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I, Emma Freke
I, Emma Freke is a charming search-for-identity story about Emma--the only normal member of her quirky family. While Emma desperately tries to find her niche, she discovers that perhaps it's better to be her own freak than someone else's Freke.
-- "Journal"
-- "Journal"
234 pages, Hardcover
First published August 1, 2010
47 people are currently reading
1936 people want to read
About the author
Elizabeth Atkinson
6 books92 followersI'm the award-winning Middle Grade author of FROM ALICE TO ZEN, I EMMA FREKE, THE SUGAR MOUNTAIN SNOW BALL, THE ISLAND OF BEYOND, and FLY BACK, AGNES MOON coming in Spring 2020!
My favorite part of writing for tweens is connecting with young readers and aspiring writers. I've visited with thousands of students (schools, libraries, book clubs, Skype) across the USA and as far away as Canada, Ireland, and China!
So if you're interested, check out my website www.elizabethatkinson.com and contact me about my Author Visits and writing workshops!
My favorite part of writing for tweens is connecting with young readers and aspiring writers. I've visited with thousands of students (schools, libraries, book clubs, Skype) across the USA and as far away as Canada, Ireland, and China!
So if you're interested, check out my website www.elizabethatkinson.com and contact me about my Author Visits and writing workshops!
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 343 reviews
March 25, 2013
I, Emma Freke is about a 6th grade girl who desperately wants to fit in, however she has bright red hair, is really smart, and is almost six feet tall. Also, if her name is said slowly, it sounds like, ‘am a freak.’ Emma is very shy and has difficulty communicating with her peers. Her only friend, Penelope is a nine year old girl who lives down the street. Emma’s mother insists that her daughter call her Donatella and not mom. Her wacky and selfish mom owns a bead shop that Emma mostly runs. Emma occasionally will come home from school midday and Donnatella doesn’t act like she cares. Donnatella’s priority appears to be her dates. Furthermore, Emma’s only knowledge of her father is his name, Walter Freke. The preteen lives with her grandfather, Nonno and his dog, Eggplant.
The story begins just prior to Emma’s 12th birthday. On the night of her birthday, Donnatella gives her a practice book with work for grades 6-12. Emma is very confused until Donnatella says that she can start home-schooling herself since she hates school so much. Emma is very happy and is surprised that her mom actually gave her something that she likes.
The next day Emma walks to the library to begin her home schooling. Once she starts looking at the book, she realizes that she already knows everything for 6th grade and reads on to the next level. She studies through to 11th grade before the book challenges her. At that point, she realizes that she doesn’t have the workbook that accompanies her textbook. Emma notices the 1976 copyright date when she researchers for a new workbook! Leave it to Donnatella to do that, Emma thinks. She approaches the librarian and inquires if she can recommend a good 11th grade textbook. The librarian introduces herself as Stevie and asks Emma how old she is. Emma lies and says she is 16. Stevie tells her to come to the library tomorrow and she’ll help Emma with her home-schooling. Emma returns the next day and Stevie tells her that she phoned her school. They said that Emma is in 6th grade and has been absent a few days without a word. Emma immediately cries and tells Stevie everything and how she knew that Donnatella most likely didn’t call the school to tell them she was being home-schooled. Later that night, a few school board members visited Emma’s home to talk to Donnatella about what to do. They decided to have a tutor for Emma at the library for the remainder of the year, since there was only a month left.
Stevie greets Emma and informs her that she’ll be her tutor. They complete the entire curriculum within a few weeks. Stevie and Emma have an end of the year party the following Monday. Emma invites Penelope to meet the librarian and Stevie takes them to Café Anchor for dinner. Afterwards, Penelope and Emma talk about their planned summers. Penelope shares a suspicion she has about her best friend. She questions if Emma is adopted since she doesn’t know her dad, she looks nothing like her mom, and isn’t even allowed to call Donnatella mom. When Emma confronts her mom about this, Donnatella states that Emma she is her daughter, and can help her meet some of her dad’s family. Donnatella hands Emma an invitation addressed to the ‘Descendants of Boris Horace Freke’ for the Freke Family Reunion. Emma learns that her dad’s family holds a 3-day camping trip each year in Wisconsin. She feels fortunate that Stevie allows her to borrow camping gear.
The morning of Emma’s flight, Donnatella runs late and they forget to pack her tent. When Emma arrives in Wisconsin, nobody is there to pick her up. A lady named Wanda, who is actually Emma’s aunt, approaches Emma and informs her that the couple who was supposed to come had an accident. They finally get on their way and arrive at the camp grounds where Emma meets Aunt Pat, who runs the reunion each year. Pat tells Emma that her last name is pronounced Frecky, like Becky which makes her overjoyed. She also meets Cousin Fred, who is a little resilient to the Frecky ways. Emma meets several relatives and learns that she’s very lucky to have inherited red hair and be very tall. She notices that Aunt Pat instructs everyone that they should do things ‘the right way’ (Aunt Pat’s way), everyone must agree, and no one should question Aunt Pat. Emma also realizes that Fred isn’t around much. She sees him in the woods from time to time, but nowhere else. Emma finds him before breakfast one day and they become friends. Fred tells her that he just doesn’t fit in with the rest of the Frecky Family.
Throughout her stay, Emma realizes that Aunt Pat is controlling everyone. She doesn’t allow anyone to do what they want – they must do what they are told. Emma’s friendship with Fred strengthens and they both agree that the ‘Frecky Fun’ isn’t fun. One morning a planned hike was cancelled because it rained and the group was ordered to go back to their tents and read. Emma meets Fred to see his cabin and they discuss about Aunt Pat’s controlling manner. After an hour, Aunt Pat and Fred’s parents set off looking for Emma because a tree had fallen on Emma’s tent. Aunt Pat is very mad upon finding the cousins and instructs them to go to the ‘Headquarters’ tent. Aunt Pat is furious because Emma visited Fred’s cabin instead of following her aunt’s directions of returning to her own tent. Emma speaks up for herself and the Frecky Family, telling Aunt Pat that she can’t treat everyone like that. Fred and Emma learn that the only reason everyone puts up with her is because she is in charge of the Boris Horace trust fund. Fred’s parents finally stand up for their son and against Pat. They announce at dinner that they are very proud of their son and that everyone should be kind to him or else they will not attend another family reunion. Aunt Pat confronts them again at dinner, but Fred’s parents make a magnificent speech, which makes everyone clap.
The morning that Emma left was full of goodbyes. Everyone was thanking Emma for what she did for the family. Emma plans for Fred and his parents to visit at Christmas. When Wanda drives Emma home, they stop for a bite to eat. Emma meets her dad for the first time in the restaurant. They get to know one another and Emma learns that her father didn’t know he had a daughter until a few weeks ago. Also, she learns that Freak is the correct pronunciation of her last name, not Frecky.
Emma finds a welcome home party awaiting her at home. She’s excited to learn that she’s going to a new school. Penelope comes back from her birthday vacation with her birthday gift – a new sister!
I believe the author is trying to teach that you should always be yourself and not to judge others. Elizabeth Atkinson demonstrates that being you can sometimes be exactly what is right. She is showing that the first step in not judging others starts with not judging yourself.
The story begins just prior to Emma’s 12th birthday. On the night of her birthday, Donnatella gives her a practice book with work for grades 6-12. Emma is very confused until Donnatella says that she can start home-schooling herself since she hates school so much. Emma is very happy and is surprised that her mom actually gave her something that she likes.
