You Should See Me in a Crown: A Heartfelt Journey of Resilience and Identity
I first picked up "You Should See Me in a Crown" by Leah Johnson not just because it promised a delightful YA romance, but also due to its rich tapestry of serious themes woven into a high school setting. As someone who’s enjoying this journey into BookTube and finding my voice among fellow bibliophiles, I felt that this book had a lot to teach—especially after the emotional rollercoaster that “A Little Life” had taken me on. A story about a girl aiming to become prom queen while navigating her identity, family struggles, and societal challenges intrigued me on multiple levels.
Liz Lighty is a character who resonates deeply. Her story is one of resilience; she’s a Black girl confronting not, one but multiple challenges—including anxiety, racial discrimination, and the illness of her loved ones. Johnson has created a character who feels profoundly real and relatable; Liz’s determination to not just survive but thrive speaks volumes, especially for those of us who have felt the weight of societal pressures.
From the outset, Liz tries to remain invisible, hesitant to take center stage. I found myself nodding along when she expressed thoughts that echoed my own fears about standing out or raising eyebrows. This anxiety representation is poignant and relatable, and I appreciated how Johnson tackled such a delicate subject with sensitivity. Liz’s transformation into someone who dares to dream of being the first Black prom queen in her town is nothing short of inspiring.
One of my favorite moments in the book encapsulates this struggle beautifully: Liz reflects on the barriers she faces, stating, “I know then what I’ve always known. Campbell is never going to make space for me to fit. I’m going to have to demand it.” This quote embodies the core of Liz’s journey—the fight for acceptance not just for herself, but for her community.
The dynamic of Liz’s relationships adds depth to the narrative. The budding romance between her and her competition, Mack, was endearing and refreshingly innocent. I loved how their interactions were layered with tension and sweetness without overshadowing the main plot. Johnson strikes a balance—showcasing a queer romance while still focusing on Liz’s developmental story arc and familial ties, particularly her close bond with her grandparents, that grounded her throughout.
There were moments in the book where I felt a palpable frustration with antagonistic characters, particularly Rachel Collins, whose hostility was hard to digest. This tension only amplified my investment in Liz’s journey. The heartfelt moments with her brother Robbie, who shares their family’s struggle with sickle cell anemia, brought tears to my eyes and enriched the emotional landscape of the story.
In conclusion, "You Should See Me in a Crown" is a vibrant tapestry of self-discovery and advocacy, wrapped in the guise of a coming-of-age romance. I wholeheartedly recommend this book to anyone seeking a story that balances serious social issues with heartfelt moments and a sprinkle of humor. This blend made my reading experience deeply enriching, and I found myself cheering for Liz until the very last page. Johnson’s debut is a testament to what a diverse cast and authentic storytelling can achieve—she’s definitely an author I’m excited to follow in the future!
Happy reading, fellow book lovers! 🌟 If you have read this book, I’d love to hear your thoughts. Let’s chat in the comments!
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