Ugly by Constance Briscoe

Constance Briscoe was a confident, young girl who was born 18th May 1957. She grew up in an abusive, physical house with 10 sisters and brothers. Her name known to her mother was Clear but if she was in her good books (which wasn’t often) it was Clearie. As for her mother, Carmen, she was strict but very religious. George, her dad, was a mixed race young gentleman who liked betting and pool. The Briscoe family lived in London in many houses moving from time to time because George won the pool championship twice and he invested his money in property. 

As Constance is a child, through most of her shocking childhood she uses quite simple language for describing her family. The story is told in the first person but her language gets more complex when she gets beaten and into trouble. The reason why this book is an autobiography is because she wants to share with the readers her own abusive childhood, the emptiness she felt and how it can lead
to low self esteem as an adult.

I personally think that this book is a powerful, sad story and it sends a message to the reader that you have to be grateful with what you have instead of complaining that you want something better. Constance Briscoe is one of my favourite authors because she inspires many people to dream and make them happen in real life if you believe in yourself. I couldn’t let go of this book until I finished it and it really shows children that dreams can become reality. Constance’s dream was to become a lawyer and with a little bit of effort and work she achieved her goal.

By Stella-Quinn Hernandez, 7N