The next day Emma walks to the library to begin her home schooling. Once she starts looking at the book, she realizes that she already knows everything for 6th grade and reads on to the next level. She studies through to 11th grade before the book challenges her. At that point, she realizes that she doesn’t have the workbook that accompanies her textbook. Emma notices the 1976 copyright date when she researchers for a new workbook! Leave it to Donnatella to do that, Emma thinks. She approaches the librarian and inquires if she can recommend a good 11th grade textbook. The librarian introduces herself as Stevie and asks Emma how old she is. Emma lies and says she is 16. Stevie tells her to come to the library tomorrow and she’ll help Emma with her home-schooling. Emma returns the next day and Stevie tells her that she phoned her school. They said that Emma is in 6th grade and has been absent a few days without a word. Emma immediately cries and tells Stevie everything and how she knew that Donnatella most likely didn’t call the school to tell them she was being home-schooled. Later that night, a few school board members visited Emma’s home to talk to Donnatella about what to do. They decided to have a tutor for Emma at the library for the remainder of the year, since there was only a month left.
Stevie greets Emma and informs her that she’ll be her tutor. They complete the entire curriculum within a few weeks. Stevie and Emma have an end of the year party the following Monday. Emma invites Penelope to meet the librarian and Stevie takes them to Café Anchor for dinner. Afterwards, Penelope and Emma talk about their planned summers. Penelope shares a suspicion she has about her best friend. She questions if Emma is adopted since she doesn’t know her dad, she looks nothing like her mom, and isn’t even allowed to call Donnatella mom. When Emma confronts her mom about this, Donnatella states that Emma she is her daughter, and can help her meet some of her dad’s family. Donnatella hands Emma an invitation addressed to the ‘Descendants of Boris Horace Freke’ for the Freke Family Reunion. Emma learns that her dad’s family holds a 3-day camping trip each year in Wisconsin. She feels fortunate that Stevie allows her to borrow camping gear.
The morning of Emma’s flight, Donnatella runs late and they forget to pack her tent. When Emma arrives in Wisconsin, nobody is there to pick her up. A lady named Wanda, who is actually Emma’s aunt, approaches Emma and informs her that the couple who was supposed to come had an accident. They finally get on their way and arrive at the camp grounds where Emma meets Aunt Pat, who runs the reunion each year. Pat tells Emma that her last name is pronounced Frecky, like Becky which makes her overjoyed. She also meets Cousin Fred, who is a little resilient to the Frecky ways. Emma meets several relatives and learns that she’s very lucky to have inherited red hair and be very tall. She notices that Aunt Pat instructs everyone that they should do things ‘the right way’ (Aunt Pat’s way), everyone must agree, and no one should question Aunt Pat. Emma also realizes that Fred isn’t around much. She sees him in the woods from time to time, but nowhere else. Emma finds him before breakfast one day and they become friends. Fred tells her that he just doesn’t fit in with the rest of the Frecky Family.
Throughout her stay, Emma realizes that Aunt Pat is controlling everyone. She doesn’t allow anyone to do what they want – they must do what they are told. Emma’s friendship with Fred strengthens and they both agree that the ‘Frecky Fun’ isn’t fun. One morning a planned hike was cancelled because it rained and the group was ordered to go back to their tents and read. Emma meets Fred to see his cabin and they discuss about Aunt Pat’s controlling manner. After an hour, Aunt Pat and Fred’s parents set off looking for Emma because a tree had fallen on Emma’s tent. Aunt Pat is very mad upon finding the cousins and instructs them to go to the ‘Headquarters’ tent. Aunt Pat is furious because Emma visited Fred’s cabin instead of following her aunt’s directions of returning to her own tent. Emma speaks up for herself and the Frecky Family, telling Aunt Pat that she can’t treat everyone like that. Fred and Emma learn that the only reason everyone puts up with her is because she is in charge of the Boris Horace trust fund. Fred’s parents finally stand up for their son and against Pat. They announce at dinner that they are very proud of their son and that everyone should be kind to him or else they will not attend another family reunion. Aunt Pat confronts them again at dinner, but Fred’s parents make a magnificent speech, which makes everyone clap.
The morning that Emma left was full of goodbyes. Everyone was thanking Emma for what she did for the family. Emma plans for Fred and his parents to visit at Christmas. When Wanda drives Emma home, they stop for a bite to eat. Emma meets her dad for the first time in the restaurant. They get to know one another and Emma learns that her father didn’t know he had a daughter until a few weeks ago. Also, she learns that Freak is the correct pronunciation of her last name, not Frecky.
Emma finds a welcome home party awaiting her at home. She’s excited to learn that she’s going to a new school. Penelope comes back from her birthday vacation with her birthday gift – a new sister!
I believe the author is trying to teach that you should always be yourself and not to judge others. Elizabeth Atkinson demonstrates that being you can sometimes be exactly what is right. She is showing that the first step in not judging others starts with not judging yourself.
February 6, 2017
This is a really good book for any middle schooler to read, and has very good word choice and exciting.
July 7, 2011
Middle school is a time when many kids feel freakish. Though I looked more or less normal, I felt freakish on the inside. Emma, however, wears her freakishness on the outside. At 12 years old, she is almost 6 feet tall with bright red hair. It's sort of hard to pretend to be invisible with those sorts of looks. And then of course there's that name, which her mother didn't bother to say aloud before writing it on the birth certificate.
Emma's father is long gone, but she has always been curious about him, so she leaps at a surprise invitation to attend the annual Freke Family gathering in Wisconsin. And just as she had hoped, there are Frekes galore, many as tall and red-headed as Emma. In fact, her relatives consider her a beauty. And it seems that Freke is pronounced not "freak" but "frecky." What a relief!
But... to say that the Freke gathering is highly regimented is an understatement. Every minute of the day is accounted for, and no one is allowed to stray from the plan. Emma risks the condemnation of the tyrannical matriarch Pat Freke, as well as her newfound friends, in order to hang out with the black sheep of the family, a kid who stands out among the Frekes as much as Emma did among her classmates back home.
Everything is just exaggerated enough to make it clear it's a summer novel and not to be taken hugely seriously - so although Emma's mom is problematic with her numerous boyfriends, her Italian grandpa and his elderly dog are goofy and lovable. The Freke family's lock-step style isn't realistic, but their kindness to Emma is warm, and it's easy to see how compelling it is to feel a sense of belonging for the first time in her life.
This is a light and satisfying read for ages 10 to 12.
(One quibble with the jacket art - this girl does not look like a long and lean 6-footer to me, and I can't imagine why Emma would jump and toss her hair in quite this odd manner. I'm tired of photos of people on jacket covers and say we go back to drawings. You know who would have done a great cover for this book? Trina Schart Hyman!)
Emma's father is long gone, but she has always been curious about him, so she leaps at a surprise invitation to attend the annual Freke Family gathering in Wisconsin. And just as she had hoped, there are Frekes galore, many as tall and red-headed as Emma. In fact, her relatives consider her a beauty. And it seems that Freke is pronounced not "freak" but "frecky." What a relief!
But... to say that the Freke gathering is highly regimented is an understatement. Every minute of the day is accounted for, and no one is allowed to stray from the plan. Emma risks the condemnation of the tyrannical matriarch Pat Freke, as well as her newfound friends, in order to hang out with the black sheep of the family, a kid who stands out among the Frekes as much as Emma did among her classmates back home.
Everything is just exaggerated enough to make it clear it's a summer novel and not to be taken hugely seriously - so although Emma's mom is problematic with her numerous boyfriends, her Italian grandpa and his elderly dog are goofy and lovable. The Freke family's lock-step style isn't realistic, but their kindness to Emma is warm, and it's easy to see how compelling it is to feel a sense of belonging for the first time in her life.
This is a light and satisfying read for ages 10 to 12.
(One quibble with the jacket art - this girl does not look like a long and lean 6-footer to me, and I can't imagine why Emma would jump and toss her hair in quite this odd manner. I'm tired of photos of people on jacket covers and say we go back to drawings. You know who would have done a great cover for this book? Trina Schart Hyman!)
