Genre: Middle Grade
Fiction Pages: Print 240
Release Date: October 30, 2018
Author: Svetlana Chmakova
Rating: ★★★★★
Disclaimer: This review is solely my opinion. I checked purchased a copy of this graphic novel from my local book store. The comments in this review do not reflect the views of the author or the publisher. The copy used in this review is a finished print copy.
Goodreads Synopsis
Following the overwhelming success of AWKWARD and BRAVE, Svetlana Chmakova’s award winning Berrybrook Middle School series continues with its next installment – CRUSH!
Jorge seems to have it all together. He’s big enough that nobody really messes with him, but he’s also a genuinely sweet guy with a solid, reliable group of friends. The only time he ever really feels off his game is when he crosses paths with a certain girl… But when the group dynamic among the boys starts to shift, will Jorge be able to balance what his friends expect of him versus what he actually wants?
Final Thoughts
This middle grade graphic novel is the third in the Awkward series and the story continues with Jorge. A middle schooler who is just trying to navigate his first crush. Readers of the first two graphic novels watch as each character develops and Jorge explores his feelings. This graphic novel showcases the typical woes of any middle school student faced with dealing with their feelings and navigating the social hierarchy. The author does a great job showcasing realistic emotions, typical every day challenges, and the power of friendship. Svetlana also showcases a bit of girl power in this novel as the female lead is viewed as confident young girl who isn’t afraid to speak her mind. I have been personally following this series since the first book and it is my absolute favorite. The graphics in this book are amazing and with my job working with middle grade, I am constantly recommending this novel to them.
If you you know someone in middle school or elementary then this is a great graphic novel series to have them read. It is a great intro to the common challenges they will face. Jorge, although rather large for his age, comes to realize he is more than his size and the importance of friendship. This graphic novel showcases the characteristics of good friends and what lengths some will go to fit into the “popular” crowd.
If you want to check out the other books in this series, follow this link http://svetlania.com/comics.shtml !
Happy Reading and I hope you enjoyed my honest opinion of this graphic novel!
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