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Girlmode
The last thing Phoebe Zito wants is to be noticed. The newest kid at Sally Ride High School, newly arrived in Los Angeles, and newly transitioned, she's just trying to blend in while she figures out exactly who she is. But with her mom checked out, her dad still adjusting to having a daughter, and no guidebook on how to be a girl, that isn't going to be easy.
Enter Mackenize Ishikawa. She’s the girl all girls want to be and all boys want to be with—and, Mackenzie has decided, Phoebe's new best friend. Mackenzie knows what it takes to survive and thrive as a girl in high school, most of all that no matter who Phoebe wants to be, or who she wants to date, she's going to need someone having her back.
Phoebe soon realizes what Mackenzie knows too well: Being true to yourself is going to mean breaking some hearts. But as Phoebe discovers what kind of girl she is—and what kind of girl everyone around her thinks she's supposed to be—she worries one of those hearts will be her own.
Enter Mackenize Ishikawa. She’s the girl all girls want to be and all boys want to be with—and, Mackenzie has decided, Phoebe's new best friend. Mackenzie knows what it takes to survive and thrive as a girl in high school, most of all that no matter who Phoebe wants to be, or who she wants to date, she's going to need someone having her back.
Phoebe soon realizes what Mackenzie knows too well: Being true to yourself is going to mean breaking some hearts. But as Phoebe discovers what kind of girl she is—and what kind of girl everyone around her thinks she's supposed to be—she worries one of those hearts will be her own.
224 pages, Paperback
First published October 15, 2024
About the author
Magdalene Visaggio
209 books161 followersMagdalene Visaggio is a comics writer and essayist. She's the writer and creator of the GLAAD and Eisner-nominated series Kim & Kim, as well as Eternity Girl at DC Comics. She currently resides in Manhattan.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 56 reviews
September 19, 2024
I usually really enjoy reading queer comic arcs, but I felt very questionable about the way this story was represented.
To preface, I am a lesbian and some of these things rubbed me the wrong way:
Lines like:
“You have really gorgeous hair, too. It’s so thick! I bet the right stylist could work miracles.”
“Oh, that’s not really necessary…”
“Of course it is! Unless you’re a dyke. You a dyke?”
Not only is an expressed straight character using a slur, but what is that insinuating?
But that isn’t the only time that slur is used.
They have a drawn girl in what looks like the most basic outfit ever labeled as dyke and a girl dressed up with makeup as slut beside it. These are the negative things men will call them—is suggested. If you’re trying to look pretty you’re a slut and if you’re not you’re a dyke. (Thats basically a line) okay.. idk how to feel about that. I’m not saying some men don’t think a similar way, but why act like them and use a slur? The word lesbian is used in this story on the next page once, so why weren’t we using it all along?
On the next page dyke is used not once, not twice, not even thrice, but FOUR times between the two girls. In this line specifically, why the fuck could you not just use the word lesbian. “Bitches can be dykes and vice versa, but they also figure dykes just haven’t screwed the right guy.” Why are we so casually using slurs. Like there’s quite literally no reason to. Neither of these character even like women…why is it treated like normal conversation…
And again-this is partially the character’s personality, but it’s never corrected. “Now, let’s take care of this mess.” This is her referring to the mcs curly hair. Could you say in that moment she meant it being tangled? Yes. However, because of that earlier comment and the fact they straighten it, it makes you feel strange about the way curly hair is being viewed. After the mc stops hanging out with this character, she starts letting her hair stay curly. But afterwards they become friends again and she never mentions anything and they never treat the slurs used as if it were problematic, they only mention the time when she was verbally aggressive (in a transphobic way) towards the mc. So is this friend wrong for the other behavior or not? They don’t say.
All in all, I really loved the art style, but being slapped in the face by a slur used against people like me so quickly with no criticism, then continually used in the story, ruined it for me. It tainted the whole thing. I’m not trans, so I can’t say much about how that representation is, but I think if the author knows enough to write one queer character, then they should also know that that word is unkind and not for these characters to use without thought.
I hate to rate this story one star, because I believe queer stories should be told and should be valued. If this felt important to someone else I don’t want to demean their opinion, only share my own.
To preface, I am a lesbian and some of these things rubbed me the wrong way:
Lines like:
“You have really gorgeous hair, too. It’s so thick! I bet the right stylist could work miracles.”
“Oh, that’s not really necessary…”
“Of course it is! Unless you’re a dyke. You a dyke?”
Not only is an expressed straight character using a slur, but what is that insinuating?
But that isn’t the only time that slur is used.
They have a drawn girl in what looks like the most basic outfit ever labeled as dyke and a girl dressed up with makeup as slut beside it. These are the negative things men will call them—is suggested. If you’re trying to look pretty you’re a slut and if you’re not you’re a dyke. (Thats basically a line) okay.. idk how to feel about that. I’m not saying some men don’t think a similar way, but why act like them and use a slur? The word lesbian is used in this story on the next page once, so why weren’t we using it all along?
On the next page dyke is used not once, not twice, not even thrice, but FOUR times between the two girls. In this line specifically, why the fuck could you not just use the word lesbian. “Bitches can be dykes and vice versa, but they also figure dykes just haven’t screwed the right guy.” Why are we so casually using slurs. Like there’s quite literally no reason to. Neither of these character even like women…why is it treated like normal conversation…
And again-this is partially the character’s personality, but it’s never corrected. “Now, let’s take care of this mess.” This is her referring to the mcs curly hair. Could you say in that moment she meant it being tangled? Yes. However, because of that earlier comment and the fact they straighten it, it makes you feel strange about the way curly hair is being viewed. After the mc stops hanging out with this character, she starts letting her hair stay curly. But afterwards they become friends again and she never mentions anything and they never treat the slurs used as if it were problematic, they only mention the time when she was verbally aggressive (in a transphobic way) towards the mc. So is this friend wrong for the other behavior or not? They don’t say.
All in all, I really loved the art style, but being slapped in the face by a slur used against people like me so quickly with no criticism, then continually used in the story, ruined it for me. It tainted the whole thing. I’m not trans, so I can’t say much about how that representation is, but I think if the author knows enough to write one queer character, then they should also know that that word is unkind and not for these characters to use without thought.