February 12, 2014
I loved this book; it is amazing. I really thought it was interesting how the book pointed out how even people that are different can still be exclusive, like in groups and cliques. Emma faced so many challenges in the book. I really liked how she didn't care how no one liked one of the boys Fred, but instead after everyone saying don't talk to him she still did and the developed a great relationship, and became friends for life. If you like real life like stories read this book!
December 9, 2010
I, Emma Freke follows the story of tweenage Emma, who has never quite in with her peers. She's too tall to blend, she's more comfortable with customers than those her own age, and she's certain that meeting the rest of her distant family will solidify her status as a freak forever. Along the way though, Emma learns that being a Freke doesn't mean she is actually a freak, and being her own person might be better than fitting in after all.
Remember those horrible in-between years where you wore glasses and braces, and you basically looked like a little wombat in clothes? Ok, maybe that was just me, but we all went through our awkward stages, and Emma is living them out in I, Emma Freke. With moments of cringe-worthy hilarity, sweet sensitivity to Emma's young age and personality, the author,Elizabeth Atkinson, cleverly weaves us along Emma's journey to self-discovery with her. Beautifully written in a tone that all ages can appreciate, it's a story that I really enjoyed reading.
I, Emma Freke is a sweet coming-of-age story that I can honestly say I've heard nothing about before. I think it is partially because it doesn't really step outside the box of your typical YA contemporary fiction. It's a very sweet story, and it definitely has a message about finding one's true self and owning it no matter what. The plot didn't lag, and there was a definite focus throughout, but I can't fight that nagging feeling that it was missing a little something...different. I think it needed an extra edge of tension to be thrown into the mix to make the climax of the story a little more poignant. In that aspect alone, I, Emma Freke fell a little flat for me.
Nevertheless, I, Emma Freke is a very nice story. Well-written with good values and themes, I give it a strong 3.5 out of 5, and I'd recommend it to a lower YA to MG audience, especially those who enjoy contemporary fiction, realistic fiction, and drama.
I received this book free of charge from the publisher, Lerner Publishing Group and Netgalley, in exchange for an honest review. This, in no way, affected my opinion or review of this book.
Remember those horrible in-between years where you wore glasses and braces, and you basically looked like a little wombat in clothes? Ok, maybe that was just me, but we all went through our awkward stages, and Emma is living them out in I, Emma Freke. With moments of cringe-worthy hilarity, sweet sensitivity to Emma's young age and personality, the author,Elizabeth Atkinson, cleverly weaves us along Emma's journey to self-discovery with her. Beautifully written in a tone that all ages can appreciate, it's a story that I really enjoyed reading.
I, Emma Freke is a sweet coming-of-age story that I can honestly say I've heard nothing about before. I think it is partially because it doesn't really step outside the box of your typical YA contemporary fiction. It's a very sweet story, and it definitely has a message about finding one's true self and owning it no matter what. The plot didn't lag, and there was a definite focus throughout, but I can't fight that nagging feeling that it was missing a little something...different. I think it needed an extra edge of tension to be thrown into the mix to make the climax of the story a little more poignant. In that aspect alone, I, Emma Freke fell a little flat for me.
Nevertheless, I, Emma Freke is a very nice story. Well-written with good values and themes, I give it a strong 3.5 out of 5, and I'd recommend it to a lower YA to MG audience, especially those who enjoy contemporary fiction, realistic fiction, and drama.
I received this book free of charge from the publisher, Lerner Publishing Group and Netgalley, in exchange for an honest review. This, in no way, affected my opinion or review of this book.
January 31, 2011
This book is absolutely wonderful! There were so many things I enjoyed about this book, so I'll get started with my favorite: Emma. Feeling completely out of place in the world and not fitting in with anyone in her life, including herself, she feels lost and frustrated. Being abruptly thrust from her New Age free spirit mom's guidance into her Stepford-esque family reunion allows her to carve her own existence in between the two. She is a very strong girl who doesn't realize how brave she is until she has someone to stand up for, because she never stood up for herself. After asserting herself, she learns to become comfortable in her own skin, which isn't an easy feat for a 6 foot tall 12 year old girl...Aside from the great characters in this book, I loved the writing. It was funny, simple, subtle, quirky and fully engaging. It's all told from Emma's point of view, and the author does a great job of sucking the reader right in and feeling what Emma is feeling...Everyone can relate to this book, because we all have a bit of a Freke in us...
To read the full review over at The Book Buff, click here: http://thebookbuff.blogspot.com/2011/...
-Kate the Book Buff
To read the full review over at The Book Buff, click here: http://thebookbuff.blogspot.com/2011/...
-Kate the Book Buff
October 8, 2010
Elizabeth Atkinson’s new book for middle readers, I, EMMA FREKE, is a charming story about smart, shy, nearly six-feet-tall, 12-year-old Emma, who feels like a misfit at school and at home.
It doesn��t help that her name said aloud sounds like Am a Freak.
Emma spends her time minding her mother’s bead store in a New England seaport, more comfortable with customers than with her peers. Her flighty single mom, Donatella, is too busy dating to make dinner and her grandpa is clueless. Her only friends are the local librarian and a precocious 10-year-old adopted by the two “Grey Moms” next door.
Over night, Emma’s world changes when she receives an invitation to the Freke Family Reunion in the wilds of Wisconsin — the other side of her family that she’s never met. But her fellow Frekes aren’t at all what she expects. Although she looks like them, she still may not fit in. While Emma struggles to find her niche, she discovers that perhaps it’s better to be her own freak than someone else’s Freke.
It doesn��t help that her name said aloud sounds like Am a Freak.
Emma spends her time minding her mother’s bead store in a New England seaport, more comfortable with customers than with her peers. Her flighty single mom, Donatella, is too busy dating to make dinner and her grandpa is clueless. Her only friends are the local librarian and a precocious 10-year-old adopted by the two “Grey Moms” next door.
Over night, Emma’s world changes when she receives an invitation to the Freke Family Reunion in the wilds of Wisconsin — the other side of her family that she’s never met. But her fellow Frekes aren’t at all what she expects. Although she looks like them, she still may not fit in. While Emma struggles to find her niche, she discovers that perhaps it’s better to be her own freak than someone else’s Freke.
December 22, 2013
Here's another book where I liked the idea of the story (theme, plot, etc.), but the execution left me disappointed. The gist: Emma Freke (pronounced like "freak")feels like one. Besides being incredibly tall and gangly, she has no friends besides her ten year old neighbor, Penelope, feels totally out of place in her middle school, and has nothing in common with her flighty, bar-hopping, 47-going-on-16 mother (who often treats her like the help). Is it possible she's adopted? She discovers the truth (and a little more) at a family reunion of the Freke side of her family.
The problem: I didn't for one minute believe that the first person narrator was a twelve-year-old girl (even a precocious, bright one like the protagonist, Emma). Her best friend, ten-year-old Penelope, also spoke and reasoned like a thirty-year-old who'd been around the block a few times. The voices just were not true. Perhaps the author should have approached the novel from a third-person viewpoint.
The problem: I didn't for one minute believe that the first person narrator was a twelve-year-old girl (even a precocious, bright one like the protagonist, Emma). Her best friend, ten-year-old Penelope, also spoke and reasoned like a thirty-year-old who'd been around the block a few times. The voices just were not true. Perhaps the author should have approached the novel from a third-person viewpoint.
February 16, 2012
Out of all the books I've read recently, this was definitely one of my favorites.
Emma has lived most of her life as a social outcast. She has a New Age hippie mother who doesn't seem to believe in mothering. She's never met her father. She is "too" tall, "too" smart, and painfully awkward with bright red hair. She pretty much does everything possible to avoid talking with people her own age. She only has one friend, who's much younger than here. And to top it all off, her last name is Freke. When you say her name slowly, it sounds like "Am a freak".
When a mysterious invitation to a family reunion for her father's family comes in the mail, Emma decides that it's finally time to find out who she really is and maybe, find a place to belong.
