emily_mh's review
emotional
informative
inspiring
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? No
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
3.75
3.75. I got along well with the clean and simple art style of this graphic novel, although I will say that the backgrounds were a little plain which led to a less immersive experience.
The authors’ clear passion for tech shines through the book. While hindering at times (more on that later), it was very cool seeing the uses that VR can be put to. Often we think of futuristic tech as something that is only going to take from our lives, but Mass and Mendez put forward the other side of the argument. I was particularly interested in how VR could be used in a medical setting. The story also delves into augmented reality - I would highly recommend using the QR codes on the author’s website (details in book) to enhance your reading experience! Another of Mass’ interests, geocaching, was included, and while I liked learning about it, it did feel like a random inclusion. Moon seeds were yet another topic explored, except this time I thought it was incorporated well. It was again fascinating to learn about.
My main issue with this graphic novel is that the middle section feels more like an ad for VR and augmented reality than a book with plot and active characters. Thus the resolution feels rushed, because a lot of the book isn’t dedicated to developing the plot or characters.
Even though the character development was hasty for the above reason, I did like seeing Addie’s growth. Through VR she learns empathy skills, which means she changes from a self-absorbed person to one who is able to truly connect with others. I liked how she opened up and found some real direction. Addie also represents kids who have an imprisoned parent experiencing drug addiction, which is not something I’ve read in MG before. I think this rep is so important, not only for kids going through this who could find validation and comfort, but for kids who aren’t so that they can understand experiences that aren’t theirs.
Rep: Latine (possibly Argentinian-American) SCs, SC with chronic pain, Black SC, East Asian SC, Indian-American SC
The authors’ clear passion for tech shines through the book. While hindering at times (more on that later), it was very cool seeing the uses that VR can be put to. Often we think of futuristic tech as something that is only going to take from our lives, but Mass and Mendez put forward the other side of the argument. I was particularly interested in how VR could be used in a medical setting. The story also delves into augmented reality - I would highly recommend using the QR codes on the author’s website (details in book) to enhance your reading experience! Another of Mass’ interests, geocaching, was included, and while I liked learning about it, it did feel like a random inclusion. Moon seeds were yet another topic explored, except this time I thought it was incorporated well. It was again fascinating to learn about.
My main issue with this graphic novel is that the middle section feels more like an ad for VR and augmented reality than a book with plot and active characters. Thus the resolution feels rushed, because a lot of the book isn’t dedicated to developing the plot or characters.
Even though the character development was hasty for the above reason, I did like seeing Addie’s growth. Through VR she learns empathy skills, which means she changes from a self-absorbed person to one who is able to truly connect with others. I liked how she opened up and found some real direction. Addie also represents kids who have an imprisoned parent experiencing drug addiction, which is not something I’ve read in MG before. I think this rep is so important, not only for kids going through this who could find validation and comfort, but for kids who aren’t so that they can understand experiences that aren’t theirs.
Rep: Latine (possibly Argentinian-American) SCs, SC with chronic pain, Black SC, East Asian SC, Indian-American SC
Content Warnings
Moderate: Addiction, Medical content, Drug abuse, and Cancer
Minor: Ableism, Fire/Fire injury, Vomit, Blood, Grief, and Genocide
Moderate: loss of a loved one, imprisonment Minor: 1 HP ref, reference to the Holocaust
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