Growing up, I was always chastised by other children for being dark-skinned. I was called all kinds of mean names and left out of activities because I was not as 'pretty' as the other girls. For a long time I struggled to love myself and be comfortable in the skin I am in. By the time I read this book and truly understood it, I had already started learning what it meant to love myself regardless. However, this book took my understanding to a new level. I felt what the main character was feeling. Although I never wished I could be white with blue eyes, as a child I did wish I was a lighter complexion. The Bluest Eye made me realize even more the importance of loving me, dark skin and all. And I do!