May Graphic Novel Pick of the Month

In this blog, Donna will highlight graphic novels that are great reads! Graphic Novels are intended for readers ages 8 and up.

graph·ic nov·el

a novel in comic-strip format

A first time for everything by Dan Santat
Bestselling author and Caldecott Medalist (ages 10-14)
Library catalog: Print
Libby: ebook

A school trip to Europe in the summer? Most kids would be excited, but not Dan. This graphic novel is a memoir of Dan Santat’s middle school years. Dan is seen as a pretty good kid. He stays out of trouble, listens to his teachers and parents, and tries to fly under the radar at school so nobody bothers him. Then he gets brought to everyone’s attention in a humiliating way, reciting poetry at a school assembly. Poor Dan. His spirits are pretty low now and so are his expectations for the school trip. This graphic novel is full of first experiences that we can all relate to…like trying a new drink, a new food, and your first time dating.

Middle school can be awkward and challenging, but Dan illustrates his adventure extremely well in this graphic novel. There are moments that will make you laugh out loud, make you cringe, and give you that lump in your throat. Dan has graciously shared his feelings and memories with us, connecting us – those who have already lived through the middle school years – or the child who is about to live these first experiences. This is a must read for everyone!

“Full of laughter and sentiment, this is a nudge for readers to dare to try new things.”–Kirkus Reviews

More graphic novels by Dan Santat:

The Aquanaut
Library catalog: Print
Libby: ebook

Sidekicks: a graphic novel
Library catalog: Print

Categories: Authors & Books, Featured, Homepage Kids, Kids, and Library News.

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