VERDICT A strong purchase for middle grade graphic novel collections, especially where Emmie and Izzy are circulating well. This is a realistic, hopeful look at the “drama soup” of middle school. “A delightful tale that navigates the precarious ebb and flow of friendship dynamics.” -Kirkus (starred review) “Libenson perfectly portrays the gaslighting and passive aggression that can be the hallmarks of middle-school relationships turned sour, and readers struggling with cracking of beloved friendships will find reassurance in the book’s “this too shall pass” sentiment.” -Bulletin of the Center for Children’s Books Libenson weaves a beautiful, accessible, layered story yet again.” -Booklist The emotional roller-coaster of navigating friendships as they change shape, particularly in middle school, is portrayed with admirable sincerity, gentle humor, heartbreaking pain, and of course plenty of texts and emojis.

“This story is simultaneously incredibly original and utterly universal. It’s like she has nothing in common with Jai anymore. Maya feels more and more annoyed with Jaime, who seems babyish compared to the other girls in their popular group. At least she can count on her BFF, Maya, to have her back…right? They’ve started to exclude her and make fun of the way she dresses and the things she likes. Jaime knows something is off with her friend group.

The last day of seventh grade has Jaime and Maya wondering who their real friends are. *note: all these books can be read in order as written or as stand-alones. This book is perfect for anyone who likes humor, heart, and ridiculously fun drawings.

The story centers around the theme of exclusion, something most of us can relate to. It stars the “Gossip Girls,” who chatter in the background of Emmie and Izzy. Just Jaime* is the third book in the drama-filled world of Emmie & Friends.

Invisible emmie cliff notes