OBVIOUSLY

Comedian and YouTube celebrity Hughes takes readers on a hilariously intimate journey into her world.

Beginning with her childhood in Kentucky and ending in New York City as she conquers the world of YouTube, Hughes shares stories of spelling bee successes, raccoon infestations, and a cheerleading fail, none of which she allowed to deter her from her dreams of one day becoming as famous as Oprah, someone she admires for what she does to support others. Sprinkled throughout these laugh-out-loud accounts, Hughes keeps it real with autobiographical essays that touch on her absent father and the pain of being a child in a classroom taught by a hostile, racist teacher. Many teens will relate to everything she shares about acne, eating disorders, self-esteem, and body positivity, not to mention tales of besties and breakups, as she leaves childhood behind and barrels toward the world of adulthood. When things go badly as Hughes overcomes a serious health scare, readers will want to fight right alongside her. These essays read like warm conversations with an older cousin. The readable format provides helpful advice—sandwiched between love and laughter—on growing up. Whether they have heard of her before or not, young people will root for this young African American comedian as she navigates life’s challenges. The short chapters and chatty style make this an appealing choice for reluctant readers.

Engaging.