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A Zebra Like Me
Maybelle Dawson longs for normalcy and belonging. Often misunderstood, she struggles with a rare disorder, labeling her a Medical Zebra.
Maybelle’s happiness and well-being threaten to slip through her fingers as she battles to take control of her life. She faces a never-ending battle on her journey to find love, courage and friendship in a world lacking acceptance.
With the guidance of her guardian angel, Maybelle finds her way out of emotional and physical isolation to discover lasting love and amazing friendships.
A Zebra Like Me is the story of one teenager’s battle with Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome, a disorder affecting one in five thousand people.
Maybelle’s happiness and well-being threaten to slip through her fingers as she battles to take control of her life. She faces a never-ending battle on her journey to find love, courage and friendship in a world lacking acceptance.
With the guidance of her guardian angel, Maybelle finds her way out of emotional and physical isolation to discover lasting love and amazing friendships.
A Zebra Like Me is the story of one teenager’s battle with Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome, a disorder affecting one in five thousand people.
- GenresHealth
ebook
First published January 15, 2014
6 people are currently reading
126 people want to read
About the author
Amy Maurer Jones
12 books112 followersAmy Maurer Jones has been happily married to her own version of Edward Cullen for sixteen years. She and her soul mate, Kelly, live in Tabor City, North Carolina with their two beautiful children, Olivia and Keaton.
When Amy isn’t reading and writing, she teaches high school theater arts and dance. To say that Amy has a flare for all things creative would be an understatement, just don’t ask her to assemble anything that requires instructions or sadly, you will be out of luck!
If you would like to learn more about Amy and her projects, check out her blog:
http://amyjonesyaff.blogspot.com
When Amy isn’t reading and writing, she teaches high school theater arts and dance. To say that Amy has a flare for all things creative would be an understatement, just don’t ask her to assemble anything that requires instructions or sadly, you will be out of luck!
If you would like to learn more about Amy and her projects, check out her blog:
http://amyjonesyaff.blogspot.com
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Displaying 1 - 12 of 12 reviews
November 7, 2015
A Zebra Like Me is such a sweet story about a brave girl who has had to live with Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome. EDS is a complex disease affecting a persons entire body, but the mental aspect is a hard burden to carry. Not only does the main character, Maybelle struggle with injuries and frequent illnesses, she constantly battles with depressive tendencies. She wants to be normal, whatever that is. To her, going to school without the risk of breaking a bone from a simple fall is it. Or being able to walk down the hall without being in excruciating pain. She wants to fit in, not have people look at her with pity pouring from their wondering gazes. She wants....a regular, teenage life. So, she sends a little note heaven bound...a note gracefully falls the sky, and the story begins. You are not alone, Maybelle.
The character, along with any person dealing with chronic conditions, YOU are not alone.
As a nurse, seeing, dealing with kids who have EDS and other illnesses made this book a bit more personal for me. These kids endure the unthinkable, every single day of their lives and for the most part, they keep going just as Maybelle does. Amy did a fantastic job writing this story so, as a lay person, you can easily understand what's going on in the characters life. Man, I just cried while reading this book. If you know of anyone struggling with an illness, regardless of what it may be, A Zebra Like Me can help them. Just, READ THIS BOOK! I can't encourage you enough. Even if you're wanting to read a book about a girl who likes the guy next door, then read this book. Family issues, first love, first kisses, first date, first dance, first EVERYTHING are all part of this great book, are you catching on? Read and enjoy!
The character, along with any person dealing with chronic conditions, YOU are not alone.
As a nurse, seeing, dealing with kids who have EDS and other illnesses made this book a bit more personal for me. These kids endure the unthinkable, every single day of their lives and for the most part, they keep going just as Maybelle does. Amy did a fantastic job writing this story so, as a lay person, you can easily understand what's going on in the characters life. Man, I just cried while reading this book. If you know of anyone struggling with an illness, regardless of what it may be, A Zebra Like Me can help them. Just, READ THIS BOOK! I can't encourage you enough. Even if you're wanting to read a book about a girl who likes the guy next door, then read this book. Family issues, first love, first kisses, first date, first dance, first EVERYTHING are all part of this great book, are you catching on? Read and enjoy!
