitting in front of a screen all day.
Bradley, Edelle, and Hunter each had different reasons for attending a virtual school. Bradley was uncomfortable with the way he looked and wanted to get away from the bullies from school. He gave himself a completely different look and persona with his avatar at the new school. Edelle got in trouble for bullying a girl at school, and her mom wanted her to learn to be less superficial. She gave her avatar a plainer look that didn’t have the beautifully styled appearance that she liked to have in real life. Hunter decided to attend virtual school because he had developed alopecia and he was uncomfortable with the way he looked. He made his avatar look like he did the year before at school. It was interesting to see how a new appearance at school made the kids behave differently. However, they still had to deal with the same school problems like bullying and peer pressure.
Virtually Me is a great new middle grade story!
Thank you Shadow Mountain for sending me a copy of this book.
March 11, 2023
"The pandemic was rough on everyone, especially since school went from being a fun place where you could hang out with your friends to a bunch of heads in small rectangles all trying to talk at once. For Bradley, Edelle, Hunter, Jasper, and Keiko, that’s about to change."
Virtually Me is told from the alternating viewpoints of three teenagers; Edelle, Bradley and Hunter. The teens are returning to school after the pandemic and each has chosen to attend VR school rather than in person school. Though they have different reasons for attending a virtual school, their decisions have something to do with how each of them views their outward appearance. Bradley was uncomfortable with the way he looked and wanted to get away from the bullies at school. Edelle's mom forced her to attend because she wanted to distance her from the peer pressure to look a certain way. Hunter decided to attend virtual school because he had developed alopecia and he was uncomfortable with the way he looked.
This middle grade read shows the topics of bullying, peer pressure, and social anxieties from a teens POV. While VR school is definitely cooler than Zoom classes it is very relatable to any young person who attended school during the pandemic.
As the students experience the fun of VR games and dances they also find themselves struggling to figure out who they are, how to fit in, and how to be a friend. Each learns a much needed lesson that all teens today can benefit from!
This book is well written, the characters are fun and relatable, most importantly, the plot contains valuable life lessons wrapped up in a fun and exciting story that young readers will gravitate towards. I highly recommend this for every middle grade reader in your life!
I received an ARC of this book from Shadow Mountain Publishing. All thoughts and opinions in this review are my own.
Virtually Me is told from the alternating viewpoints of three teenagers; Edelle, Bradley and Hunter. The teens are returning to school after the pandemic and each has chosen to attend VR school rather than in person school. Though they have different reasons for attending a virtual school, their decisions have something to do with how each of them views their outward appearance. Bradley was uncomfortable with the way he looked and wanted to get away from the bullies at school. Edelle's mom forced her to attend because she wanted to distance her from the peer pressure to look a certain way. Hunter decided to attend virtual school because he had developed alopecia and he was uncomfortable with the way he looked.
This middle grade read shows the topics of bullying, peer pressure, and social anxieties from a teens POV. While VR school is definitely cooler than Zoom classes it is very relatable to any young person who attended school during the pandemic.
As the students experience the fun of VR games and dances they also find themselves struggling to figure out who they are, how to fit in, and how to be a friend. Each learns a much needed lesson that all teens today can benefit from!
This book is well written, the characters are fun and relatable, most importantly, the plot contains valuable life lessons wrapped up in a fun and exciting story that young readers will gravitate towards. I highly recommend this for every middle grade reader in your life!
I received an ARC of this book from Shadow Mountain Publishing. All thoughts and opinions in this review are my own.
January 31, 2023
I haven't read many books set during the pandemic. But the ones I have read are all middle grade books. And, if I'm being honest, I kind of prefer it that way. The plots of these books are a lot more light than an adult book would be, even though they talk about very real problems that the youth would have gone through during that time.
This one by @chadcmorris and @shellybrownwriter was so well done! The idea of having a virtual junior high done the way it is in this book is intriguing. I think I would have chosen to go! And the characters are all fantastic.
I love the way there were three characters that the book follows. And each of them has their own reasons for being at the virtual junior high. They all knew each other, at least a little, in real life. But most of them don't know who they're really hanging out with online. And they have no idea what reasons the others have for being there.
The book follows Hunter, Edelle and Bradley. Of the three, only Hunter is going to the virtual school because he chose to. Edelle and Bradley are going because their parents want them to.
