Books in the series Berrybrook Middle School

Peppi Torres is just trying to survive her first day at Berrybrook Middle School when she makes a huge mistake. In a moment of panic to avoid being teased, she trips a quiet boy named Jamie and runs away. This "awkward" moment haunts her as she tries to find her place in the school's competitive club scene. Joining the Art Club seems like a great idea, but soon she finds herself caught in a fierce rivalry with the Science Club, where Jamie just happens to be a star member.

Svetlana Chmakova's Awkward is a masterclass in middle school dynamics, capturing the genuine anxiety and humor of pre-teen life. It is perfect for children who love graphic novels like Raina Telgemeier's Smile or Victoria Jamieson's Roller Girl. This story is an ideal choice for readers interested in school stories that balance lighthearted comedy with meaningful lessons about kindness, making amends, and standing up for what is right.

Highlights:

• Relatable exploration of social anxiety and middle school "rules."
• Engaging rivalry between the Art Club and the Science Club.
• Diverse cast of characters with distinct personalities and backgrounds.
• Beautifully illustrated panels that bring the school setting to life.

In Brave, the second installment of Svetlana Chmakova's beloved Berrybrook Middle School series, we meet Oliver. Oliver is a quiet kid who often prefers the world of his imagination and gaming to the harsh realities of the school hallways. However, middle school isn't always kind to those who stay quiet. When Oliver finds himself the target of local bullies, he must learn what it truly means to be brave—and it might not look like the heroic battles in his favorite video games.

This graphic novel is perfect for children who love Smile or Diary of a Wimpy Kid. It offers a realistic and relatable look at the social hierarchies of middle school, making it an ideal choice for readers interested in stories about overcoming social anxiety and standing up for oneself. Chmakova’s expressive artwork and authentic dialogue capture the emotional highs and lows of pre-teen life, ensuring that readers feel seen and understood. It is a great choice for parents looking to discuss school social dynamics with their children.

Highlights:

• Relatable exploration of middle school social dynamics and bullying.
• Beautifully illustrated graphic novel format that appeals to visual learners and reluctant readers.
• Strong message about finding inner strength and the value of true friendship.
• A character-driven story that encourages empathy and self-confidence.

Crush is the heartwarming third installment in Svetlana Chmakova's award-winning Berrybrook Middle School series. The story follows Jorge, a gentle giant who is well-respected by his peers and has a loyal group of friends. While Jorge usually feels confident and steady, everything changes when he develops feelings for a girl named Jazmine. This charming graphic novel perfectly captures the awkwardness, excitement, and confusion of a first crush while navigating the complex social hierarchies of middle school.

Ideal for readers interested in realistic school stories, this book explores how friendships evolve as kids grow older. When Jorge's friend group starts to change and peer pressure begins to mount, he must decide whether to follow the crowd or stay true to himself. It is a great choice for children who love relatable characters and stories that tackle everyday challenges with humor and heart. Parents looking for books that promote emotional intelligence and healthy relationships will find this a perfect addition to their child's library.

Highlights:

• A relatable and sweet protagonist who challenges stereotypes about tough guys.
• Authentic portrayal of middle school social dynamics and first romances.
• Engaging graphic novel format that appeals to both avid and reluctant readers.
• Strong themes of integrity, friendship, and staying true to one's values.

Felicity, known as Flick to her friends, is tired of being the sister who never finishes anything. While her older sister Letty seems perfect and accomplished, Flick is still searching for her 'big thing.' To prove she has what it takes and to finally silence her sister's teasing, Flick enters a high-stakes contest. However, the pressure of competition starts to take a toll on her relationships, and she begins to wonder if winning is worth losing her friends.

As the line between friends and enemies begins to blur, Flick must navigate the complex social waters of middle school and figure out who really has her back. This engaging graphic novel is perfect for children who love relatable stories about school drama, art clubs, and growing up. It is an ideal choice for readers interested in realistic depictions of sibling rivalry and the ups and downs of friendship. Fans of the Berrybrook Middle School series will find this a great choice for understanding the nuances of social dynamics and the importance of perseverance.

Highlights:

• Relatable middle school setting and realistic social challenges.
• Exploration of sibling dynamics and the pressure to succeed.
• Expressive artwork that captures emotional nuances perfectly.
• Valuable lessons on empathy and what it truly means to be a friend.

Diary by Svetlana Chmakova is a unique and interactive addition to the beloved Berrybrook Middle School series. This special volume blends the charm of a graphic novel with the creativity of an activity book, making it the perfect companion for fans of Awkward, Brave, and Crush. It offers readers a chance to dive deeper into the lives of Peppi, Jaime, and Jensen through brand-new short stories while encouraging them to document their own middle school journeys.

Ideal for readers interested in art and storytelling, this book features "one sketch a day" pages, sticker sheets, and guided journal entries. It is a great choice for children who love expressing themselves through drawing and writing. Parents will appreciate how it fosters creativity and provides a safe space for kids to reflect on their daily experiences, friendships, and personal growth. Whether your child is a long-time fan of the series or a newcomer looking for an engaging creative outlet, this book offers a delightful mix of fiction and interactive fun.

Highlights:

• Includes exclusive new stories set in the Berrybrook Middle School universe.
• Features interactive "one sketch a day" pages and sticker sheets to encourage artistic expression.
• Perfect for fans of contemporary graphic novels who want to engage more deeply with their favorite characters.
• Provides a relatable and supportive framework for kids to start their own journaling habit.