November 8, 2014
As an EDSer myself, this book made me cry a few short pages in. My only complaints about the whole thing are a few typos and not spending enough time with Malach's send off. I read it on my phone (for $1.99 on Kindle!) but I plan on buying it in paperback.
I may just give it as Christmas gifts this year.
I may just give it as Christmas gifts this year.
February 10, 2014
Amy Maurer Jones’ A ZEBRA LIKE ME is a touching story about a teenage girl suffering from a rare disorder and discovering how precious friendships can be.
Maybelle Dawson is your typical teenager with one exception. She suffers from Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome, a disorder that affects the body and can cause chronic pain and fatigue. Her grandmother doesn’t believe Maybelle and her symptoms. While Maybelle’s friends are mostly hers because of her cousin, she longs for her own freedom. Maybelle is about to get her wish and when a mysterious good looking boy moves to town, he shows her how awesome life can be and not to be afraid to try new things.
We have good character development. Maybelle is our main character and through her we get to know everyone in her immediate circle. I loved how supportive her mother was and was annoyed when her grandmother didn’t believe Maybelle and her symptoms. I can’t imagine how difficult it must be for those with EDS knowing people who are suppose to love them unconditionally might not believe them. We have several secondary characters who play an important role. Nick is Maybelle’s neighbor who secretly crushes on her and I won’t go into details because I want you to know him on your own. Then we have the mysterious Malach who becomes a much needed friend to Maybelle. Again, I won’t go into details because I do believe you need to read this in order to fully appreciate him.
Narrative is first person told via Maybelle and her guardian angel. Jones does let the reader know when there’s a shift in narration and at times it can pull you out of the moment. It’s easy to go back and see the chapter title and see who is speaking. While I’m not a big fan of first person narration, I do like it when the author explains the change in narration because it helps identify the tone and voice of a character. Sometimes you can’t tell the difference if the author doesn’t make note of it. Both narrators are trustworthy even if we don’t quite know Malach’s motive for being in town. While we trust him because Maybelle does and of course we know who he is, one can’t help but be suspicious of his motives.
What I really liked about Jones’ A ZEBRA LIKE ME is how much we can relate to Maybelle. We’ve all been in her shoes and the uncertainty of making friends. I’ve read several of Jones’ books before and I’ve said it then and I’ll say it again, she truly understands teenagers. I loved the feelings Jones made me feel. From the uncertainty and frustration to the feelings of joy and happiness. It would have been easy for Jones to turn A ZEBRA LIKE ME into a “poor me” book , but instead she gives us a heroine who is real. One that we can all associate with and she’s not afraid of the limitations EDS can impose. She’s aware of her surroundings and I really liked how she didn’t need a boy to define her and instead it was a friendship that helped her realize she has a lot of potential if she just believed in herself a little more.
If you’re looking for a new author to try or are looking to read something with emotional depth, I highly recommend Amy Maurer Jones’ A ZEBRA LIKE ME.
This review and more are posted at Literary, etc.
Maybelle Dawson is your typical teenager with one exception. She suffers from Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome, a disorder that affects the body and can cause chronic pain and fatigue. Her grandmother doesn’t believe Maybelle and her symptoms. While Maybelle’s friends are mostly hers because of her cousin, she longs for her own freedom. Maybelle is about to get her wish and when a mysterious good looking boy moves to town, he shows her how awesome life can be and not to be afraid to try new things.
We have good character development. Maybelle is our main character and through her we get to know everyone in her immediate circle. I loved how supportive her mother was and was annoyed when her grandmother didn’t believe Maybelle and her symptoms. I can’t imagine how difficult it must be for those with EDS knowing people who are suppose to love them unconditionally might not believe them. We have several secondary characters who play an important role. Nick is Maybelle’s neighbor who secretly crushes on her and I won’t go into details because I want you to know him on your own. Then we have the mysterious Malach who becomes a much needed friend to Maybelle. Again, I won’t go into details because I do believe you need to read this in order to fully appreciate him.
