Book Overview

Smile, So I Can Be Stronger ( Smile, and Give Me Strength) By ; Shereen Samy Published by Dar ElShorouk The protagonist of this teen novel is Aser, a teenage boy, who secretly harbors a passion for dancing. Eager to pursue his passion, and hopefully to win the cash prize to cover medical expenses to cure his younger sister and give her hope and strength, he auditions for a popular TV talent show. Relieved to travel and be away from his father who doesn’t understand him, Aser encounters an unexpected challenge; The sinister coordinator/producer of the show pushes him to deliver an embarrassing slapstick comedy act , instead of showcasing his true talent. On stage Aser grapples with a dilemma: to express his true self, or yield to the expectations of others. Getting to know his fellow contestants backstage and at their designated residence, befriending some and avoiding others, Aser grapples with issues of societal pressures, learns about the tribulations of friends form different Arab backgrounds, experiences complex emotions, and eventually manages to evolve and do the right thing. Aser’s encounters on stage and behind the scenes shape his sense of identity and purpose. * A warm coming of age story * A teen novel exploring unconventional attitudes in Arab society