Time to Smile (ePub)

10-year-old Jessica, who suffers from a physical disorder that prevents her from being able to smile, was given away to foster care at the young age of 4 years old. Due to her medical condition affecting her face, it proved too difficult for her biological mother to afford her care. Jessica Jones' time at the orphanage was filled with social challenges due to bullying and disappointments after witnessing many others leave the orphanage to their new homes throughout the years.

Jessica eventually is adopted by another family, which simultaneously provides her with the support she craved and leads to many memories of her past. She is faced with old emotions and decisions to contend with, but most of all she is faced with the challenge of taking action when she is forced to deal with her past and her potential future. She understands the gravity of that decision as it affects many others along the way.

Through her own determination and resourcefulness, she comes up with an unconventional solution for a challenging time, leading her to learn to trust herself and show others how to overcome their own fears and doubts.

This book is an inspiring book for young females who are learning to trust themselves and their individuality while learning that they can succeed through life's many challenges. Though Jessica is forced to face a physical disorder, difficult rejection, perceived abandonment, ridicule by her peers, and her own deep sensitivity, she still finds the strength, determination, resilience, and resources to extend care, concern, and practical solutions for others in the face of disaster.