Awkward by Svetlana Chmakova

Pages: 210

Intended Audience: Tweens and up

Genre: Graphic novel

Notes for Parents: Contains some bullying.

The Back Cover

Cardinal Rule #1 for Surviving School: Don’t get noticed by the mean kids.

Cardinal Rule #2 for Surviving School: Seek out groups with similar interest and join them.

On her first day at her new school, Penelope—Peppi—Torres reminds herself of these basics. But when she trips into a quiet boy in the hall, Jaime Thompson, she’s already broken the first rule, and the mean kids start calling her the “nerder girlfriend.” How does she handle this crisis? By shoving poor Jaime and running away!

Falling back on rule two and surrounding herself with new friends in the art club, Peppi still can’t help feeling ashamed about the way she treated Jaime. Things are already awkward enough between the two, but to make matters worse, he’s a member of her own club’s archrivals—the science club! And when the two clubs go to war, Peppi realizes that sometimes you have to break the rules to survive middle school.

What the cover doesn’t tell you:

Svetlana Chmakova is an internationally published, award-winning manga author, with more than 10 published books and her work has been translated into over 13 languages. Born and raised in Russia, she moved to Canada at sixteen to finish high school and has a Classical Animation diploma from Sheridan College.

What’s good?

It’s funny. In fact, it’s hilarious! A simple plot and good pacing are the basis for this thoughtful story about friendship, awkward moments, apologies, and working together. The drawings are clean, done in muted colors, and the dialogue is genius. The plot balances depth with simplicity, promoting the importance of school involvement, and cleverly celebrating diversity. The characters are wonderful! While this graphic novel is aimed at middle school students, most people will be able to relate to the different characters and situation. Highlights include: the description of Ms. Tobins (pg. 19); Jaime’s hair; the kid obsessed with getting the word out about the dangers of sunspots; and the mug of “Student Tears.”

Best Part(s): I loved so many parts! But I’ll choose the “Design Gallery” and explanation of the drawing process found at the back of the book.

What isn’t good?

I suppose if I have to choose something, the classic plot about working together to achieve your goals makes the story a bit predictable.

Worst part: Nothing.

Recommendation ☻☻☻☻☻ (5/5)

Adorkable! Yes, that’s the perfect word for this fun and funny tale about two dueling school clubs – the art club versus the science club. The story touches on subjects such as fitting in, making friends, guilt, making amends, and so much more. This was a thoroughly entertaining, quick and easy read. Definitely recommended! 

Chmakova, Svetlana. Awkward. New York: Yen Press, 2015.