Emma has lived most of her life as a social outcast. She has a New Age hippie mother who doesn't seem to believe in mothering. She's never met her father. She is "too" tall, "too" smart, and painfully awkward with bright red hair. She pretty much does everything possible to avoid talking with people her own age. She only has one friend, who's much younger than here. And to top it all off, her last name is Freke. When you say her name slowly, it sounds like "Am a freak".
When a mysterious invitation to a family reunion for her father's family comes in the mail, Emma decides that it's finally time to find out who she really is and maybe, find a place to belong.
February 20, 2016
I already found 3 usage errors (less than halfway through)--2 incorrect commas and an incorrect use of "everyday"!
I appreciated the themes, but it felt forced (plot-wise) and poorly edited. I found a character misidentification near the end after all the other errors (Aunt Pat was mentioned but she meant Aunt Ro).
I appreciated the themes, but it felt forced (plot-wise) and poorly edited. I found a character misidentification near the end after all the other errors (Aunt Pat was mentioned but she meant Aunt Ro).
May 18, 2017
The book, along with its funny title, is a joyful experience for anyone of all ages. Its story is inspiring and the message of being who you want to be is very clear.
January 5, 2011
This book made me laugh from the first mention of 'I, Emma Freke' up until its last pages. The childish way of storytelling and the way that the main character, Emma, claims to be an adult is endearing, funny, and hit very close to home. I mean, who has never experienced being out of place and thinking that being an adult is way cooler than remaining a kid/teenager? Ladies and gentlemen, let's hear it from I, Emma Freke by Elizabeth Atkinson.
Summary from NetGalley:
"What's in a name? I, Emma Freke is a charming search-for-identity story about Emma―the only "normal" member of her quirky family. Her flighty, New Age mom seems to barely have time for a daughter, especially one who annoyingly spoils her mom's youthful façade. Emma's well-meaning grandpa is clueless. And her only friends are the local librarian and a precocious 10-year-old adopted by the two old ladies next door.
Smart, shy, and nearly six feet tall, Emma struggles to fit in at school, so she jumps at the opportunity to "home school" until that too turns into another of mom's half-baked ideas. The real crisis comes when she gets an invitation to The Freke Family Reunion, and her fellow Frekes aren't at all what she expects. While Emma desperately tries to find her niche, she discovers that perhaps it’s better to be her own "freak" than someone else's Freke."
I can so relate with Emma. Maybe not with the name, although I do have some issues with mine (my real full name sounds to me like a character from a Spanish television series), but with the appearance. I used to be the tallest girl in class in my late elementary and high school days. Everyone would look strangely at me, and everyone asked me if I play some sport or another. They always seem to think I'm playing volleyball or basketball so when I tell them I'm not really interested in sports, they say the same thing every time: "Too bad, your height will make you a star." As if not being a very good athlete won't affect my playing in any way. When joining clubs, other people always think that just because I'm taller than everyone else (yes, including most guys) makes me more mature and smart and they all want me to head one club after another, forgetting that running one club precludes you from heading another (I was editor-in-chief of the school paper, and they all want me to be president of the Science Club even if I'm not that much of a Science geek, the Drama Club even if I was only there once, and other clubs I don't even have interest in). It also sort of affects the 'making friends' part because teenagers are almost always intimidated by my height, and their first impression of me is always 'bitchy' or 'snobbish' even if I'm none of those things. For Emma, most of the above are true, but kids her age tend to think they are 'above' her, or that she's not very important, and I can totally say that she is partly to blame because she herself tends to hide inside her shell when confronted by other teenagers. She doesn't give others a chance, immediately assuming that they are just laughing at her, and that they don't like her. She never even gave being sociable a try. And, already aware that her name sounds funny, she even adds to its ridicule by saying "My mom forgot to say it out loud when I was born." Can't she just stop making a big deal out of it? Stevie had it spot on when she said that "names and words only hurt if you let them." But then, with Emma's lack of self-esteem and real maturity, I guess that's predictable.
This book was a cute tongue-in-cheek story of a typical egocentric teenager's dilemma: Not fitting it, feeling like they don't belong. There's really nothing new in here, except maybe for the Freke family reunion that showed a bunch of people acting like sheep and going with the herd. Emma was placed in two extremes: Her independent and indifferent life with her mother, and the structured, organized, and freakishly collective life with the Freke family. Somehow it's like saying that the grass is greener on the other side, only to find that it's just the same. Hopefully, these two extremes would help Emma choose her own path and her own spot on the grass. But however cute and light and very readable this story is, it's not entirely new and there is a large array of young adult fiction books devoted to this kind of issue. But then again, this is not a contest to see which book is best, and I can say that, for this book's part, it certainly made the grade. I loved the plot, the voice, and the characters are thoroughly detailed they are virtually human. I really enjoyed the humorous description of Emma's life, and there are some really laugh-out-loud moments that some 'teenage issues' books do not have. There were some parts that I felt was hurried, especially towards the ending, and I thought it would have been better if another twist was added or another chapter was written to make the story come full circle, but I guess it's for the best to leave the story at that, and let the reader think for themselves. Although the storyline is quite light, it still never fails to elicit empathy for Emma, as well as for teenagers like her who have difficulty fitting it. It makes the reader see this 'shallow' crisis through the sufferer's eyes and not just giving a story of hope and inspiration, it also teaches them how to treat these young adults well.
This book was just released November of last year, and I urge you to go get a copy of this one. You won't regret reading and re-reading this book.
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I received this book free of charge from the publisher, Lerner Publishing Group and Netgalley, in exchange for an honest and truthful review. This, in no way, affected my opinion or review of this book.
Summary from NetGalley:
"What's in a name? I, Emma Freke is a charming search-for-identity story about Emma―the only "normal" member of her quirky family. Her flighty, New Age mom seems to barely have time for a daughter, especially one who annoyingly spoils her mom's youthful façade. Emma's well-meaning grandpa is clueless. And her only friends are the local librarian and a precocious 10-year-old adopted by the two old ladies next door.
Smart, shy, and nearly six feet tall, Emma struggles to fit in at school, so she jumps at the opportunity to "home school" until that too turns into another of mom's half-baked ideas. The real crisis comes when she gets an invitation to The Freke Family Reunion, and her fellow Frekes aren't at all what she expects. While Emma desperately tries to find her niche, she discovers that perhaps it’s better to be her own "freak" than someone else's Freke."
I can so relate with Emma. Maybe not with the name, although I do have some issues with mine (my real full name sounds to me like a character from a Spanish television series), but with the appearance. I used to be the tallest girl in class in my late elementary and high school days. Everyone would look strangely at me, and everyone asked me if I play some sport or another. They always seem to think I'm playing volleyball or basketball so when I tell them I'm not really interested in sports, they say the same thing every time: "Too bad, your height will make you a star." As if not being a very good athlete won't affect my playing in any way. When joining clubs, other people always think that just because I'm taller than everyone else (yes, including most guys) makes me more mature and smart and they all want me to head one club after another, forgetting that running one club precludes you from heading another (I was editor-in-chief of the school paper, and they all want me to be president of the Science Club even if I'm not that much of a Science geek, the Drama Club even if I was only there once, and other clubs I don't even have interest in). It also sort of affects the 'making friends' part because teenagers are almost always intimidated by my height, and their first impression of me is always 'bitchy' or 'snobbish' even if I'm none of those things. For Emma, most of the above are true, but kids her age tend to think they are 'above' her, or that she's not very important, and I can totally say that she is partly to blame because she herself tends to hide inside her shell when confronted by other teenagers. She doesn't give others a chance, immediately assuming that they are just laughing at her, and that they don't like her. She never even gave being sociable a try. And, already aware that her name sounds funny, she even adds to its ridicule by saying "My mom forgot to say it out loud when I was born." Can't she just stop making a big deal out of it? Stevie had it spot on when she said that "names and words only hurt if you let them." But then, with Emma's lack of self-esteem and real maturity, I guess that's predictable.
