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brendalovesbooks's review
3.0
I can't say I loved this one. The cosplay stuff was fun, but there are also a lot of serious things going on in this book. I'm not sure I'm really the target audience for this.
linwearcamenel's review
emotional
lighthearted
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
3.0
nicolemhewitt's review
5.0
This review and many more can be found on my blog: Feed Your Fiction Addiction
A book that deftly blends the fun of cosplay and conventions with the more serious topics of mental health and foster care. Jessica has learned the "rules" of foster care--don't get too close to people and try not to cause too many problems. But when she gets a mysterious message from someone claiming to be her birth mother and the possible opportunity to visit her, Jessica breaks every rule on her list. She ends up teaming up with a group of cosplaying kids, hoping to win a spot at a big-time convention in NYC, which just happens to be where her mom is at. Jessica has to navigate her complicated feelings for her mom, who has schizophrenia, her new foster mom, who actually seems like a really nice person if only Jessica didn't have to lie to her all the time, and the very geeky but also sort of sweet Oscar. Since the author is a former foster teen herself, she captures Jessica's feelings perfectly. It's hard not to both root for the MC and want to shake some sense into her as she navigates a world of hurt alone when there are so many people around her who would want to help. The book definitely pulls at your heartstrings--it had me in tears by the end. So much to love about this story!
***Disclosure: I received this book from the publisher via NetGalley so I could provide an honest review. No compensation was given and all opinions are my own.***
A book that deftly blends the fun of cosplay and conventions with the more serious topics of mental health and foster care. Jessica has learned the "rules" of foster care--don't get too close to people and try not to cause too many problems. But when she gets a mysterious message from someone claiming to be her birth mother and the possible opportunity to visit her, Jessica breaks every rule on her list. She ends up teaming up with a group of cosplaying kids, hoping to win a spot at a big-time convention in NYC, which just happens to be where her mom is at. Jessica has to navigate her complicated feelings for her mom, who has schizophrenia, her new foster mom, who actually seems like a really nice person if only Jessica didn't have to lie to her all the time, and the very geeky but also sort of sweet Oscar. Since the author is a former foster teen herself, she captures Jessica's feelings perfectly. It's hard not to both root for the MC and want to shake some sense into her as she navigates a world of hurt alone when there are so many people around her who would want to help. The book definitely pulls at your heartstrings--it had me in tears by the end. So much to love about this story!
***Disclosure: I received this book from the publisher via NetGalley so I could provide an honest review. No compensation was given and all opinions are my own.***
thebookishpage's review
5.0
Going to jump right into it, I loved this book. when the author wrote on the dedication page "This book is for the foster kids who are still looking for their forever families, and for Dixie and Kim, who found me when I was lost" I knew I was in for an emotional ride. this book not only was very relatable coming from foster care but also touch on mental illness and seeking help. hiding behind make-up and a certain aesthetic just to survive foster care. from the start Jess was very relatable even her first day at the new high school I completely cringed because it was spot on. I later fell for her foster parent barbara, she was a breath of fresh air to read. she created this beautiful natural bond with jess and in turn supported her every decision from thrift store looks to sewing costumes for her side hobbies. I cried and laughed and cried some more. thank you Lindsay for writing such a beautiful masterpiece. for helping me heal some wounds I've ignored all these years. But mostly for allowing me to forgive myself like jess and accepting help and happiness. highly recommend this book to everyone, I guarantee it's a story you'll hold onto.
beyondevak's review
5.0
Quick Summary: Brilliant, beautiful, and so needed
My Review: Goth Girl, Queen of the Universe by Lindsay S. Zrull was a brilliantly written book. It spoke about a number of serious issues. From family and foster care to mental illness and how it is perceived at large - it was all there. More than that, this unique story addressed care management for those who suffer from a mental disorder as well as for those who serve those who suffer. It spoke of identity and friendship, as well as about forgiveness and reconciliation. It was beautiful.
My Final Say: This is a hidden gem.
My Review: Goth Girl, Queen of the Universe by Lindsay S. Zrull was a brilliantly written book. It spoke about a number of serious issues. From family and foster care to mental illness and how it is perceived at large - it was all there. More than that, this unique story addressed care management for those who suffer from a mental disorder as well as for those who serve those who suffer. It spoke of identity and friendship, as well as about forgiveness and reconciliation. It was beautiful.
My Final Say: This is a hidden gem.
adrzeck's review
4.0
Inclusivity, finding your family, body positive. Great tale of geekdom and growth.
However, I'd be remiss if the words of Bikini Kill aren't included in this review because these modified lyrics floated through my head whenever I picked up the book, in no small part because it felt true,
"That girl thinks she's the queen of the neighborhood
She's got the hottest trike in town
That girl, she holds her head up so high
I think I wanna be her best friend, yeah
[Goth Girl, Goth Girl]
...."
However, I'd be remiss if the words of Bikini Kill aren't included in this review because these modified lyrics floated through my head whenever I picked up the book, in no small part because it felt true,
"That girl thinks she's the queen of the neighborhood
She's got the hottest trike in town
That girl, she holds her head up so high
I think I wanna be her best friend, yeah
[Goth Girl, Goth Girl]
...."
gothradiohour's review
4.0
As a gothy gurl myself, I was instantly drawn to the cover and title. I haven't read a YA novel in a while, so I couldn't help but cringe at the teenage protagonist's mental energy. I nearly put the book down, it was getting to me.
I'm very happy I stuck with it! The main character Jess is a hardened foster kid but softens throughout the book and it was such a lovely touching story. I really liked it! She learns about friends and trusting people, and can't we all learn a lesson or two about that. The plot moves fast, and keeps you smiling as Jess learns to trust her new friends.
I look forward to Zrull's next book!
I'm very happy I stuck with it! The main character Jess is a hardened foster kid but softens throughout the book and it was such a lovely touching story. I really liked it! She learns about friends and trusting people, and can't we all learn a lesson or two about that. The plot moves fast, and keeps you smiling as Jess learns to trust her new friends.
I look forward to Zrull's next book!
fangirl76's review
5.0
Absolutely one of my new all time favorites! This was an eye opener and yet fun and entertaining at the same time.
kkrato's review
4.0
The main character is a foster youth. Centers on relationships, trust, mental health, diversity, and foster care. Written by a former foster youth. 4.5
natahoochie's review
4.0
On the book: This was such a precious read. Truly heart warming. I've been tearing up at my desk throughout the whole book. The writing is quite simple, but effective, and it reads the way a teenager thinks and talks. All in all, worth it.
On my setting: It was cold enough to wear a light sweater to work today but somehow I'm still freezing at my desk. Children are screaming. Carts are clunking. A patron had a bit of a psychotic episode. What a day. All in all, still the best job ever.
On my setting: It was cold enough to wear a light sweater to work today but somehow I'm still freezing at my desk. Children are screaming. Carts are clunking. A patron had a bit of a psychotic episode. What a day. All in all, still the best job ever.