Juliet Takes a Breath: The Graphic Novel" by Gabby Rivera is a visually stunning adaptation that breathes new life into the beloved coming-of-age story. Rivera's powerful narrative, originally captured in prose, finds a vibrant and dynamic expression in the graphic novel format. The illustrations bring Juliet's journey of self-discovery, queerness, and cultural exploration to life with vivid colors and emotive artwork.

A gorgeous story that’s well written. I read the original novel and the graphic novel version just enhanced the uniqueness of this story. Highly recommend for young adult libraries.

In the vibrant tapestry of coming-of-age tales, "Juliet Takes a Breath: The Graphic Novel" stands as a luminous thread, weaving a narrative that transcends the boundaries of identity, love, and self-discovery. As I delved into the pages of this adaptation by Gabby Rivera and the artistic brilliance of Celia Moscote, I found myself immersed in a world that mirrored the complexities of life and the beauty of embracing one's truth.

The story revolves around Juliet Milagros Palante, a Puerto Rican lesbian navigating the uncharted waters of her identity. Leaving the Bronx for Portland, Oregon, she embarks on an internship with Harlowe Brisbane, a feminist author she idolizes. Juliet's journey unfolds against the backdrop of her recent coming out to her family, adding layers of vulnerability and courage to her quest for self-discovery.

One of the novel's triumphs lies in its nuanced exploration of intersectionality. Juliet's Puerto Rican heritage, her identity as a lesbian, and the challenges of navigating a predominantly white feminist space create a rich tapestry that reflects the complexities many individuals face. The graphic novel format adds a visual dimension to these layers, allowing readers to witness the emotional landscape through Moscote's evocative illustrations.

The characters in this narrative are not mere figments; they breathe, pulsate, and evolve. Juliet, with her raw authenticity and unyielding spirit, becomes a beacon for those seeking their truth. Harlowe Brisbane, flawed and complex, adds depth to the exploration of feminism and identity. The supporting cast contributes diverse perspectives, enriching the narrative tapestry.

Rivera's prose, expertly adapted for the graphic novel, retains the novel's compelling voice. Themes of self-love, race, and the quest for identity are woven seamlessly into the storyline, fostering a deep connection with the characters. The narrative unfolds with a rhythm that mirrors the heartbeat of self-discovery, punctuated by moments of vulnerability, resilience, and triumph.

Moscote's illustrations are a visual feast, capturing the essence of each character and emotion. The use of color, expressive lines, and thoughtful composition enhances the narrative, creating a sensory experience that complements Rivera's poignant storytelling.

"Juliet Takes a Breath: The Graphic Novel" is a celebration of authenticity and resilience. It invites readers to join Juliet in her exploration of love, identity, and the kaleidoscope of human experiences. Whether you're on a journey of self-discovery or an ally seeking understanding, this graphic novel extends an invitation to embrace the complexities that make us beautifully human.

I was in love with the story and illustration style of this small, yet powerful graphic debut! Good job inspiring all the queer youth out there!

Loved the art work and the illustrations complemented the story really well. The writing fell flat at times, though the points the book discussed particularly about homophobia were well done.

Thank you Netgalley for letting me read and review this graphic novel. I haven't read the original story, so I don't know how good of an adaptation it is, but I assume it's great. I enjoyed reading this story. The story was interesting and I connected with a few of the characters. The art style was beautiful.

This book was so good! I loved every characters, especially Juliet. It's an inspiring, empowering and uplifting story. This is a book I'll for sure be recommending to my friends. It felt very genuine, and I loved following Juliet's journey throughout the book.

This graphic novel is equal parts beautiful and important. It is incredibly powerful to see representation for all identities, especially among characters with intersected identities. This adaptation from the novel makes the story digestible and a visual experience. This graphic novel also touches on important topics of white savior complexes, white feminism, casual racism, etc. all in all this was an incredible read that I believe everyone should read!

The art style immediately caught my eye and was really impressive. The characters were compelling! But to me, some of this really felt like the novel was trying too hard, which took me out of it at times.

It was really cool to see a book I loved so much as a teen in graphic novel form! I really enjoyed having a real visual of these characters I'd only imagined before and seeing all the differences between my interpretation and the artist's.

This graphic novel was quite good! Despite the art not being the kind I like the most, I was still captivated by Rivera's ability to weave a tale of female, Latinx empowerment such as this one.

I really liked the novel but wasn't able to finish the graphic novel. I'll try again in the future. Looking forward to it.

A fantastic graphic novel. Beautifully illustrated. I loved the colour palette of the artwork. The story was great. This was gripping and I read it in one sitting. Highly recommend.

A story that has lingered on my shelf for far longer than it should've, this tale is perfect for those becoming introduced to feminism and intersectionality. The characters are familiar and the plot truly gives the weight that coming to your own as a young adult deserves.

I did not read this book in the novel form before reading this, but I don't think that really took away from this story for me. While I do think it would have ADDED to the story and I would recommend people read it first, I don't think I was really "missing" anything by reading this first. I still haven't read the novelization, though, so I could be wrong on that. Either way, I really. enjoyed it and I do look forward to one day reading the novel form of this book.

Thank you so much to net galley and the publisher for giving me a copy of this book! I thought the idea of this was super cute and it was pretty good but it felt too fast paced.

I loved this book, and the graphic novel adaptation was no different! What a gorgeous, powerful story - and the ART! Goodness gracious, the colors in this book are incredible.
I loved seeing Juliet figure things out for herself, find love, and experience the joy in being out and queer. Everyone should be able to have these experiences!

This graphic novel was absolutely wonderful from start to finish.
The artwork is incredible, and the plot was so engaging.
I think I loved this more than I loved the physical novel, probably because of how visual and amazing it was.
This one is one I've also bought for myself because I enjoyed it that much.

A beautifully-done adaptation of such a charming YA book! The art was lovely and I think everything captured Juliet so, so well. The story was great and I look forward to recommending this to young readers!

I loooved the colours and the drawings in this! It's absolutely beautiful. As for the story, I think it starts a bit abruptly. I feel like some pages are super interesting, and then some pages are less interesting. Some of the characters are really strange, so it's hard to connect with them. I do really like the main character though. She's strong and cute and driven.