This book was a cute tongue-in-cheek story of a typical egocentric teenager's dilemma: Not fitting it, feeling like they don't belong. There's really nothing new in here, except maybe for the Freke family reunion that showed a bunch of people acting like sheep and going with the herd. Emma was placed in two extremes: Her independent and indifferent life with her mother, and the structured, organized, and freakishly collective life with the Freke family. Somehow it's like saying that the grass is greener on the other side, only to find that it's just the same. Hopefully, these two extremes would help Emma choose her own path and her own spot on the grass. But however cute and light and very readable this story is, it's not entirely new and there is a large array of young adult fiction books devoted to this kind of issue. But then again, this is not a contest to see which book is best, and I can say that, for this book's part, it certainly made the grade. I loved the plot, the voice, and the characters are thoroughly detailed they are virtually human. I really enjoyed the humorous description of Emma's life, and there are some really laugh-out-loud moments that some 'teenage issues' books do not have. There were some parts that I felt was hurried, especially towards the ending, and I thought it would have been better if another twist was added or another chapter was written to make the story come full circle, but I guess it's for the best to leave the story at that, and let the reader think for themselves. Although the storyline is quite light, it still never fails to elicit empathy for Emma, as well as for teenagers like her who have difficulty fitting it. It makes the reader see this 'shallow' crisis through the sufferer's eyes and not just giving a story of hope and inspiration, it also teaches them how to treat these young adults well.
This book was just released November of last year, and I urge you to go get a copy of this one. You won't regret reading and re-reading this book.
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I received this book free of charge from the publisher, Lerner Publishing Group and Netgalley, in exchange for an honest and truthful review. This, in no way, affected my opinion or review of this book.
December 4, 2022
I think I loved this book so much because of how many times I felt like I didn't fit in. Emma's mom, Donatella, really doesn't act like much of a mom, and her father - where the Freke comes from - has never been around. When she confronts her mom about it, her mom sends her on an adventure - the Freke family reunion. What a riot that family is!! I loved the lessons Emma learns just from observing and trying to be brave while she's in Wisconsin at the state park.
October 29, 2018
A lovely little book about finding your identity and being yourself. Emma's mum wasn't the best - she acted like a petulant teen most of the time - but I liked that she had her back when it mattered.
May 13, 2017
This book was so good!I totaly reccomed it for people who like drama books but not to much drama.By that i dont mean the gross lovey drama.
April 4, 2011
Description:
What's in a name? I, Emma Freke is a charming search-for-identity story about Emma―the only "normal" member of her quirky family. Her flighty, New Age mom seems to barely have time for a daughter, especially one who annoyingly spoils her mom's youthful façade. Emma's well-meaning grandpa is clueless. And her only friends are the local librarian and a precocious 10-year-old adopted by the two old ladies next door.
Smart, shy, and nearly six feet tall, Emma struggles to fit in at school, so she jumps at the opportunity to "home school" until that too turns into another of mom's half-baked ideas. The real crisis comes when she gets an invitation to The Freke Family Reunion, and her fellow Frekes aren't at all what she expects. While Emma desperately tries to find her niche, she discovers that perhaps it’s better to be her own "freak" than someone else's Freke.
My thoughts...
Life used to be easier for Emma. She used to be younger, shorter, and dumber. Then one summer she grew and her brain practically exploded with knowledge, leaving her close to six feet tall by the time she was 12 and disinterested in anyone her own age. Oh, and as if that isn't bad enough, her New Age mother, Donatella, stuck her with a name that if said slowly comes out like, "Am a Freak."
Then a mysterious letter comes inviting Emma to The Freke Family Reunion at a campground in Wisconsin...where she finds out that her last name is pronounced Frecky, and meets more relatives than could imagine! Perhaps this will be her chance to learn more about herself. But surprises await Emma, and she's not sure if being someone else's Freke is right for her.
From the very first page, Atkinson establishes Emma's voice and it never falters. A tiny bit sarcastic, feeling like she is the adult instead of her mother, angry that Donatella refuses to answer questions about her father, and with only one true friend, Emma certainly has things tough. She's also certain her mother never said her name aloud before putting it on her birth certificate, because who in the heck would name their kid something like that?
Emma is sympathetic, but she's also funny, which helps to pull the reader into her story. I doubt you'll feel the need to shed any tears over this one, though in some ways Emma's life is rather tragic. Stuck working after school at her mother's bead shop, often left with her Nonno (grandfather) and his disgusting dog, Eggplant while Donatella goes out on numerous dates with a variety of guys, and freakishly tall with flaming red hair, you keep wondering if Emma will ever catch a break.
In addition to Emma, some of the Freke cousins provide a healthy dose of entertainment. If you've ever attended a family reunion, those chapters might cause you to shout out, "It's just like that!" I know that if my family ever had a reunion, it would play out just like this...a crazy aunt, the outcast family members, and more!
A masterfully told story, I, Emma Freke will resonate with many tweens. Atkinson has captured exactly what it was like to be Emma, and that will have readers flocking to stores to pick up this book and read it over and again.
I just absolutely loved this book! The author did a phenomenal job of connecting you with the character Emma Freke. I just hope that there are more books to come! I could definitely see this book made into a film someday. I would recommend this book to ages 10 and up (adults too!).
To learn more about the book click here. You can buy this book on Amazon (avail. November 2010).
Thank You so much Net Galley and Lerner Books for allowing me to read this book! I cannot wait to read more books from you in the future!
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the publisher through the Net Galley review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255 : "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising."
What's in a name? I, Emma Freke is a charming search-for-identity story about Emma―the only "normal" member of her quirky family. Her flighty, New Age mom seems to barely have time for a daughter, especially one who annoyingly spoils her mom's youthful façade. Emma's well-meaning grandpa is clueless. And her only friends are the local librarian and a precocious 10-year-old adopted by the two old ladies next door.
Smart, shy, and nearly six feet tall, Emma struggles to fit in at school, so she jumps at the opportunity to "home school" until that too turns into another of mom's half-baked ideas. The real crisis comes when she gets an invitation to The Freke Family Reunion, and her fellow Frekes aren't at all what she expects. While Emma desperately tries to find her niche, she discovers that perhaps it’s better to be her own "freak" than someone else's Freke.
My thoughts...
Life used to be easier for Emma. She used to be younger, shorter, and dumber. Then one summer she grew and her brain practically exploded with knowledge, leaving her close to six feet tall by the time she was 12 and disinterested in anyone her own age. Oh, and as if that isn't bad enough, her New Age mother, Donatella, stuck her with a name that if said slowly comes out like, "Am a Freak."
Then a mysterious letter comes inviting Emma to The Freke Family Reunion at a campground in Wisconsin...where she finds out that her last name is pronounced Frecky, and meets more relatives than could imagine! Perhaps this will be her chance to learn more about herself. But surprises await Emma, and she's not sure if being someone else's Freke is right for her.
From the very first page, Atkinson establishes Emma's voice and it never falters. A tiny bit sarcastic, feeling like she is the adult instead of her mother, angry that Donatella refuses to answer questions about her father, and with only one true friend, Emma certainly has things tough. She's also certain her mother never said her name aloud before putting it on her birth certificate, because who in the heck would name their kid something like that?
Emma is sympathetic, but she's also funny, which helps to pull the reader into her story. I doubt you'll feel the need to shed any tears over this one, though in some ways Emma's life is rather tragic. Stuck working after school at her mother's bead shop, often left with her Nonno (grandfather) and his disgusting dog, Eggplant while Donatella goes out on numerous dates with a variety of guys, and freakishly tall with flaming red hair, you keep wondering if Emma will ever catch a break.
