Encore! by Miles Toriko Burks
on June 2, 2026
ISBN: 0063282453
Genres: LGBTQ+
Format: Graphic Novel
Goodreads

Encore! is a YA graphic novel about two teens, Clay and Aron, who were best friends when they were younger but then had a falling out in middle school. Forced back together in a theater class, they have to reconcile their differences. As they become partners on a theater project and spend more time together, they start to wonder where it all went wrong, if it’s too late to fix their friendship, and if what they’re feeling might be more than just friends.

This is Burk’s debut, and you’d never know it! The characters are dynamic and well developed; even side characters have flaws and redeeming qualities and distinct personalities. The illustrations are beautiful and engaging, especially the characters’ facial expressions, which are detailed and make such an impression on the reader.

There were two standout features in this text: One was the conversations around sexuality. There were characters who were gay, lesbian, trans, questioning, bisexual, and more. Each one was approached with nuance rather than stereotype and as part of a character rather than the entire character. One of the main characters discovers that he’s bisexual and pushes back on his friends and teammates making jokes about it, which is important representation for change in our culture. The second standout feature was the conversations around friendship. Throughout the book, each character has moments of being a good friend and a bad friend, and these are discussed amongst each other. Readers will appreciate the examples of navigating difficult moments with friends and learning what it means to be a good friend. This would be a strong addition to any library serving teen readers, especially those who like graphic novels, theater, and popular reads like Heartstopper. This was a five-star read for me. Reviewed by Katy Jones, Gardiner Area High School Library, Gardiner