Book Review: Dream On

I received this title as an Advanced Reader Copy (ARC) from NetGalley. I remembered the author, Shannon Hale, from my library days. She was quite popular, and when I saw she was releasing a new graphic novel, I had to get my hands on it! I'm so glad I got the ARC because I loved it! Never have I related more to a book character from a children's book/graphic novel. Please keep reading to see why, and you may find out you relate to the main character, Cassie, a little bit too.

image courtesy of goodreads https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/208840738-dream-on

Cassie is trying to navigate life, friendship, and growing up in a large family, all while thinking she has won a grand prize sweepstakes promising cars, vacations and more. Cassie also feels things very deeply. That can be great, when she wants to daydream a problem away, but she's often called "too sensitive." Being so sensitive makes friendships hard, and Cassie has a hard time not taking things too personally, or not letting things bother her by "not caring" like others appear to be able to do.

She keeps holding onto that sweepstakes letter, pulling it out to daydream and cheer herself up whenever she is feeling down. That seems to be happening a lot more lately, as a new girl seems bent on splitting Cassie and her best friend up. Cassie also longs for more private time with her mom, as she just needs somebody to talk to. She would talk to her favorite teacher, Mrs. Farmer, but all the other kids keep making fun of her. Cassie wants to be friends with the little girl next door, but is told that she is a baby for playing with anyone younger than her. What in the world can Cassie do? Everything seems wrong, nothing seems right, and it is all causing Cassie to feel a world of emotions she can't seem to handle.

I still relate to Cassie and her feelings so much. As a child, I was also called too sensitive and had a hard time with friends, much like Cassie. Even as an adult, I've carried some of those traits with me (day dreaming, feeling things very deeply, wanting to talk a lot, etc.) and that is why I relate to Cassie and her story so much. I am sure there are other adults who feel the same way! If you have the chance to read this story, you may recognize some of yourself in Cassie as well!

The illustrations were also very cute and beautiful at the same time. I wanted to include some images from the inside of the book itself, but since this is an advanced copy, I don't believe they allow for that!

This particular graphic novel and story will probably appeal to middle grade female readers the most. I always recommend graphic novels to reluctant readers, and this one is no exception! Any adults reading this blog that help children pick books to read, or are looking for something to occupy them this summer, please get them this title! Parents, teachers, and librarians, you need to add it to your collection! I'd even recommend this for any parents trying to understand their sensitive daughters. This graphic novel does a great job giving you a glimpse into their mind and how their thoughts work. Sensitive kids can be hard to understand if you don't believe you are overly sensitive yourself, and this could help you understand them! I'd also recommend it for any kids dealing with a lot of emotions, whether they are good, bad, dramatic, etc. It is set to publish in August, so don't forget to check your local library then, or add it to your Amazon cart! Please give it a chance, and as always, happy reading!