Ugly by Robert Hoge

Hachette Australia, 2015. ISBN 9780733634338
(Age: 10+) It has taken me a while to get to review this Younger Readers' version of Robert Hoge's successful memoir. My Year 8 students have been working on an English task which was to research and write a feature article about an inspirational hero and one of my young ladies had chosen Robert because she had started reading his memoir. I had just received this review copy so handed it to her in case she might find it helpful as well. Not only does the book come with her recommendation, she was so delighted that Robert responded to her email to him and she has been able to ask him questions directly. What a generous human! Thank you Robert - you provided this wonderful young girl with an amazing learning experience!
Today I spent a very pleasant hour or so reading this funny and moving, honest and courageous recollection of growing up as the 'ugly' kid. Robert's story is by now pretty well known to many adults who have either learned about his life via the book or the media but this new edition will bring his inspirational story to a whole new readership.
When Robert was born with severe physical problems including a large facial tumour, his family's life changed in many respects but not in the most important aspect. They were still a loving, supportive unit who when faced with a challenge rose to it with an admirable and enviable ease.
But let's not make light of this. This is an incredible story - of not only a wonderful human being but an exceptional family.
Do yourself a favour and read it. Better still put this on your shelves! The Younger Reader version is eminently suitable for readers of around 10 and up.
Check out Robert's website here  and teaching notes here.
Sue Warren