I hate to rate this story one star, because I believe queer stories should be told and should be valued. If this felt important to someone else I don’t want to demean their opinion, only share my own.
November 3, 2024
Content warnings: transphobia, lesbophobia (including several counts of the d-slur being used, homophobia, domestic abuse/violence, sexual assault, absent parent, alcohol consumption, drug usage (weed), manipulation, slut shaming, and that's all I can remember right now.
Rep: Phoebe (MC) is a trans girl. Side BIPOC characters. Side queer character.
Since I was DMed by an author about a review I had written (different book) that left me feeling really fucking icky, this is me stating: if you are the author of this book, and you are reading this - this review is not for you. This review is for other readers only.
Rep: Phoebe (MC) is a trans girl. Side BIPOC characters. Side queer character.
Since I was DMed by an author about a review I had written (different book) that left me feeling really fucking icky, this is me stating: if you are the author of this book, and you are reading this - this review is not for you. This review is for other readers only.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 28, 2024
Girlmode is a solid YA contemporary, but I was kind of hoping for more overall especially from some of the secondary characters. I did appreciate the message that the main character is trying to figure out what being a girl means to her. I also liked the way it ended. Then again, I wish the surfing storyline was the main plotline.
July 30, 2024
I was provided an ARC via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
I wanted to love this and I probably would have if all the secondary characters hadn't been so awful.
Our MC keeps making weird and stupid decisions after stupid decisions while being guided by terrible people. Some who redeem themselves in part by the end but I still couldn't understand what had even happened. The other secondary characters are pretty much non-existent and don't bring much to the story except the surfer and the little sister. But even them, who were my favorites of the whole book weren't very layered.
I, honestly, just didn't get into the story which is a shame cause I love a trans girl story and I wish we had more.
I wanted to love this and I probably would have if all the secondary characters hadn't been so awful.
Our MC keeps making weird and stupid decisions after stupid decisions while being guided by terrible people. Some who redeem themselves in part by the end but I still couldn't understand what had even happened. The other secondary characters are pretty much non-existent and don't bring much to the story except the surfer and the little sister. But even them, who were my favorites of the whole book weren't very layered.
I, honestly, just didn't get into the story which is a shame cause I love a trans girl story and I wish we had more.
Read
November 4, 2024I fear this one has lost me. I only made it 50 pages but in those 50 pages, there was only 1 interaction that I enjoyed and it was between the MC and her dad. Every other character and situation has been awful and the use of "dyke" as a slur really set me over the edge. I understand the author is queer but that doesn't mean that cis straight characters can or should use that term at all, and especially not in a derogatory manner with no pushback.
I wanted to give this a chance because I'm here for more trans girl stories but it just didn't work for me.
I wanted to give this a chance because I'm here for more trans girl stories but it just didn't work for me.
October 11, 2024
*3.5/5*
Thanks to Magdalene Visaggio, Paulina Ganucheau, HarperaCollins, and NetGalley for the eARC!
Overall, I enjoyed this contemporary story of a trans girl figuring out what being a girl means, specifically what it means for her. I liked that the message gave us a not every girl needs to be or is going to be the same kind of girl/have the same interests vibe. And I liked the growth that the chracaters, especially Mackenzie, went through. I appreciated that she grew to someone who didn't care what guys thought (and into a musical theater person! We love to see it lol). I try not to judge characters on who they are at the beginning or middle of a story, but at the end and I really loved who she and Phoebe grew into at the end. AND THE ART! I'm a big fan of Paulina Ganucheau so of course the art of lovely and I have no complaints in that department at all!!
There were, though, some parts I struggled with. I know why Mackenzie had the attitude towards guys that she did for most of the story, but as someone on the other side of the trans journey, someone who is trans masc, I really struggled with the language that reduced guys to idiots who just wanted to get into girls' pants. Not to mention, despite the main character being trans, there was mention of nonbinary people or how they fit into this worldview at all. There was also multiple instances of an ostensibly straight character using the d-slur, and, listen, I'm queer, I'm not trying to police the author's reclamation of words, but I do worry about straight teens reading this book and thinking it would then be okay for them to use this kind of language. Despite the book starring a trans MC and having a queer side character, the whole thing felt very heteronormative and gender binary heavy, if that makes sense.
Overall, this was a fun book, it had a good message, and I think it will be great for teen audiences, but I was left a little underwhelmed!
Thanks to Magdalene Visaggio, Paulina Ganucheau, HarperaCollins, and NetGalley for the eARC!
Overall, I enjoyed this contemporary story of a trans girl figuring out what being a girl means, specifically what it means for her. I liked that the message gave us a not every girl needs to be or is going to be the same kind of girl/have the same interests vibe. And I liked the growth that the chracaters, especially Mackenzie, went through. I appreciated that she grew to someone who didn't care what guys thought (and into a musical theater person! We love to see it lol). I try not to judge characters on who they are at the beginning or middle of a story, but at the end and I really loved who she and Phoebe grew into at the end. AND THE ART! I'm a big fan of Paulina Ganucheau so of course the art of lovely and I have no complaints in that department at all!!
There were, though, some parts I struggled with. I know why Mackenzie had the attitude towards guys that she did for most of the story, but as someone on the other side of the trans journey, someone who is trans masc, I really struggled with the language that reduced guys to idiots who just wanted to get into girls' pants. Not to mention, despite the main character being trans, there was mention of nonbinary people or how they fit into this worldview at all. There was also multiple instances of an ostensibly straight character using the d-slur, and, listen, I'm queer, I'm not trying to police the author's reclamation of words, but I do worry about straight teens reading this book and thinking it would then be okay for them to use this kind of language. Despite the book starring a trans MC and having a queer side character, the whole thing felt very heteronormative and gender binary heavy, if that makes sense.
Overall, this was a fun book, it had a good message, and I think it will be great for teen audiences, but I was left a little underwhelmed!
September 22, 2024
A newly transitioned girl, Phoebe is starting at a new high school. Immediately, Mackanzie is already interested in becoming her friend and teach her the ways of what it's like being girl. As Phoebe navigates new friendships, boys, and how each of her parents navigate her transition, can she truly see who she really is?
