Review Detail

I never would have thought a graphic novel could have so many FEELS let alone one about a middle school musical cast and stage crew. Now, I didn't cry my eyes out or anything, but I did laugh out loud; feel totally confused (for Callie, not because of the story-line); get that super giddy, light-hearted feeling; and even wanted to just give poor Callie a hug.

Drama is short, but Raina Telgemeier packs so much into it. There's new love, confused love, best friends, guy friends, and even some self-discovery. And while the story focuses mainly on Callie you really get a feel for all the other characters and delve into some of the stuff they're going through as well. It's amazing how well a story set over the course of a year can flow when done right. It never really felt rushed either. I had time to process and experiences the emotions so I actually felt sucked into the story rather than a simple passerby.

The Nutshell: The art is awesome. The story is awesome. The characters are awesome. Are we sensing a pattern here? Basically what I'm saying is: Drama is nothing short of awesome and since it's a quick read, what have you got to lose?

Direct Hit

**Edit**
After reading the "most helpful negative review" on Amazon I'm appalled. I think it's amazing that Raina tackles such heavy issues for a young audience. The parents in the comments on this review are agreeing with the original reviewer saying this topic is too heavy for the age the book targets and that "sexual issues" are a sensitive subject for parents. I'm sorry, but I don't believe one's orientation is an issue. And I'd also like to point out there is nothing "sexual" in this story. There is kissing for goodness sake and, yeah, seventh graders do that!
This line is probably what gets me the most from the review, though:
"While other reviewers may feel this story line is something kids today face on a daily basis, I disagree. Sure, some kids may deal with it, but it's not the norm."
What. The. Freaking. Heck. It /does/ happen to kids today and I think it's a very important issue to address. The way it's handled in the story is fantastic and I think the world would be a better place if these commenting (and reviewing) parents would raise their children in a similar fashion rather than in a way that makes them uncomfortable to read the story.
I wouldn't be surprised if Drama started ending up on banned books lists. But we all know those are some of the best ones, now don't we?