Book Review: Addie on the Inside; James Howe

genre } family | issues | self-esteem | relationship 
rating } 13+
date released } July 26th 2011
edition } Atheneum Books (224 p.)
ISBN } 9781416913849 | 141691384X
acquisition } ARE
available @ Book Depository

Addie on the Inside
By; James Howe
 
Summary on Goodreads

The Gang of Five is back in this third story from Paintbrush Falls. Addie Carle, the only girl in the group of friends is outspoken, opinionated, and sometimes…just a bit obnoxious.

But as seventh grade progresses, Addie’s not so sure anymore about who she is. It seems her tough exterior is just a little too tough and that doesn’t help her deal with the turmoil she feels on the inside as she faces the pains of growing up.

Told in elegant, accessible verse, ADDIE ON THE INSIDE gives readers a look at a strong, smart, and sensitive girl struggling with the box society wants to put her in. Addie confronts experiences many readers will relate to: the loss of a beloved pet, first heartbreak, teasing…but also, friendship, love, and a growing confidence in one’s self.

You Are Who They Say You Are

They say in the seventh grade

you are who they say you are,

but how can that be true?

How can I be a /Godzilla-girl /lezzie loser /know-it-all/

big-mouth /beanpole /string bean/ freaky tall/

fall-down /spaz attack /brainiac /maniac/

hopeless nerd /*bad word*/brown-nosing /teacher’s pet/

showing off /just to get

attention –

oh,

and did I mention:

flat-chested…

How can I be all that?

It’s too many things to be.

How can I be all that and

still be true to the real me
while everyone is saying:
This
is
who
you
are.

My 2 Cents
Honestly said, as much as I like reading James Howe stuff, this book, is not for me. This book is told in verses and this would be handy to people who likes poetry over the fiction within the pages. To me, it’s kind of annoying because as much as I love Homer, this is not for me.

Anyway. This book talks about bullies and relationship during the early ages of teenagers of the main character. It does capture the mindset of teens around that age. Written like Adele is pouring her heart and soul into blog or diary (sort of), with many poetry in between. I won’t judge this book, because it is not for me, but I guess, I just put this book out there in public, so people knows this book actually exists for an option read.