Deenie by Judy Blume Search Amazon for other books by or about Judy Blume. Rating: Reviewed by: Angie Dragos

Deenie is in seventh grade. She's beautiful, and if her mother gets her way she'll be a famous model by the time she's seventeen. Unfortunately, Deenie doesn't want to model as much as her mother and aunt want her to. If it wasn't for her horrible posture she might have broken into the modeling scene already. Of course, her mother is angry but Deenie swears she tries to stand up straight. Finally she gets proof. Some of Deenie's teachers notice things about her posture in and suggest that she see a doctor. Deenie wonders what the heck's going on and before she knows it she's in the doctors office where she finds out that her posture isn't her fault after all – it's scoliosis.

Deenie's full of questions and hostility. Scoliosis? What's that? Why did Deenie get scoliosis? Who did it come from? Would she die? She's very angry. Why did this have to happen to her of all girls? And just in time for the seventh grade mixer, too. What would her friends think? Will Buddy still like her if he finds out? Everything is happening so fast and none of it seems fair. One thing's for sure though – she's definitely not wearing that brace, no matter what anyone says.

Emotional. Truthful. Inspiring. This story will touch you. It illustrates Deenie's struggle with scoliosis. As you read, you will learn the lessons Deenie learns. This is truly Judy Blume at her best. She captures the emotions of a girl with Scoliosis so well. The characters and situations are realistic – which make every word seem completely genuine. This book should be on the shelves of all young girls with scoliosis. It will give them new perspective on the disorder and help them realize, on their own, what's most important in life.

Judy Blume is known for her daring dives into the forbidden topics of sexuality. All of her books contain small bits of childhood sexuality, and that would explain why her books are sometimes on the banned book list. This book, too, briefly discusses the sexuality of a seventh grader. It's completely pure and harmless, and a good way for children to feel more comfortable about their bodies. Blume wouldn't mention it if it weren't significant to the story, so we have to trust her.

Deenie is a good book for everyone - even someone wishing to learn more about scoliosis. It's a good way to learn what friends with scoliosis might be going through. You can't go wrong with this one. It's a beautiful story about inner and outer beauty – and which is more important.