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harleyrae's review
2.0
This book fell a little flat for me in some parts. I think this had the potential to be a super cute story, but it was just lacking something. It almost needed to be longer to better flesh out the story.
alicebme's review
5.0
Really relatable with all the best bits of Lucy Knisley adapted into kidspeak.
allibug26's review
2.0
What I liked about this book was, sadly, overshadowed by the verbal unkindness and gaslighting from the stepfather. Most of how he interacts with the main character is fairly standard of adults who dismiss kids, and it’s sad. He’s also mean beyond that, and tells her she’s being dramatic when it upsets her. In a book for adults, his lack of growth and no one really addressing this wouldn’t be such an issue because it’s reality- but in a kid’s book this should have been addressed in order to show kids that it isn’t ok and that it’s ok to stand up for yourself/others.
vanhooked_on_reading's review against another edition
emotional
hopeful
reflective
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? It's complicated
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
3.25
There was a lot about this graphic novel that I enjoyed. I loved the illustrations & Jen's perspective. Her relationship with her mother rang true, and it was so much fun to see her adapt to farm life. However, the way that her mother's boyfriend acted was terrible, and while the characters did acknowledge it there wasn't any closure. In fact, I found myself surprised by the way that the novel just ended. I wanted more to really wrap up this book.
librarydosebykristy's review
4.0
Lovely little graphic novel about growing up and facing changes in your family set up. All of my rabid graphic novel fans will eat it right up.
fladysnail's review against another edition
adventurous
challenging
emotional
funny
hopeful
inspiring
reflective
sad
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated
historybowler's review
4.0
I think this is closer to 4.5. It is a really strong book, focused on Knisley's own experiences growing up. It would be a five star but I didn't (and still don't) know how I feel about the stepfather character. Other than that, it was a really fun book!
analyticalchaos's review
There is value in the portrayal of blended families, from the clash in values to different communication styles. I don't think everything needs to be perfectly accommodated, especially since not everyone's wants can be satisfied.
However, Jen's mom needed to stand up to Walter more. He was so degrading and discouraging to Jen. Whenever Walter appeared, I felt angry. One adult conversation could have prevented half the conflict in this book.
However, Jen's mom needed to stand up to Walter more. He was so degrading and discouraging to Jen. Whenever Walter appeared, I felt angry. One adult conversation could have prevented half the conflict in this book.