This was a grower. This took me awhile to get on the train because I have no idea how to navigate the beginning of this graphic novel. I was so protective of Phoebe because all the other characters didn't feel real. But when I got into it, you'd want to swim deeper to get more.
This story was so good! It even made me look at myself as a girl and as a woman. It even gave a sense of nostalgia as to what it was like in high school and how I navigate frienships and boys. This honestly felt a little therapeutic because this graphic novel went deep, like really deep! It tackled so much more that what it presents itself on the surface. I definitely feel like this is something that everyone should read!
The art in itself is also so very good. Though it's really not, the art really reminds me of the slam book aesthetic with all the bright colors, deep hues, and bold lines. I really like it a lot. It also gave justice to a layman's perspective of what Los Angeles, California is like,
This was such a good story to read, and such a good art to appreciate!
*I recieved an eARC copy of this book
This was a grower. This took me awhile to get on the train because I have no idea how to navigate the beginning of this graphic novel. I was so protective of Phoebe because all the other characters didn't feel real. But when I got into it, you'd want to swim deeper to get more.
This story was so good! It even made me look at myself as a girl and as a woman. It even gave a sense of nostalgia as to what it was like in high school and how I navigate frienships and boys. This honestly felt a little therapeutic because this graphic novel went deep, like really deep! It tackled so much more that what it presents itself on the surface. I definitely feel like this is something that everyone should read!
The art in itself is also so very good. Though it's really not, the art really reminds me of the slam book aesthetic with all the bright colors, deep hues, and bold lines. I really like it a lot. It also gave justice to a layman's perspective of what Los Angeles, California is like,
This was such a good story to read, and such a good art to appreciate!
*I recieved an eARC copy of this book
October 18, 2024
A Joyfully Jay review.
5 stars
This graphic novel is, first and foremost, beautiful to look at. It’s nice to see a comic where the transgender girl is still shown to be physically caught in that in-between state. Her waist isn’t tapered in, she’s slightly taller in the group shots than other girls, her shoulders are broader, and when she’s going through bouts of heartbreak and depression, her stubble growth in leg and arm hair are used to show her emotional state. It is easy to read the facial expressions on all the characters and every panel flows together well. It’s just a lovely, easy to read book.
I’d recommend to this to anyone and everyone who likes happy slices of life with strong, sympathetic characters and a focus on friendship and family, both found and born.
Read Elizabeth’s review in its entirety here.
5 stars
This graphic novel is, first and foremost, beautiful to look at. It’s nice to see a comic where the transgender girl is still shown to be physically caught in that in-between state. Her waist isn’t tapered in, she’s slightly taller in the group shots than other girls, her shoulders are broader, and when she’s going through bouts of heartbreak and depression, her stubble growth in leg and arm hair are used to show her emotional state. It is easy to read the facial expressions on all the characters and every panel flows together well. It’s just a lovely, easy to read book.
I’d recommend to this to anyone and everyone who likes happy slices of life with strong, sympathetic characters and a focus on friendship and family, both found and born.
Read Elizabeth’s review in its entirety here.
September 18, 2024
I adored this graphic novel. Thank you to Harper Alley, Magdalene Visaggio, and Paulina Ganucheau for the ARC!
Exploring the life of a high school trans girl experiencing girlhood for the first time, we get to see all the highs and lows of her school year, between boys, friends, and the transphobia that can creep out of the most unexpected places.
This story is soft and gentle but still touches on the challenges in a way that feels real and raw. I adored the art style and how well it brought the story to life. Many pages I just stared at for a while because of the beauty; others, I laughed out loud at how well the art brought the humor out.
Overall an excellent piece of art! ❤️ I adored it.
Exploring the life of a high school trans girl experiencing girlhood for the first time, we get to see all the highs and lows of her school year, between boys, friends, and the transphobia that can creep out of the most unexpected places.
This story is soft and gentle but still touches on the challenges in a way that feels real and raw. I adored the art style and how well it brought the story to life. Many pages I just stared at for a while because of the beauty; others, I laughed out loud at how well the art brought the humor out.
Overall an excellent piece of art! ❤️ I adored it.
November 16, 2024
I don't know how to feel about this.
First of all, the art is gorgeous — absolutely no notes there. It beautifully captured the brightness of California and teenage girlhood alike.
However, parts of this felt a bit icky. I won't speak on how the trans rep was delivered here, as I'm not trans at all. I'm not sure I 100% liked how it was approached or delivered but I think that likely speaks to my discomfort on how womanhood in general was approached here as well as how the transphobia that occurs here is just swept over fairly quickly.
Of course I understood the point and the narrative trajectory: Mackenzie realising she was molding Phoebe into the patriarchial ideal of a woman however, it felt indelicately delivered to me. Besides the latent misogyny (which admittedly was somewhat dismantled by the main characters) I really really disliked the portyal of abusive relationships/friendships here. It was smoothed over way too quickly, and even at the end, treated with comedic effect.
Don't get me started on the use of dyke. Sure, as a sapphic author you can reclaim the slur but maybe don't use it in a derogatory way?? Multiple times??? And leave it unaddresed???
It wasn't all bad — toxic relationship aside, I grew to like the friendship between Phoebe and Mac. I liked that Macca got her own growth arc and that we got to see the process of that. Brief as it was, Phoebe and her dad's relationship was lovely.
I kinda just felt constantly uncomfy reading this which didn't bode for the best experience. Considering my various qualms (some unsaid) I wouldn't readily reccommend this to younger readers who are the target demo!! Some of the topics covered here just felt irresponsibly done, in my opinion.
First of all, the art is gorgeous — absolutely no notes there. It beautifully captured the brightness of California and teenage girlhood alike.
However, parts of this felt a bit icky. I won't speak on how the trans rep was delivered here, as I'm not trans at all. I'm not sure I 100% liked how it was approached or delivered but I think that likely speaks to my discomfort on how womanhood in general was approached here as well as how the transphobia that occurs here is just swept over fairly quickly.
