Positively Izzy

This follow-up to graphic novel Invisible Emmie (rev. 7/17) again alternates between two perspectives, this time those of Emmie's best friend Brianna (a.k.a. "The Brain") and artsy dreamer Izzy. Brianna's story is rendered via large cartoon-panel drawings, and Izzy's story is shown in smaller, border-free vignettes (final art not seen). Brianna is adjusting to the embarrassing fact that her mother now teaches drama at her middle school. Izzy is eager to perform in the school's talent show, but she's grounded after getting a zero in math; she defies her mother by sneaking off to perform in the show. Brianna, meanwhile, reluctantly agrees to step in for someone at the show; she overcomes her fear of performing (but not without angst) and connects with her mother in a new way. An unexpected twist at the book's close, taking place at a family brunch, reveals a surprise about the book's timeline, an emotionally rewarding discovery that wraps up the story lines with ease. Libenson captures middle-school dramas-family, ?friendships, crushes, stereotypes, grades, self-discovery-with candor, fast pacing, and authentic, relatable characters. Positively satisfying. julie Danielson