One thing I really loved from this book was the idea that appearances really don't matter. No matter what these kids looked like in real life versus what their avatar looked like, they were still the same person. They also learned that being kind was so important.
This is one book all junior high kids should read. And maybe their parents, too!
Thanks to @shadowmountainpub for my copy of this great book. All opinions are my own.
This one by @chadcmorris and @shellybrownwriter was so well done! The idea of having a virtual junior high done the way it is in this book is intriguing. I think I would have chosen to go! And the characters are all fantastic.
I love the way there were three characters that the book follows. And each of them has their own reasons for being at the virtual junior high. They all knew each other, at least a little, in real life. But most of them don't know who they're really hanging out with online. And they have no idea what reasons the others have for being there.
The book follows Hunter, Edelle and Bradley. Of the three, only Hunter is going to the virtual school because he chose to. Edelle and Bradley are going because their parents want them to.
One thing I really loved from this book was the idea that appearances really don't matter. No matter what these kids looked like in real life versus what their avatar looked like, they were still the same person. They also learned that being kind was so important.
This is one book all junior high kids should read. And maybe their parents, too!
Thanks to @shadowmountainpub for my copy of this great book. All opinions are my own.
February 5, 2023
A fun book about kids going to “virtual” school during the pandemic, but like, the coolest virtual school I’ve ever heard of. They use VR headsets to attend from the comfort and safety of their own home, and because it’s a digital world, they have the opportunity to re-invent themselves with customizable avatars. Some go as themselves, some simplify, and some go all-out for reasons that come out as the story progresses. As three students learn to navigate a new school, new friends, and new challenges they learn life lessons that I wish I could drill in to my budding teenagers.
This was a fun, quick story that I’m enjoying reading to my middle grade children. I finished it on my own after bedtime because I couldn’t put it down. My eyes may have leaked a few times, but knowing Chad and Shelly’s other wonderful books, it didn’t surprise me in the least that I was so moved.
4.5 stars because some of the VR descriptions don’t mesh with real life VR capabilities (i.e. the motion sickness that would have plagued every kid the way the games/classes were described), but bonus points for the imagination and creativity in creating the school we all wish we could have attended. (If we couldn’t get in to Cragbridge that is…) 😉👍🏻
Thanks for another great book that I’m eager to put into my kids hands.
This was a fun, quick story that I’m enjoying reading to my middle grade children. I finished it on my own after bedtime because I couldn’t put it down. My eyes may have leaked a few times, but knowing Chad and Shelly’s other wonderful books, it didn’t surprise me in the least that I was so moved.
4.5 stars because some of the VR descriptions don’t mesh with real life VR capabilities (i.e. the motion sickness that would have plagued every kid the way the games/classes were described), but bonus points for the imagination and creativity in creating the school we all wish we could have attended. (If we couldn’t get in to Cragbridge that is…) 😉👍🏻
Thanks for another great book that I’m eager to put into my kids hands.
June 20, 2023
Amid a pandemic, presumably Covid-19, a virtual reality school is created. Three students - Bradley, Edelle, and Hunter - are all enrolled by their parents, and none of them realize they went to public school together. The book is written in all three perspectives, revealing the woes, worries, and hopes of all three of the students. Bradley loves K-Pop and is a talented dancer, but he won't dance in front of anyone because of his obesity choose a Korean avatar and name. Edelle, one of the prettiest girl in her school according to a website put up by boys in her school, is forced to be plain-jane in he avatar and learn to get past the need for beauty and popularity. Hunter is a talented lacrosse player who is a bit afraid of talking to girls, but longs to be accepted by them. He keeps his avatar true to himself, except for the alopecia he is dealing with at home. The virtual school plays out like a regular school with studies and classes, but there are fun virtual games, one the three protagonists are on a team together to compete in causes some strife between them all. Diverse characters, each with different homelives, expectations, and worries that force them to grow as people and as friends. Well told, middle-school issues feel on point, interesting take on what VR school might look like in the future.
March 7, 2023
Thank you to Net Galley and Shadow Mountain for an ARC of VIRTUALLY ME.
Chad Morris and Shelly Brown and the dynamic duo of middle grade authors.
I had no idea what to expect going into this book—and wow!—was I surprised.
