Camp Frenemies

Gr 3-6–Three girls, Beatrice, Roxy, and Virginia, with very different personalities find friendship and self-discovery at summer camp in this endearing graphic novel. As each girl works through her own challenges, including a crush, parents’ divorce, and the anguish of not making the school soccer team, emotionally driven and interpersonal conflict boils to the surface. When Roxy, the peacemaking member of the trio goes missing, Beatrice and Virginia must put aside their differences and work together to save the day. Illustrations are minimal yet expressive, as flat colors and straightforward page layouts make for an invitingly uncluttered reading experience. Dialogue flows naturally and characters are fully realized, demonstrating vulnerability and growth. The cast is depicted with a variety of skin tones. The summer camp setting will feel familiar to readers who have experienced it, sure to elicit giggles about esoteric camp rules, traditions, and a doggedly cheerful camp counselor. Young readers will relate to the challenging friendship dynamics, and older readers will pick up this story with a sense of nostalgia. Although the book ends with a satisfying conclusion, readers will surely hope for a sequel. Back matter includes a tutorial on how to draw one of the protagonist’s stuffed animals, offering a fun bonus for aspiring artists.