Narrative is first person told via Maybelle and her guardian angel. Jones does let the reader know when there’s a shift in narration and at times it can pull you out of the moment. It’s easy to go back and see the chapter title and see who is speaking. While I’m not a big fan of first person narration, I do like it when the author explains the change in narration because it helps identify the tone and voice of a character. Sometimes you can’t tell the difference if the author doesn’t make note of it. Both narrators are trustworthy even if we don’t quite know Malach’s motive for being in town. While we trust him because Maybelle does and of course we know who he is, one can’t help but be suspicious of his motives.
What I really liked about Jones’ A ZEBRA LIKE ME is how much we can relate to Maybelle. We’ve all been in her shoes and the uncertainty of making friends. I’ve read several of Jones’ books before and I’ve said it then and I’ll say it again, she truly understands teenagers. I loved the feelings Jones made me feel. From the uncertainty and frustration to the feelings of joy and happiness. It would have been easy for Jones to turn A ZEBRA LIKE ME into a “poor me” book , but instead she gives us a heroine who is real. One that we can all associate with and she’s not afraid of the limitations EDS can impose. She’s aware of her surroundings and I really liked how she didn’t need a boy to define her and instead it was a friendship that helped her realize she has a lot of potential if she just believed in herself a little more.
If you’re looking for a new author to try or are looking to read something with emotional depth, I highly recommend Amy Maurer Jones’ A ZEBRA LIKE ME.
This review and more are posted at Literary, etc.
February 2, 2014
I don't usually read this genre but I saw this book in Amy's pipeline and decided I would put it on my wish list. And so I did.
This is a tender and warm story about a young coming-of-age girl named Maybelle Dawson, who has a rare disease called EDS, and thus has earned the moniker..."medical zebra."
Inspired to heighten EDS awareness, Amy Jones unleashes a beautifully told tale that is both poetic and heart-warming. Amy weaves her yarn through multiple points of view (Maybelle and Malach), and through Maybelle's diary entries. And I must say it was the perfect way to tell this story because it worked tremendously well. I was pulled into the story from the start as the pages clicked away on my Kindle, one by one. I found that I was never checking the little bar at the bottom of the page that tells you how far you are into the book, and how far you are from the finish. I was in no hurry for this one to end.
Amy Jones obviously has her finger on the pulse of the Young Adult genre. And there are some very good reasons that explain why she is so well tapped in: She is a teacher. She has young children herself. She is a prolific reader of the YA genre. And I suppose she draws nostalgically on memories her own childhood and subsequent early adulthood. Nevertheless, she has truly mastered the genre and found her niche in the literary universe.
And I love the way Amy writes. Her prose is very tight, stylish, and efficient; there is nothing superfluous in her story-telling. But let's get right to the core...Amy uses the hidden art of seduction to pull you in to her tales. It's damn near to hypnosis, I must admit. Those are the words that come to my mind, and that best describe Amy's writing style: Seduction and hypnosis. Seduction and hypnosis. Seduction and...
Anyway, I loved this uplifting story about this sweet young girl overcoming these challenges that Amy has placed in her path. I loved the method and style of the writing. The book's length was just right for the story. And the time I spent in reading "Zebra" was well worth the investment. I shall revisit Mrs. Jones library of books again. And soon! I give this book a 5 star review, as it is richly deserving of it.
This is a tender and warm story about a young coming-of-age girl named Maybelle Dawson, who has a rare disease called EDS, and thus has earned the moniker..."medical zebra."
Inspired to heighten EDS awareness, Amy Jones unleashes a beautifully told tale that is both poetic and heart-warming. Amy weaves her yarn through multiple points of view (Maybelle and Malach), and through Maybelle's diary entries. And I must say it was the perfect way to tell this story because it worked tremendously well. I was pulled into the story from the start as the pages clicked away on my Kindle, one by one. I found that I was never checking the little bar at the bottom of the page that tells you how far you are into the book, and how far you are from the finish. I was in no hurry for this one to end.
Amy Jones obviously has her finger on the pulse of the Young Adult genre. And there are some very good reasons that explain why she is so well tapped in: She is a teacher. She has young children herself. She is a prolific reader of the YA genre. And I suppose she draws nostalgically on memories her own childhood and subsequent early adulthood. Nevertheless, she has truly mastered the genre and found her niche in the literary universe.