Of course I understood the point and the narrative trajectory: Mackenzie realising she was molding Phoebe into the patriarchial ideal of a woman however, it felt indelicately delivered to me. Besides the latent misogyny (which admittedly was somewhat dismantled by the main characters) I really really disliked the portyal of abusive relationships/friendships here. It was smoothed over way too quickly, and even at the end, treated with comedic effect.
Don't get me started on the use of dyke. Sure, as a sapphic author you can reclaim the slur but maybe don't use it in a derogatory way?? Multiple times??? And leave it unaddresed???
It wasn't all bad — toxic relationship aside, I grew to like the friendship between Phoebe and Mac. I liked that Macca got her own growth arc and that we got to see the process of that. Brief as it was, Phoebe and her dad's relationship was lovely.
I kinda just felt constantly uncomfy reading this which didn't bode for the best experience. Considering my various qualms (some unsaid) I wouldn't readily reccommend this to younger readers who are the target demo!! Some of the topics covered here just felt irresponsibly done, in my opinion.
September 4, 2024
This was really sweet and tender. The pacing worked really well, the issues felt very realistic (not everything was tied up cleanly with a bow), and the teenagers were teenagers. I liked that there were multiple examples of what unhealthy relationships looked like--I think that's really important for young adults to learn to recognize, especially when it's not *always* bad all the time. Watching Phoebe figure that out in real time was really hard, and it's understandable to see how Mackenzie tries to protect her. I would have loved to see more scenes with her dad, what a sweetheart. The art is really lovely, especially with characters' hair and outfits.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 18, 2024
I loved the art style! Very beautiful and I can tell a lot of work went into the illustration. The growth between the characters was very good! I like how both Mackenzie and Phoebe developed as characters. Some of the language I felt was a little too much I didn't like how the D slur was just thrown in.
The main concentration of this graphic novel was how the female interact with the patriarchy that's forced upon us. I wasn't a fan of either of Phoebe's boyfriends and I'm glad she didn't take either of them back. I liked how it started as Phoebe trying to fit in and turned into her being her authentic self. I was glad when Phoebe and Mackenzie made up and became friends again.
The main concentration of this graphic novel was how the female interact with the patriarchy that's forced upon us. I wasn't a fan of either of Phoebe's boyfriends and I'm glad she didn't take either of them back. I liked how it started as Phoebe trying to fit in and turned into her being her authentic self. I was glad when Phoebe and Mackenzie made up and became friends again.
October 18, 2024
This was a decent graphic novel read, though probably too mature for my middle grade students. I like that the story addresses both issues that all girls face as well as the unique challenges that come with being trans. Phoebe's new best friend is a little overwhelming, but she hits the nail on the head several times when teaching Phoebe about the unfair expectations girls face every day. Reading the interactions with boys was a little hard as an adult--can you say RED FLAGS--but I know as a young person it's easy to overlook those things when you're desperate for affection and acceptance.
November 9, 2024
I don’t know whether to hate or love how messy these teens are. Everyone behaved awful to each other a lot more then was comfortable to me. Everyone was using each other to prove a point of their existence. The character growth was realistic but at times made me sick to my stomach. I’m also confused on the audience of this story. There was so much use of the word dyke in the most unnecessary manners possible.
Bonus points for the beautiful art and Jessica who taught Phoebe how to surf.
Bonus points for the beautiful art and Jessica who taught Phoebe how to surf.
October 31, 2024
Very much a by-the-numbers high school "don't change yourself for others" story, which is really not my thing, but at the same time hey, trans girls should get the same cheesy coming-of-age tropes as cis girls do. The art was cute, and frankly this'd make a great movie.
November 3, 2024
I feel like this book was problematic in so many ways. I think there was some sensitivity topics that were blatantly ignored such as homophobic/transphobic language and slurs, abusive relationship dynamics (friend and romantic), child neglect (the relationship with Phoebe’s mother was glossed over), the sexual harassment/potential sexual assault (unwanted groping). Those were the key issues but I’m sure I’m missing some. I think this book was so out of touch and the only reason I’m giving 2 stars is because of the artwork but really it’s 1.5 rating. What truly bothers me is this was written by women and yet all of this triggers/issues were glossed over.
October 26, 2024
Lowkey giving that girls life sucks too much
July 15, 2024
4.5* rounded up.
Every time I thought this book wasn't going to go somewhere (and, most importantly, was afraid it would pull a punch) I was pleasantly surprised. I read a lot of trans stories, but I don't read many that take this approach.
For one thing, Phoebe is out the whole time, so while she does experience some transph*bia, she is never outed, which was a relief. The characters who get redemption arcs do say some rancid stuff, but before their arc is complete, they have to deconstruct their own biases around social expectations. While this book doesn't get into it in detail, I would argue that the overall message is that we can't deconstruct transph*bia without also ALSO deconstructing our expectations around gender roles. This book walks an interesting line of the relevant characters realizing that they can't singlehandedly change society, while also realizing that they need to grow in order to be happy and have healthy relationships. For example, Phoebe learns things along the way, and then adapts her relationships to those things as she figures out who she is. She initially hates/fears makeup, then wears makeup the way other people expect her to, and eventually decides what to keep and what to pass over. Furthermore, the decision to be conventionally girly is not ultimately vilified. WEAPONIZING gender norms, however, absolutely is.
Mackenzie is, arguably, the second main character, and I loved that her arc isn't based solely on guilt for her words and actions toward Phoebe. She's forced to do a lot of self-evaluation. It's never fully explored that she's been perpetuating a lot of the very things she claims to despise, especially when it comes to using certain language to tear down other girls, but the work she DOES do on-page addresses it sufficiently for this story. It's implied that all of these characters still have room to grow and adapt, whether or not they take it. They're kids: they all make mistakes, many of which are based on social pressure to conform.
And can I just say that I LOVE how this book turned a popular trope on its head in the character of Ben? I don't want to leave spoilers here, but this story deftly uses and reframes some popular high school tropes in a very satisfying and realistic way. Also, the dad is the underrated MVP. He's so cute and sincere and trying his best even when he's way out of his depth.
