A review by librarymouse
Beetle & the Hollowbones by Aliza Layne

adventurous emotional funny lighthearted mysterious fast-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

5.0

I loved this book infinitely more than I thought possible! The characters are all lovable dorks that have been paired with a fun, refreshing, and deeply engaging plot. I like that there's ample use of found family and biological family being supportive and loving to Beetle, Kat, and Blob ghost. It shows a side of LGBTQ and neurodivergent experiences that I haven't seen often, where friends and family are loving and supportive because of who they are, not despite it.
Granny's notes throughout the book are one of the sweetest repeated motifs I've ever seen used in a graphic novel. The background characters and setting are pleasantly reminiscent of the Halloweentown movies. If I could give this book 100/5 stars, I would!

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