Tuesday, June 25, 2024

Sweet Valley Twins: The Haunted House by Francine Pascal, & Nicole Andelfinger and Knack Whittle - ADVISABLE

Sweet Valley Twins: The Haunted House
by Francine Pascal, illustrated by Nicole Andelfinger and Knack Whittle
, 220 pages. GRAPHIC NOVEL Random House, 2024. $22 

Language: PG (6 swears) Mature Content: G Violence: G 

BUYING ADVISORY: EL, MS - ADVISABLE 

APPEALS TO: MANY 

Nora Mercandy has moved into town and lives in the local haunted house, spawning rumors that she is a witch. The school spurns her, led on by the Unicorn Club and their rumors. Elizabeth determines Nora is a nice girl and tries to befriend her. The bullying escalates and Elizabeth is caught between her new friend and her twin. 

The art is great and helps carry the book. The bullying is really mean and I have a hard time liking Jessica's character even if she is a good literary foil for her twin. The ending wraps up a little too easily and not everyone who gets bullied will have a way out as easy as Nora. It's a relatable read though and it's a vehicle to build empathy for those who may not fit in. No culture or race is specified, though the twins are white. 

Michelle in the Middle 

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