I don't generally review graphic novels, but somehow this one got mixed into my latest library run.
I frequently encouraged my students, particularly my reluctant readers, to give graphic novels a try. However, for me (a read-the-ending/climax-first, then work-my-way-backward in the story kind of reader), graphic novels and comic books are entirely too easy for me to skip to the end and see the climax and resolution. And then, generally, I'm done. I never go back and read the beginning. I prefer text, which forces me to build an image in my head of the characters and the story.
However, the gender-bending part of this story hooked me, and I had to go back and see how the story unfolded. My daughter liked it as well, which was surprising, as she's not a big "romance" reader. She declared, however, that it wasn't all "mushy-gushy" and she liked how the characters are strong in their convictions and do what they feel is best and right for them -- despite their "feelings."
In other words, the message resonated with her. I enjoyed the turn-Cinderella-on-her-head premise, and the love story. I also enjoyed the dressmaking.
Note to those looking for MG content: There's a drinking to passing-out scene. If you're not at the point where you have discussed and warned your kiddos about drinking to inebriation, and what it does to people's judgement, you may need to have that talk before your child/student reads this book. It's definitely a teaching moment -- excellent to scaffold understanding of alcohol abuse.
