I have previously expressed my dismay at all realistic fiction graphic novels being unnecessary memoirs that are set in the 80s and 90s not because the author's life was so interesting, but because the author doesn't want to deal with social media and cell phones. Rarely do these retro settings serve any function other than a song or TV show reference for the adult readers. I have been beating the "stop setting books in the 90s for no reason drum" for some time.

However, Chickenpox is a rare light in the darkness. A graphic novel set in the 1900s FOR A GOOD REASON. Color me thrilled. Because this book could not exist in the modern day, because...and as a 90s kid, this still blows my mind...kids don't get chickenpox anymore. What a relief! And THEN, it was GOOD! There's sibling drama where no one is an absolutely unredeemable jerk, friendship drama that feels realistic to how children that age interact, the struggles of calling a friend's house and having to talk to their parents. (Kids today will never know the struggle!)

What an interesting twist to make Remy herself a side character, focusing instead on her older siblings, which I think worked really well. I loved every page, and this will definitely be a no-brainer purchase for my elementary school library. Multiple copies, because I know it will fly off of my shelves.

Abby Lai has four younger siblings. They're constantly fighting. When Abby snaps at her siblings in front of her friends, it seems like her friends distance themselves from her.

And then everyone starts to itch. Abby's friend had chickenpox and now so do all the kids in Abby's family. Chaos ensues in the 10 days of "quarantine jail".

Chickenpox sensitively explores relationships both familial and friend. It provides great narratives of the problems miscommunication causes as well as positive examples of how to resolve those problems.

Partly biographical based from the perspective of the author's big sister, this graphic novel shares the story of being the oldest sibling with a house full of sick younger kids. Feeling guilty about bringing home chickenpox, Abby begins to realize how hard her mother is working to care for all the kids while their dad is away on a business trip. Abby grow and matures through this book and learns that there is more to her siblings than just a mission to annoy her.

I love Remy Lai, and this book is not exception. Engaging book about sibling rivalries and being quarantined. Great addition to an elementary library's graphic novel collection.

This was a great read! Immediately grabbed my attention. The art and character design is outstanding, and the flow of the book is super smooth. The relationship between the siblings was so funny and moving throughout the novel. And I have to say, the cover looks amazing! I've never had chickenpox, but I know this will be a popular title among Raina Telgemeier fans. I will make sure to purchase a physical copy for myself too when it comes out next year!

I’m the biggest sucker for contemporary, slice of life graphic novels that feature strong themes of family + sibling dynamics. This one did not disappoint! Not to mention, the art was so funny and extremely impressive