Fresh start

A childhood spent moving around the globe for her diplomat father's job has molded middle schooler Ollie into a creative, defiant outsider who cares more about making manga than about what other people think. When her white American father and Thai mother decide to settle in Chestnut Falls, Va., the only upside Ollie can see is the opportunity to finally get the pet hedgehog she's been wanting. Then a classmate invites her to join Anime Club, where Ollie encounters kindred spirits, including seemingly perfect Nina, who is part Thai. Galligan (Freestyle) presents an approachable story about confrontation mediation and growing from one's mistakes as Ollie learns that staying in one place means having to resolve conflict rather than fleeing for a fresh start. Along this self-reflective journey, Ollie also advocates for her younger sister Cat and makes peace with her mother's constant pressure for Ollie to act more Thai and feminine. Ollie's own drawings accompany lively illustrations and inspired character designs complete with fun fashions and sensibilities. Led by a tween who has no qualms being herself, this joyful graphic novel marks the evolution of her vulnerability and humility, with friendship as a reward. Ages 8--12. (Jan.)

Gr 3--8--Seventh grader Ollie is used to starting over thanks to her diplomat father's job--she's always moving to a new school, or a new country. But when her Thai mother and white American father decide to settle permanently in Chestnut Falls, VA, Ollie faces higher stakes. She can't just ignore what people think anymore, as she has to face the reality of staying put. Determined not to hide her love for manga or pretend play just to fit in, Ollie discovers a group of students who share her interests. Now she must navigate the challenge of building and maintaining lasting friendships. Galligan's characters are vivid and relatable. Ollie's younger sister Cat becomes obsessed with popularity, disappointing her parents and making her the perfect foil to Ollie's more independent nature. Their mother works hard to connect her daughters to their Thai heritage, even when it means making Ollie wear traditionally feminine clothes that don't feel right. Meanwhile, Ollie's friend Nina struggles with her Thai identity, as others assume she's white. This graphic novel beautifully tackles complex friendships, sibling dynamics, racial identity, and gender expression. The manga-inspired art is filled with exaggerated expressions, adding humor and energy to the story. VERDICT This graphic novel about friendship and identity is a must-have for libraries serving elementary and middle school readers.--Amy Ribakove

Putting down roots isn't easy when you've spent your whole life on the move. Seventh grader Ollie Herisson has lived all over--France, Singapore, and Thailand (where her mom's from), to name just a few places--thanks to her white American dad's diplomat job. She loves the fresh start that each relocation brings: Why worry about bad first impressions or embarrassing moments when you can count on eventually fleeing the country? This knowledge empowers her to fully embrace her goofy, anime-obsessed side, unabashedly immersing herself in imaginary worlds. But when her parents suddenly announce their plans to stay in Virginia for the foreseeable future, Ollie must learn to adjust to American culture and navigate friendships for the long term. Will she be able to survive without her usual escape plan? Galligan translates some of their own childhood experiences into this contemporary story, imbuing it with an authentic energy that shines through the nuanced characters. Realistically imperfect parents, heartfelt moments of sibling solidarity, an identity crisis around race and gender expression, and misguided attempts at friendship all make for a well-rounded and appealing coming-of-age tale. The exaggerated manga-inspired illustrations and impeccable comedic timing create a pitch-perfect portrayal of the ebullient highs and mortifying lows of middle school. Anyone who's ever engaged in fandom will undoubtedly see themselves and their friends reflected in the pages. A hilarious and undeniably endearing tale of tweenhood. (author's note, bonus comics, photo album, more about Thai language and traditions)(Graphic fiction. 8-12) Copyright (c) Kirkus Reviews, used with permission.