Absolutely everything A graphic novel

Gr 4--7--The transition to sixth grade is a lot for Marcella to manage--an earlier bus and rotating block schedule leave her off-balance and feeling anxious. The lights and noise of crowded hallways and busy classrooms make it hard to focus on conversations and tasks. She's confused and hurt when her best friend Jen is more interested in ballet, cute boys, and new friends than in spending time together. On top of it all, her dads announce that they'll be moving to a new apartment within the week. "There's so much to remember all the time. And everything is so distracting." Alexander demonstrates the overwhelming sensations that Marcella perceives when she is trying to listen by first overlapping speech balloons and then changing the letters in subsequent panels to scribbles. Later, a personal essay assignment looms over Marcella's head and shoulders; scratchy block lettering on a bright red background crowds her out of the frame. The concern of a caring teacher and her fathers' quick action lead to a diagnosis of ADHD that allows Marcella to appreciate that "things are easier when you understand how your brain works." Marcella and her fathers have pale skin; other characters are presented with a variety of skin tones. VERDICT A warm and sensitive depiction of a neurodivergent character finding her way in middle school. Highly recommended.--Jennifer Costa

"It's not that I dislike school…It's just that sixth grade is the worst." Marcella never used to have trouble keeping up in school, but this year, between rotating classes and a heavy homework load, she feels like she's being left behind. Her thoughts buzz too loudly for her to focus, and she has trouble filtering out visual and auditory stimuli in the classroom. On top of Marcella's academic woes, Jen, her best friend since kindergarten, suddenly has new interests, "giggly friends," and crushes on boys. As far as Marcella's concerned, "Bunnies are cute. Boys are just people." No one else seems to be struggling so much with all the changes. Embarrassed and overwhelmed, Marcella can't figure out how to handle her stress alone. This coming-of-age graphic novel explores the multifaceted trials of transitioning to middle school and navigating undiagnosed ADHD. Marcella's supportive dads and her favorite teacher, Miss Kimani, play important roles in helping her discover what she needs to thrive and validating her frustrations and concerns. Understanding her neurodivergence helps Marcella reconnect with her love of art, utilize coping strategies, and navigate shifts in her friendships. Alexander's artwork does more than just convey Marcella's emotions. Through color, movement, and dynamic perspective, he brings her imagination, intrusive thoughts, and internal progress to life. Marcella and her dads present white, and there's diversity in the secondary and background characters. A hopeful and validating story that excels in portraying a middle schooler's ADHD journey. (author's note)(Graphic fiction. 9-12) Copyright (c) Kirkus Reviews, used with permission.