In addition to Emma, some of the Freke cousins provide a healthy dose of entertainment. If you've ever attended a family reunion, those chapters might cause you to shout out, "It's just like that!" I know that if my family ever had a reunion, it would play out just like this...a crazy aunt, the outcast family members, and more!
A masterfully told story, I, Emma Freke will resonate with many tweens. Atkinson has captured exactly what it was like to be Emma, and that will have readers flocking to stores to pick up this book and read it over and again.
I just absolutely loved this book! The author did a phenomenal job of connecting you with the character Emma Freke. I just hope that there are more books to come! I could definitely see this book made into a film someday. I would recommend this book to ages 10 and up (adults too!).
To learn more about the book click here. You can buy this book on Amazon (avail. November 2010).
Thank You so much Net Galley and Lerner Books for allowing me to read this book! I cannot wait to read more books from you in the future!
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the publisher through the Net Galley review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255 : "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising."
January 27, 2011
Emma is a typical teenager…with a few exceptions of course. Her mother happens to openly admit not having said her full name, Emma Freke (pronounced “Freak”), at birth and seems to be much more interested in her love life than in Emma’s upbringing. Add that to the fact that Emma’s best friend is a confident out-spoken 10 year old and she spends most of their time together managing her mother’s bead store. Oh, and her father is no where to be seen, leaving her to wonder who she really is. Could she possibly be adopted and her mother has just made everything up? What she discovers when suddenly invited to a “Freke Family Reunion” may end up changing her entire story as well as her future.
I absolutely adore Emma! Not only is her name quirky, but she is so much how I remember being at her age. No, I don’t have a funky name (unless you consider my nickname “The1stdaughter”) and I also grew up with both of my parents happily married to each other. But even with those differences I was still able to relate to Emma’s character. As a young teen you constantly question who you are, not to mention questioning if you really “belong” to your “parents.” I remember when anything odd or opposing would come up when I was growing up thinking to myself that they must have adopted me, we were just too different. Oh, to be young again! Obviously I wasn’t adopted, and I’ve grown up a bit since then, but it was so fun to look back on those experiences and be able to chuckle at Emma’s now in reflection.
Besides the character connection with Emma, what was truly delightful about this story was the opportunity you had to watch Emma grow into herself. As she meets with various members of her family for the first time she’s able to discover who she really is. It reminded me much of how it is when you go away from home for the first time after graduating high school. Which in Emma’s case is true, this is the first time she’s really away from her “home.” It’s when we’re separated from that safe place that we often take leaps into who we might become. Which is another reason I loved the cover for the book as well. It truly represents the story in it’s fullest.
Just an average young girl with a quirky past. I, Emma Freke is a story about discovering who you are without a safety net, about letting go and just enjoying being who you are. This is the perfect story for young girls especially, I have no doubt any one of them who reads it would instantly connect with Emma and find comfort in their shared insecurities. An enjoyable read from beginning to end. I for one, am definitely looking forward to future books by Elizabeth Atkinson and would encourage you to pick up I, Emma Freke as soon as you possibly can!
I absolutely adore Emma! Not only is her name quirky, but she is so much how I remember being at her age. No, I don’t have a funky name (unless you consider my nickname “The1stdaughter”) and I also grew up with both of my parents happily married to each other. But even with those differences I was still able to relate to Emma’s character. As a young teen you constantly question who you are, not to mention questioning if you really “belong” to your “parents.” I remember when anything odd or opposing would come up when I was growing up thinking to myself that they must have adopted me, we were just too different. Oh, to be young again! Obviously I wasn’t adopted, and I’ve grown up a bit since then, but it was so fun to look back on those experiences and be able to chuckle at Emma’s now in reflection.
Besides the character connection with Emma, what was truly delightful about this story was the opportunity you had to watch Emma grow into herself. As she meets with various members of her family for the first time she’s able to discover who she really is. It reminded me much of how it is when you go away from home for the first time after graduating high school. Which in Emma’s case is true, this is the first time she’s really away from her “home.” It’s when we’re separated from that safe place that we often take leaps into who we might become. Which is another reason I loved the cover for the book as well. It truly represents the story in it’s fullest.
Just an average young girl with a quirky past. I, Emma Freke is a story about discovering who you are without a safety net, about letting go and just enjoying being who you are. This is the perfect story for young girls especially, I have no doubt any one of them who reads it would instantly connect with Emma and find comfort in their shared insecurities. An enjoyable read from beginning to end. I for one, am definitely looking forward to future books by Elizabeth Atkinson and would encourage you to pick up I, Emma Freke as soon as you possibly can!
August 9, 2012
'I, Emma Freke' by Elizabeth Atkinson is about a twelve year old girl named Emma. She doesn't think she can fit in anywhere at home, at school, or in her town. Her only friend is Penelope who is two years younger, and a lot of inches shorter than her. Emma is labeled a freak because she's almost 6 feet tall at her age. As she discoveries who she is, she goes on a short family reunion to her father's side of the family. There she learns who she's meant to be, and finds where she really belongs.
I give this book 3 stars, simply because I thought it was an okay read. Now let's start with my opinions on the book -- the first thing I noticed was that Atkinson used a lot of exclamation points and question marks. Now I understand that using that punctuation is good for stories to get the dialogue in certain situations right, but I felt it was excessive. At the end of some sentences, she'd put both sets of punctuation, or double it. I felt that that was unnecessary just because I think the point would have come across the same without the '!!' at the end of a sentence. But then I had to remember the point of view was from a twelve year old girl. As bright as she was, maybe that's how she was seeing and hearing the conversations around her.
That brings me to my next point. The characters who were supposed to be children seemed far brighter than an average child. Penelope and Emma acted like teenagers at some point, and both of them aren't even thirteen yet. I know Emma is supposed to be an exceptionally bright girl, but I thought the way she was acting and talking, Atkinson could have made her older.
My favorite thing about this book was how much it could relate to anyone at any age. How someone feels left out, unwanted, invisible to the entire world, and then finds people who actually care about her. I know it's an overused theme, but I felt the author displayed it in a really well way. If it was written with the spotlight on a character totally different from Emma, I think I might'v liked the book a lot less than I do now.
I give this book 3 stars, simply because I thought it was an okay read. Now let's start with my opinions on the book -- the first thing I noticed was that Atkinson used a lot of exclamation points and question marks. Now I understand that using that punctuation is good for stories to get the dialogue in certain situations right, but I felt it was excessive. At the end of some sentences, she'd put both sets of punctuation, or double it. I felt that that was unnecessary just because I think the point would have come across the same without the '!!' at the end of a sentence. But then I had to remember the point of view was from a twelve year old girl. As bright as she was, maybe that's how she was seeing and hearing the conversations around her.
That brings me to my next point. The characters who were supposed to be children seemed far brighter than an average child. Penelope and Emma acted like teenagers at some point, and both of them aren't even thirteen yet. I know Emma is supposed to be an exceptionally bright girl, but I thought the way she was acting and talking, Atkinson could have made her older.
My favorite thing about this book was how much it could relate to anyone at any age. How someone feels left out, unwanted, invisible to the entire world, and then finds people who actually care about her. I know it's an overused theme, but I felt the author displayed it in a really well way. If it was written with the spotlight on a character totally different from Emma, I think I might'v liked the book a lot less than I do now.
May 17, 2019
I think this book is really good and different. It’s a unique style and story that’s lesson is that you fit in wether you think you do or not.
March 9, 2011
Review
Emma’s life is a bit freaky. Her mother refuses to be called “mom” and she is rarely around. In fact, Emma usually has to run her mother’s bead shop after school because her mother is nowhere to be found. Her best friend is an extremely outgoing neighbor girl who is the total opposite of shy and sensitive Emma. Oh, and don’t forget that Emma is nearly six feet tall even though she is only twelve. It is no wonder that Emma is insecure and feels as though she does not belong. She feels like more of a freak than a Freke.
