LSSL 5360 Module 6: Sisters

BIBLIOGRAPHY

Telgemeier, Raina. 2014. Sisters. New York: Scholastic Press. ISBN 9780545540605.

PLOT SUMMARY

In a sequel to Telgemeier’s earlier graphic novel, Smile, we reunite with her in another memoir, this time featuring her mom and sister on a road trip from San Francisco to the Colorado Rockies for a family reunion.  They now have a baby brother and have noticed things in their parents’ relationship and realize that it’s high time they figure out how to get along.  This time her story is a present day narrative containing well placed flashbacks that give the background between Raine and her sister, Amara.    

CRITICAL ANALYSIS

Telgemeier does it again with another graphic novel that is perfectly relatable for middle schoolers and their sibling struggles.  The different colored panels make it easy to decipher when the story is a showing a flashback.  The interwoven blasts from the past do a beautiful job laying a groundwork for the relationship between the two sisters.  Telgemeier’s art style is pleasing to the eye and is reminiscent of vintage style comics with a modern twist.  The fact that this is part of an autobiographical series adds to its’ interest and is such a fun, unique way to share family history.     

REVIEW EXCERPT(S)

"Telgemeier's art complements her writing to great effect, offering a cheerful, vivid cartoon simplicity that allows readers to instantly engage even as it leaves room for deeper truths to take hold." -- Booklist

"A wonderfully charming tale of family and sisters that anyone can bond with." -- Kirkus Reviews

"A must-have follow-up to Smile " -- School Library Journal

"Alternately poignant and laugh-out-loud funny."  -- Publishers Weekly

CONNECTIONS

Readers of Sisters would likely also enjoy Telgemeier’s other graphic novels including:

Smile

Ghosts

Drama

Or other girl-centered graphic novels including

Roller Girl by Victoria Jamieson

Awkward by Svetlana Chmakova

Sunny Side Up by Jennifer Holm

This is another book that would make a great girls’ book club novel.  Conversations about family relationships, especially sisters, could result from reading this book.  A fun extension activity could include students beginning their own graphic novel type of autobiography highlighting the present school year or a particularly memorable life event.