daapanda.blogg.se - The Skin I'm In by Sharon G. Flake

From a very young age she found solace in putting her thoughts and feelings down on the page. Karen deBlieck’s writing reflects the tension of identity and the sense of belonging she struggled with as a black American born in Japan and adopted by white Canadian parents (phew!). Describe a time when you didn’t feel comfortable in “the skin your in”.

Do you think Maleeka dealt well with the bullying she experienced? How might you deal if you were in her place?.

Compare Maleeka’s life with that of the slave girl, Akeelma, that Maleeka writes about.

How is Maleeka’s life similar to your own? How does it differ?.

I rated this as a teen book due to its mature content but the reading level is closer to Middle grade as is the protagonist. The rough moments in the book all have a purpose in the plot line and give a glimpse into Maleeka’s (and many other black girls) life. It was easy enough to read but dealt with some dark subjects which may not be for everyone. Others may find the reading of it a little rough or coarse.

I loved stepping so completely into another world.

the slang and writing are authentic which may be a pro or a con.

does have some mature themes: Maleeka talks about some students “locking lips” in the hallway, smoking (including the main character once), drinking and partying in one scene, two boys try to force their affection on Maleeka and when a friend comes to help they beat him up.

authentic African American voice without resorting to gratuitus language or overly lewd descriptions.

deals with bullying, peer pressure, being unique and loving yourself without becoming a bully yourself.

looks at a topic/situation that not all teens may deal with (racism within the black community).

lots of white space on the page which makes it accessible for all types of readers.

Or why she thinks that Maleeka is so special. Maleeka can’t help but wonder how this new teacher can truly love her flawed skin. But when the students mock Miss Saunders she doesn’t it let her bug her. That is until a new teacher, whose face is blotched with a startling white patch, shows up to teach. She’s learned to find a way to survive by keeping her head down. If people aren’t taunting Maleeka about her dark skin then they get at her about her homemade clothes or her good grades.