Things change for Emma when she is invited to The Freke Family Reunion. Finally, a chance to meet the father she has always wondered about. Emma’s relatives turn out to be a very unusual group, and she savors this opportunity to learn from them – and teach them a thing or two as well.
I love Emma’s character. While her situation is unique, it represents what all tweens go through. We are all trying to find our own special place in our families and in the world. Emma learns that it is best to be yourself, even when it seems impossible to do.
Middle graders will relate to Emma and her struggles.
Rating
4 Liked
Cover Comments
I like it because it’s different. The muted colors are a nice change from what we so often see. The feathers make it look like Emma is really going to take off and fly. Nice touch. I also like that the title is a cute play on words.
Emma’s life is a bit freaky. Her mother refuses to be called “mom” and she is rarely around. In fact, Emma usually has to run her mother’s bead shop after school because her mother is nowhere to be found. Her best friend is an extremely outgoing neighbor girl who is the total opposite of shy and sensitive Emma. Oh, and don’t forget that Emma is nearly six feet tall even though she is only twelve. It is no wonder that Emma is insecure and feels as though she does not belong. She feels like more of a freak than a Freke.
Things change for Emma when she is invited to The Freke Family Reunion. Finally, a chance to meet the father she has always wondered about. Emma’s relatives turn out to be a very unusual group, and she savors this opportunity to learn from them – and teach them a thing or two as well.
I love Emma’s character. While her situation is unique, it represents what all tweens go through. We are all trying to find our own special place in our families and in the world. Emma learns that it is best to be yourself, even when it seems impossible to do.
Middle graders will relate to Emma and her struggles.
Rating
4 Liked
Cover Comments
I like it because it’s different. The muted colors are a nice change from what we so often see. The feathers make it look like Emma is really going to take off and fly. Nice touch. I also like that the title is a cute play on words.
May 9, 2013
Emma Freke
5/8/13
pages: 233
Realistic Fiction
The book I, Emma Freke is about 12 years old girl who is almost 6 feet tall with bright red hair. She thinks it's sort of hard to pretend to be invisible with those sorts of looks. Of course, there's her name, which her mother didn't bother to say aloud before writing it on the birth certificate. Also, Emma's father is gone, but she has always been curious about him. So, she goes to a surprise invitation to attend the annual Freke Family gathering in Wisconsin. And just as she had though, there are Frekes just like her, many tall and red headed as Emma. Emma faces many facial flaws for example, her hair, height, and name are just a couple things she has to face. This was my summary on the book I, Emma Freke.
I would rate this book a 3 out of 5 stars. I would rate it this because it was a really fun read but it was just like the other books I have read. For example, in most book there is a girl who has numerous flaws and she has to face it. I would like to read a book that doesnt always have the same story with different people and problems. Although, in these kind stories I sort of like little parts that makes them different than other book like stories like these. So, I really like some parts that had me really interested. This is my opinion on my boook I read.
5/8/13
pages: 233
Realistic Fiction
The book I, Emma Freke is about 12 years old girl who is almost 6 feet tall with bright red hair. She thinks it's sort of hard to pretend to be invisible with those sorts of looks. Of course, there's her name, which her mother didn't bother to say aloud before writing it on the birth certificate. Also, Emma's father is gone, but she has always been curious about him. So, she goes to a surprise invitation to attend the annual Freke Family gathering in Wisconsin. And just as she had though, there are Frekes just like her, many tall and red headed as Emma. Emma faces many facial flaws for example, her hair, height, and name are just a couple things she has to face. This was my summary on the book I, Emma Freke.
I would rate this book a 3 out of 5 stars. I would rate it this because it was a really fun read but it was just like the other books I have read. For example, in most book there is a girl who has numerous flaws and she has to face it. I would like to read a book that doesnt always have the same story with different people and problems. Although, in these kind stories I sort of like little parts that makes them different than other book like stories like these. So, I really like some parts that had me really interested. This is my opinion on my boook I read.
December 25, 2010
A cute little MG read that I absolutely enjoyed. From reading about her very unusual home life to taking a trip to meet the entire extended family, this book was a great little read.
Often, I don't read MG just because I don't think of myself as a great audience for it. But more often than not, I realize that I can still appreciate and remember the clicks in high school and the outsiders. Although, my family life was on the opposite spectrum of how Emma Freke grew up, it was great to read how one girl is completely affected by the ways of her mother and grandfather. When she visits with her extended family on her father's side, I loved how the flip got switched and she fit in and felt a part of a clan.
As far as what sometimes turns me off to YA - is the characters. At times I can relate, but sometimes I just find the characters to be too whiny or not really depicted as the age that they are really. SO if I haven't thoroughly confused you with my random thoughts - I loved these characters, believable and great to read.
A book that I would pass on to both my older and younger readers for very different reasons. Both groups would enjoy this cute little read at any time of the year.
Often, I don't read MG just because I don't think of myself as a great audience for it. But more often than not, I realize that I can still appreciate and remember the clicks in high school and the outsiders. Although, my family life was on the opposite spectrum of how Emma Freke grew up, it was great to read how one girl is completely affected by the ways of her mother and grandfather. When she visits with her extended family on her father's side, I loved how the flip got switched and she fit in and felt a part of a clan.
As far as what sometimes turns me off to YA - is the characters. At times I can relate, but sometimes I just find the characters to be too whiny or not really depicted as the age that they are really. SO if I haven't thoroughly confused you with my random thoughts - I loved these characters, believable and great to read.
A book that I would pass on to both my older and younger readers for very different reasons. Both groups would enjoy this cute little read at any time of the year.
April 7, 2011
12yr old Emma is the tallest girl in her school 5 ft 10 in, and her full name Emma Freke sounds like Am a freak. This was one of those books with funny characters and funnier moments that I love.
Emma lives with her mother Donatella, her grandfather Nonno and his old dog, eggplant. Donatella owns a bead shop but Emma does most of the work. Donatella believes in a lassisez - faire approach to parenting. Emma and Donatella are nothing alike and there isn't more of a resemblance. So when Emma's best friend Penelope who is adopted, asked Emma if she may be adopted as well its seems more possible then not.
Though Emma isn't adopted she simply takes after her father's side of the family. Emma has never meet her father and knows nothing about his family. Donatella lets Emma go to the annual Freke family reunion in Wisconin. Amongst the Freke's Emma no longer stands out, and she learns a lot about her father's side of the family and herself.
This was one of those books with funny characters and funnier moments that I love falling into. I, Emma Freke works so well, because Atkinson, establishes Emma's voice from the very beginning and the dialogue is great. Penelope has two moms and it not a big deal, it simply is.
Emma lives with her mother Donatella, her grandfather Nonno and his old dog, eggplant. Donatella owns a bead shop but Emma does most of the work. Donatella believes in a lassisez - faire approach to parenting. Emma and Donatella are nothing alike and there isn't more of a resemblance. So when Emma's best friend Penelope who is adopted, asked Emma if she may be adopted as well its seems more possible then not.
Though Emma isn't adopted she simply takes after her father's side of the family. Emma has never meet her father and knows nothing about his family. Donatella lets Emma go to the annual Freke family reunion in Wisconin. Amongst the Freke's Emma no longer stands out, and she learns a lot about her father's side of the family and herself.
This was one of those books with funny characters and funnier moments that I love falling into. I, Emma Freke works so well, because Atkinson, establishes Emma's voice from the very beginning and the dialogue is great. Penelope has two moms and it not a big deal, it simply is.
June 2, 2011
12-year-old Emma doesn’t feel like she fits in anywhere—even her name is strange (‘Emma Freke’ sounds just like ‘I’m a freak’). She stands out in her mother’s side of the family because they tend to be short with dark hair, while Emma herself is tall with red hair. She thinks this probably has something to do with her father, whom she’s never met.
