A Journey of Reclamation: My Review of Top Heavy by Rhonda
When I first stumbled upon Top Heavy, I was immediately intrigued by the notion of a novel-in-verse exploring the tumultuous teenage years of self-discovery. Rhonda’s masterful ability to weave words into raw, emotional threads drew me in from the very first page, promising a journey that would evoke nostalgia and introspection. With only one previous verse novel under my belt, I wasn’t sure what to expect, but I found myself utterly captivated by this lyrical exploration of growing up.
At the heart of Top Heavy is Esmé, a fifteen-year-old navigating the challenging waters of body image, friendships, and the quiet, often unspoken difficulties of her home life. Rhonda’s portrayal of Esmé’s struggles feels achingly authentic, resonating deeply with anyone who has faced the insecurities of adolescence. The author’s ability to encapsulate the intensity of those formative years in such an honest voice made the experience feel profoundly personal. I could practically feel the weight of Esmé’s reflections on her body, particularly her chest, as she navigates the complicated interplay between self-perception and societal expectations.
What truly sets this book apart is the transformation that unfolds through Esmé’s journey. It’s not just a narrative of struggle; it’s a powerful reclamation of identity. Rhonda crafts a pivotal scene that left me breathless—Esmé, consumed by fear and self-blame, ultimately claims back her narrative. “There is only me,” she realizes, and that moment became a beacon of hope for me as a reader. It emphasizes that while trauma shapes us, it doesn’t define us. This message lingered in my mind long after I closed the book.
Esmé’s support system plays a crucial role in her growth. From her loving parents and wise Grammy Jean to her tender boyfriend Todd, each character adds depth to the story. I found myself warmly reminiscing about the innocence of first love through Todd’s portrayal—steady and genuinely kind. The genuine, albeit messy, fallout with her best friend Mia also struck a chord, reflecting one of the hardest lessons of growing up: sometimes, people change, and that’s a part of life we must learn to accept.
Rhonda’s writing style is refreshingly poignant. The pacing was just right, allowing me to savor each line, each emotion, while also propelling me forward in Esmé’s journey. The moments of quiet growth felt like personal victories as I saw Esmé become the person she was meant to be. The revealing quote, “If they are the first things that people see when they see me, maybe I should carry them with pride," encapsulated the essence of her transformation—learning to embrace the parts of herself she once wanted to hide.
Top Heavy may have a simple premise, but its emotional depth is profound. This raw, coming-of-age story is one that will resonate with anyone who has struggled with self-image, body acceptance, or finding their voice amid self-doubt. I genuinely believe it should be a staple in every school and library—a necessary read for young adults and anyone who has ever grappled with their identity.
In conclusion, I wholeheartedly recommend Top Heavy to anyone seeking a heartfelt and authentic exploration of adolescence. Rhonda has crafted a narrative that not only connects with readers but also inspires them to reclaim their own stories. I walked away from this book feeling uplifted, empowered, and ready to embrace my own journey with pride. It’s a reading experience I won’t soon forget.