Review: Say No to the Dress by Keren David

Say No to the Dress is decidedly unglamorous. Miri is struggling with the frustrations of being fourteen — and it’s not that easy when the mean girls in school become friends with your friends, and she’s lost control of her body as it goes through puberty. Nothing fits anymore, and Miri sticks to t-shirts and baggy jumpers, avoiding anything with the label ‘body-con’. A body-con dress does not make you feel body-confident.

Not only that, but her brother has decided to marry Toxic Tiffany’s older sister, and with Miri’s sister Alice getting married this summer as well, Miri is stuck in two weddings – which means two bridesmaid dresses she wouldn’t be caught dead in. Miri grapples with her family relationships, her self-confidence and sense of identity in an accessible and delightful exploration of body positivity and adolescence.

Keren David’s short novel for reluctant readers is refreshingly honest and authentic, capturing what it’s like to be a teenager and the familiar awkwardness of growing up so perfectly, it’s impossible not to relate to Miri. She lends Miri a voice that is irresistibly compelling and insightful about adolescence, and resonant with pretty much anyone who’s gone or going through puberty.

This is perfect for readers of Katie Kirby, Chloe Seager, Holly Smale and Dork Diaries, who should love the addition of this voice that makes them feel seen for their less-than-perfect experiences growing up.

Deirdre Power