Safe for the age band

Age-appropriate with no significant concerns.

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Published
2010
Ages
8–12

About the book

About the book

A graphic memoir about the author's dental drama, which began when she injured her two front teeth in a fall.

AI summary

A graphic memoir about the author's dental drama, which began when she injured her two front teeth in a fall.

Why parents choose this book

What makes Smile worth choosing

An honest, parent-first look at who this book suits, what it offers, and what to know before you buy.

Best for

  • Age range: 8–12 (fits siblings across a range).
  • Reading maturity: Middle gradericher plots and vocabulary with age-appropriate themes.
  • Kids who tend to love it: Biography, Chapter Books, Graphic Novels.
  • Personality fit: kids ages 8–12 who enjoy a good story.

Parents love this book because

  • Age-appropriate content for the 8–12 band with no significant flags.
  • Written by Raina Telgemeier, whose books parents return to for consistently thoughtful storytelling.

Your child will probably enjoy Smile if they…

  • Enjoy stories written for kids around ages 8–12

This book helps develop

Vocabulary, sustained attention, and reading confidence for the 8–12 age band.

Things parents should know

No significant content concerns for this age band. Preview with your reader if you want to discuss any specific themes.

Reading commitment

Estimated reading time
Varies by reader
Length
Length varies by edition
Difficulty
Middle grade
Works as read-aloud
Works, but often chosen by independent readers
Good for independent readers
Yes — suits confident readers in the age band

Similar books your child may love

Why we recommend it

We think Smile is a confident pick for the 8–12 age band. It leans into biography in a way that feels genuine, not formulaic. Raina Telgemeier's voice is what makes it stick: readable, respectful of kids, and easy to hand to the next child in the family.

Content ratings

Violence0/4
Romance0/4
Language0/4
Scary content0/4
Faith content0/4
Sexual content0/4

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