The Love Report has been giving me several fits. The first being that it is not out until at least mid-June 2023, the second being it is not yet in our system so I cannot send reviews for “talking up” on our website or show I read it on sites I use to count my reading. And finally, I am not sure if I liked it.
Now, that sounds odd, I know. I do know I did not dislike, but like is another story. We have the same story of “best friends being different and growing in different
directions, but friendship can last” story, therefore, “been there read that.” The characters of Grace and Lola are semi fresh (one is of color, there is a divorce happening, one girl has a single mom) and they are modernly voiced with their feelings, thoughts, etc. It has an old school-1980s atmosphere, but still contemporary. Some never-
ending story arcs are in place: Love. (What is it? Why is it? Who is it? Where is it? When is it? How is it?) Friendship (Who are friends? What do friends do for each other? When do you see friends? Where are you friends if you need them? Why do we need friends? And how do you say sorry when you might not be a great friend?). Classmates, secrets, rumors, and what people are like are all there. There is a modern tone (the cool girl might seem like a pretty ditz, but she has layers). And the mean girl really doesn’t mind selfies (or does she?) But there is nothing that “wows” me.
And while this graphic novel series by BeKa and Maya is aimed at ages 10 and up, it feels like the themes should be for older kids. Yet, unfortunately, coming of age has no “start date” just when you start it. Know your reader as this is a “girly book” for girls who like friendship stories. Adults might enjoy, but over 14 years old I’m thinking will find it too young. The artwork continues the pop, bubbly feeling of being in junior high and girl story. Nice, bright imagery is on each page. You know what you are getting yourself into.
Read from an online reader copy.