Wink by Rob Harrell

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Angus and Robertson, 2020. ISBN: 9781460758878. pbk., 315 pp.
(Age: 12+) Recommended. Being a normal seventh-grader is already tough as it is, and when Ross Maloy gets diagnosed with a rare eye cancer all that goes out the window. Losing his hair, wearing weird hats, or dealing with bullies are all things he does not want to deal with.
This story is based on Rob Harrell's real-life experiences, and included are also illustrations and cartoons he has drawn himself. The story is very much true to life in its details about high school and how teenagers act towards each other and shows the reader an uplifting side to getting through it.
Rob has crafted a funny and memorable story following Ross Maloy that deals with a lot of tough topics that teenagers might come to face at some point in their lives. High school and bullies. Friends and change. And of course, the process of being diagnosed with cancer. But Rob also brings to light that we can still find laughter and happiness when times might seem overwhelming and stressful. These topics and more Ross did well to interpret into his story, and in the end made this a noteworthy read that I think teenagers just coming into high school would enjoy.
Kayla Raphael

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