Gina: The Girl Who Broke The World by Judd Winick

I have to admit, I started this book knowing that I was going to love it. Having devoured the first story arc in Judd Winnick’s HiLo series with as much enthusiasm as my seven year old son, I had BIG expectations for this new story. I am so happy to say that all of my expectations were met, even exceeded. I’m going to do my best to write this full review without spoilers, so if things seem vague here and there, that’s why!

The story starts some time after the events of the previous story arc. Izzy, HiLo’s “sister” has sacrificed herself for the world and everyone is having a difficult time dealing with this loss. Gina is especially conflicted. Her abilities give her power, and as Spiderman fans everywhere know, that comes with some heavy responsibility. She isn’t sure she wants to be responsible for what she may bring about, even if that means that some of the bad guys get away. When situations arise, Gina is reluctant. She’s more willing to let others do the risk taking so that she can preserve her circle and keep things the way they are.
The way Winick writes and draws this internal conflict is marvelous. You can see the flat affect on her face, the resignation in her posture, and the depression in her words. Anyone who has felt like this or loved someone through such a time can recognize what is happening. It’s a detail that won’t even escape the youngest readers. My now 8 year old tenderly touched the pictures at one point saying, “She says it’s fine but it doesn’t look like she’s fine.”
A succession of mysterious visitors to Earth break this cycle and when faced with a “do or die” situation Gina really doesn’t want to do what she knows she must do. Ultimately her bravery, the support of her friends, and her own sense of what is right lead her to make tough choices in the face of uncertainty. She doesn’t always make the right choices, but she does SOMETHING, which is really all any of us can do. I think you could make a connection to the work we are all doing now to combat Covid-19. We don’t always know what to do but we have to try things to know if they’re right or not.
So much of this book is done right, from the way grief and depression are shown, the way the three friends uplift and support each other, the way the boys aren’t threatened by or trying to upstage the female lead, but my favorite part of this book by far was its humor. This is a really funny book. You and your kids will be doubled over laughing at some of the gags and jokes sprinkled throughout. HiLo’s unbridled enthusiasm for everything isn’t dimmed at all by his experiences in the first story arc. He remains the joy of humanity personified. HiLo notices everything wonderful in the world, even in the most mundane experiences (mangoes, anyone!?! )
To really enjoy this book you’ll probably want to read the first six books first, though you could jump in here and get the gist of the story if you really must. I encourage you to read this story with the young readers in your life. It’s sure to become a family favorite for young and old.
It's OUTSTANDING!
I recommend this book for readers of all ages but particularly for those who are young at heart.

*I received a free digital copy of this soon to be published work from the publisher via Netgalley.com in exchange for my honest review. This review reflects my true opinion.

I love the cover😆I was really looking forward to reading. !y kindle app is messed up so have use netgalley shelf. What i could read was good but most of book lank for me. I. Hoping updates on netgalley shelf j didn't have these problems Kindle but takes up too much space.

My 10 year old son is a Hilo devotee. He has been reading the Hilo series since the beginning and highly anticipates getting a new one. Getting an ARC of this book has strongly increased my "street cred" with him!

Something that is so special about Hilo is that not only does my son love them, but my husband and I can enjoy them too and he can read them to his little sister and keep her engaged also by the storylines, character, and illustrations.

This seventh book is a bit of a refresh on the series as Hilo becomes human and Gina takes the lead as the main character. We loved the story and of course the pictures, but were also excited for the series to go in a new direction. My son, in particular, loved the new characters of Bek and Choi. He thought they were hilarious and original. All in all, not only did this book hold up as the latest in a beloved series, but it found a way to be fresh and new and get us all excited about where the series is headed.

Thank you so much to Netgalley for the advance copy and a chance to let my family in on a fun and enjoyable book.

Just as good as the original books. I’m disappointed that Hilo can’t shoot lasers anymore. Strong female character. Great for a middle grade readers.

Winnick does it again in Hilo 7. After losing a character in book six I want sure how they would carry on. Gina and Hilo carrying on bits of Izzy's personality was perfect. As the team tried to rescue the nestor they learned how to lean on one another and use each other's skills. The book ends in a true cliffhanger!

What a delightful book! Hilo is one of the most popular series in my Media Center and Gina is certain to be a welcomed addition! The idea of magic disappearing and the quest to bring it back will be so enticing to my elementary school readers.
The illustrations are so vivid, colorful and entertaining. Can't wait for Book 8!

I love all the Hilo books. They all make me laugh out loud at Hilo’s antics and keep me interested with an engaging storyline. I love the illustrations, the dialog is so much fun, and the characters are relatable and enjoyable. I can’t wait to see what adventures Hilo and the gang get up to in the next book!

Once again Winick has exceeded expectations! This book is funny, dramatic and so energetic. Kids that are fans of the Hilo series will be excited to see what Gina is up to. I can't wait for the next one!