Monday, March 7, 2016

Awkward, by Svetlana Chmakova

Cardinal Rule For Surviving School #1: Don't get noticed by the mean kids

Cardinal Rule For Surviving School #2: Seek out groups with similar interests and join them.

At Berrybrook Middle School, there is a long-standing feud between the Science Club and Art Club. And this rivalry only heats up when the two clubs have to vie for a coveted table at the Annual School Club Fair.  In the heart of this war is new girl Peppi (Art Club) and school nerd Jamie (Science Club)...and the (awkwardly) tentative friendship the two are beginning to form over shared interests. When a prank goes too far, the principal suspends both clubs. Now it's up to Peppi and Jamie to come up with a plan to get the clubs back. But first everyone must put their differences aside so they can cooperate on the best club project the school has ever seen. Maybe Artists and Scientists can get along after all. Maybe middle school isn't so awkward for a new girl. Ok...it's still kind of awkward. But that's ok as long as you've got good friends.

Which brings us to...Cardinal Rule For Surviving School #3: Build things. Build Friendships. Build Yourself. 

Svetlana Chmakova's graphic novel Awkward is just adorable! It's all about navigating the drama, pain, friendships and, of course, the total awkwardness of middle school. It's about deciding to do what's right instead of what's popular...even if it means going against what your friends are pressuring you to do. And it's about stepping outside of your comfort zone to find friendships (and yourself). Sure, Awkward's ending may wrap up a bit neatly for some, but that's part of its charm (I do love me a happy ending!).  This tween-appropriate story is perfect for fans of Raina Telgemeier's Smile and Drama

Read this one! You're gonna heart it! --AJB

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