And I love the way Amy writes. Her prose is very tight, stylish, and efficient; there is nothing superfluous in her story-telling. But let's get right to the core...Amy uses the hidden art of seduction to pull you in to her tales. It's damn near to hypnosis, I must admit. Those are the words that come to my mind, and that best describe Amy's writing style: Seduction and hypnosis. Seduction and hypnosis. Seduction and...
Anyway, I loved this uplifting story about this sweet young girl overcoming these challenges that Amy has placed in her path. I loved the method and style of the writing. The book's length was just right for the story. And the time I spent in reading "Zebra" was well worth the investment. I shall revisit Mrs. Jones library of books again. And soon! I give this book a 5 star review, as it is richly deserving of it.
January 21, 2014
Rating: 4.5 stars
Maybelle Dawson is a teenager yearning for a normal life while struggling with Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome, a rare disease that can manifest in many ways including chronic pain and illness. She wants friendship and love based on who she is and not what she suffers from, a life without pity.
When Malach, the new kid in town, shows a genuine interest in being her friend, Maybelle is thrilled. Plus, there's the boy next door, Nick--a boy that's known her forever, but is suddenly seeing her in a new light. She's even making new friends. But just as she's enjoying some normalcy, including a memorable Homecoming night, she suffers another blow. Will she ever have the life she's always dreamed about?
This book really touched me. It's hard for any teenager to define themselves. Even harder when they have a condition that brands them before they can figure it out. Then add to that missing school for flare ups and symptoms. Maybelle is fortunate to have her mother and cousin fighting for her, as well as Nick and Malach. But even her grandmother, who clearly loves Maybelle, struggles to understand what she goes through and why she can't simply overcome it.
At its heart, A Zebra Like Me is a poignant story about wanting to fit in and be loved--something we can all relate to. It's also about learning to love yourself and accept what you cannot change, to live within the parameters of your path while still enjoying the beautiful journey of life. Maybelle's story is touching, but empowering.
As if that wasn't enough, there's a sweet romance. What I loved most about it is that it develops slowly with charm and understanding. There are so many wonderful elements to this book, no doubt enriched by the author's own struggle with the disease.
I highly recommend A Zebra Like Me to readers who appreciate a story with emotional depth; one that will touch your heart in many ways.
Note: I received a complimentary copy for review purposes. A positive review was not requested or guaranteed; the opinions expressed are my own.
Maybelle Dawson is a teenager yearning for a normal life while struggling with Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome, a rare disease that can manifest in many ways including chronic pain and illness. She wants friendship and love based on who she is and not what she suffers from, a life without pity.
When Malach, the new kid in town, shows a genuine interest in being her friend, Maybelle is thrilled. Plus, there's the boy next door, Nick--a boy that's known her forever, but is suddenly seeing her in a new light. She's even making new friends. But just as she's enjoying some normalcy, including a memorable Homecoming night, she suffers another blow. Will she ever have the life she's always dreamed about?
This book really touched me. It's hard for any teenager to define themselves. Even harder when they have a condition that brands them before they can figure it out. Then add to that missing school for flare ups and symptoms. Maybelle is fortunate to have her mother and cousin fighting for her, as well as Nick and Malach. But even her grandmother, who clearly loves Maybelle, struggles to understand what she goes through and why she can't simply overcome it.
At its heart, A Zebra Like Me is a poignant story about wanting to fit in and be loved--something we can all relate to. It's also about learning to love yourself and accept what you cannot change, to live within the parameters of your path while still enjoying the beautiful journey of life. Maybelle's story is touching, but empowering.
As if that wasn't enough, there's a sweet romance. What I loved most about it is that it develops slowly with charm and understanding. There are so many wonderful elements to this book, no doubt enriched by the author's own struggle with the disease.
I highly recommend A Zebra Like Me to readers who appreciate a story with emotional depth; one that will touch your heart in many ways.
Note: I received a complimentary copy for review purposes. A positive review was not requested or guaranteed; the opinions expressed are my own.
January 18, 2014
A Zebra Like Me is one of those rare books that is simply spectacular. I've read a lot of Jones' work and am a pretty big fan, but this book was truly something special. Jones has crafted a book that not only brings awareness to Maybelle's illness, but also manages to capture the sweet romance of a first love.
