By Amy Thompson
The Skin I’m In is a young adult fiction novel by Sharon G. Flake. The main character, Maleeka, is a thirteen-year-old Black girl who faces relatable challenges: living in a low-income, single-parent household, experiencing bullying, and struggling with low self-esteem. This story follows Maleeka’s journey to self-acceptance.
Flake’s vivid portrayal of Maleeka’s struggles deeply reflects the character’s insecurities: “It’s bad enough that I’m the darkest, worst-dressed thing in school. I’m also the tallest, skinniest thing you ever seen.” (Flake 4). This depiction does not shy away from the harsh reality of bullying and its impact on many young people.
The author details Maleeka’s journey from trying to fit in to eventually realizing her self-worth. For example, Maleeka befriends a popular girl at school, Charlese, and goes to great lengths to fit in, even if it is destructive. The anxiety of going against whatever Charlese told her to do controls Maleeka. The author did a good job of representing the feeling of being trapped in an undesirable relationship due to fear.
Miss Saunders Maleeka’s middle school teacher sets an example for Maleeka and the reader. Miss Saunders was aware of the ridicule and learned to accept her appearance: “It takes a long time to accept yourself for who you are. To see the poetry in your walk,” (Flake 19). Despite being treated like a spectacle her whole life, her character shows a level of self-acceptance that many people struggle to adopt.
The Skin I’m In is multi-faceted and nevertheless relatable. When I read it, I could not put it down. It touches on important topics and keeps you on the edge of your seat. It can be inspiring and sometimes heartbreaking. The story has helped me realize that how you see yourself is more important than anyone else’s idea of who you are.
This story is spectacular and empowering for anyone who can resonate with Maleeka’s character. It can even provide insight for those seeking a different perspective. I related to Maleeka’s character and was comforted by the feeling of not being alone. Flake stated in an interview with Pitt Magazine, “I get kids from all over seeing themselves in my novel because they know what it’s like to be different.” In conclusion, The Skin I’m In delivers the inspiring message that there is nothing wrong with being unique.
