Ugly

I read this book as our book club choice so I had no idea what to expect. I was delighted to find it was beautifully written - and definitely not a misery memoir as the title might imply. Robert does not have a trace of self pity and tells the story of a fairly normal childhood in a way that makes you want to keep on reading. Thoroughly recommended.

Best book I have ever read in my life. It is so inspiring I am going to buy copies to give to my family.A true inspiration to everyone and I would urge everyone to read it. I have read loads of autobiographies and self help books but read this book it is all the inspiration anyone would ever need. Just bought 5 copies of paperback for xmas presents and pleased with my choice.

Sad but not self pitying. I am filled with admiration for robert and wish him every happiness in the future.

Enjoyed reading this book so much, the author is very articulate and gives me faith in the goodness of humanity.

A wonderful human story, funny and moving. Thoroughly enjoyable

a great story

Insightful, great literary work. Gives an inside look at the mind and soul of an individual incredibly different and yet so very much like all of us.The listing of the "Top Ten" nicknames, along with their ratings, pushes the reader to an understanding of humanity and the give and take of relationships.I nearly died laughing at some of the stories related, and was sorrowful and angry in the moments of abuse relayed.There was a curse word used, and while I understand the use of literary force, not neccessary to the overall scope of the book.My son was given this book as a reading assignment as school. It was an honor to share this with him.Whether the parent of a child with unique challenges, an individual with them, or the passive bystander of someone misunderstood, this is an excellent tool of insight and empathy.Thank you for your courage.

A theme that runs throughout the book is to own and love yourself because no one else can do this for you. This is a touching account of an innocent boy growing up thinking he was normal but slowly and sadly discovering that he wasn't, in a society obsessed with good looks. And how he blossomed by not only accepting but celebrating who he is in the midst of what our society shuns and look away from. The essence of courage, kindness, gratitude and generosity is weaved into the pages which are written in an authentic, matter-of-fact kind of tone.

“Ugly” by: Robert Hodge is one of the best books I have ever read. The only thing I do not get is why it’s called ugly. I think Robert is beautiful and I don’t think he needed any of those operations. We all have our differences and some of us feel the need to change that. No should have to change the way they look because they think they are ugly. If Robert is reading this right now I would like him to know he is beautiful the way he was. No one should ever change!(Submitted by my 11yo daughter). Proud she feels this way.

Inspirational, poignant, funny, and clever...definitely a must read in today's world of cruel cyber bullies and selfie-obsessed narcissists. We need more people like Robert Hoge to remind us and our youth of what true beauty looks like.

I loved this book and only wish there was a second book to continue following Robert's life. His mother didn't want to take him out in public but later on, when she did get the courage, she stood up for him when anyone would say anything about him. I hope Robert is enjoying life to the extreme! Go Robert!!!

This is a fantastic book. The author shares his unique experiences in a very honest and straightforward way. This is a great book for kids and adults too! I loved it, the writing and storytelling are wonderful! Highly recommend.

I love his first chapter, titled Ugly Club. It would be hard to have such a facial deformity. We judge each other on the first thing we see - our face. When your face is deformed people aren't sure what to do, how to treat you. Robert Hoge had to deal with these things, as well as the deformed legs he was also born with. Life wasn't easy, but he developed strength, confidence, and a good sense of humor.

At the time of writing this review, the children's edition has come out, and the story is most important when it comes to its message for kids. Rob's journey is most keenly felt when it comes to surviving childhood.

A fabulous book! Children and adults everywhere should read this book. We all have insecurities...some people you can see theirs and others you can not. Everybody who reads this will learn empathy and have more compassion. Hopefully it will give people the power to stand up for others when they see others being bullied or even to stand up for themselves. This book teaches you that someone else's words or behaviors should never define who you are...it is up to you to define who you are. I can't wait to share this book with my students next year. This would be a great read aloud for grade 3-5, and a great independent read for grades 4 through adult.