Maybelle is the kind of character I would have wanted to be friends with in high school. She's sweet and talented, but unaware of just how her special qualities. When A Zebra Like Me begins, Maybelle has retreated completely inside her shell due to her EDS. She lets her illness rule her life and it has caused her to be completely insecure. This is completely understandable.
What makes this book so brilliant is Jones' ability to weave her mission of awareness into a story about a girl coming into her own. Throughout the course of hte story, Maybelle simply blossoms and its spectacular to watch. The story is sweet and simple, but packs such a powerful punch that I devoured the book in a single setting.
Books like this should be standard reading in high schools across America. It builds awareness about someone who is different in a way that is not preachy. Instead, it's relatable. It feels real, probably because its based on Jones' on experiences with EDS. In a society where bullying runs rampant, this book celebrates the differences and likenesses among American teenagers. It's real, its fresh, its highly relatable.
Disclaimer: I was gifted a review copy of this book in exchange for an honest review, however, all opinions expressed are my own.
Maybelle is the kind of character I would have wanted to be friends with in high school. She's sweet and talented, but unaware of just how her special qualities. When A Zebra Like Me begins, Maybelle has retreated completely inside her shell due to her EDS. She lets her illness rule her life and it has caused her to be completely insecure. This is completely understandable.
What makes this book so brilliant is Jones' ability to weave her mission of awareness into a story about a girl coming into her own. Throughout the course of hte story, Maybelle simply blossoms and its spectacular to watch. The story is sweet and simple, but packs such a powerful punch that I devoured the book in a single setting.
Books like this should be standard reading in high schools across America. It builds awareness about someone who is different in a way that is not preachy. Instead, it's relatable. It feels real, probably because its based on Jones' on experiences with EDS. In a society where bullying runs rampant, this book celebrates the differences and likenesses among American teenagers. It's real, its fresh, its highly relatable.
Disclaimer: I was gifted a review copy of this book in exchange for an honest review, however, all opinions expressed are my own.
January 19, 2014
A Zebra Like Me by Amy Maurer Jones is a YA story about a teenage girl, Maybelle, who is living with Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome. EDS is a rare and complex condition that makes Maybelle very susceptible to injuries and illnesses. It also causes her to feel constant pain. In the beginning of the story, Maybelle feels isolated and alone. She doesn't feel like anyone truly understands her and she thinks that the other high school students judge her and don't believe her condition is real. But Maybelle is not alone - she has family who loves her and a guardian angel, Malach. With the help of her guardian angel, Maybelle starts to open up to people and develop true friendships. She also is able to realize that she doesn't have to always hide her pain. She needs to know her limitations and live her life to the fullest.
This story is a touching and moving story. It portrays the hardships that someone living with a chronic illness goes through - both emotionally and physically.
The story is very well written and has wonderful characters. The characters are well-developed and easy to relate to. Each character has a unique personality and point of view and they mesh well together to form a support system for Maybelle.
I highly recommend this book.
This story is a touching and moving story. It portrays the hardships that someone living with a chronic illness goes through - both emotionally and physically.
The story is very well written and has wonderful characters. The characters are well-developed and easy to relate to. Each character has a unique personality and point of view and they mesh well together to form a support system for Maybelle.
I highly recommend this book.
February 3, 2014
This book is one of those books that all preteen and teens should read. It has a couple of lessons in the book that would serve both kids who are living with an illness and those who know a person with an illness. Maybelle thought she was a freak and people didn't like her. In all honesty, they didn't know her, not until she came out of her shell once she made a 'friend' Malach. It's hard to sympathize with a person who has an illness we don't 'see' on the outside. We're compassionate to a person in a cast or obvious sickness, but we forget about those who suffer in silence. I live with an illness that people can't 'see' and I don't run around telling everyone, so I understood Maybelle. I hope people will recognize the Maybelles in their life. The kid who walks a little slower, misses school, doesn't play sports, there's usually a reason why.
If you're looking for a 'clean' young adult book, this one is both clean and inspirational. If you like Christian Fiction, this book would fall in that category. I hope this book opens up conversations with parents and friends. Happy reading!
I was offered an ARC by the author for a fair and honest review.
If you're looking for a 'clean' young adult book, this one is both clean and inspirational. If you like Christian Fiction, this book would fall in that category. I hope this book opens up conversations with parents and friends. Happy reading!
