2023 EDIT: Part of my 2023 clear-up, of books I no longer like, or am no longer interested in, or remember well as standing out, or find as special anymore, or I otherwise will not miss.
Final Score: 3.5/5
Original Review:
2020 EDIT: Read the whole thing in one day. Oh how long it has been since I read 'Hazel, Not a Nut' in school! Got my own copy now and not a library one.
Admittedly it is very preachy and simplistic about the subject of bullying - an issue with no easy answers, and less easy solutions. How naïve and overly hopeful we all were in 2003. But in a way it was what I needed in school. I like the characters, and the framing: a few chapters are written in diary form, and there are fewer pages of texting between the school bullies. Though near the end the book has the main character, the bullied Hazel, go on a diet and lose a bit of weight - rather easily in fact - and THAT is part of her newfound happiness and improved health (barf!). However, it isn't the whole story, and it has nothing to do with the climax. A point is made that Hazel's weight is a genetics thing, and she won't ever be skinny, per say. Hazel's friendships and family bonding are what make her the most happy. Support is key.
'Hazel, Not a Nut' has an obvious agenda, but a good heart overall. A quick, light and straightforward read for any young person looking for a sweet and satisfying breather - and for hope - at school, like myself at that age. They - we - are not alone. We never were.
Fixing a mistake from my original review: Hazel's last name is Mooney, not Murray.
Final Score: 3.5/5
Original Review:
A book I once found in my school library by chance.
A sweet, realistic and touching story about a girl unfortunately named Hazel Anne Murray (HAM) who is bullied. Not a lot of children's books about bullying deal with the subject as complexly as this. It explores how it can be prevented, and how the bullies themselves are often as miserable as their victims. Sometimes they pick on others weaker than they are because it makes them feel better in control of their own lives.
'Hazel, Not a Nut' is helpful fiction for kids who feel they are alone with their problems. But by talking about them, help is always at hand, even where they'd least expect it. It's also a tale about friendship, and why we should all make life worth getting through for everyone.
Needs more recognition I'd say.
Final Score: 5/5
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