Perfect : Book Review

"Perfect" by Natasha Friend is a heartfelt and thought-provoking young adult novel that delves into the complex themes of body image, friendship, and self-acceptance. This captivating story follows Isabelle Lee, a teenager who wrestles with her weight and a constant feeling of inadequacy. However, when her family receives devastating news about her sister's health, Isabelle's world is turned upside down, forcing her to confront her insecurities and reevaluate her perceptions of perfection.

What makes Friend's writing style so engaging is its ability to instantly connect readers with Isabelle's struggles. The author approaches the sensitive topic of body image with sensitivity and nuance, shedding light on the damaging impact of societal pressures. Isabelle's journey acts as a powerful reminder that true beauty comes from within and that everyone is imperfect in their own way.

The supporting characters in "Perfect" are skillfully developed and bring depth to the narrative. Isabelle's friendship with her two best friends, Ashley and Zoë, showcases the complexities of teenage relationships and how they can influence one's self-perception. Friend skillfully portrays the ups and downs of friendship, emphasizing the importance of authentic connections during challenging times.

Moreover, "Perfect" explores the dynamics of family through Isabelle's interactions with her sister, April, who is battling an eating disorder. Friend's honest portrayal of the Lee family's struggles sheds light on the emotional toll that such circumstances can have on families. Through Isabelle's perspective, the novel explores the intricacies of love, compassion, and understanding within the context of family.

Overall, "Perfect" is a beautiful, poignant novel that tackles the universal themes of self-acceptance and the pursuit of perfection. Natasha Friend's compassionate and relatable writing makes it a valuable read for teenagers and young adults who may be grappling with similar issues. This book reminds us all that true perfection lies in embracing our unique selves and finding love and acceptance within.

What are readers saying?

Natasha Friend's novel "Perfect" has garnered a range of reviews from readers, with some expressing praise and others voicing their criticisms. The book follows the story of Isabelle Lee, a teenage girl who grapples with her family's unyielding pursuit of perfection. Here is a summary of the reviews:

Numerous readers lauded the book for its authentic portrayal of mental health issues. They commended Friend for delving into topics such as eating disorders, anxiety, and depression with honesty and relatability. The characters' emotions and thought processes were lauded for their raw authenticity, making the story engaging and thought-provoking.

Several reviewers enjoyed the writing style and found the book to be a quick and accessible read. Friend's concise prose was praised for its suitability for both young adult and adult readers. The pacing of the story was also commended, captivating readers from beginning to end.

However, some readers felt that the plot was predictable and lacked depth. They believed it followed a familiar pattern often seen in young adult novels and criticized the neat and convenient resolution of conflicts. These readers also found the characters somewhat one-dimensional, lacking the complexity that would have made them more compelling.

Certain readers expressed concerns about the handling of sensitive topics in the book. They felt that the portrayal of eating disorders, in particular, was oversimplified and lacked sufficient exploration. Additionally, some were disappointed by the lack of diversity among the characters, noting that the story primarily focused on white, middle-class individuals.

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