Knots

In this endearing graphic novel, Frakes (Prison Island) utilizes flat, saturated colors, busy backdrops, and easy-to-follow paneling to chronicle one tween's experience navigating the intense pressures of middle school and family life. Norah is a "prison brat," someone whose family moves around a lot because of her parents' prison guard jobs. Settling in Cheney, Wash., she starts sixth grade with new teacher Ms. Washines, a member of the Yakama tribe, who encourages students to share about their cultures and families. Following a classmate's revelation that he is often responsible for his two younger siblings, authorities intervene. The incident stays with Norah, especially after her mother is transferred elsewhere, leaving Norah alone with her kind but overworked father. When Ms. Washines notices that Norah is struggling, Norah worries that the cops will come for her parents too, until a mild act of rebellion on Norah's part soon opens communication between her and her father. Though the angst and turmoil Norah has been feeling don't go away overnight, her parents work together to develop a solution, highlighting the way in which adult problems can impact children, while ensuring that repair and joy are always possible. Ages 8--12. (Sept.)

Gr 4 Up--A darling graphic novel about the start of sixth grade in a new school with new hair. Norah, who presents as white, has a history of hair problems--chlorine damage, bad perms, and home haircuts. Even so, she decides to bleach and color her hair blue for the start of middle school in a western Washington small town. Norah's parents work for the Department of Corrections and, as a result, she has an outsized awareness of authority, the law, and consequences. When her mom is transferred to a different job and moves with sister Lark, Norah is asked to be in charge of herself and dad at home. At school, teacher Ms. Washines, a member of the Yakima tribe, tries to establish a calm, caring community, but Norah misses her mom constantly and is distracted and worried in class, causing her to become increasingly lonely and disorganized. Through Norah's story, Frakes normalizes moving, worrying, unavailable parents, and grappling more responsibilities than a 12-year-old might be ready for. The pages include bubbly internal dialogue that flow readily with a variety of backgrounds in boxed and borderless panels. Illustrated bodies and faces convey movement in a way that almost feels animated, and the emotional expressions are spot-on. A land acknowledgment and author's note ground this work of fiction into Frakes's childhood experiences. VERDICT A compelling and strong addition to middle grade graphic fiction collections.--Jamie Winchell