Smile Like a Plastic Daisy

I read this book years and years ago. I was in elementary or middle school and I picked it up from the school library because it had an unusual name- no joke!"Smile like a plastic daisy, what the heck does that mean?" I thought that day.The story carried me away. I didn't read it for 'feminist theory' or anything like that (I think I was 11) I read it because I enjoyed the story. But yes, the theme of the gender double standard definatley struck a cord and stayed with me. In adition, the idea of kids being activists and standing up for their beliefs where also empowering ideals imparted by this book.This is probably the first book that I ever read that was political in any way, and nearly 20 years later, I remember that book, and I understand what it means- and even what it feels like to 'Smile like a plastic daisy.'I would recomend this book because it was a great story and it was thought provoking. It's been a long time since I read it, and I would love to read it again. Maybe then, I'll come back and tell you all a little bit more about it.Five stars!

Great way to get young people thinking about contemporary issues of double standards toward women; great basic conversation-starting book about critical thinking, protesting, and the costs associated with taking a stand. Although this was simple reading (grade 6-9), the issues are compelling even for a much older audience. I have never read a book that covers these issues with this amount of balance and finesse; incredibly thought-provoking. This would make for some fantastic classroom discussions with teenagers.