Reviewing "Squished" by Jennifer and Matthew Holm: A Colorful Adventure of Family Life
When I first stumbled upon the newly released graphic novel Squished by Jennifer and Matthew Holm, I felt an instant connection. The vibrant covers and colorful illustrations caught my eye, and I knew I had to dive into this tale of Avery Lee’s quest for her own space in a bustling household—and, as the oldest sibling in a somewhat chaotic family myself, I could relate. However, as much as I wanted to embrace it, my experience was a mixed bag. Let me share my thoughts!
At its heart, Squished explores dynamic themes like the complexities of family life, the quest for individuality, and the emotional rollercoaster that comes with growing up in a big household. The portrayal of the Lee family, with all its imperfections, is truly heartwarming. I loved how the parents were fully present, breaking free from the all-too-common trope of absent guardians in middle-grade literature. It’s refreshing to see parents—especially a father—who actively engage in both household tasks and parenting duties. This balance provided a grounding warmth that resonated with me, reflecting real family dynamics that many readers can appreciate.
Avery, our 11-year-old protagonist, is wonderfully relatable. She embodies the emotional ups and downs common to her age but avoids the overly precocious stereotypes that often plague middle-grade characters. I appreciated how her struggle for personal space—a room of her own—mirrors my own childhood experience, where I finally had my own room at 12 after sharing with my sister. It’s such a realistic desire and one that many kids from larger families will resonate with.
However, as I turned the pages, I found myself wishing for greater depth in the narrative. While Squished contained numerous plot points—such as Avery’s failed business ventures and a school art contest—many felt like day-to-day activities that led to little emotional payoff. At 256 pages, the pacing felt uneven, and I couldn’t shake the feeling that some scenes could have been tightened up to allow for richer exploration of more pressing issues like bullying and mental health, particularly concerning Avery’s older brother, Theo.
Moreover, the illustrations—while vibrant and appealing—often seemed to gloss over the reality of life in a chaotic household. With seven kids under 13, the tidiness depicted in the book, from neat rooms to spotless living areas, felt a bit unrealistic. This lack of chaos didn’t quite align with my own memories of childhood and may leave some readers wondering about authenticity.
Despite my reservations, Squished shines brightly with its colorful artwork and relatable themes, making it a fantastic addition to elementary libraries. I wholeheartedly recommend it for younger readers, especially those who come from large families or are grappling with their own personal quests for space.
In conclusion, Squished might not have hit the mark for me in every aspect, but it offers delightful charm, relatable family dynamics, and gorgeous illustrations that will captivate elementary-aged readers. If you’re seeking a book filled with warmth, humor, and a sprinkle of chaos, this graphic novel could be the perfect fit for your young readers. It certainly left me reflecting on the beauty and challenges of family life, and perhaps that’s the magic of storytelling at its core.