Scan barcode
linnaboobooks's review against another edition
It's been months since I last read a non-fiction, and this was the best one to bring me back into reading them.
I'm fond of reading essay collections, this one inspired by Michelle Obama and her quotes over the years is one of the simplest but meaningful ones out there for future generations. Each quote and its meaning holds an important anecdote that anyone can apply to their life regardless if they're a teenager or adult.
For some it may take away a bit of loneliness, knowing they're not totally alone with a feeling or experience, that both the author and our former first lady have gone through similar. And while I personally have have not experienced the struggle of being a poc, as I'm white, I have struggled with how people perceive me and the struggle to have friendships. Of being bullied when I was younger and then not quite befriending the bully after, but being on better terms with them. Of anxiety and being overwhelmed by the world. And have dealt with a few other topics touched on in this collection.
If you have interest in reading this or gifting it to someone, do it. Especially for any black or brown young adults in your life.
I'm fond of reading essay collections, this one inspired by Michelle Obama and her quotes over the years is one of the simplest but meaningful ones out there for future generations. Each quote and its meaning holds an important anecdote that anyone can apply to their life regardless if they're a teenager or adult.
For some it may take away a bit of loneliness, knowing they're not totally alone with a feeling or experience, that both the author and our former first lady have gone through similar. And while I personally have have not experienced the struggle of being a poc, as I'm white, I have struggled with how people perceive me and the struggle to have friendships. Of being bullied when I was younger and then not quite befriending the bully after, but being on better terms with them. Of anxiety and being overwhelmed by the world. And have dealt with a few other topics touched on in this collection.
If you have interest in reading this or gifting it to someone, do it. Especially for any black or brown young adults in your life.
deviationoftheendless's review against another edition
emotional
informative
inspiring
medium-paced
3.0
notinjersey's review against another edition
4.0
I have read Ashley Woodfolk’s novels and of course I love and admire Michelle Obama, so I was very interested in the concept of this book. Inspired by the life and quotations of former first lady Michelle Obama, Opening My Eyes Underwater is a collection of essays including essays about bullying, heartbreak, racism, and confidence. This book is geared towards the YA reader with the promise that you are valuable and you are not alone. She says “We’re never truly alone, if only we have the patience to listen to the stories of others, and the courage to share our own.” This was a quick and inspiring read that will appeal to teens and adults alike.
csutherlin3's review
hopeful
fast-paced
2.0
This was not meant for me. I was not aware it was a teen inspirational/self help book. I completely misunderstood from the beginning. Had I known that, I wouldn’t have bothered. Maybe it’ll help a teen or young adult. But I know when I was younger, I would have hated it.
jessereadsthings's review against another edition
reflective
3.0
Starts and ends slow, but it was definitely interesting to read about the author’s experiences.
Content Warnings
Moderate: Racism, Body shaming, Miscarriage, Bullying, and Sexual assault
bzzlarabzz's review against another edition
4.0
Dubbed “Essays on … Our Hero Michelle Obama,” Opening My Eyes Underwater reads like a compilation of advice and reflections from a regular young woman who is just a little older, with wisdom to share on modern life. Ashley Woodfolk faces challenges just like anyone else, but she has found inspiration in the words of Michelle Obama. She has realized her own worth and the worth of all people through Obama’s guidance. She shares these lessons for young people in a relatable and gentle way, but without hiding the hard parts. Young women, especially young women of color, will particularly benefit from the advice and kindness offered in this quick, accessible read. Also included are resources on organizations and books for further support.