The Isobel Journal: Just a Girl from Where Nothing Really Happens

Gr 7 Up—Blogger and Tumblr fan Isobel Harrop, 18, shares her thoughts and insights on the highlights of her life. Through a scrapbook-type journal—much like the one teens may have by the side of their beds—full of drawings, taped-in pictures, and ticket stubs, Isobel tells readers about her desire to make beautiful things, and her difficulty fitting in with the arty kids. She shares her feelings on love, wanting to put forget-me-nots inside her crush's head; and breakups, hating boys who make fun of things she likes. The slightly moody, artistic, confused young adult narrator embodies most teen readers. Reminiscent of Tavi Gevenson's "Rookie Yearbooks" (Drawn & Quarterly) and Jessica Anthony's Chopsticks (Penguin, 2012), this creative mixed-media work by a UK teen will devoured quickly—and will inspire readers to created their own illustrated notebooks. For those who are ready to move past Rachel Renée Russell's "Dork Diaries" (S. & S.) —Sarah Knutson, American Canyon Middle School, CA