Penny Nichols

Gr 10 Up–Reed and Means partner with artist Wiegle for a graphic novel that combines feminism with DIY moviemaking and existential angst. Sarcastic 26-year-old Penny is mostly content with her low-key lifestyle of temping, avoiding her irritating roommate, and reading YA novels. On a whim, she agrees to help two strangers with their super-low-budget slasher movie. Penny discovers a natural talent for behind-the-scenes organizing and meets a group of like-minded new friends and begins taking on a coterie of jobs for the film. Under her influence, what was originally the gory tale of a bride with bloodlust starts to incorporate thoughtful feminist themes. This graphic novel is simultaneously fun, funny, gross, and sweet, with a lovely pairing of words and images. Wiegle’s expressive black-and-white illustrations are by turns edgy and tender. Readers with an interest in DIY filmmaking will be inspired by the narrative and the epilogue’s tips on pursuing film as a career path or hobby. Some swear words, an implied sex act, and lots of graphic horror movie–style gore may be a bit much for younger teens.