Drame

The graphic novel is widely praised for its vibrant and appealing artwork, featuring cute illustrations and fitting color palettes that enhance the storytelling. Many readers found the depiction of middle school theatre life to be highly authentic and relatable, particularly appreciating the focus on the stage crew rather than just the actors. The main character, Callie, is generally well-received as a dedicated and bold "theatre dork" who embodies the energy of the performing arts. Reviewers highlighted the book's humor, describing it as fun and engaging with numerous laugh-out-loud moments. A significant positive for many is the inclusion of normalized and sweet LGBTQ+ representation, which is handled in an unbiased and nonjudgmental manner, contributing to the book's overall inclusive and diverse cast of characters.

Despite its strengths, some readers found the story to be somewhat predictable or "just okay," occasionally lacking the depth they desired. A recurring criticism centered on the main character, Callie, with some reviewers finding her "boy-crazy" tendencies overwhelming and wishing for more focus on her friendships or broader character development. A few also noted that the plot relied on certain cliches. Additionally, some parents expressed dissatisfaction, feeling that the inclusion of LGBTQ+ themes was not adequately disclosed in the book's marketing or description. This led to feelings of being misled and, for some, caused discomfort for younger readers who were not prepared for these topics, prompting discussions about parental choice and timing. Minor criticisms included some difficulty distinguishing between certain characters in the illustrations and a desire for the story to be longer.

Overall, this graphic novel stands out as a popular and often beloved read, frequently cited as a strong entry in the middle-grade genre. It offers a charming and positive exploration of middle school life, friendships, and the excitement of theatrical production. This book would particularly appeal to readers who enjoy graphic novels, especially fans of the author's other works, and those with an interest in drama clubs or backstage experiences. It is also well-suited for young readers navigating crushes and self-discovery, and those who appreciate diverse and inclusive representation in their stories. However, readers seeking complex, unexpected plots or those who prefer less emphasis on romantic subplots might find it less engaging. Parents who wish to introduce discussions about diverse sexual orientations in an age-appropriate context will likely appreciate its approach, while those who prefer prior warning about such themes might need to review the content beforehand.