Bunkmates for Never (Camp Frenemies #2) by Liz Montague
ISBN: 0593806263
Genres: Humor, Juvenile Fiction / Social Themes / Friendship
Format: Graphic Novel
Goodreads

A lot has changed in a year, and Bea is no exception. She thinks nothing of it until she arrives at summer camp to find that her two friends, Virginia and Roxy, have changed as well. As camp progresses, these changes put strain on the friendship until it reaches a breaking point. Now the three work to rectify their relationship before camp ends and they part ways again, but is it worth saving their friendship if they’ve all changed so much?

Award-winning author Liz Montague sends readers back to Camp Chordata in the second installment of the Camp Frenemies series. Bea, Virginia, and Roxy face a whole new set of problems that are all too relatable for the upper elementary and middle school audience. In the 21st century, more and more children have to face issues such as divorce, toxic friendships, and changing bodies. Rather than putting them in a sink-or-swim situation, readers learn to tread the waters at Camp Chordata. It is a fine line to draw between an impactful and depressing tone when creating a book filled with difficult topics. But the bright imagery and silly facial expressions lighten the heavy load. 

Montague’s skill as a New Yorker illustrator can be appealing to reluctant readers. At first glance, the book’s illustrations are primarily negative space. A simple trick of the eye that can appeal to reluctant readers. The same white space that could have easily overwhelmed the story helps guide readers, creating a natural flow that mimics the story’s. Emphasis on important moments and emotions is illustrated through exaggerated facial expressions. The humorous style helps maintain the lighthearted tone while providing clear context for the reader to pick up on. 

Protagonists Bea, Virginia, Roxy, and the reader all learn a valuable lesson about navigating personal problems and tricky friendships. Montague’s artistic style is easy to digest while keeping the attention of reluctant readers. This series would be a good recommendation for fans of Diary of a Wimpy Kid or The Dork Diaries for its similar illustration style and realistic message for young readers.

Reviewed by Antyna Gilbert, Medomak Middle School.