What do people say about maleeka's new haircut in the skin I am in?

In "The Skin I’m In" by Sharon Flake, Maleeka's new haircut elicits mixed reactions from her peers. Some admire her bold decision and see it as a sign of confidence, while others tease her, highlighting the challenges she faces with self-acceptance and bullying. The haircut symbolizes her struggle for identity and the desire to break free from societal expectations. Ultimately, it reflects her journey towards embracing her uniqueness.