The Skin I'm In by Sharon G. Flake (Paperback)

Sharon G. Flake's award-winning novel tells the story of Maleeka Madison, a seventh grader who is teased for her dark skin, her homemade clothes and her good grades. Desperate to fit in, she goes along with a group of tough girls, even when it means getting into trouble.

When a new teacher with a striking facial birthmark arrives and shows quiet confidence, Maleeka begins to question how she sees herself. Honest, relatable and empowering, this modern classic is widely read in schools and remains a powerful story about self-acceptance for middle grade and young adult readers.