Middle School Level ( )

Sixth-grade student Elyse has a rare condition where words appear on her body as a result of someone nearby using that word in reference to her. For instance, if someone is mad at her and calls her stupid, stupid appears on an arm or leg. Bad words itch, good words do not. Having this condition caused Elyse to be a rather shy child, but in this book she comes to terms with her condition while learning some valuable lessons about growing up, friendships, relationships and life with parents who love you no matter what. This was a wonderful book. ( )

A mostly realistic fiction novel with a side of paranormal, this sweet novel will appeal to sixth graders.

Elyse has an unusual condition with which she was born. When adjectives are used to describe her, they immediately appear on her skin, similar to a tattoo. The hurtful words itch. They fade over time. Therefore, she might be branded with beautiful, dork, witch, or freak at any given moment. She’s never made a secret of this unusual condition, but it has been difficult. When she began school, Elyse’s doctor explained to the class that they couldn’t call her names. One particular girl, Jeg, was particularly protective of Elyse. If anyone even looked like he was going to verbally attack Elyse, Jeg would step in.

Jeg and Elyse are now in 6th grade middle school where there are many people who do not know of Elyse’s condition. Jeg decides to expand her friendship base, leaving Elyse to fend for herself. One day Elyse finds a blue note folded neatly in her lock encouraging her to try for the Explorer Leader position. These notes challenge Elyse to not hide but to join people and believe in herself. Nice Andy enjoys spending time with her; he encourages her to go for this prestigious position as well. Unfortunately, there are many who continue to say hurtful things. Elyse will have to find her inner strength, deal with a very itchy body, and finish the sixth grade with friends and confidence.

The novel flows well and has lovely messages about friendship and personal strength. If you want a sweet, easy-to-read novel that has a feel-good ending, give this one a try. ( )

This middle school story is told from the point of view of Elyse, who suffers from a rare condition which causes words used to describe her to appear on her skin. Kind words soothe but hurtful words itch like so many mosquito bites. The plot is driven by mysterious notes being delivered to her by someone who wants to help her. And for the first time, some of the hurtful words come from Elyse, herself, as she struggles with self-esteem. There are issues with her parents, particularly her father that play out in the background. ( )

Elyse is a middle school girl who was born with CAV. This means whenever someone calls her a name, good or bad, it appears on her arms and legs. The good ones she wears proudly, but the bad ones can be quite itchy. Transitioning from elementary to middle school has brought on new challenges for Elyse. Everyone she knows is changing, acting different. Elyse wonders if she can just do something different, like be the class leader for the annual sixth grade trip, her troubles might disappear.

Author Abby Cooper writes from Elyse’s point of view and sends a wonderful message to all middle school students about how we see ourselves, taking risks, and much, much more. I recommend every middle grade girl read this book!! ( )