A review by vividaway
Where You See Yourself by Claire Forrest

challenging emotional inspiring lighthearted medium-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? A mix
• Strong character development? Yes
• Loveable characters? Yes
• Diverse cast of characters? Yes
• Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

4.5

 I struggle with an invisible disability, so starting off, i adore the representation this brings. Navigating life between people who don’t understand disabilities as someone who’s in a wheelchair is cool because most abled bodied people don’t have to thing about that. I can’t begin to explain how happy it makes me that IEP’s get representation in this book as well because not many people talk about them outside the sphere of mental health. I’ve had my IEP illegally broken by teachers and staff, and perusing a case against this is difficult, especially when you’re disabled. im SO glad this topic was brought up. The ableism and dehumanization by the staff was also an important topic that NEEDED to be spoken about. School sucks but I can’t imagine being in a wheelchair and having Cerebral Palsy on top of going back to school. The struggle to advocate for yourself is such a big piece of being disabled, and I love that it’s shown out. The homecoming scene’s were cute and realistic, and i love the upset that Effie is feeling. The talk of having an abled body sibling is also really interesting because many people don’t think about the thoughts a disabled person like Effie must be having in regards to it. Effie wanting to go to Prospect University is really good, and it’s good for her to be independent. It makes sense why her parents would be scared and feel like they want her to rely on them because she has her entire life, but it’s a big topic to talk about. Effie crushing on Wilder is so cute, and I’m glad that he’s such an advocate for her needs. The fight between Harper and Effie is really difficult to read because it’s filled with ableism and selfishness. The fight to get to Prospect being halted because of the gravel path is sad because Effie wants to go so badly, and she could be such a changing force if she did. Wilder organizing the sit in was so cute. The path being so difficult to pass, and the point that no other minority can be spoken about the way the disabled are. Harper apologizing and being there for Effie was cute and I’m glad they were able to reconcile. I like the break in scene because it shows how normal living as a disabled person is. I love the dynamic between Effie and her sister, cora. I think the bracelet was sweet and meaningful. Effie getting into her colleges is so exciting and i’ve never felt so proud of a fictional character before. The decision to go to Berkley instead of Prospect is a big one that ultimately boils down to accessibility needs, and her love for the school. It’s sad that people have to consider these things instead of reality just adjusting itself. I wish there were a perfect world for disabled people, and that everyone would just offer accommodations. The promposal was so sweet and adorable, and i love it so much. The hunt was amazing and i love the idea that Wilder would do this. Ahhhhggg it’s so sugary sweet. This was SUCH a cute book and i love it SO SO MUCH!!! I can’t believe this took me so long to read but I love it so much and endorse it 100%.