Bruised

By Tanya Boteju,

Book cover of Bruised

Book description

“A searing portrait of self-discovery; soulful and captivating.” —Kirkus Reviews

Whip It meets We Are Okay in this vibrant coming-of-age story about a teen girl navigating first love, identity, and grief as she immerses herself in the colorful, brutal, beautiful world of roller derby—from the acclaimed author of Kings, Queens,…

When you buy books, we may earn a commission that helps keep our lights on (or join the rebellion as a member).

Why read it?

1 author picked Bruised as one of their favorite books. Why do they recommend it?

This book is so ambitious! The author tackles emotional abuse, trauma, grief, survivor’s guilt, self-harm, complicated family relationships, and more without anything feeling glossed over. Main character Daya is prickly and hostile and can be difficult to root for at times, but her portrayal feels spot-on given all she has endured in her life. I’ve always been fascinated by roller derby and it’s brilliant the way the author built her plot around the sport so it is truly integral to Daya’s character’s growth and healing.

Want books like Bruised?

Our community of 12,000+ authors has personally recommended 93 books like Bruised.

Browse books like Bruised

Book cover of The Meaning of Birds
Book cover of The Last Wish of Sasha Cade
Book cover of Sorry for Your Loss

Share your top 3 reads of 2024!

And get a beautiful page showing off your 3 favorite reads.

1,187

readers submitted
so far, will you?

5 book lists we think you will like!

Interested in orphans, self-harm, and presidential biography?

Orphans 178 books
Self-Harm 22 books