The one thing I would have liked to see addressed more directly is some of the hom*phobic things some of the kids say throughout the story. While there is commentary on this, and there is a bada$$ queer character of indeterminate orientation, I was still left feeling a little iffy on that front. I don't think every single book is obligated to explicitly confront every topic, but was kind of odd to me that the issue was raised but never directly addressed. I suspect that some people will be uncomfortable with how much work this story does to be mainstream in a time when, even on a legal level, transness is inherently counterculture. On the other hand, this is a story about navigating social pressure and figuring out what matters to you. It's nice to have a brightly-colored graphic novel about two girls learning to like themselves and set boundaries in a story where Pheobe's struggles are different from, but not totally INDEPENDANT from, the struggles of her cis classmates.
Overall, I just found this really charming, and I loved that everyone had room to be messy and confused. I very much enjoyed the ARC of this book (thank you, NetGalley) and I am so glad that there seems to be more space in mainstream publication for stories like this, with #ownvoices authors exploring a wide range of narratives.
Every time I thought this book wasn't going to go somewhere (and, most importantly, was afraid it would pull a punch) I was pleasantly surprised. I read a lot of trans stories, but I don't read many that take this approach.
For one thing, Phoebe is out the whole time, so while she does experience some transph*bia, she is never outed, which was a relief. The characters who get redemption arcs do say some rancid stuff, but before their arc is complete, they have to deconstruct their own biases around social expectations. While this book doesn't get into it in detail, I would argue that the overall message is that we can't deconstruct transph*bia without also ALSO deconstructing our expectations around gender roles. This book walks an interesting line of the relevant characters realizing that they can't singlehandedly change society, while also realizing that they need to grow in order to be happy and have healthy relationships. For example, Phoebe learns things along the way, and then adapts her relationships to those things as she figures out who she is. She initially hates/fears makeup, then wears makeup the way other people expect her to, and eventually decides what to keep and what to pass over. Furthermore, the decision to be conventionally girly is not ultimately vilified. WEAPONIZING gender norms, however, absolutely is.
Mackenzie is, arguably, the second main character, and I loved that her arc isn't based solely on guilt for her words and actions toward Phoebe. She's forced to do a lot of self-evaluation. It's never fully explored that she's been perpetuating a lot of the very things she claims to despise, especially when it comes to using certain language to tear down other girls, but the work she DOES do on-page addresses it sufficiently for this story. It's implied that all of these characters still have room to grow and adapt, whether or not they take it. They're kids: they all make mistakes, many of which are based on social pressure to conform.
And can I just say that I LOVE how this book turned a popular trope on its head in the character of Ben? I don't want to leave spoilers here, but this story deftly uses and reframes some popular high school tropes in a very satisfying and realistic way. Also, the dad is the underrated MVP. He's so cute and sincere and trying his best even when he's way out of his depth.
The one thing I would have liked to see addressed more directly is some of the hom*phobic things some of the kids say throughout the story. While there is commentary on this, and there is a bada$$ queer character of indeterminate orientation, I was still left feeling a little iffy on that front. I don't think every single book is obligated to explicitly confront every topic, but was kind of odd to me that the issue was raised but never directly addressed. I suspect that some people will be uncomfortable with how much work this story does to be mainstream in a time when, even on a legal level, transness is inherently counterculture. On the other hand, this is a story about navigating social pressure and figuring out what matters to you. It's nice to have a brightly-colored graphic novel about two girls learning to like themselves and set boundaries in a story where Pheobe's struggles are different from, but not totally INDEPENDANT from, the struggles of her cis classmates.
Overall, I just found this really charming, and I loved that everyone had room to be messy and confused. I very much enjoyed the ARC of this book (thank you, NetGalley) and I am so glad that there seems to be more space in mainstream publication for stories like this, with #ownvoices authors exploring a wide range of narratives.
June 28, 2024
More reviews (and no fluff) on the blog http://surrealtalvi.wordpress.com/
This was an enjoyable read and certainly not what I was expecting. Lead character Phoebe has to navigate a new life as a woman and this story is about coming into her own. The side characters are nicely drawn and I appreciated the poignant observations. For once, we have a story about being trans making one p0pular (too popular) instead of an outcast - with whole new problems as a result. Think: Mean Girls with a twist.Story: Phoebe has just moved to a new school and is dealing with a lot: her famous mother pretty much abandoning the family for a new life, transitioning to a woman, making friends, and figuring her own self out with all the changes. But school nerd Ben shares an interest in the same geeky things and they hit it off right away. Until super popular and hot MacKenzie takes Phoebe under her wing. Phoebe begins to learn all that is possible (and the restrictions of) being a girl). It may mean flaking on Ben but there is just so much to explore! But is anything ever as good as it seems?
At first, this feels like your typical romance where Phoebe will overlook geek nice guy Ben in favor of a hot jock. She's supposed to find out it is all superficial and she is being used. But the author does an excellent job of turning that trope on its head and I am all the more respectful of this book for that. The story flows well and there is more than enough story here to reward for a long first read and then several rereads.
The illustration work is bright and clean, making the perfect complement to the story. It draws you right in and is easy to follow and understand.
In all, I greatly enjoyed this read. It was fun, interesting, and made some great points on human nature. Reviewed from an advance reader copy provided by the publisher.
November 20, 2024
Thanks to NetGalley &HarperCollins Children's Books for the copy in exchange for an honest review.
This was a tough read and even tougher to rate. The artstyle is GORGEOUS. And each character has a distinct design and no one feels "samey" in terms of design. However...the story is very lacking and in some ways, problematic. Plenty of uncomfortable slurs hurtled casually throughout the book. And it doesn't really get addressed by the target of said slurs, which leaves a bad taste.
There is a LOT being said in this graphic novel and it's almost very overwhelming with how many societal boulders it throws in your face. It's almost very heavy handed and fast-paced with how it delivers certain societal criticisms. They're not *wrong* technically, but it's just...never delivered in an organic way.
And some of the things the protagonist DOES work on, such as her surfing and parent problems, is sidelined in favor of stupid love triangle drama. I really liked her surfing and nerdy stuff but all of it took backseat to the societal criticisms being yeeted at the reader.
Doesn't help that every single character in the book except for the surfer girl and her own father is an absolute JERK to the protagonist. So it's really hard to enjoy.
