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marylannireads 's review for:
Dream On
by Shannon Hale
emotional
funny
hopeful
inspiring
reflective
Cassie lives in a house filled with people, but she somehow manages to feel alone much of the time. Everyone tells her she is sensitive, and her emotions become bigger with each unexpected event that takes place around her. One day, a sweepstakes mailer arrives in her mailbox, and Cassie believes she has won one of the grand prizes. But as she realizes the fault in her understanding and situations continue to arise that test her emotions to the limit, Cassie must find an outlet for her feelings before they consume her. This early middle grade graphic novel appears at first glance to be similar to the illustrative style of newspaper comics from the 1990s. Cassie is often surrounded by other people, whether in her boisterous home or at school, and amidst the word bubbles are asides that are taking place inside of Cassie’s head. As a sensitive child, Cassie’s emotions erupt on her face, depicted in various colors and details that showcase the hurt and embarrassment that occur throughout Cassie’s days. The visuals are a critical component of the storytelling, and they help readers to better understand the life Cassie lives. Alongside the images are short, clear sentences that make the story accessible to young readers. Additionally, the fact that the book is separated into chapters gives readers the opportunity to set the story down and return to it as desired. As the characters interact with one another, the reader feels increased empathy for Cassie as many of her experiences are shared among youth in many communities. Filled with emotion and angst, this graphic novel will resonate with newer middle grade readers and may inspire them to think differently about what it truly means to be sensitive in the wider world.