Turning twelve

In this follow-up to graphic novel Growing Pangs (rev. 7/22), newly twelve-year-old Katie navigates the turbulence of puberty, which she likens to an "adulthood alarm" constantly going off: "Growing up was starting to feel like it was more about alarms than adventures." Katie, a churchgoing homeschooler who sees a therapist about her "buzzing thoughts" (anxiety and OCD), faces the onset of shaving, bras, and her first period, while her two best friends (who are siblings) temporarily move away. Most confusing for Katie is her attraction to Grace, a fellow cast member in a production of Annie, which conflicts with the messages she hears at church. She also wrestles with the church's "totally sexist" views on modesty. The book captures the intensity of early adolescence with the "thu-thump" refrain of Katie's heartbeat when she's with Grace. The illustrations, with expressive line work and a spectrum of reds, convey the warmth and depth of Katie's emotions through blushing cheeks and enamored glances. On one memorable page, radiant Grace fills most of the space while Katie, in a panel below, gazes rapturously: "thu-thump." Katie's wish to have "stayed eleven" transforms, through self-reflection and the influence of a few women in her life, into a newfound tenacity and the realization that, when she's older, she can "find a place to be myself." A respectful portrayal of an adolescent girl learning to think independently. Julie DanielsonJanuary/February 2025 p.87 (c) Copyright The Horn Book, Inc., a wholly owned subsidiary of Media Source, Inc. No redistribution permitted.

Turning 12 isn't easy. In this stand-alone companion toGrowing Pangs (2022), Katie cannot wait for her 12th birthday. She's looking forward to getting her first real babysitting job, auditioning for the musicalAnnie, and hanging out with BFFs Ginni and Amalie. Unfortunately, 12 isn't turning out as she expected: Ginni and Amalie are moving away to help their grandmother, Katie doesn't land her coveted lead role in the musical, the mean girls in her church youth group bully her, and her anxiety and OCD (which she describes as her "buzzing thoughts") seem to be worsening. When Katie meets Grace, who's also cast inAnnie, she realizes that this is her first crush. Growing up home-schooled and religious, she's been steeped in purity culture and homophobia, creating a deep chasm of anxiety as she struggles to find self-acceptance, confidence, and community. Loosely based on Ormsbee's own life, this delightful tale is a stellar middle-grade offering, adroitly capturing the heartbreak and joy of early adolescence. The alluringly vibrant illustrations feel cinematic, with their immersive feel and keen emphasis on facial expressions. Notes from both the author and artist provide resources and enriching anecdotes. With its unabashed candor, empathy, and accessibility, this book will appeal to fans of Raina Telgemeier, Kayla Miller, and Shannon Hale who are searching for their next favorite read. Katie and Grace present white; Amalie and Ginni have brown skin and wavy black hair. A heartfelt and endearing snapshot of adolescence.(Graphic fiction. 8-12) Copyright (c) Kirkus Reviews, used with permission.