Awkward

Svetlana Chmakova's 'Awkward' is a highly acclaimed graphic novel that perfectly captures the tumultuous experience of starting middle school. Penelope 'Peppi' Torres's journey begins with an embarrassing incident involving a 'nerd' from the science club, which she tries to bury to fit in with her new art club friends. However, when the art and science clubs declare war, Peppi is forced to confront her choices, stand up for what's right, and understand the complexities of friendship and self-acceptance. This book is ideal for middle-grade readers (ages 10-14) who are navigating social dynamics, peer pressure, and finding their identity. It's a heartwarming and humorous story that normalizes feelings of awkwardness and encourages empathy.

After shunning Jaime, the school nerd, on her first day at a new middle school, Penelope Torres tries to blend in with her new friends in the art club, until the art club goes to war with the science club, of which Jaime is a member.