I was offered an ARC by the author for a fair and honest review.
August 20, 2014
I enjoyed this book. The characters were personable if not fully fleshed out. I enjoyed the concept of the book, which was to educate people about Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome, a disease from which I suffer. I have the classical type of EDS.
I want to clarify that the weakened immune system issues that are represented in the book are not common in Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome. That being said, EDS effects all of us differently, and the author may have those issues (but as EDSers, we must keep in mind that our EDS can be complicated by other disorders - such as POTS, gastroparesis, and Mast Cell Activation Disorder, which frequently occur with EDS). Broken bones are also not common in EDS, but as with anyone, they can happen. EDSers frequently bruise, dislocate, sublux, have organ prolapses, and many other problems, so, in my opinion, sticking to the more common EDS issues would have been better for educational purposes.
That being said, I am still giving this book four stars, because the effort to educate is commendable, and I think that young people with EDS who take the time to read this book will feel less alone.
I want to clarify that the weakened immune system issues that are represented in the book are not common in Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome. That being said, EDS effects all of us differently, and the author may have those issues (but as EDSers, we must keep in mind that our EDS can be complicated by other disorders - such as POTS, gastroparesis, and Mast Cell Activation Disorder, which frequently occur with EDS). Broken bones are also not common in EDS, but as with anyone, they can happen. EDSers frequently bruise, dislocate, sublux, have organ prolapses, and many other problems, so, in my opinion, sticking to the more common EDS issues would have been better for educational purposes.
That being said, I am still giving this book four stars, because the effort to educate is commendable, and I think that young people with EDS who take the time to read this book will feel less alone.
January 27, 2014
Amy offered me an ARC of her new book, A Zebra Like Me, for a fair and honest review.
The story is about a strong, high school girl dealing with the crushing reality of dealing with a much-unheard of disease: Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome. Ehlers-Danlos is one of those diseases you can't test for, you never know what's going to happen, and most people around you think you're just pretending to get attention.
Maybelle, the book's main character, returns to school her junior year and learns SHE IS NOT ALONE. This is something everyone, everywhere, no matter what your ailment needs to know. She receives help from divine intervention, and through the assistance of this guardian angel, she learns to hold her head high, to accept help, not to single herself out, and to move forward.
This is a great story for anyone going through a hard time, and anyone who knows someone going through a hard time.
I recommend this for audiences 10+.
The story is about a strong, high school girl dealing with the crushing reality of dealing with a much-unheard of disease: Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome. Ehlers-Danlos is one of those diseases you can't test for, you never know what's going to happen, and most people around you think you're just pretending to get attention.
Maybelle, the book's main character, returns to school her junior year and learns SHE IS NOT ALONE. This is something everyone, everywhere, no matter what your ailment needs to know. She receives help from divine intervention, and through the assistance of this guardian angel, she learns to hold her head high, to accept help, not to single herself out, and to move forward.
This is a great story for anyone going through a hard time, and anyone who knows someone going through a hard time.
I recommend this for audiences 10+.
March 23, 2014
Review by Angela
5 Stars <3
A Zebra Like Me is such a sweet story about a brave girl who has had to live with Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome. EDS is a complex disease affecting a persons entire body, but the mental aspect is a hard burden to carry. Not only does the main character, Maybelle struggle with injuries and frequent illnesses, she constantly battles with depressive tendencies. She wants to be normal, whatever that is. To her, going to school without the risk of breaking a bone from a simple fall is it. Also, being able to walk down the hall without being in excruciating pain would be nice. Maybelle wants to fit in, not have people look at her with pity pouring from their wondering gazes. She wants….a regular, teenage life. So, she sends a little note heaven bound…a note gracefully falls the sky, and the story begins. You are not alone, Maybelle.
The character, along with any one dealing with chronic conditions, YOU are not alone.
As a nurse, seeing, dealing with kids who have EDS and other illnesses made this book a bit more personal for me. These kids endure the unthinkable, every single day of their lives and for the most part, they keep going just as Maybelle does. Amy did a fantastic job writing this story so, as a lay person, you can easily understand what’s going on in the characters life. Man, I just cried while reading this book. If you know of anyone struggling with an illness, regardless of what it may be, A Zebra Like Me can help them. Just, READ THIS BOOK! I can’t encourage you enough. Even if you’re wanting to read a book about a girl who likes the guy next door, then read this book. Family issues, first love, first kisses, first date, first dance, first EVERYTHING are all part of this great book, are you catching on? Read and enjoy!
