Like other literary heroes, kids can find honorable ways to defeat the antagonists (a.k.a. Using her younger self as an example, Raina shows readers that they are the protagonists in their own stories.

Raina’s novels show readers that it’s normal to struggle and that there are ways to overcome challenges. These struggling kids need to read Guts and take advantage of the advice it gives, that there are healthy ways to deal with anxiety and insecurities. Raina’s younger audience is facing their own challenges right now: acne, being too skinny, shyness, anxiety, struggling with schoolwork…the list goes on. Raina’s story is familiar for me and others who have gained an upper hand on their insecurities, but it’s reality for many of her readers. I’ve understood this overtime by talking to a counselor, and now I’ve learned to embrace my height, deal with anxiety in a healthy way, and successfully address people who may comment on my insecurities. What struggling kids like Raina and I need to hear is that their insecurities (and resulting anxiety) can be addressed and helped. Similarly, in the graphic novel, Guts, young Raina Telgemeier’s personal struggles, primarily due to her stomach issues, becomes a source of anxiety. As a 5’9” freshman girl, being taller than most of the boys damaged my self-esteem.

As the story progresses, Guts proves to be a charming story about growing up and facing your fears.įor Readers: Why Should You Pick up Guts?Īs a kid, I was never the “right” height, especially when high school hit, right alongside puberty. After getting a stomach bug, she begins to struggle with a sensitive stomach, anxiety, panic attacks, and a mean girl in school. Based on a true story and geared towards an adolescent audience, Guts features Raina Telgemeier as she starts the fifth grade. Guts, Raina Telgemeier’s highly anticipated graphic novel and companion to Smile and Sisters, was recently released on September 17 th.

The book guts by raina telgemeier