Why read The Other Side of Perfect?

Book cover of The Other Side of Perfect

Book description

For fans of Sarah Dessen and Mary H.K. Choi, this lyrical and emotionally driven novel follows Alina, a young aspiring dancer who suffers a devastating injury and must face a world without ballet—as well as the darker side of her former dream.

Alina Keeler was destined to dance, but then…

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Why read it?

2 authors picked The Other Side of Perfect as one of their favorite books. Why do they recommend it?

Michelle Quach

Author

The Other Side of Perfect is about a young ballet dancer, Alina, who suffers a life-changing injury and must learn to deal with her multilayered, sometimes unsympathetic, anger.

Even though its themes are heavy, I somehow couldn’t put this one down. The characters are so real (and often funny), and every conflict unfurls with realistic nuance, sometimes devastatingly so.

Mariko Turk’s refusal to simplify emotions—even when exploring painful topics like racism—earns this book a standing ovation from me.

From Michelle's list on The best coming-of-age books about smart but (very) flawed Asian girls.

Miel Moreland

Author

Alina was well on her way to becoming a professional ballerina—until a devastating leg injury leaves her unable to dance en pointe. She returns to regular high school full-time, becomes involved with the school musical, and suddenly has to navigate changing relationships with her classmates and her still-dancing sister. This book is wonderfully complex and absolutely beautiful. It’s unapologetic about Alina’s ambition in a way that is rare for Young Adult novels. Reading it was like letting out a breath I knew I had been holding, but wasn’t sure I would ever be allowed to release.

From Miel's list on The best young adult novels about ambitious girls.