Smile
A heartfelt graphic memoir about a girl’s smile and self-discovery.
Summary of 6 Key Points
Key Points
- Raina’s traumatic dental accident
- Struggle with braces and dental surgery
- Dealing with middle school drama
- Learning about friendship and growing up
- Finding self-confidence and acceptance
- Exploring themes of resilience and personal growth
key point 1 of 6
Raina’s traumatic dental accident
Raina’s traumatic dental incident occurs when she rushes after her friends during a Girl Scouts meeting and trips, falling flat on her face. This sudden accident results in the loss of her two front teeth, a pivotal moment that sets the tone for the dental and emotional journey she will undergo throughout her adolescence. The immediate shock and pain of the incident are palpable, and it becomes the catalyst for a series of dental procedures and the associated physical and psychological discomfort that Raina experiences…Read&Listen More
key point 2 of 6
Struggle with braces and dental surgery
The central character is confronted with the complex and often uncomfortable journey of dental adjustments, which begins with a seemingly innocuous trip and an injury that leads to an emergency orthodontist visit. During this visit, it’s revealed that the character will have to undergo an extensive and prolonged treatment involving braces. The portrayal of this experience is both vivid and relatable, delving into the physical discomfort, the self-consciousness, and the social implications that accompany the wearing of braces…Read&Listen More
key point 3 of 6
Dealing with middle school drama
Dealing with middle school drama is portrayed through the protagonist’s journey, where she navigates the complexities of friendships and social hierarchies. The protagonist experiences the volatility of relationships during these formative years, encountering peers who can be both supportive and cruel. Middle school is depicted as a time of self-discovery and social challenge, where the protagonist learns the hard truths about trust and the transient nature of some friendships…Read&Listen More
key point 4 of 6
Learning about friendship and growing up
Learning about friendship in this narrative involves understanding the complexities and nuances of relationships as the characters navigate their formative years. The protagonist experiences friendships that are both uplifting and challenging, illustrating how connections with others can deeply influence one’s sense of self and belonging. Through trials and tribulations, the protagonist learns that true friendship is not just about sharing interests or spending time together, but also about mutual respect, empathy, and support through difficult times…Read&Listen More
key point 5 of 6
Finding self-confidence and acceptance
The narrative delves into the journey of a middle school girl who, after a fall, injures her two front teeth. This incident leads to a series of dental and orthodontic procedures, which unsurprisingly, cause her substantial embarrassment and discomfort during her adolescent years. The protagonist’s struggle with braces, headgear, and retainers is depicted with an emphasis on the impact these have on her self-confidence. She begins to feel self-conscious about her appearance and how others perceive her, which is a common concern among individuals at such a vulnerable age where peer acceptance plays a significant role…Read&Listen More
key point 6 of 6
Exploring themes of resilience and personal growth
Resilience is a central theme in the narrative, which is explored through the protagonist’s journey of overcoming adversity. The storyline intricately weaves instances of personal challenges, such as dealing with a traumatic accident that results in dental injury, and the subsequent emotional and physical toll it takes. The protagonist’s resilience is tested through her experiences of pain, surgeries, and the social pressures of fitting in during her formative years…Read&Listen More