Smile by Raina Telgemeier

 

Goodreads synopsis: Raina just wants to be a normal sixth grader. But one night after Girl Scouts she trips and falls, severely injuring her two front teeth, and what follows is a long and frustrating journey with on-again, off-again braces, surgery, embarrassing headgear, and even a retainer with fake teeth attached. And on top of all that, there’s still more to deal with: a major earthquake, boy confusion, and friends who turn out to be not so friendly. This coming-of-age true story is sure to resonate with anyone who has ever been in middle school, and especially those who have ever had a bit of their own dental drama.

My rating: 5 stars.

Content warnings: PG. Some cartoon blood, brief mentions of kissing. Those sensitive to dental issues beware.

Thoughts: And I thought my tales of dental woe were bad.

This was my first actual graphic novel, but it was a really good one to start with. The story was equal parts funny, sweet, and relatable, especially as someone who has experienced some dental mishaps of my own. But the story isn't just about what's going on in Raina's mouth, there's the pain and confusion that comes with growing up, the difficulty of letting bad friends go, and the struggles of trying to fit in when you don't feel "good enough."

The ending was so much better than I could have hoped, and the joy and hope it inspires is an important message for any young adult who feels like they don't belong or fit in.