Description
Fourteen-year-old Lexie is a talented public speaker who has just won the regional competition and is about to represent the region in the state finals, with dreams of the nationals beyond that. But when a freckle on her cheek turns out to be a rare form of melanoma that requires surgery to have it removed Lexie is left with a large scar across her cheek. Overnight her world changes; she no longer recognises herself. Her confidence has vanished, her friendships are changing and the very thing she has always loved- public speaking- now strikes terror into her heart. But when a chance encounter turns into an unexpected friendship, Lexie's feelings about her scar, and herself, are challenged. A relatable and easy read for teenagers and young adults about overcoming obstacles, navigating friendships and finding out that our worth is far more than just skin deep.
Skin is a relatable and easy read for teenagers and young adults because it features a likable but flawed teenage protagonist. It explores overcoming obstacles and navigating relationships that are not always easy. It also explores the power of positive friendships- especially during the formative teen years- and the enrichment we gain from sharing our experiences with others. It encourages the reader to ask- what makes us who we are? And, particularly important in an age where social media is inescapable- is our worth far more than just skin deep?
Review
Lexie is a wonderful public speaker, and her life is pretty great. But then a spot appears under her eye, and she quickly learns that it is a rare melanoma and needs to be operated on. This leaves her with a life changing scar, that she needs to hide from the world. Does it mean the end of her beloved public speaking? But Lexie is due to represent her school in the state finals in a couple of weeks - what can she do?
With the help of a few people, but particularly a girl who has herself been bullied for her skin condition, Lexie realises that she could turn this around and be a voice for change.
It is a wonderful short read exploring the suffering that can come when people feel that it is their right to comment on other peoples’ differences, about learning what makes you who you are, as well as the importance of friendship. Rhiza publish books that contain no swearing and aim to highlight positive values to readers, and this is the first in a new series. It is best suited to lower secondary readers, but can easily be read by upper primary readers.
