WRONG FRIEND

Middle school friendships are tough; they’re even harder when your best friend’s path diverges from yours.

Eleven-year-old Charise loves spending time with Casey, her best friend who lives only two doors down. Their friendship is easy and uncomplicated until Casey starts high school and freezes Charise out, leaving her adrift and friendless. Charise tries to make other friends, but none of her new prospects seem to be a replacement for Casey. Charise considers many different options even as she contemplates the characteristics of a best friend, which form the chapter titles: for example, “A Best Friend Keeps Trying,” “A Best Friend Cares About Your Feelings,” and “A Best Friend Fits All Parts of You.” When her classmate Susan invites her over to meet her guinea pig, Oscar, Charise breaks out into an embarrassing allergic reaction, making her fear she’s lost another chance at a new BFF. Lucey’s vibrantly hued panels complement Harper’s stand-alone graphic memoir, which thrums with relatability. The characters’ clothing and the absence of computers or smartphones signal the retro setting—students write on chalkboards and use a card catalog in the library. The bright colors and simple backdrops keep readers’ attention focused on Charise’s feelings as she traverses the perils of middle school relationships. Perfect for readers of Shannon Hale and Raina Telgemeier, this accessible crowd pleaser will quickly win fans. Main characters read white.

A heartfelt, engaging charmer with broad appeal.