Written by Lilly LaMotte, Illustrated by Ann Xu
This is a great addition to the Graphic Novel section, with the added bonus of minority main characters. Michelle wrestles with a changing sister relationship, as well as trying to assimilate with the popular girls at school. Fitting in means downplaying her heritage, and her parents ruin Michelle’s summer plans by sending her to a Taiwanese-American summer camp. The situations she experiences feel relatable, from regretting mean actions to messing up during a performance. I cringed and laughed and felt anguish for the characters as they navigated tween moments.
The artwork is simple, and the inclusion of texted conversations are appealing. A red color palette distinguishes flashback scenes. The author and illustrator also collaborated on the graphic novel Measuring Up, so if students love to check out that book, this one will likely be popular as well.
Reviewed by Kim Winterton, Librarian, Upland Terrace Elementary
Review shared in August 2024
Rating: ★★★★★ (5 stars)
Interest Level: Grades 3-6
Unhappy Camper
Written by Lilly LaMotte, Illustrated by Ann Xu
HarperAlley, an imprint of HarperCollinsPublishers
204 pages
Release Date: April 23, 2024
ISBN: 9780062973894
A review copy was provided by the publisher.
