Raina Telgemeier's 'Drama' is a vibrant and deeply relatable graphic novel that captures the essence of middle school life through the lens of a school theater production. The story centers on Callie, a seventh-grader with a passion for set design, who dreams of creating a spectacular stage for 'Moon over Mississippi.' Her journey is filled with the typical challenges of a school play, from budget constraints and carpentry woes to coordinating a diverse crew.
The book excels in its sensitive and normalizing portrayal of identity and relationships. It features characters exploring their sexual identities, including Justin's casual coming out as gay and Jesse's more complex journey of self-acceptance and coming to terms with his own sexuality. The narrative handles these topics with warmth and authenticity, emphasizing acceptance and support among friends. While some critics have raised concerns about the lack of explicit discussion on race, particularly regarding the historical context of the play 'Moon over Mississippi' and certain character depictions, the book has been widely praised for its positive LGBTQ representation and its overall message of inclusion.
The emotional arc is one of growth and triumph. Callie starts with typical middle school anxieties and crushes, but through perseverance and teamwork, she and her friends navigate personal and production challenges, leading to moments of self-discovery and collective success. The ending is hopeful, with Callie embracing a new leadership role and a stronger sense of self.
This book is specifically for middle schoolers, roughly ages 10-14, who are navigating friendships, first crushes, and the often-confusing journey of self-identity. It's particularly resonant for children interested in theater, those questioning their own identity, or those seeking to understand and support friends who are. A parent might reach for this book when their child is experiencing the ups and downs of middle school social dynamics, showing an interest in creative arts, or when they want to introduce and normalize LGBTQ themes in an age-appropriate and positive way.
Parents should be prepared to discuss the themes of identity and sexuality, as well as the importance of acceptance. The book's depiction of homosexual crushes and coming out stories is presented as a normal part of adolescent life. Younger readers might focus on the fun of the theater production and the friendship dynamics, while older readers will delve deeper into the nuances of identity, self-acceptance, and the complexities of crushes. 'Drama' stands out from other books on similar topics due to Telgemeier's signature graphic novel style, which makes complex emotional and social themes highly accessible and engaging. Its explicit and positive LGBTQ representation for this age group, coupled with its relatable middle school setting, makes it a significant and comforting read.
