Summary
"Popular: Vintage Wisdom for a Modern Geek" by Maya Van Wagenen is a captivating memoir that chronicles the author's eighth-grade experiment to navigate the treacherous waters of middle school popularity using a 1950s etiquette guide. Maya, a self-proclaimed social outcast in her Brownsville, Texas, middle school, stumbles upon "Betty Cornell's Teen-Age Popularity Guide" and decides to test its advice, from wearing girdles and pearls to practicing good posture and makeup techniques. Each month, Maya dedicates herself to a different chapter of the guide, documenting her experiences, observations, and the often hilarious, sometimes painful, results of her efforts.
The book is structured around Maya's monthly challenges, beginning with "Figure Problems" in September, where she embarks on a diet and exercise regimen. As the months progress, Maya tackles topics like "Hair," "Modeling Tricks," and "Good Grooming," diligently following Betty Cornell's instructions while also incorporating her unique personality and modern perspective. She meticulously details her attempts to transform herself, from enduring uncomfortable undergarments to mastering the art of lipstick application, all while navigating the complexities of middle school social dynamics.
As Maya immerses herself in the world of vintage etiquette, she begins to question the very definition of popularity. She interviews her peers, seeking their perspectives on what it means to be popular and who they consider to be the most popular students in their school. Through these interactions, Maya uncovers a wide range of opinions and challenges her own preconceived notions about social status. She befriends unlikely allies, confronts bullies, and learns valuable lessons about self-acceptance, kindness, and the importance of genuine connections.
However, Maya's journey is not without its setbacks and heartaches. She faces ridicule, rejection, and moments of self-doubt, especially when her efforts to transform herself seem to backfire. She struggles with the pressure to conform, the pain of unrequited crushes, and the realization that some aspects of the 1950s guide are simply outdated or irrelevant in her modern world. But through it all, Maya perseveres, drawing strength from her family, her friends, and her growing sense of self-awareness.
In the end, Maya realizes that true popularity is not about conforming to external standards or climbing the social ladder. Instead, it is about embracing individuality, extending kindness to others, and forging meaningful connections based on authenticity and compassion. She discovers that true beauty lies within, and that the most valuable lessons are learned not from a vintage etiquette guide, but from the challenges and triumphs of everyday life. The book culminates in a grand finale where Maya, true to her values, redefines what it means to be popular by inviting everyone for a dance.
"Popular" is a heartwarming and hilarious memoir that offers a unique blend of vintage charm and modern sensibility. It is a testament to the enduring power of self-discovery, the importance of embracing individuality, and the transformative potential of kindness and acceptance. Through Maya's journey, readers are reminded that true popularity is not about fitting in, but about standing out for all the right reasons.