I know I would have benefited greatly by reading a story like this!Įven though I will always consider Judy Blume's Deenie a favourite (and my personal introduction to scoliosis and how horrible, painful and embarrassing having to wear a large back brace continuously with no relief can be for in particular teenagers), I do have to admit that yes, Alyson Gerber's Braced feels not only considerably more current and up-to-date than Deenie but is also much more informative and educational with regard to scoliosis as a condition and that indeed, not wearing a brace, not catching scoliosis in time or in a worst case scenario having the brace not work can necessitate dangerous and painful spinal fusion surgery. The age group this book it targeted to is perfect for the situation, and I could really see this book helping teens who are going through this process.

I loved that this is an own voices story and I found to to be extremely accurate in describing what it's like to go through this. This story is so important for not only kids with scoliosis to read, but those without it so people can gain a broader understanding of what it's like to have scoliosis.

It's a weird condition to be diagnosed with because people have a very vague understanding as to what scoliosis is and the treatment involved. Scoliosis affects you at possibly the worst age, when you're in middle school and people are literally the worst. The insecurity and frustration, as well as the physical pain made this hard to get through, but I am so happy this book exists. This book was extremely hard for me to read emotionally, because it reminded me of so many things I've tried to forget about being in a back brace. It’s the perfect portrayal of this twisty-turny time so many teenage girls go through.įrom The Best Books We Read In March 2017.

Braced brought back so many memories I didn’t know were still locked away in my brain about my time as a 13-year-old with new metal in her spine and a plaster brace to keep her safe. She stands up for herself and kicks ass on the soccer field. Just because her torso is in a shell doesn’t mean the rest of her needs to be covered up. The brace makes common things more difficult, but it also helps her deal with her problems head-on. Her mom went through the same thing at her age - and had surgery for it - and the “You’re so lucky I had it so much worse” grates on Rachel. As she figures out how to function with a big, awkward turtle shell, she also deals with normal teenage things like friends and boys and soccer and dances. I love you and Deenie, but times have changed.) Rachel Brooks just started seventh grade and has to wear a back brace. It’s about time we got a modern scoliosis story.

Focused book by alyson gerber