Lumberjanes Vol. 17 delivers another dose of the quirky, heartwarming, and adventurous spirit that has made this graphic novel series a critical and commercial success. In this installment, the campers of Miss Qiunzella Thiskwin Penniquiqul Thistle Crumpet's Camp for Hardcore Lady-Types embark on an unplanned adventure. What starts as a stargazing event quickly devolves into a search for aliens, a confrontation with a gatecrashing goddess, and a charmingly nefarious kitten-napping. The core of the story, as always, is the unwavering bond between the five main scouts: Jo, April, Molly, Mal, and Ripley.
The book handles its fantastical elements with a light, humorous touch, making the supernatural encounters exciting rather than truly scary. Sensitive topics, such as Jo's identity as a trans girl and Molly and Mal's mutual crush, are woven seamlessly into the narrative, presented as normal and accepted aspects of the characters' lives without being the central conflict. This provides invaluable representation and normalizes diverse identities for young readers.
The emotional arc is consistently uplifting and hopeful, even amidst the chaos. The girls face challenges, make mistakes (like sneaking out), but always rely on their friendship and ingenuity to find solutions. This volume is specifically for children who love adventure, mystery, and stories about strong friendships. It's ideal for a child who feels a bit different, is curious about the world, or simply enjoys a good laugh with a diverse cast of characters. A parent might reach for this when their child is looking for an engaging graphic novel, or when they want to introduce themes of acceptance, teamwork, and self-discovery in a fun, accessible way. Parents should preview the mild peril and the concept of sneaking out, which could spark conversations about rules and safety. Younger readers (6-7) will enjoy the vibrant illustrations and the general excitement, while older readers (8-9) will appreciate the humor, character development, and the subtle yet powerful messages of inclusivity. What sets Lumberjanes apart is its unique blend of whimsical fantasy, genuine emotional depth, and groundbreaking representation, all wrapped in a visually dynamic and endlessly entertaining package.
