Review of Sunny Figures It Out: A Graphic Novel (Sunny #6) by Jennifer Holm
There’s something utterly captivating about stepping back into the past, especially when that past is filled with the charming trials and tribulations of adolescence. Sunny Figures It Out, the sixth installment in Jennifer Holm’s beloved graphic novel series, achieved that delightful blend of nostalgia and insight, making me feel as if I’d slipped effortlessly into my own 8th-grade sneakers—but this time, with a vintage flair. Set in 1978 and steeped in a world without smartphones, where friendships blossomed through handwritten notes and shared ice cream, Sunny’s journey is refreshingly relatable yet endearingly retro.
At the core of this narrative is Sunny, our thoughtful and somewhat conflicted protagonist, who navigates not only the complexities of young romance with Tony—her hockey-playing crush—but also grapples with the expectations placed on her by friends and society. From Deb’s insistence on traditional dating rituals to her reflections on her mother entering the workforce, Sunny embodies the push and pull of trying to forge one’s identity amid societal pressures. My heart went out to her as she wrestled with feeling ‘normal’ while simply wanting to enjoy her own version of happiness—like playing drinking straw hockey at Howard Johnson’s instead of attending stuffy dinners.
Holm’s writing shines brilliantly with its ability to weave in historical references that will delight older readers and inform younger ones. The nods to quirky 70s elements, from Avon Ladies to rotary phones, made me chuckle, reminding me of my own youth. I found the exploration of Sunny’s and her mother’s struggles with societal expectations particularly poignant. It’s a reminder that, whether it’s the 1970s or today, the battle between personal happiness and societal norms remains timeless.
Matthew Holm’s illustrations complement the narrative wonderfully. He captures the essence of 1970s Americana with wide-legged pants and groovy cardigans, breathing life into each scene while keeping it engaging for modern readers. The art isn’t just decoration; it enhances the emotional rollercoaster that Sunny experiences. The vibrant colors and expressive characters make you feel the weight of Sunny’s decisions and triumphs.
One aspect I truly appreciated was the book’s deeper message about the importance of staying true to oneself. As someone who has experienced the pressures of fitting in, seeing Sunny find her voice felt like a personal victory. There’s a powerful moment when she realizes that authenticity is far more valuable than adhering to someone else’s idea of romance, a sentiment I wish every middle schooler could embrace.
In conclusion, Sunny Figures It Out is a delightful gem that I would recommend to anyone who enjoys a story that strikes a balance between fun and introspection. It’s perfect for readers looking for a break from heavier angst-driven narratives, making it an excellent choice for tweens and even adults who reminisce about their own youthful days. This book will leave you both smiling and pondering your own journey to self-acceptance, reminding us all that sometimes, staying true to yourself is the greatest victory of all. Grab a copy and let Sunny help you navigate the delightful chaos of being young!
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