Adapted by Colleen AF Venable from the book by Barbara Park, Illustrated by Honie Beam
Aww, our favorite Junie B. is back. This graphic novel version is a fun way to reintroduce this series to a new generation. There are minor updates, like tablets and cellphones, but the charm and Junie’s too-muchness are still very prevalent here. I think the art style also works well.
One thing that impresses me is how realistic Junie B’s narrative is. It feels like an actual child’s narrative. In my early years working in the library, I had students all the way up to sixth grade checking them out and enjoying the humor in the series. Although these will never be a replacement, I think the late Barbara Park would approve of the new adaptation of her original series.
Reviewed by Kristen Hunt, Librarian, Whittier Elementary
Review shared in June 2025
Rating: ★★★★½ (4.5 stars)
Interest Level: Grades 1-4
Junie B. Jones and the Stupid Smelly Bus: The Graphic Novel
Written by Colleen AF Venable, Illustrated by Honie Beam
Random House
150 pages
Release Date: April 29, 2025
ISBN: 9780593706701
A review copy was provided by the publisher.
