Rise

by Paige VanZant

[Beth C.]

The original reader for this, actually, was my daughter. However, knowing that there are some heavy topics, I wanted to be able to have a conversation about that with her, should any questions/comments/concerns come up. And then - I just really enjoyed the book.

It's a pretty quick read, and an interesting look at the potential ramifications of childhood bullying, the strength one can find even when one believes there isn't any to be found, and the long-term issues that can surface from sexual assault - even in the future. There's a lot going on here, but it's written in a way that doesn't feel too heavy, even in the middle of it. There are triggers, though I was pleased to see that the description of the actual assault is not hardcore. This is speaking of one who has also been assaulted, so was a bit leery of reading that part.

Overall, this is a story of a young girl who finds her passion, even when she herself felt lost, alone, and afraid. She gives herself strength, and learns how to rise from the ashes.