5 stars
Another fantastic story in the Berrybrook Middle School series. This book works in many of the issues brought up in the first book. It really focuses on bullying and the culture that normalizes it. I loved that the characters examine the deeper issues of bullying and the ways they can change their environment through action and kindness.
As with the first book, Chmakova doesn’t belabor her points. They come off very naturally. She works the messages in nicely without coming off preachy. She really understands her audience and creates some fantastic characters.
Includes various types of bullying, including hurtful jokes between “friends”, fatphobia, and physical violence. It also shows the internalization of such behaviors and how what appears “normal” can actually be hurtful. Fantastic messages about not being afraid to say when you don’t like something and getting support from others when you need it.
This one also brings up dress codes and fighting unfair standards. I really appreciate how the students and teachers came together to fight against unfair rules.
The books can be read in any order, but it’s kind of fun having read Awkward first and knowing what’s going on with Peppi and Jamie when it’s mentioned in passing in the second book.
At the end, is a section about Chmakova’s own ties to the story and a sketch gallery of character designs.
Such a great read. I loved Jorge in this one so I can’t wait to read the third book.