Review: I, Lorelei by Yeardley Smith

Both this diary and the story of
my life are dedicated to Mud:
a great listener.
- from the diary of Lorelei Lee Connelly

I meant to add this review a long time ago but obviously didn't get it done. Since I just posted a story about losing my pet dog this is the perfect place for it.


Lorelei Connelly is eleven years old and plans to some day be famous. After she is given a writing assignment for her 6th grade English class she decides to keep a journal about her life. This will ensure that future biographers will have the correct information when they write about her rise to fame. Lorelei decides to address here journal to Mud, her beloved pet cat and best friend who has recently died. This book is in diary format and has lighthearted and humorous details about the life of a middle schooler. She tells Mud about her best friend, the school bully, bickering with her two brothers and trying out for the school play. At the beginning of most entries she includes fun extras like her daily horoscope, word of the day and a cute cartoon cat.

But life begins to change when her parents' marriage is in jeopardy. Their constant arguing leads to a separation. Her writing becomes more introspective and mature. Instead of being a carefree adolescent, Lorelei is forced to confront adult issues. She bonds with her two brothers and they learn to help each other. Through it all she pours her heart out to Mud, revealing her hopes for the future and her fears for the present.

Although this is a Young Adult book written for the 8-12 age group it's enjoyable for adults as well. Yeardly Smith is best known as the voice of Lisa Simpson from the animated hit The Simpsons but is obviously also a talented author. Her first person account of a young person's daily life is authentic and believable. I recommend this to everyone.

Thank you to Shelf Awareness for an ARC of this book.