5 Stars <3
A Zebra Like Me is such a sweet story about a brave girl who has had to live with Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome. EDS is a complex disease affecting a persons entire body, but the mental aspect is a hard burden to carry. Not only does the main character, Maybelle struggle with injuries and frequent illnesses, she constantly battles with depressive tendencies. She wants to be normal, whatever that is. To her, going to school without the risk of breaking a bone from a simple fall is it. Also, being able to walk down the hall without being in excruciating pain would be nice. Maybelle wants to fit in, not have people look at her with pity pouring from their wondering gazes. She wants….a regular, teenage life. So, she sends a little note heaven bound…a note gracefully falls the sky, and the story begins. You are not alone, Maybelle.
The character, along with any one dealing with chronic conditions, YOU are not alone.
As a nurse, seeing, dealing with kids who have EDS and other illnesses made this book a bit more personal for me. These kids endure the unthinkable, every single day of their lives and for the most part, they keep going just as Maybelle does. Amy did a fantastic job writing this story so, as a lay person, you can easily understand what’s going on in the characters life. Man, I just cried while reading this book. If you know of anyone struggling with an illness, regardless of what it may be, A Zebra Like Me can help them. Just, READ THIS BOOK! I can’t encourage you enough. Even if you’re wanting to read a book about a girl who likes the guy next door, then read this book. Family issues, first love, first kisses, first date, first dance, first EVERYTHING are all part of this great book, are you catching on? Read and enjoy!
July 31, 2014
Reviewer: Donna
Rating: 5 Stars
**Copy received from author in exchange for an honest review**
This story is based around a girl called Maybelle who suffers from Ethers-Danlos Syndrome which effect her connective tissue and just a simple fall can result in a serious injury for her. She likes to be independent and finds it hard to rely on other people. She a loner and only has her cousin, Erin to hang out with. She has a friend that lives next door, Nick who she has had a crush on for a long time but he's a popular athlete at school so she feels they don't swim in the same circles.
Malach is Maybelle's guardian angel and his job is to look out for her from heaven and he see's how isolated Maybelle is and that she is letting her condition control her so he decides to materialise as a human and help Maybelle to realise that she's more than just her condition.
It's so enjoyable and i loved this story so much! It was truly amazing to read about this condition that to be honest, i had never heard about. I t really opened my eyes to something i knew nothing about and it seems such a hard thing to live with. It was quite an emotional thing to see Maybelle progress and become a totally different person to be the loner. Characters were all loveable and i loved the idea of this guardian angel looking out for her and guiding her through the hard time she has even though to her, she has accepted her life the way it is. It's nice to think that everyone has an guardian angel out there somewhere. Highly recommend and it was such a beautiful story.
Rating: 5 Stars
**Copy received from author in exchange for an honest review**
This story is based around a girl called Maybelle who suffers from Ethers-Danlos Syndrome which effect her connective tissue and just a simple fall can result in a serious injury for her. She likes to be independent and finds it hard to rely on other people. She a loner and only has her cousin, Erin to hang out with. She has a friend that lives next door, Nick who she has had a crush on for a long time but he's a popular athlete at school so she feels they don't swim in the same circles.
Malach is Maybelle's guardian angel and his job is to look out for her from heaven and he see's how isolated Maybelle is and that she is letting her condition control her so he decides to materialise as a human and help Maybelle to realise that she's more than just her condition.
It's so enjoyable and i loved this story so much! It was truly amazing to read about this condition that to be honest, i had never heard about. I t really opened my eyes to something i knew nothing about and it seems such a hard thing to live with. It was quite an emotional thing to see Maybelle progress and become a totally different person to be the loner. Characters were all loveable and i loved the idea of this guardian angel looking out for her and guiding her through the hard time she has even though to her, she has accepted her life the way it is. It's nice to think that everyone has an guardian angel out there somewhere. Highly recommend and it was such a beautiful story.
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