Well, one thing I did like is how the book subverted the classic "first nerd you meet is actually the real nice guy not the jock" trope. I really enjoyed that, I will say. If the internet taught me anything is that the "nerds" are just as bad as "jocks" with misogynistic views and rampant transphobia, etc.
It still got bogged down by the fast-paced writing and lack of breathing room for the protagonist to grow as a person. I still think it's a decent enough YA graphic novel that it should be in the collection but I'll be hesitant in suggesting it due to the slurs.
This was a tough read and even tougher to rate. The artstyle is GORGEOUS. And each character has a distinct design and no one feels "samey" in terms of design. However...the story is very lacking and in some ways, problematic. Plenty of uncomfortable slurs hurtled casually throughout the book. And it doesn't really get addressed by the target of said slurs, which leaves a bad taste.
There is a LOT being said in this graphic novel and it's almost very overwhelming with how many societal boulders it throws in your face. It's almost very heavy handed and fast-paced with how it delivers certain societal criticisms. They're not *wrong* technically, but it's just...never delivered in an organic way.
And some of the things the protagonist DOES work on, such as her surfing and parent problems, is sidelined in favor of stupid love triangle drama. I really liked her surfing and nerdy stuff but all of it took backseat to the societal criticisms being yeeted at the reader.
Doesn't help that every single character in the book except for the surfer girl and her own father is an absolute JERK to the protagonist. So it's really hard to enjoy.
Well, one thing I did like is how the book subverted the classic "first nerd you meet is actually the real nice guy not the jock" trope. I really enjoyed that, I will say. If the internet taught me anything is that the "nerds" are just as bad as "jocks" with misogynistic views and rampant transphobia, etc.
It still got bogged down by the fast-paced writing and lack of breathing room for the protagonist to grow as a person. I still think it's a decent enough YA graphic novel that it should be in the collection but I'll be hesitant in suggesting it due to the slurs.
November 11, 2024
Phoebe is new at L.A.’ s Sally Ride High School, AND new as in recently transitioned. She barely has time to figure out where her classes are when she is ‘adopted’ by a group of popular girls led by Mackenzie. Mackenzie has strong opinions on Phoebe’s clothing and makeup as well as who she should be friends with, and it does not include gamer boy Ben. Phoebe is buffeted by different people who want her to be a certain way before she can make the decisions herself. And as a newly minted woman, she should be glad of the advice, shouldn’t she?
This contemporary story with echoes of Archie and Veronica, features a rousing and fast paced look at what it means to be a woman today, at least in an archetypical Los Angeles high school and beach bum milieu. Readers want Phoebe to stay true to herself, but no one at school seems to care who she really is. Her dad is there for her but Phoebe craves her absent mom. While Phoebe’s teacher talks about Jane Eyre and Victorian expectations of women, Phoebe’s friend Mackenzie extolls her on the Mackenzie view: Boys are to be managed; girls must know how to get what they want by looking easy but staying strong. Not too different, to be honest. Readers will witness Mackenzie’s back and forth between several guys who want to date her, but is it because of who she is or what she is? The graphic art depicts a popular, affluent, diverse high school population with beautiful people and modern high designer styling. It’s an old story with a new twist: how to be a strong woman when the men you’re attracted to want you to be weak?
I wished that there had been less stereotyping of high school clique identities – everyone except Phoebe seems like a stereotype.
This contemporary story with echoes of Archie and Veronica, features a rousing and fast paced look at what it means to be a woman today, at least in an archetypical Los Angeles high school and beach bum milieu. Readers want Phoebe to stay true to herself, but no one at school seems to care who she really is. Her dad is there for her but Phoebe craves her absent mom. While Phoebe’s teacher talks about Jane Eyre and Victorian expectations of women, Phoebe’s friend Mackenzie extolls her on the Mackenzie view: Boys are to be managed; girls must know how to get what they want by looking easy but staying strong. Not too different, to be honest. Readers will witness Mackenzie’s back and forth between several guys who want to date her, but is it because of who she is or what she is? The graphic art depicts a popular, affluent, diverse high school population with beautiful people and modern high designer styling. It’s an old story with a new twist: how to be a strong woman when the men you’re attracted to want you to be weak?
I wished that there had been less stereotyping of high school clique identities – everyone except Phoebe seems like a stereotype.
Read
October 16, 2024The new graphic novel written by Magdalene Visaggio with art from Paulina Ganucheau, tells the story of Phoebe Zito, a recently transitioned girl as she tries to figure out who she is—while trying to manage who everyone else wants her to be. I don't want to bury the lead, so let's get this out of the way; the book is amazing. I did not get to experience life as a teenage girl, let alone one growing up in the current time. Still, Visaggio's writing makes Pheobe's experience at once deeply personal and also able to be understood by anyone who has had to figure out who they want to be. The art by Ganucheau is a perfect fit for the story being told. It is beautiful and never undercuts the serious message being portrayed by the writing.
Phoebe has recently moved to a new town with her Dad after transitioning. Her mother has issues with her choices, but all she wants is to keep her head down and get through the day. Almost from the moment she walks into her new school, she is being pulled in multiple directions with both the geeks and socialites (apologies, not sure what the current hip titles of the cliques would be today) wanting to claim her as one of their own. Neither side is seen as being wholly right or wrong, and her relationship with both sides is complex. We follow Pheobe as she navigates both sides and eventually starts to figure out the things and people who matter to her. I have rarely read a book that made me wince, cry, and want to shout with joy all in the same 200-odd pages.
All in all one of favorite graphic novels of the year and I think you should pick this one up as quick as you can.
Phoebe has recently moved to a new town with her Dad after transitioning. Her mother has issues with her choices, but all she wants is to keep her head down and get through the day. Almost from the moment she walks into her new school, she is being pulled in multiple directions with both the geeks and socialites (apologies, not sure what the current hip titles of the cliques would be today) wanting to claim her as one of their own. Neither side is seen as being wholly right or wrong, and her relationship with both sides is complex. We follow Pheobe as she navigates both sides and eventually starts to figure out the things and people who matter to her. I have rarely read a book that made me wince, cry, and want to shout with joy all in the same 200-odd pages.
All in all one of favorite graphic novels of the year and I think you should pick this one up as quick as you can.
