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The Happiest Girl in the World is told in the POV of both Sera Wheeler and her mother, Charlene Wheeler. Since she was a child, Sera and her mother have only focused on one thing- getting her to the Olympics. Throughout The Happiest Girl in the World, the two of them try to reach that goal and face many obstacles along the way.

This is a must-read. It’s a well-written, dark book. It’s very heavy at times as it deals with several serious topics. It felt extremely realistic. Especially since the narrative is intertwined with several real-life events. It’s quite literally ripped from the headlines as it highlights the recent sexual harassment charges against a top gymnastics doctor and the very dark side of striving to be great. And it’s hard not to be sucked into this behind-the-scenes tale.

It takes place over roughly 9 years. This is a saddening and emotional journey. Sera is putting in long hours, dealing with constant pain, the fear of failure, sweat, and tears. She wants more than anything to make it to the Olympics as a gymnast. And then there is her Charlene who wants it just as much as her daughter, but for a different reason. I think their POVs were perfectly crafted and I felt their desire with every word.

Final Thoughts

The Happiest Girl in the World is a haunting novel about the struggles and sacrifices while on the path to greatness.