This book hits the nail on the head for kids and self-acceptance. It's such a hard time in life, and we need more books like this that highlight how different people cope while feeling the same way.
One of the most brilliant things about this book is how each character is seemingly so different. But in the end we see that we're more alike than different in the end. Each of the kids in the virtual school has a unique goal—but things aren't exactly what they expected. We get to see good intentions go awry. And even when someone doesn't have good intentions, they might be dealing with something hard.
There's some bullying in the book—but I think it's handled well to show that this isn't the answer.
I kept (virtually on my Kindle) turning the pages to see what would happen next.
This is a must read!
I highly recommend this book for everyone! It's a joy to be different, right? Books centered on acceptance and friendship are among my favorite for middle grade.
Happy reading!
Chad Morris and Shelly Brown and the dynamic duo of middle grade authors.
I had no idea what to expect going into this book—and wow!—was I surprised.
This book hits the nail on the head for kids and self-acceptance. It's such a hard time in life, and we need more books like this that highlight how different people cope while feeling the same way.
One of the most brilliant things about this book is how each character is seemingly so different. But in the end we see that we're more alike than different in the end. Each of the kids in the virtual school has a unique goal—but things aren't exactly what they expected. We get to see good intentions go awry. And even when someone doesn't have good intentions, they might be dealing with something hard.
There's some bullying in the book—but I think it's handled well to show that this isn't the answer.
I kept (virtually on my Kindle) turning the pages to see what would happen next.
This is a must read!
I highly recommend this book for everyone! It's a joy to be different, right? Books centered on acceptance and friendship are among my favorite for middle grade.
Happy reading!
February 4, 2023
"Listen," I said, "it took me not looking like me, and you not looking like you for me to realize how amazing you are. . ."
Balderstein School District has a new option -- virtual reality school. For unique reasons, three students who were in real-life school together in the past have all chosen to participate. The first step is choosing an avatar. It is tempting to give yourself an upgrade or a totally new identity. One student has been overly conscious of her looks, so her mother insists on an average girl avatar. Another student has been haunted by a prank from years ago and goes with a whole new look. A popular boy just goes with his own golden locks appearance while hiding a troubling case of alopecia. Chad Morris and Shelly Brown are a husband and wife author duo with consistently compelling reads. I have loved all of their books so far. This one has some exciting virtual dance and game tournament moments wile also including plenty of humor and heart. Includes tried and true reminders about being a friend and treating others with kindness.
Thank you to Shadow Mountain and Edelweiss+ for a DRC in exchange for an honest review.
Balderstein School District has a new option -- virtual reality school. For unique reasons, three students who were in real-life school together in the past have all chosen to participate. The first step is choosing an avatar. It is tempting to give yourself an upgrade or a totally new identity. One student has been overly conscious of her looks, so her mother insists on an average girl avatar. Another student has been haunted by a prank from years ago and goes with a whole new look. A popular boy just goes with his own golden locks appearance while hiding a troubling case of alopecia. Chad Morris and Shelly Brown are a husband and wife author duo with consistently compelling reads. I have loved all of their books so far. This one has some exciting virtual dance and game tournament moments wile also including plenty of humor and heart. Includes tried and true reminders about being a friend and treating others with kindness.
Thank you to Shadow Mountain and Edelweiss+ for a DRC in exchange for an honest review.
May 12, 2023
Chad Morris and Shelly Brown have done it again with a book that is entertaining, captivating and inspiring. This is a book that ALL AGES should read. Yes it is geared toward middle readers but the messages in here are so important for anyone and everyone. Every reader can walk away from reading this book a better person.
This book has three different and unique characters that you get a point of view from, which I find very important for the messages Morris and Brown get across in this book. You have a story set in a pandemic, but not in the annoying way many authors have chosen to go with this story line. It really works with the story. Plus, the fun element of VR school that is just fascinating and really sounds quite fun!
This is a book to have your kiddos read, and read yourself. It is fun, mixing school, jr high age students and video games. Just the mix you need for entertainment in book form.
* I received a complimentary copy from the author. A review was not required, and all thoughts and opinions are my own.
This book has three different and unique characters that you get a point of view from, which I find very important for the messages Morris and Brown get across in this book. You have a story set in a pandemic, but not in the annoying way many authors have chosen to go with this story line. It really works with the story. Plus, the fun element of VR school that is just fascinating and really sounds quite fun!
