Nothing Can Possibly Go Wrong

While this graphic novel involves conflicts among various high school cliques, it ultimately demonstrates each character’s individual talents, obsessions, and failings. Readers will enjoy following this motley crew as they coalesce into a close group when they need to work together. The relationship between Charles and Nate, childhood friends whose current rivalry is central to the story, is handled well, showing both their affection for and frustration with each other. Faith Erin Hicks’s illustrations make use of perspective, shadows, and lettering to heighten the drama of the fast-moving plot. In a story line that includes a nail-biter of a basketball game, a wild party, a student election, and a Thanksgiving Day runaway plan, it’s a robot competition that provides the greatest thrill. With a cheerleader’s help, Joanna, a member of the robotics club, leads her team to victory.