Eat, Read, and Be Mommy

I was getting seriously worried about finding the perfect graphic novel for my 14-year-old for Christmas this year, folks. Although she’ll read ANY graphic novel, her preference is for realistic fiction, so I didn’t want fantasy or sci-fi–or realistic fiction focused on fandoms of fantasy or sci-fi–and book with bits of untranslated Spanish (or any other language, for that matter) are out, because she gets frustrated when she doesn’t understand something, and Christmas gifts shouldn’t be frustrating. I needed a book with characters I don’t mind her spending a LOT of time with, so anything with too many mean sibling comments is out as well. (She’s been a lot nicer to her brother in the past year or so, and I’d like that trend to continue.)

Thanks to the Publishers Weekly list of graphic novels out this fall, however, I came across Sharee Miller’s Curlfriends: New in Town–and hit the jackpot. Realistic fiction? Check. Character who learns to care a little less about what others think of her and be more comfortable with herself? Check–and perfect for my 14-year-old. Cute pet? Check (although Pierre could definitely have more of a presence). Loving parents who aren’t perfect but always try? Check. This is PERFECT, folks. And as much as the whole “I’m going to lie about myself to seem cooler to my friends” plot isn’t one I can personally relate to–the stress of being found out would destroy me in about 10 minutes–Charlie’s life experiences thus far make it completely plausible. You root for her through her worst choices (because who chooses vomit?!) and cheer when she starts to sort herself out; as a parent, I shook my head at her dad in the beginning, but not only is he always lovable and believable, he also sorts himself out a bit during the course of the novel.

Bottom line? This is a story about personal growth and positive girl friendships within the jungle that is middle school. It might be a bit unrealistically positive, but after all, doesn’t that age need all the positive it can get? Don’t miss this one!