Bravey (Adapted for Young Readers): Chasing Dreams, Befriending Pain, and Other Big Ideas by Alexi Pappas
Published by Delacorte on 08/22/23
ISBN: 0593562747
Genres: Biography/Autobiography, Mental Health, Non-Fiction
Format: Nonfiction
Source: MSL Book Review
Goodreads

Brave (Adapted for Young Readers) is a motivating memoir by author, film writer, actor and Olympian, Alexi Pappas. Pappas describes some of the most meaningful moments in her life as she shares valuable insights to help young readers, especially girls, become brave and chase their dreams.  Important lessons include seeking out mentors, changing can’t to maybe, and how to deal with mental and physical pain.  Despite her success, life has been hard for Pappas, and she doesn’t shy away from discussing difficult these challenges, starting with her mother’s suicide when she was four. Pappas also struggles with significant mental health challenges and details this personal journey as well.  Middle school readers, especially those interested in self-improvement or chasing big dreams, will enjoy this book.  Each chapter starts with an inspiring quote or message and ends with bullet points of what readers can take away from each section.  While the tone of this book is generally upbeat and optimistic, the part about her mother’s self harm and suicide is a bit graphic and might be hard for some young people to read.

Reviewed by Lindsay Varnum, Orono Public Library, Orono, ME