The Amazing True Story of a Teenage Single Mom (Hardcover)

~ (Author)

Editorial Reviews

From School Library Journal

YA-Black-and-white cartoon panels featuring a mostly cheerful Arnoldi recount her years from the birth of her daughter through her attempts to earn their keep in a latex factory, her initially hopeful but ultimately disastrous relationship with an abusive man, and her eventual success in getting her education back on track and discovering her earning abilities as an illustrator. Although the author does not gloss over the grimmer details of her circumstances-sexual abuse in childhood, exploitation in the workforce, her violent boyfriend-she does not portray them graphically. Arnoldi composed this book to help others in her situation. Her story stands as a role model but she also includes specific and practical tips, including hot lines and college guidance. Not only will this book speak to teens in similar situations or those with friends like the author, but it also serves to inform the adults who work to help all teens realize their potentials. It should also inspire other young artists to try their hand at autobiography.
Francisca Goldsmith, Ber-keley Public Library, CA
Copyright 1999 Reed Business Information, Inc.

Product Description

An inspirational and poignant pictorial memoir that chronicles a teenage mother's sentimental education, as told through cartoons and searing text.

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Product Details

• Hardcover: 176 pages
• Publisher: Hyperion (September 2, 1998)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 0786864206
• ISBN-13: 978-0786864201
• Product Dimensions: 7.9 x 5.6 x 0.7 inches
• Shipping Weight: 8 ounces
• Average Customer Review: 4.9 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (15 customer reviews)
• Amazon.com Sales Rank: #283,575 in Books (See Bestsellers in Books)

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Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

10 of 10 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars Life is hard, but you can somebody if you don't give up., December 23, 2000

By	Allan M. Gathercoal "fdoamerica" (Norcross, GA) - See all my reviews (TOP 500 REVIEWER)    (REAL NAME)

This is the true poignant story of a young woman and her struggles to make dreams come true. Katherine Arnoldi, raped and left with a baby at 17, was forced, out of necessity, to take a dead-end, hazardous factory job. Her dysfunctional family tried to crush her and her dreams; her boyfriend turns on her and beats her. Yet through all of her pain and despair she does not give up. Arnoldi shows, in her comic book form, that if you hold on and pursue your dreams that you can overcome the ugliest past. This book is a treasure. It is simply great. And because it is so good you will want to pass it on. This is a book that can speak to the broken hearts of hundreds, if not thousands, of struggling teenagers, single moms or not. Her enduring love for her child, her courage to change her circumstances, a little luck, and a few kind people, transforms what could be a disheartening story into an inspiration.

9 of 9 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars Will put wind in the sails of teen moms., February 2, 1999

By	Sarah Friedel (Portland, OR United States) - See all my reviews (REAL NAME)

I checked this book out from the library. The next day, I bought a copy. I have bought 12 more copies in a week. Everyone who reads this book gasps at its truth. The blockades of Arnoldi's past abuse and present hardship would have stopped her from becoming who she was becoming before she became a mom. In a perfect combination of words and art, she conveys her perilous journey. Thoughts and emotions overflow her drawings, MAD Magazine-style. As it dawns on you that she's writing from a place of victory, you laugh, cry, and cheer. If you're a school counselor, as I am, buy copies for your teen moms and fellow counselors.

6 of 6 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars Follow Your Dreams, November 30, 2000

By	"jess12" (n. smithfield, RI United States) - See all my reviews

This is a great book that will inspire teens to realize that there is no situation that cannot be overcome. If they are young mothers, they will realize that they can be a great parent, as well as succeeding as individuals. Arnoldi teaches young girls to strive towards their dreams, and as teen moms to fight for equality in the educational system. She even includes the step by step procedure of getting financial aid, and enrolling yourself in college. A very inspiring book for people of all ages.