November 13, 2024
Man, there's a lot of awful people in this book. Poor Phoebe gets entirely abandoned by her already absentee mother, goes through two toxic boyfriends, plus a toxic friendship. Most of these are just... things that happen to her? Phoebe does get better at standing up for herself, but it takes the entire book before she stops just following along with whatever voice in her life is the loudest. That said, the toxic friend, Mackenzie, actually has a pretty decent character arc. Despite her controlling behavior, she actually does care about Phoebe. She's been hardened by her experiences with sexism, and has a very rigid view of how girls should behave to protect and empower themselves. Surprisingly, she gets that personal growth I mentioned by playing Audrey in Little Shop of Horrors, a character she can't understand at all when she's cast but she has to learn empathy for in the rehearsal process. I genuinely thought that this was a very interesting track to take, and seeing her grow from judgmental and narrow minded to truly supportive of Phoebe was nice. I just wish Phoebe's character arc had caught me the same.
There are several missed opportunities in this book, but the one that nags me is related to Mackenzie and the the second toxic boyfriend. Mackenzie clearly has some kind of background information about this guy that lets her see right through him, but she never shares it with Phoebe. In fact, we never find out what that history might be, which seems like an oversight to me. Similarly, I never knew enough about Phoebe's relationship with her mother before the book starts, and that seems like important information to know.
There are several missed opportunities in this book, but the one that nags me is related to Mackenzie and the the second toxic boyfriend. Mackenzie clearly has some kind of background information about this guy that lets her see right through him, but she never shares it with Phoebe. In fact, we never find out what that history might be, which seems like an oversight to me. Similarly, I never knew enough about Phoebe's relationship with her mother before the book starts, and that seems like important information to know.
October 12, 2024
A newly transitioned girl, Phoebe is starting at a new high school. Immediately, Mackanzie is already interested in becoming her friend and teach her the ways of what it's like being girl. As Phoebe navigates new friendships, boys, and how each of her parents navigate her transition, can she truly see who she really is?
This was a grower. This took me awhile to get on the train because I have no idea how to navigate the beginning of this graphic novel. I was so protective of Phoebe because all the other characters didn't feel real. But when I got into it, you'd want to swim deeper to get more.
This story was so good! It even made me look at myself as a girl and as a woman. It even gave a sense of nostalgia as to what it was like in high school and how I navigate frienships and boys. This honestly felt a little therapeutic because this graphic novel went deep, like really deep! It tackled so much more that what it presents itself on the surface. I definitely feel like this is something that everyone should read!
The art in itself is also so very good. Though it's really not, the art really reminds me of the slam book aesthetic with all the bright colors, deep hues, and bold lines. I really like it a lot. It also gave justice to a layman's perspective of what Los Angeles, California is like,
This was such a good story to read, and such a good art to appreciate!
* I received an eARC of this book
This was a grower. This took me awhile to get on the train because I have no idea how to navigate the beginning of this graphic novel. I was so protective of Phoebe because all the other characters didn't feel real. But when I got into it, you'd want to swim deeper to get more.
This story was so good! It even made me look at myself as a girl and as a woman. It even gave a sense of nostalgia as to what it was like in high school and how I navigate frienships and boys. This honestly felt a little therapeutic because this graphic novel went deep, like really deep! It tackled so much more that what it presents itself on the surface. I definitely feel like this is something that everyone should read!
The art in itself is also so very good. Though it's really not, the art really reminds me of the slam book aesthetic with all the bright colors, deep hues, and bold lines. I really like it a lot. It also gave justice to a layman's perspective of what Los Angeles, California is like,
This was such a good story to read, and such a good art to appreciate!
* I received an eARC of this book
November 4, 2024
Girlmode follows Phoebe, a trans girl, as she moves in with her dad and starts a new high school in LA. Even though she just wants to blend in and stay under the radar, she's soon taken under the wing of a popular girl, Mackenzie. This graphic novel follows Phoebe as she tries to adjust to her new life in LA and have friends and relationships, and all of the emotions, both good and bad, that come with them.
I really enjoyed this graphic novel and had a great time seeing Phoebe come out of her shell and become who she is. There are definitely some hardships along the way and some struggles that were realistic to high school aged young adults in general, and especially so for trans people.
I thought the art was amazing and I loved that it was in full colour. This art style really lets you see the emotions in the character's faces.
There are quite a few serious topics in this graphic novel, and my one criticism of this graphic novel is that it didn't seem to fully acknowledge these issues beyond a few comments before quickly moving on. In particular Phoebe's estranged relationship with her mother (it appears directly related to her being trans) and also sexual harassment. I would have liked a little bit more discussion about these topics. There were definitely a lot of red flags in this so that's something to be aware of if it could be triggering to you.
Thank you to Harper360 and Netgalley for this eARC.
I really enjoyed this graphic novel and had a great time seeing Phoebe come out of her shell and become who she is. There are definitely some hardships along the way and some struggles that were realistic to high school aged young adults in general, and especially so for trans people.
I thought the art was amazing and I loved that it was in full colour. This art style really lets you see the emotions in the character's faces.
There are quite a few serious topics in this graphic novel, and my one criticism of this graphic novel is that it didn't seem to fully acknowledge these issues beyond a few comments before quickly moving on. In particular Phoebe's estranged relationship with her mother (it appears directly related to her being trans) and also sexual harassment. I would have liked a little bit more discussion about these topics. There were definitely a lot of red flags in this so that's something to be aware of if it could be triggering to you.
Thank you to Harper360 and Netgalley for this eARC.
July 20, 2024
I recieved a free eARC of this book. Thank you for the opportunity to read it.
Phoebe is new to California. She's moved to live with her dad, and to start a new life. Her new school is more accepting of her gender identity.
Phoebe quickly meets Ben, a nerdy guy who shares her interests, and Mackenzie, who wants to help her be the best girl she can be. But all isn't what it seems. Nerdy guys can be jerks. Pretty girls can be insecure. And trans girls....can find a place in high school..right?
Phoebe is a well written character and her struggles to find herself will be familiar to EVERY teen girl. Mackenzie is also far better written and more empathetic than I expected. She also needs to find herself.
The guys come off less 3d, but again, that's the teen girl experience.
