Operatic by Kyo Maclear and Byron Eggenschwiler - OPTIONAL

Operatic by Kyo Maclear, illustrated by Byron Eggenschwiler, 160 pages. GRAPHIC NOVEL. Groundwood Books. 2019. $20

Language: PG (5 swears, 0 “F”); Mature Content PG (same sex attraction); Violence: G 

BUYING ADVISORY: MS, HS - OPTIONAL 

AUDIENCE APPEAL: AVERAGE 

Set mostly in Charlie’s middle school music class, Charlie has feelings for Emile but finds he and Luka are attracted to each other. As Charlie tries to find her perfect song for a music class assignment, she learns about the music of Maria Callas, who becomes an example to her as Charlie tries to channel her inner diva. 

The cover is gorgeous; however the graphic art is done in monochrome colors that vary throughout the book. I liked the story of Maria Callas and the relationships between the friends. However, I finished the book wanting more depth, more of a storyline, and more of a look at life than just the music focus. 

Michelle in the Middle