This is a book to have your kiddos read, and read yourself. It is fun, mixing school, jr high age students and video games. Just the mix you need for entertainment in book form.
* I received a complimentary copy from the author. A review was not required, and all thoughts and opinions are my own.
December 27, 2022
So many books are coming about about Life During the Pandemic, and this book uses it as a way to also explore a virtual school experience (which, obviously, could have been written about before, but why would students enrol? the pandemic just makes that part easier). It's definitely one of those experiments in education, with no expense spared in terms of features and ways to customize the school -- there's even physical education via games!
Our three main POVs are coming for different reasons, either hiding something or looking for a new start. It's pretty obvious how all of that is going to pan out for our crew, because that part is fairly standard. It was also obvious to me why we only got those three voices rather than all of the JaVaHuDa team. So mostly, this was a three star but I'm bumping it up because the way in which school was approached was clever.
eARC provided by publisher via Edelweiss.
Our three main POVs are coming for different reasons, either hiding something or looking for a new start. It's pretty obvious how all of that is going to pan out for our crew, because that part is fairly standard. It was also obvious to me why we only got those three voices rather than all of the JaVaHuDa team. So mostly, this was a three star but I'm bumping it up because the way in which school was approached was clever.
eARC provided by publisher via Edelweiss.
January 24, 2023
The pandemic has been hard on everyone but when a company is trying to market a new virtual school product a bunch of middle schoolers get the option to go to virtual school or in person school. However, this virtual school is like none anyone has seen before. You have to make an avatar of yourself and put up a screen name, this can be a avatar that looks like you or not and it can be you real name or not. This is a place to test, reinvent, hide, be safe, or be yourself, and this book touches on 5 kids doing just that.
I really like Shelly Brown and Chad Morris’ books as they as relevant and up to date on the topics of the youth today, but also teach you a bit of humility along the way. This book had some action and a more suspense as you watch the five interact and while some of the five’s purposes for being there are known up front not all are, and what will happen next year.
I really like Shelly Brown and Chad Morris’ books as they as relevant and up to date on the topics of the youth today, but also teach you a bit of humility along the way. This book had some action and a more suspense as you watch the five interact and while some of the five’s purposes for being there are known up front not all are, and what will happen next year.
Read
March 2, 2023Going to school online is rough. But what if you could go to school as an avatar? 5 kids enrolled in a virtual school that allowed just that. But each kid had something they were either hiding from, or needed to learn by being away from the social scene. Each child is given the opportunity to get to know each other for who they are as a person, not taking into account body, hair, illness, or social standing. I love the way we get to see how the kids can set aside assumptions and really make connections.
Having said that, there was a lot of suspended belief in this one. But overall it was a very positive message and I think my middle school kids would enjoy this one. While there are great lessons to be learned, there are also some really funny scenes in this book.
Thanks to Shadow Mountain and NetGalley for an ARC in exchange for my honest review.
Having said that, there was a lot of suspended belief in this one. But overall it was a very positive message and I think my middle school kids would enjoy this one. While there are great lessons to be learned, there are also some really funny scenes in this book.
Thanks to Shadow Mountain and NetGalley for an ARC in exchange for my honest review.
April 1, 2023
Such a cool basis for the unique stories of each of these middle schoolers! Definitely would recommend this to just about anyone who was in school during the pandemic since it takes place during/right after it. Particularly for tweens and (younger) teens, and adults who work with those ages!
I love the idea of setting a book like this within a virtual reality world, it really expands the options of possible settings, and the descriptions of them were so vivid. I think that a lot of tweens and young teens could really benefit from learning the lessons that the main characters do, and even as an adult this was a great reminder. I just wish we could have done VR school like this at my college instead of zoom 😂
Disclaimer: I was gifted an advance reader edition by the publisher but all thoughts shared are my own
I love the idea of setting a book like this within a virtual reality world, it really expands the options of possible settings, and the descriptions of them were so vivid. I think that a lot of tweens and young teens could really benefit from learning the lessons that the main characters do, and even as an adult this was a great reminder. I just wish we could have done VR school like this at my college instead of zoom 😂
Disclaimer: I was gifted an advance reader edition by the publisher but all thoughts shared are my own
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