Girl World

June 22, 2015
Navigating insecurities and finding trusted friendships can be particularly challenging for teenage girls, acknowledges Ottaviano, founder of the nonprofit organization Sister Soldier—Stand Up for Each Other. In her plainspoken guide to teen social life, she explores such scenarios as being seen as an outsider, ostracized by one’s friends, or cyberbullied. She also discusses ways girls can self-sabotage through negative or limiting ways of thinking, and how bullying is perpetuated by those fearful of being targeted themselves. Phrases like “BFF soul-sistas” may strike some readers as cheesy or inauthentic, and themes of self-love and embracing individuality can become repetitive. Yet Ottaviano’s advice about fighting the pressure to conform, expanding one’s friend base, standing up against cruelty, and apologizing for hurting others can benefit readers throughout high school and beyond. Ages 12–up. Agent: Steven Harris, CSG Literary Partners.

September 1, 2015

Gr 6 Up-"Every day is a new day. Embrace it!" Ottaviano invites girls to set their own courses as they navigate the brave new world of middle and high school. The text is filled with practical advice for embracing both the future and oneself. Acting as a guide, Ottaviano helps readers deal with external and internal conflicts, encouraging them to develop a strong sense of self and self-worth. By refusing to give in to drama, girls can discover how to stand up for themselves in spite of criticism. The author covers dealing with face-to-face encounters, social media, and one's own thoughts. Though none of the advice is new, it is packaged in an appealing format. VERDICT This spunky, encouraging tome will brighten the shelves of the teen self-help section.-Elaine Baran Black, Georgia Public Library Service, Atlanta

Copyright 2015 School Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.

October 1, 2015
Grades 7-10 Ottaviano, founder of the nonprofit school-assembly and empowerment program Sister SoldierStand Up for Each Other, pens a guide to navigating the nerve-racking, feelings-hurting relationship problems that can wreck middle-school and high-school friendships. Easy to read and written in a conversational style, Ottaviano's advice is all about loving yourself, seeing how incredible those around you really are, and identifying true friendships. In chapters like Free Yourself and Damage Control, she discusses bullying, cyberbullying, and mean girls, and she focuses on getting girls to understand their own strengths and learn to stand up for themselves. At times, Ottaviano's use of slang can come off as a bit ingratiating, and the advice can be somewhat repetitive. But it's hard not to cheer her fight to get girls to see what a good friendship looks like and assure them that they do have something to offer. A good choice for teens looking for some inspiration and guidance.(Reprinted with permission of Booklist, copyright 2015, American Library Association.)