This week, we share some of our favourite relatable books!

The Absolutely True Diary of a Part-Time Indian

Goodreads rating: 4.11

Arnold Spirit aka Junior is a Native boy who has lived in the Spokane Indian Reservation for a very long time. He’s been picked on and beaten to a pulp for as long as he can remember. Why? Because he’s different. Junior makes the tough decision to leave the reservation and attend an all-white school where he feels even more like an outcast. This is his story.

What do you know about Native Americans? I’m guessing that aside from learning about colonialism and watching Pocahontas, not a lot. That was me before I read this book too. This book is a real eye-opener and is largely based on Sherman Alexie’s own experiences. If you’ve ever felt like giving up, this book is for you. It will teach you about hope and how happiness can be found in the most unlikely places.

Revenge of the Girl With the Great Personality

Goodreads rating: 3.63

Everyone loves Lexi. Who wouldn’t? She’s got a great personality. But she’d rather be one of those pretty girls who boys open doors for or follow around with their eyes. She’s sick of being taken for granted by her family and friends. It’s time to step away from the sidelines and stand up for herself.

Although a major theme in the book is inner and outer beauty, it’s so much more than that. It follows Lexi’s struggles as a teenager trying to find her place in an unfair world. I usually avoid books which have a rating lower than 3.8 on Goodreads but this book definitely exceeded my expectations. If you’re a person who’s sick of being complimented on your “personality” or being taken for granted, this book is for you.

American Born Chinese

Goodreads rating: 3.88

When his family moves to a mostly white suburb, Jin Wang finds that he’s the only Chinese-American student at his school. He is picked on and bullied, and worst of all, has fallen in love with an American girl.

The Monkey King is loved by his subjects and has mastered all of the heavenly disciples. He doesn’t just want to be a king, he desires to be a God.

Danny is a “normal” American boy. However, he’s terribly embarrassed with his Asian cousin, Chin-Kee, who visits every year. Yang weaves three narratives into one unique masterpiece which is American Born Chinese.

Although this book is specifically about Chinese immigrants, I would recommend it for those who feel that they don’t belong and who crave to fit in. As an Indian immigrant myself, I could totally relate to the characters’ experiences (not so much the Monkey King but you get the idea).

Flipped

Goodreads rating: 3.94

When Juli Baker first set eyes on Bryce Loski, she flipped (yes, I know it’s the title of the book). When Bryce first set eyes on Juli, he ran as fast as he could. This goes on until eighth grade when Juli realises that Bryce isn’t as amazing as she first thought, and Bryce realises that Juli is a pretty great person.

This is an absolutely adorable story about looking past the surface and learning about what love is really about. There’s also a great film adaptation. Recommended for those who’ve ever experienced having a crush (so a lot of you, then).

Fudge Series

Goodreads rating: 4.09

Tales of a Fourth Grade Nothing is the first book in the Fudge series. Peter Hatcher is infuriated by his younger brother, Fudge, because he is frequently in the limelight and is NEVER punished for his mischievous behaviour. From throwing temper tantrums to abstaining from eating altogether, this book shows all of the classic antics that siblings go through at some point.

If you have any annoying siblings, you’ll totally relate to the characters of this series. The books are absolutely hilarious and definitely a must-read. Plus, they’re in the library too.