The New Girl

The New Girl is a charming middle-grade graphic novel that follows Lia, a Romanian girl, as she immigrates to a new country with her family. The story masterfully blends the universal challenges of moving and cultural adjustment with the very personal experience of puberty, specifically her first period. Lia grapples with language barriers, making new friends, and understanding her changing body, all depicted with humor and empathy. Inspired by the author's own experiences, this book offers a relatable and comforting narrative for readers aged 10-14 who might be facing significant life changes, feeling like an outsider, or simply navigating the awkwardness of growing up. It's a feel-good story about resilience and finding acceptance.

Instagram sensation and Tapas webcomic superstar Cassandra Calin makes her long-form debut with this funny, feel-good middle-grade graphic novel about change. Goodbye, old life... Lia and her family are waiting to board a flight across the Atlantic, leaving behind family, friends, and Romania -- the only home Lia has ever known. But Lia's heartache is overshadowed by the discomfort of her first period. As if things weren't difficult enough! Now Lia is thrust into a world where everything is different: her home, her language, and even her body. With so many changes happening at once, Lia struggles with schoolwork, has trouble communicating with classmates, and has no idea how to manage her unpleasant periods. Will she ever feel like herself again? Inspired by the author's own immigration experience, The New Girl is a comically charming story about change and acceptance.