This is a beautiful book. It deserves a place in school and community libraries. I plan to add it to my little free library. There is nothing graphic, nothing that couldn't, and doesn't, take place in halls of high schools around the country. Unfortunately, due to where I live, this book likely won't get shelved. So, parents, we need to make up the difference. Because there are girls who need this book.
Phoebe is new to California. She's moved to live with her dad, and to start a new life. Her new school is more accepting of her gender identity.
Phoebe quickly meets Ben, a nerdy guy who shares her interests, and Mackenzie, who wants to help her be the best girl she can be. But all isn't what it seems. Nerdy guys can be jerks. Pretty girls can be insecure. And trans girls....can find a place in high school..right?
Phoebe is a well written character and her struggles to find herself will be familiar to EVERY teen girl. Mackenzie is also far better written and more empathetic than I expected. She also needs to find herself.
The guys come off less 3d, but again, that's the teen girl experience.
This is a beautiful book. It deserves a place in school and community libraries. I plan to add it to my little free library. There is nothing graphic, nothing that couldn't, and doesn't, take place in halls of high schools around the country. Unfortunately, due to where I live, this book likely won't get shelved. So, parents, we need to make up the difference. Because there are girls who need this book.
October 9, 2024
From the artwork to the message and everything beside this book is beautiful, it is powerful, and it is exactly the representation that we need to be seeing when discussing a trans person potential lived experiences and looking at how someone can truly become an ally and friend. I think the journey in this book is just believable. It will resonate within the community. It is hard navigating the world not knowing people’s intentions if you’re cis gendered but having to navigate the world as a trans person and trying to figure out who truly likes me and sees me for me must be a complicated journey. This journey or one version of this journey is so beautifully laid out within these pages. I appreciated the fact that at least one character in this book who originally wronged Phoebe is able to realize what she did wrong and make amends I also think is powerful. Thank you for making such a lovely graphic novel.
Thank you to Harper Collin’s Children’s Books and Netgalley for allowing me to read an advance copy of this title.
Thank you to Harper Collin’s Children’s Books and Netgalley for allowing me to read an advance copy of this title.
October 17, 2024
I wasn't sure what I'd be in for on this one. Mean Girls with a trans character? I think that's what I was expecting going in. And in some ways, that's what I got. But in others it's such a much more rounded story with highs and lows, ups and downs, and some very heartbreaking realism to how the world sees women, trans and cis alike.
Phoebe is a beautiful character who grows and learns throughout the story and we get to see how she changes as she learns who she really is. And the same happens with Mackenzie, the titular 'mean girl' who takes Phoebe under her wing. It's nice to see how these characters grow and change and become more and better than they were before, learning that maybe they don't have to please everyone just to get along.
All told, an excellent story about a trans girl just trying to figure out how to live in this crazy world, and the people who fall into her orbit, for better or for worse.
(My only complaint? It wasn't sapphic, which is my bread and butter. But then nothing is perfect.)
Phoebe is a beautiful character who grows and learns throughout the story and we get to see how she changes as she learns who she really is. And the same happens with Mackenzie, the titular 'mean girl' who takes Phoebe under her wing. It's nice to see how these characters grow and change and become more and better than they were before, learning that maybe they don't have to please everyone just to get along.
All told, an excellent story about a trans girl just trying to figure out how to live in this crazy world, and the people who fall into her orbit, for better or for worse.
(My only complaint? It wasn't sapphic, which is my bread and butter. But then nothing is perfect.)
October 23, 2024
Truly well done. It is hard being a girl and navigating the social expectations with the realities of who you are and want to be. Fuck Ben. Bitchass loser. It's sad he didn't learn, but there are dumbasses like that out there unfortunately. I'm glad Ethan did grow, and I'm sure there are intersectionality's between the statements he said and his actions. Not that that's an excuse. Mackenzie's statement was rude too, but again, I'm glad she got to grow.
Artwork was beautiful. I did appreciate the characters' growth. The story was endearing and moving. I'm so glad she stuck to surfing. FUCK what men say. Do what makes your heart happy.
The quotes and references from Jane Eyre, the Little Shop of Horrors, etc., and everything was nice to see how it all fit in and added to the story. I think they enhanced the story beautifully. I would've liked to see her dad get more involved, but it also adds to the whole HS aspect in that in every movie about HSers and such, there are like never parents around.
Artwork was beautiful. I did appreciate the characters' growth. The story was endearing and moving. I'm so glad she stuck to surfing. FUCK what men say. Do what makes your heart happy.
The quotes and references from Jane Eyre, the Little Shop of Horrors, etc., and everything was nice to see how it all fit in and added to the story. I think they enhanced the story beautifully. I would've liked to see her dad get more involved, but it also adds to the whole HS aspect in that in every movie about HSers and such, there are like never parents around.
November 11, 2024
This is the same old cliche high school popularity drama with shallow characters and shallow lessons but with a trans girl this time. If any trans person is looking for that basic ‘stay true to yourself’ plot line with a main character you can see yourself in, this could work for you, but I found it boring.
The art was appealing and fit the tone of the book well. The messages that being a girl doesn’t mean you have to fit yourself to misogynistic standards and you should be the one to define your own life are fine. But there wasn’t much else to it. All the characters were assholes to each other in the standard ways for their tropes (plus gender stereotypes) – the controlling queen bee, the white knighting nerd who’s quick to turn when rejected, the jock boys who ‘only want one thing’, the impressionable protagonist guilelessly falling into bad behavior before she comes into herself. It didn’t really get me invested; I just got sick of all of them and the payoff of the very typical lesson learned wasn’t worth it for me.
The art was appealing and fit the tone of the book well. The messages that being a girl doesn’t mean you have to fit yourself to misogynistic standards and you should be the one to define your own life are fine. But there wasn’t much else to it. All the characters were assholes to each other in the standard ways for their tropes (plus gender stereotypes) – the controlling queen bee, the white knighting nerd who’s quick to turn when rejected, the jock boys who ‘only want one thing’, the impressionable protagonist guilelessly falling into bad behavior before she comes into herself. It didn’t really get me invested; I just got sick of all of them and the payoff of the very typical lesson learned wasn’t worth it for me.
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