Sticks & Stones

Ever since she was a baby, the words people use to describe Elyse have instantly appeared on her arms and legs. At first it was just "cute" and "adorable", but as she's gotten older and kids have gotten meaner, words like "loser" and "pathetic" appear, and those words bubble up and itch. And then there are words like "interesting", which she's not really sure how to feel about.

Now, at age 12, she's starting middle school, and just when her friends who used to accept and protect her are drifting away, she receives an anonymous note saying "I know who you are, and I know what you're dealing with. I want to help". As Elyse works to solve the mystery of who is sending her these notes, she also finds new ways to accept who she is and to become her best self.

©2016 Abby Cooper (P)2021 Tantor

great theme. stilted narration style, not my taste

Important and timely theme. The narrator has a rather different style, not my taste. Lots of good messages and teachable points in Elise's story.