Crush by Svetlana Chmakova

Pages: 235

Intended Audience: Tweens and up

Genre: Graphic novel

Notes for Parents: Contains some mature scenes.

The Back Cover

Jorge seems to have it all together. He’s big enough that nobody really messes with him, but he’s also a genuinely sweet guy with a solid, reliable group of friends. The only time he ever really feels off his game is when he crosses paths with a certain girl…But when the group dynamic among the boys starts to shift, will Jorge be able to balance what his friends expect of him with what he actually wants?

What the cover doesn’t tell you:

This is the third book in the author’s award-winning Berrybrook Middle School series. Just like the other books in the series, this one follows a different group of students as they navigate life.

What’s good?

Jorge is an all-around good guy who confidently gives respect and gets respect. But he’s thrown off his game when he finds himself tongue-tied around a certain girl. As he labors to understand his own feelings, he’s also struggling to navigate the world of middle-school – tenuous friendships, peer pressure, gossip, bullying, getting hacked…the drama never seems to end. The plot is multifaceted, but easy to understand. The pace is strong and steady. The characters are realistic and relatable. As always, the author’s drawings are expressive and well done.

Best Part: Forgiveness.

What isn’t good?

I can’t think of a single negative thing to say about this graphic novel. I could nit-pick about some little things, but why do that. This novel was a job well done!

Worst part: Nothing.

Recommendation ☺☺☺☺☺ (5/5)

Yes! Definitely recommended! This is the third of Svetlana Chmakova’s graphic novels that I’ve read, and once again I’m awed by her ability to capture the middle school experience.

Chmakova, Svetlana. Crush. New York: JY, 2018.