Book details
I'm Not Her
Description
"For the first time in my life, I didn't feel envy…"Tess is the exact opposite of her beautiful, athletic sister. And that's okay. Kristina is the sporty one, Tess is the smart one, and they each have their place. Until Kristina is diagnosed with cancer. Suddenly Tess is the center of the popular crowd, everyone eager for updates. There are senior boys flirting with her. But, the smiles of her picture perfect family are cracking and her sister could be dying. Now Tess has to fill a new role: the strong one. Because if she doesn't hold it together, who will?Janet Gurtler tests the bonds of sisterhood in this moving debut that readers of Jodi Picoult and Sarah Dessen will savor.
Age
13-17
Text complexity
intermediate
Length
288 pages
Why to read
- Emotional Journey: 'I'm Not Her' offers a poignant and emotional journey through the eyes of Tess, a teenager whose life is turned upside down when her sister is diagnosed with cancer. It's a story that explores the complexities of family dynamics, the challenges of adolescence, and the impact of illness, making it a compelling read for anyone interested in deep, character-driven narratives.
- Relatable Characters: Janet Gurtler has a talent for creating characters that readers can easily relate to. The protagonist, Tess, and her sister Kristina, are well-developed characters with distinct personalities and struggles. Readers may see parts of themselves in Tess's journey of self-discovery and her attempts to step out from her sister's shadow.
- Themes of Identity and Self-Discovery: The book delves into themes of identity, self-discovery, and personal growth. As Tess navigates her sister's illness and the changes it brings to her family, she also embarks on a journey to understand who she is outside of her sister's influence. This makes 'I'm Not Her' an insightful read for those who are interested in stories about finding one's own path in life.
- Inspiring and Uplifting: Despite the heavy subject matter, 'I'm Not Her' is ultimately an inspiring and uplifting story. It showcases the resilience of the human spirit and the power of love and support during difficult times. Readers looking for a book that offers hope and demonstrates the strength of family bonds will find this novel rewarding.