
Sunny Side Up
by Jennifer L. Holm1 of 5
Sunny Side Up is a poignant and relatable graphic novel that follows Sunny Lewin as she is sent to spend the summer with her grandfather in a Florida retirement community. While she initially expects the thrills of Disney World, she instead finds herself surrounded by senior citizens and golf carts. However, her summer takes an exciting turn when she meets Buzz, a comic-book-obsessed boy who introduces her to a world of superheroes and neighborhood adventures. Together, they face off against runaway cats and golf-ball-eating alligators, providing a much-needed distraction from the mystery of why Sunny was sent away in the first place.
This book is perfect for children who love graphic novels like Smile or Real Friends. While the story is filled with humor and lighthearted moments, it also gently explores deeper family issues, specifically the impact of a sibling's struggle with substance abuse. It is an ideal choice for readers interested in realistic fiction that balances fun with meaningful life lessons. Parents will appreciate how the story handles sensitive topics with grace, making it a great conversation starter about family dynamics and resilience.
Highlights:
- Engaging graphic novel format that appeals to visual learners and reluctant readers.
- A touching exploration of family secrets and the bond between siblings.
- Set in the nostalgic 1970s, offering a unique historical perspective for young readers.
- Balances humor and adventure with serious, relatable social themes.

Swing It, Sunny
by Jennifer L. Holm2 of 5
Set in the 1970s, Swing It, Sunny follows Sunny Lewin as she navigates the ups and downs of middle school and complex family life. After her summer in Florida, Sunny is back home, but things aren't quite "sunny." Her older brother is away at boarding school, her parents are constantly worried, and she is trying to find her footing in a new school year. This graphic novel beautifully captures the awkwardness of growing up while dealing with serious family dynamics and the search for normalcy.
Perfect for children who love the Smile series by Raina Telgemeier or Real Friends by Shannon Hale, this book is an ideal choice for readers interested in relatable stories about resilience and empathy. Jennifer L. Holm and Matthew Holm create a nostalgic yet timeless atmosphere that resonates with both kids and parents. It is a great choice for middle-grade readers who enjoy visual storytelling and characters who feel like real friends facing real-world problems.
Highlights:
- Relatable middle school experiences and friendship dynamics.
- Sensitive exploration of family challenges and sibling relationships.
- Engaging 1970s setting with nostalgic cultural details.
- Expressive graphic novel format that appeals to visual learners and reluctant readers.

Sunny Rolls the Dice
by Jennifer L. Holm3 of 5
Sunny Lewin is officially a middle schooler, and things are getting complicated! While her best friend Deb is suddenly obsessed with lip gloss, fashion, and acting cool to impress boys, Sunny feels left behind. She isn't sure she wants to trade her interests for makeup and magazines. Everything changes when she discovers the world of Dungeons & Dragons. In the basement with her new friends, Sunny can be a monster-slaying hero without worrying about her hair or her outfit. But can she balance her old friendships with her new passion?
Sunny Rolls the Dice is a heartwarming and hilarious graphic novel that perfectly captures the awkward transition into adolescence. It is an ideal choice for readers interested in 1970s nostalgia, tabletop gaming, and the struggle to stay true to oneself. This book is perfect for children who love the Smile series by Raina Telgemeier or fans of relatable coming-of-age stories that celebrate being unique.
Highlights:
- Relatable middle school drama about friendship and fitting in.
- Introduces the fun and creativity of Dungeons & Dragons.
- Vibrant graphic novel format that appeals to visual learners.
- Set in the groovy 1970s with fun historical details.

Sunny Makes a Splash
by Jennifer L. Holm4 of 5
Dive into summer with Sunny Lewin in Sunny Makes a Splash, the fourth installment of the beloved graphic novel series by Jennifer L. Holm and Matthew Holm. It is the middle of summer, and Sunny is facing the ultimate challenge: boredom. With her friends out of town and her mom pushing her to babysit, Sunny finds her escape at the local community pool. What starts as a way to stay cool turns into an exciting new chapter when she lands a job at the snack shack, learning the ropes of responsibility while navigating her very first crush.
This charming and relatable story is perfect for children who love graphic novels that balance humor with real-life growing pains. Ideal for readers interested in stories about gaining independence and finding one's place, this book captures the nostalgic essence of a 1970s summer. It is a great choice for fans of the Smile series by Raina Telgemeier or Real Friends by Shannon Hale, offering a heartfelt look at the transition from childhood to the early teen years.
Highlights:
- Explores themes of responsibility and the excitement of a first summer job.
- Features a relatable protagonist navigating the ups and downs of early adolescence.
- Vibrant graphic novel format that engages reluctant readers and visual learners.
- A nostalgic 1970s setting that provides a unique historical backdrop for modern kids.

Sunny Makes Her Case
by Jennifer L. Holm5 of 5
Sunny is back and navigating the tricky waters of middle school in Sunny Makes Her Case. While everyone else seems to have found their "thing"—from football to cheerleading—Sunny feels a bit left behind. That is, until her friend Arun suggests starting a debate club. Initially skeptical that debate is just about arguing, Sunny soon discovers that it requires deep research, teamwork, and the courage to speak up in front of others. From lighthearted debates about the best candy to more serious challenges, Sunny learns that finding your voice is about more than just having the last word.
This latest installment in the New York Times bestselling series by Jennifer L. Holm and Matthew Holm is perfect for children who love graphic novels and stories about school life. It is an ideal choice for readers interested in relatable characters, 1970s nostalgia, and the journey of self-discovery. Fans of the Smile series or Real Friends will find Sunny’s latest adventure both hilarious and heart-warming as she learns to make her case in and out of the classroom.
Highlights:
- Explores the exciting world of middle school debate and public speaking.
- Features relatable themes of finding one's identity and extracurricular interests.
- Beautifully illustrated in the signature graphic novel style of the Sunny series.
- A great choice for fans of realistic fiction and historical settings.
- Encourages critical thinking and teamwork through engaging storytelling.
