I think this is a well-written book for elementary age. Students struggling with being different. Dyslexia can be very confusing for children of that age and this book seems to make it a little more approachable and understandable. I like that. It also has a group of kids obsessed with the new game/tv series because we all know that children that age have obsessions just like this so it makes it completely relatable.

Solid middle grade graphic novel that needs to be in school libraries.

Stella is beginning fifth grade and is very excited that her two best friends are in her class AND they were placed in the most popular teacher's classroom. She and her friends look forward to conquering fifth grade year and the release of a new game based on their favorite gaming characters, "The Witchlins." The game is marketed as the best ever and has a large manual to guide players through each level. This becomes a problem for Stella, as the words on the page get mixed up and she cannot keep up with her friends. She ultimately begins making excuses of not liking the game and distances herself from her friends.

Kami Garcia, author, leans on personal experiences with dyslexia and neurodivergence which results in a very real story of issues that affect middle grade students, their achievement in school and their friendships. I hope to see this one on state readers award lists, and will be recommending it to fans of Raina Telgemeier and Jennifer Holm.

While I really enjoyed this graphic novel's tackling of dyslexia and it's impact on self-esteem and friendships, I really wish it wasn't explicitly stated that the Stella is in fifth grade. I'll have a difficult time convincing my middle school 6-8th graders to pick this one up because of the age of the protagonist, yet I feel the story itself is quite relevant. However, wonderful artwork and great cover, along with known author Kami Garcia will help me in this struggle.