Laura Dean Keeps Breaking Up with Me
by Mariko Tamaki
Laura Dean Keeps Breaking Up with Me is a visually stunning and emotionally resonant graphic novel that explores the messy reality of young love. Frederica "Freddy" Riley is head-over-heels for Laura Dean, the most popular and charming girl in school. The only problem? Laura is a terrible girlfriend who keeps breaking Freddy's heart. As Freddy gets caught in a cycle of breakups and makeups, she begins to lose sight of her own needs and, more importantly, her best friend Doodle, who is going through a crisis of her own.
This award-winning story is a must-read for teenagers navigating the complexities of modern dating and queer identity. With its unique pink-and-black color palette and expressive illustrations, the book captures the bittersweet ache of high school romance. It is an ideal choice for readers interested in character-driven stories that tackle difficult social themes like emotional neglect and the importance of setting healthy boundaries. Parents and educators will appreciate the book's honest look at how to recognize and walk away from toxic dynamics to embrace the supportive relationships that truly matter.
Highlights:
- Explores the nuances of toxic vs. healthy relationships in a relatable high school setting.
- Features strong LGBTQ+ representation and diverse supporting characters.
- Award-winning artwork that beautifully captures the emotional highs and lows of the story.
- Encourages self-reflection on the value of friendship and self-respect.