48 pages • 1 hour read
The Skin I'm In
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Book Brief
176
Novel • Fiction
Urban School • 1990s
1998
Middle grade
12-18 years
670L
Super Short Summary
The Skin I'm In is a middle-grade novel by Sharon G. Flake that follows 13-year-old Maleeka Madison III as she navigates bullying due to her dark complexion and socioeconomic status. With guidance from her unconventional English teacher, Miss Saunders, Maleeka hones her creative writing skills and learns self-love amid challenges involving peer relationships, personal loss, and self-acceptance. The novel addresses themes of bullying, poverty, grief, and beauty standards.
Emotional
Challenging
Inspirational
Contemplative
Heartwarming
Reviews & Readership
18,495 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
The Skin I'm In by Sharon G. Flake has been praised for its authentic portrayal of self-acceptance and the challenges of adolescence through the eyes of an African American girl. Readers commend the relatable protagonist and impactful narrative. Some critics, however, argue the plot can be predictable. Overall, the book is lauded for its emotional depth and important social themes.
Who Should Read The Skin I'm In?
Potential readers who would enjoy The Skin I'm In by Sharon G. Flake are typically young adults or middle school students who appreciate stories about self-acceptance, bullying, and resilience. Fans of Alice Walker's The Color Purple or Jacqueline Woodson’s Brown Girl Dreaming may find similar themes and emotional depth in this poignant novel.
18,495 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
176
Novel • Fiction
Urban School • 1990s
1998
Middle grade
12-18 years
670L
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