When she receives an invitation to a reunion for her father’s side of the family, she’s shocked. Although Emma’s mother tells her that her father will likely not be there, Emma is curious about this group of people she’s never met who make up half of her DNA. She decides to make the reunion trip—alone—to Wisconsin from her home on the east coast. Will she fit in any better than she does with her mother’s side of the family? Will they be nice? Will she regret the decision to attend this reunion for the rest of her life? Emma has tons of worries about whether she made the right choice to go.
This is a cute story about fitting in that I enjoyed very much. Emma is a very likable character with whom young girls will surely be able to identify. Those who enjoyed this book might also enjoy The Last Best Days of Summer (Hobbs).
When she receives an invitation to a reunion for her father’s side of the family, she’s shocked. Although Emma’s mother tells her that her father will likely not be there, Emma is curious about this group of people she’s never met who make up half of her DNA. She decides to make the reunion trip—alone—to Wisconsin from her home on the east coast. Will she fit in any better than she does with her mother’s side of the family? Will they be nice? Will she regret the decision to attend this reunion for the rest of her life? Emma has tons of worries about whether she made the right choice to go.
This is a cute story about fitting in that I enjoyed very much. Emma is a very likable character with whom young girls will surely be able to identify. Those who enjoyed this book might also enjoy The Last Best Days of Summer (Hobbs).
March 24, 2013
Although a bit OTT at times, I, Emma Freke was an overall sweet read. It is a journey of self-realization in twelve-year-old Emma, who lives with her eccentric mother and nonno and hates her name because it sounds like "Am a Freak". When she meets up with her father's side of the family, the Frekes, Emma begins to feel like she belongs -- but begins to understand the importance of being true to yourself.
Although I really enjoyed the book and the message it was trying to convey, I couldn't connect with the characters or many of the situations they were put into. The only two characters that I didn't felt were exaggerated to an extent were probably Emma and Stevie. The plot was cute and kind of wacky, but as a person who doesn't really do family reunions, I couldn't relate.
Still, I was really happy with the ending despite the fact I wished I had seen more of the reunion and more interactions between some of the other Frekes and Emma. I loved the message the story had and I probably read it in a total of one and a half hours, give or take a little. It was a good, lighthearted read.
Although I really enjoyed the book and the message it was trying to convey, I couldn't connect with the characters or many of the situations they were put into. The only two characters that I didn't felt were exaggerated to an extent were probably Emma and Stevie. The plot was cute and kind of wacky, but as a person who doesn't really do family reunions, I couldn't relate.
Still, I was really happy with the ending despite the fact I wished I had seen more of the reunion and more interactions between some of the other Frekes and Emma. I loved the message the story had and I probably read it in a total of one and a half hours, give or take a little. It was a good, lighthearted read.
January 6, 2011
I really enjoyed I, Emma Freke and wasn't bored at all. Mostly because of the wonderful characters Elizabeth Atkinson wrote. They were fun. Emma was a gem. I liked seeing her world through her voice. Emma grows a lot through the book, from being shy and insecure, to finding that she's great the way she is. She finds her voice and speaks up for what she believes to be right. And because of the change in herself, Emma's able to change the people around her.
Emma's best friend, Penelope, is quite a character. As are Emma's Freke family members, all the aunts and uncles and cousins. They were all great, especially Fred Freke. I liked him.
As a librarian, I found it interesting that a librarian volunteered to homeschool Emma for three weeks at the library, while working at the reference desk. It seemed she was the only librarian that worked at the time, too. Which is unrealistic in my opinion, but maybe not. Maybe other librarians would find it possible to do? It didn't destract from the story. Just a little observation.
This is a really fun book.
Emma's best friend, Penelope, is quite a character. As are Emma's Freke family members, all the aunts and uncles and cousins. They were all great, especially Fred Freke. I liked him.
As a librarian, I found it interesting that a librarian volunteered to homeschool Emma for three weeks at the library, while working at the reference desk. It seemed she was the only librarian that worked at the time, too. Which is unrealistic in my opinion, but maybe not. Maybe other librarians would find it possible to do? It didn't destract from the story. Just a little observation.
This is a really fun book.
August 6, 2015
Emma doesn’t fit in at school. She is almost 6 feet tall at 12 years old & she is too smart for her class. She only has 1 friend… a girl who lives across the street and is years younger. Emma sometimes skips school to run the bead store her hippie-ish mother forgets to open. When she gets a mysterious letter inviting her to the Freke family reunion, she is surprised because as far as she knew her father never knew she existed. She goes because she desperately wants to find a place to belong. She has to fly to Wisconsin for the reunion. She goes & finds that she looks like them all & she feels like she fits in, but then she is cast out after she becomes friends with a boy that all the others shun. She stands by him & some of the other adults come around. Turns out one of the sisters was threating to disinherit them if they didn’t do exactly what she said. The families finally stand up for themselves & Emma finally feels confident in her skin. She still doesn’t want to go back to school & instead decided to try a school for gifted students. Okay story.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 2, 2011
Emma, who is just turning twelve, just doesn't fit in with kids her age. She is very tall and has bright red hair. To add to her humiliation is her last name, Freke, which is pronounced like freak. Her mother, Donatella, is a free spirit, and treats Emma as an equal rather than her daughter. Emma wishes for a family with structure and love. In fact, she desires the life of her neighbor and best friend Penelope, who is a couple years younger, adopted from Africa by two gray haired lesbian moms. When Emma questions her mother about whether she was adopted, she receives and invitation to the annual Freke Family Reunion in Wisconsin. So Emma's mom sends her to the three day reunion and Emma finally feels like she belongs but does she really? Great story about being true to who you are and the grass isn't always greener on the other side.
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July 19, 2011When Emma discovers that her mom (who seems to be more of a kid than Emma is) tells her she's going to be home schooled, she figures this will help her escape from the misery of being teased for being so tall, skinny, red-haired twelve-year-old with a name that describes her when spoken aloud (am-a-freak). Being so different from her mother, Emma wonders if she's adopted. When she's invited to attend a family reunion by the Freke side of the family, she thinks everything will be explained once she meets these long lost relatives. When she arrives at the reunion, and discovers there are very specific rules and a rigid schedule to follow, she realizes there may not be as much wrong with her unstructured life as she thought.
A very cute story! Will definitely recommend it to my students!!
Thanks to Lerner Publishing Group, Carolrhoda Books and NetGalley for access to this great read.
A very cute story! Will definitely recommend it to my students!!
Thanks to Lerner Publishing Group, Carolrhoda Books and NetGalley for access to this great read.
October 10, 2013
I, Emma Freke is a wonderful, descriptive, very realistic book. This realistic fiction book is about Emma, an 11 year old girl, who feels like she has the weirdest name in history. Because, if you say her name slowly, I, Emma Freke turns into I, Am a Freak.
Emma lives in a small waterside town, and her mother owns “Freke Beads and More” Emma only has one friend, Penelope, and she figures that it’s also because of her height. Because she’s tall. Really tall. Emma can’t figure out what’s wrong with her and hates her social worker. But only until Emma’s mom, Donatella, gives her the best birthday gift ever: homeschooling.
I enjoyed this book because the author, Elizabeth Atkinson, has the ability to paint a picture in your mind. I think readers who like to have connections with their characters would enjoy this book. I loved it!
Emma lives in a small waterside town, and her mother owns “Freke Beads and More” Emma only has one friend, Penelope, and she figures that it’s also because of her height. Because she’s tall. Really tall. Emma can’t figure out what’s wrong with her and hates her social worker. But only until Emma’s mom, Donatella, gives her the best birthday gift ever: homeschooling.
I enjoyed this book because the author, Elizabeth Atkinson, has the ability to paint a picture in your mind. I think readers who like to have connections with their characters would enjoy this book. I loved it!
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