Reviews tagging 'Bullying'

Invisible: A Graphic Novel by Christina Diaz Gonzalez

4 reviews

calamitywindpetal's review against another edition

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emotional hopeful inspiring lighthearted fast-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? Character
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? Yes
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

4.5

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emily_mh's review against another edition

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emotional hopeful fast-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? A mix
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? Yes
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? No

4.5

I love how this graphic novel was structured. In present day, our five MCs are in the principal’s office having to recount the events that have led them to this moment. The reader has no idea why they’re there and can only guess as each MC tells a part of the story from their perspective. This was incredibly engaging as it built a sense of anticipation, a drive to want to know what happened. Moreover, it allowed each character to shine, and ensured the book was well-paced. 

Through the POVs of George, Sara, Dayara, Nico, and Miguel, the graphic novel explores a range of experiences that Latine kids in the U.S. might be facing. Whether these were language barriers, having a learning disability, having to hide your living status, having insecure living arrangements, separation from family, bullying, finding friends, or being expected to have a well-paid job, it never felt like we were being rushed through any one topic - or character story. Each MC underwent meaningful development. I especially loved seeing them all become friends, and where Sara ended up. 

On top of all of this, I loved the action the MCs found themselves taking in regard to helping another person. It was so selfless considering the unique consequences facing them for doing so. I think it would be inspiring for middle-graders to read this and see the kind of impact they can have. 
Finally, I found the art style to be fine: nothing super stunning, but it did an excellent job at conveying emotion. 

Rep: Puerto Rican-American MC, Mexican MC, Black Dominican MC, Cuban MC with dyslexia, Venezuelan MC 
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betweentheshelves's review against another edition

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hopeful inspiring fast-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? A mix
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? Yes
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? No

4.0

Okay, I loved this. In a similar style to the ever popular Babysitters Club graphic novels, featuring a group of middle schoolers thrown together due to circumstance. One of the focal points of this is the way it puts ESL students front and center, which I don't think I've seen in graphic novel format before. Love seeing Spanish and English incorporated throughout the entire graphic novel.

In addition to tackling the way people perceive the Latino community, this book also tackles things like homelessness and immigration. It focuses on the fact that we often lump people together and don't see them as individuals, and this is such an important thing for middle grade readers to see. And it's so well done!

Plus, there are some Breakfast Club type vibes, and the way the story is framed works really well to keep readers engaged in the plot. Highly recommend for any graphic novel fans!
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imstephtacular's review against another edition

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emotional hopeful fast-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? Character
  • Loveable characters? Yes

4.0

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