Awkward – Svetlana Chmakova | Hit or Miss Books

23657454 Awkward by Svetlana Chmakova

My rating: 4 of 5 stars
Received: Publisher
Publication Date: July 21st, 2015
Publisher: Yen Press
Point of View: 1st Person & Feminine
Recommended Age: 8+
Pacing: Normal
Genres & Themes: Middle Grade, Manga, Friendship, Art & Science, School Life

BLURB:

Cardinal rule #1 for surviving school: Don’t get noticed by the mean kids.

Cardinal rule #2 for surviving school: Seek out groups with similar interests and join them.

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I can’t believe how cute, adorable, hug-worthy this book is. Especially with such a title. I think the ”awkward” moments made things even more charming.

So this is Peppi’s story, Peppi who thought she was prepared for middle school but realizes she may not have everything figured out. Peppi who makes the mistake of acting like a bully would on her first day, thus ruining someone else’s first day.

But when she joins the art club and sees more of the boy she was rude to (who is part of the science club) she is determined to make things right… apologize. But she is so embarrassed! It’s all very cute in its awkwardness.

Peppi is someone very easy-going. It really isn’t her style to be mean to people. You’ll see, she’ll rock your socks off. She is especially the right kind of heroine for a manga, because of all her funny expressions. She’s an introvert, but she doesn’t hide her feelings well, which actually makes it extremely easy to connect with her.

And Jaime, aww, poor Jaime. He is the sweetest! I loved their interactions the most, although the storyline itself is so interesting. The rivalry between the art and science club always made me chuckle. This is perfect for young readers because it shows how important it is to be open to others, even if you think they are completely different from you. Actually, they might be more similar than you think. Pretty honorable theme, if you ask me.