3/5 pairs of open toed shoes and a friendship toe ring.
First things first, I want to thank NetGalley, Capstone, and Switch Press for the opportunity to read and review “Nice Girls Endure”.
I have many conflicting thoughts on this one. For one the message of self-acceptance, pride, and love that this story gets across towards the end is very important. Being bullied is never an easy thing to endure and honestly shouldn't have to be. I applaud Chelsea for being strong enough to not see anything wrong with herself. I wish I had that at her age. Although now I would certainly not let it go on and get as bad as it does for her, but I’ve had my own struggles and learned from them. Another thought that crossed my mind is how Chelsea is deemed this overweight girl who needs to lose weight for her own good and all of that. Well I happen to nearly match her measurements and proportions and yet I know that although I’m not super toned and whatnot, I’m not ‘fat’ either. It’s an interesting look at things I guess.
For the story itself I thought that it was alright. The message is loud and clear at the end but there isn't much aside from one event that really held my attention. I only finished it because it was so short. My favorite character wasn't even the main one! Brandy is my favorite! I’m glad that the story ended the way that it did, but overall it wasn't a gripping story that I would be over the moon to recommend to someone. If you want a short story that has a good message, even with a feeling of waiting a long time to get there, than this is a good read for you. The story was structured well just not as gripping as others that I typically read. I gave it three stars because of the message mostly.
~~~~~~~~~~Synopsis~~~~~~~~~~
Chelsea Duvay is so many things. She’s an avid music lover, she’s a gifted singer, and she has the most perfect, beautiful feet. But no one ever notices that. All they notice is Chelsea’s weight. Daily, Chelsea endures endless comments about her appearance from well-meaning adults and cruel classmates. So she keeps to herself and just tries to make it through. Don't make waves. Don't draw attention. That's how life is for Chelsea until a special class project pushes the energetic and incessantly social Melody into Chelsea's world. As their unlikely friendship grows, Chelsea emerges from her isolated existence, and she begins to find the confidence to enjoy life. But bullies are bullies, and they remain as vicious as ever. One terrible encounter threatens to destroy everything Chelsea has worked so hard to achieve. Readers will be captivated by Chelsea's journey as she discovers the courage to declare her own beauty and self-worth, no matter what others might think. A must-read for anyone who loves to explore the personal but powerful territory of everyday life.