A parent might reach for this book when their adventurous child is looking for a story that combines the fun of summer camp with the thrill of supernatural mysteries. Lumberjanes is a graphic novel series about five best friends at a very strange summer camp. They encounter everything from yetis to Greek gods, all while earning badges and learning to rely on each other. The series is celebrated for its powerful themes of friendship, teamwork, bravery, and self-acceptance. It’s a perfect read for kids heading to camp or for any child who loves adventure, humor, and seeing diverse, smart, and capable girls as the heroes of their own story.
Features a gentle, sweet same-sex relationship with hand-holding and wholesome affection.
Sensitive Topics
The series features prominent, positive LGBTQ+ representation. Mal and Molly, two main characters, have a gentle, developing same-sex romantic relationship. Another main character, Jo, is a transgender girl, a fact which is revealed and accepted with love and support. The approach is consistently affirming, secular, and integrated naturally into the narrative. Resolutions to conflicts are overwhelmingly hopeful, emphasizing communication and teamwork over violence.
Ideal Reader
An 8-12 year old who loves graphic novels, a good mystery, and stories centered on strong friend groups. It's perfect for fans of 'Gravity Falls' or 'Scooby-Doo' who crave more magic and character-driven stories. It is also an excellent choice for a child who feels a little different and would benefit from seeing a diverse cast of characters celebrate their unique quirks.
Parent Prep
The series can be read cold. Parents should be aware of the positive inclusion of a same-sex couple and a transgender main character, which is presented as a normal and wonderful part of life. The monster-related peril is cartoony and not graphic, but a quick preview is always wise for more sensitive readers. A parent overhears their child wishing for more adventure in their life, or expressing anxiety about making friends at a new school or camp. The child might be looking for media with characters that look and feel like them and their friends, including representation they don't often see.
Age Experience
A younger reader (8-9) will be drawn to the vibrant art, fast-paced action, and silly humor. An older reader (10-12) will connect more deeply with the nuances of the friendships, the developing romance between Mal and Molly, and the overarching themes of identity, loyalty, and finding your own strength.
What Makes It Special
Lumberjanes' unwavering commitment to positive, joyful, and diverse female friendship is its greatest strength. It pioneered casual and affirming queer and trans representation in mainstream all-ages comics. Unlike many adventure stories, conflicts are solved not with force, but with cleverness, empathy, and collaboration, making it a uniquely empowering read.
Read plot summary
The series follows five best friends: Jo, April, Mal, Molly, and Ripley, during their summer at Miss Quinzella Thiskwin Penniquiqul Thistle Crumpet's Camp for Hardcore Lady Types. They quickly discover the surrounding woods are filled with supernatural creatures and phenomena. Banding together as the Roanoke Cabin, they spend their summer solving mysteries, fighting monsters, and protecting their camp, all while navigating the challenges and triumphs of their powerful friendship.
This overview was generated by AI based on the book's content and reviews, and may not capture every nuance.
Discussion Prompts
1
The Lumberjanes' motto is 'Friendship to the Max!' Can you think of a specific time in the story where the friends showed this? What does that motto mean to you?
2
Each Lumberjane has a different strength: Jo is a leader, April is organized, Mal is cautious, Molly is kind, and Ripley has endless energy. If you were solving a mystery with them, what would your special skill be?
3
When facing a scary monster, the girls often rely on their wits and knowledge to get out of trouble, not just strength. Why do you think being clever and working together is so important in these stories?
4
The girls are always earning new badges for skills like 'Pungeon Master' or 'Everything Under the Sun'. What's a silly or serious badge you think you would be able to earn?
