As an adult reading this graphic novel I want to shake her so many times and be like "TELL SOMEONE!" and of course she's a tween, there is so much going on that she can't, because she doesn't feel understood. What was nice though, was the end with the author note and Hale saying with hindsight so much could have changed if she told the right person. ALL of that to say for the middle school and up age range, this book is so close to perfect I cannot wait to recommend it.

This story is written and illustrated in the same Shannon Hale style as her other work. The illustrations are cute and work really well with the story. The storyline itself makes sense and even in the first chapter wrestles with a subject that every child struggles with, and the structure of the layout supports the story and makes sense to the reader.

I can't wait to share this with my middle schoolers! The characters are relatable and the situations are totally plausible. I think the students will really enjoy connecting with and relating to the story.

Shannon Hale continues her nearly autobiographical graphic novel series with this latest installment which young Shannon beginning 8th grade still looking to find her niche and become beautiful and popular. Hopefully, MG readers will read through to the end when she seems to finally be recognizing that she is wonderful just the way she is because she is truly obsessed with superficial looks. However, the realism of middle school rings out from each and every page as students struggle to make and keep friends, deal with class work and teachers, and agonize over things like what to wear on picture day! As Shannon gets older, the scenarios described in her life do as well and some may wonder if this series remains appropriate for the 4th and 5th graders who began reading it with Real Friends, but Hale keeps the text and illustrations free of profanity, violence and sexual content. 8th grade crushes are strictly rated “G.”

Shannon Hale and LeUyen Pham are a powerhouse duo! Though I only received a short preview of the book, it’s clear that Hale and Pham have crafted another warm story of friendship, growing up, and understanding one’s self through the unique struggles of middle school student Sharon.

I love Shannon Hale books and this short little preview had me anxious to read more! Can't wait to see the full version when it comes out later this year! I continue to read and recommend these books within our library, they are always a favorite!

Thanks NetGalley for this preview ARC!

This is only the first 16 pages of the book, but I liked it very much and wanted to read more. I'm definitely intrigued to see what happens next! I don't feel that I can give a more thorough review of the book than that, though.

This was only a preview of the book but just by that glimpse it seems like it will be just as good as the other Friends books

This preview let me know that Shannon Hale is going to deliver a story just as relatable, honest, and compelling as the first two books in her graphic novel series. I was so disappointed when I got to the end of the preview, but I am looking forward to purchasing multiple copies for my library since I know they will be flying off the shelves.

I can't wait to read more of it!
The Friends's series are very popular among students. This one will be another popular one in our library.

I really enjoyed this chapter preview for the third book in this series. Readers who've been following along as they grow up will appreciate the new challenges facing Shannon as she starts eighth grade. I can't wait to read the whole book!

I have always loved reading Shannon Hale books since Princess Academy and the Princess In Black series. This series is wonderful due to the graphic novel aspect. I think it hits home for many teens that are experiencing the struggles she also felt growing up. It speaks to the anxiety and worry we have all shared going through school. Highly recommend for teen readers.
Thanks NetGalley for the ARC copy, all thoughts are my own.

This chapter of the latest Shannon Hale book looks promising. Middle schoolers are sure going to enjoy reading more of the story. The illustrations were spot on too!

This chapter preview gave a great premise for setting up book three in Shannon Hale's graphic novel biography. This series has been incredibly popular with my students because Shannon is such a relatable character. The idiosyncrasies of middle school make a perfect premise for kids to realize that they aren't the only one who feels like they aren't perfect and they don't quite belong. Shannon brings real life to the characters and helps others to realize that others are just like them. Grades: 4-8

Please Note: A copy of this book was given to us by Netgalley and the publisher in exchange for an honest review.. All opinions expressed are our own. No financial compensation was received.

I didn't realize at first that this was only a chapter. It feels like it will have a pretty interesting premise and topics (caring about what you look like as a girl in school).

I didn't realize this was only a chapter sample/preview, but I'm sure it's going to be great. I would like to know if the content level has aged up as Shannon is in eighth grade now. I'm guessing it will be, but it's hard to tell from just one chapter.

Great chapter preview. I'm sure this will be wonderfully popular in my middle school library as are the other Hale graphic novels in this vein. Can't wait to read the rest!

Although this was only a preview, I guarantee that it will be a hit. Hale's book are always so popular in my Media Center. The older elementary students are the ones who appreciate them the most and assume this latest will follow in the same manner.

This was a fun preview chapter for the book. I'm looking forward to continuing Shannon's story as she battles with self-esteem and friendship issues in middle school.

I already know this will be extremely popular book in my school's library!

Did not realize this was a preview. I’m curious as to whether since Shannon is now in 8th grade if it will be appropriate for my K-5 library.