You Belong

by Sami Patron, Summer Crunk (editor)

Starting high school is tough, but for Emily Jarros, starting a new school in March after being bullied for being overweight is nearly impossible. Struggling with her body image and self-esteem, Emily worries that she will never fit in at her new school.

As Emily navigates the ups and downs, making new friends and enemies, she discovers that belonging isn't about blending in but finding the people who see you for who you are.

With humor, heart, and honesty, You Belong is a touching story about embracing yourself and the people who make life brighter.

114 pages, Kindle Edition

Published December 9, 2024

Reviews

[Summer Crunk · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love that Sami was inspired by her students to write this story. Her character development and portrayal of a teenager's struggles with weight loss felt real and relatable. I enjoyed editing this work and recommend it to both teens and adults, male and female. Sami's sweet and funny personality really shines in her writing. This book is safe to use in middle and high school classrooms and is on AR. It is the second book in what will become a 4-5 book series. If you want to give it as a gift, she has some really cute accoutrements in her book boxes.

[Heather Sanders · Rating 5 out of 5]

You Belong had me from the start! I loved it! Once again, the reader is introduced to a young girl dealing with a bully. But Emily is resilient and with the help of her friends (some of whom were introduced in Skin Deep), she comes out of her troubles with more confidence. Reading it, I could feel her pain. I'm sure I'm not the only one that's been self concious about their weight, so part of it definitely felt like some of my story. I can't wait to read more by Sami Patron.

[Kristina Brand · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved Skin Deep, but man oh man!!! You Belong resonated with me on so many levels! I have battled weight on and off for forever, and the way she portrayed the inner struggles of Emily hit hard. I felt it. Whether you are in high school or a mom with two kids, you can empathize! I cannot recommend this series enough. I can't wait to see what Sami has in store for the next book!

[Whitney Mayoral · Rating 5 out of 5]

OH MY GOSH!!! SO GOOD!

Sami knocked this out of the water. Being someone who struggles with weight, I was very excited to read this. She does a really good job in this book of telling you how to stand up to bullies. This book is going to be amazing for teenagers and I am so happy Sami writes these books. Her writing flows so nicely to where you feel like you are in the story. I wish I could read the book for the first time again!

[Bridget · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this book! I loved the way this friend group sticks together and helps Emily gain her confidence back. Love getting to watch these characters grow and learn to love themselves! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ stars!!

[Tiffany Locklin · Rating 5 out of 5]

Absolutely 💯 loved this book and its a subject that everyone should read and more should write about.