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Blink 3 of 8 - The 5 AM Club
by Robin Sharma
Smile summary
Brief summary
Smile by Raina Telgemeier is a heartfelt graphic novel memoir that takes readers on a journey through the author's orthodontic odyssey and the ups and downs of middle school.
Table of Contents
Smile
Summary of key ideas
Adolescent Struggles and Triumphs
In Smile by Raina Telgemeier, we are introduced to the author's life as a twelve-year-old. The story begins with Raina's traumatic accident, where she falls and severely injures her two front teeth. This incident marks the start of her long and arduous journey with dental surgeries, braces, and other orthodontic treatments.
As Raina navigates her way through middle school, she grapples with the physical and emotional challenges of her dental issues. She endures painful procedures, awkward headgear, and the constant fear of being judged by her peers. Despite these challenges, Raina remains resilient and determined to overcome her insecurities.
Friendship and Self-Discovery
Throughout Smile, Raina's experiences are intertwined with her evolving friendships. She faces betrayal from her best friend, who turns out to be manipulative and unsupportive. This painful realization forces Raina to reevaluate her relationships and seek out new, more genuine connections.
Amidst these struggles, Raina discovers her passion for art. Drawing becomes her solace, providing an outlet for her emotions and a means to express herself. She also finds a supportive group of friends in her high school drama club, where she can be herself without fear of judgment.
Acceptance and Growth
As Raina progresses through high school, her dental issues gradually improve, and she gains more confidence in her appearance. She learns to embrace her unique journey and accept herself, flaws and all. This newfound self-acceptance is further reinforced when she decides to pursue a career in art, a field where she can fully express her creativity and individuality.
By the end of Smile, Raina has transformed from a self-conscious preteen to a confident young adult. She has learned valuable lessons about resilience, friendship, and the importance of staying true to oneself. Her journey, marked by both physical and emotional growth, serves as an inspiring example of overcoming adversity and finding joy in life's imperfections.
Final Thoughts
In conclusion, Smile is a heartfelt and relatable coming-of-age story that resonates with readers of all ages. Raina Telgemeier's honest portrayal of her adolescent struggles and triumphs, coupled with her charming illustrations, creates a compelling narrative that celebrates the beauty of imperfection and the power of self-acceptance.
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What is Smile about?
Smile by Raina Telgemeier is a heartfelt and humorous graphic novel that delves into the ups and downs of adolescence. Through vibrant illustrations and engaging storytelling, the book follows the author's real-life experiences with dental treatment and the challenges of fitting in during her middle school years. It's a story that celebrates resilience and the power of finding a reason to smile, even in the toughest moments.
Smile Review
Smile (2010) by Raina Telgemeier is a heartwarming graphic novel that tells the story of a young girl navigating through the ups and downs of adolescence. Here's why this book is worth reading:
- Through its vibrant illustrations and relatable characters, "Smile" captures the essence of growing up, making it a great read for both teens and adults.
- Telgemeier's honest portrayal of teenage experiences, like braces and crushes, adds authenticity to the story, making it both entertaining and relatable.
- The book addresses important themes of friendship, self-acceptance, and resilience, reminding readers of the significance of staying true to oneself during challenging times.
Who should read Smile?
- Children and young adults who enjoy graphic novels
- Anyone with an interest in personal memoirs and coming-of-age stories
- Individuals who have experienced orthodontic treatment or dental challenges
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Smile FAQs
What is the main message of Smile?
The main message of Smile is that it's okay to embrace your imperfections and find joy in the journey.
How long does it take to read Smile?
The reading time for Smile varies depending on the reader's speed, but it typically takes several hours. The Blinkist summary can be read in just a few minutes.
Is Smile a good book? Is it worth reading?
Smile is a wonderful book worth reading because it provides an inspiring and relatable story about overcoming challenges and discovering self-acceptance.
Who is the author of Smile?
The author of Smile is Raina Telgemeier.
What to read after Smile?
If you're wondering what to read next after Smile, here are some recommendations we suggest:
- Feel the Fear and Do It Anyway by Susann Jeffers
- Making It All Work by David Allen
- The Power of Habit by Charles Duhigg
- The 4-Hour Workweek by Tim Ferriss
- Mindset by Carol Dweck
- Predictably Irrational by Dan Ariely
- Switch by Chip Heath & Dan Heath
- The Da Vinci Curse by Leonardo Lospennato
- The Defining Decade by Meg Jay
- The Art Of Non-Conformity by Chris Guillebeau