Growing Pangs

A poignant account of journeying through life while navigating mental health and friendships.

The story stays true to this child's experience, and the art... gives equal attention to the high points of Katie's life while skillfully depicting her lows.

Gr 3-6--Katie, who struggles with anxiety and obsessive-compulsive tendencies, heads to summer camp with her best friend Kacey. While Katie branches out and begins meeting new friends, both at camp and afterwards at her homeschool co-op, Kacey has a hard time coping with the changes in their relationship, and the two grow apart. Meanwhile, Katie continues to struggle with severe anxiety and OCD until eventually she is able to get help. This tweenage story of growing up is based on Ormsbee's own preteen and teen years struggling with similar issues. Katie's character is relatable, and young readers will connect with the symbolism of a buzzing bee to represent her anxiety. The struggles Katie faces with her friend Kacey will be familiar to many readers as well. Unfortunately, there are a few too many plot lines woven throughout the story, and they all feel a bit stunted. Brooks's artwork shines throughout and helps the story come to life. Her realistic, full-color scenes pair well with the story of early teenage struggles, and fans of other slice-of-life graphic novels will be drawn to this title. VERDICT Although it has too many subplots, this colorful graphic novel has a lot to grab the attention of many young readers. Fans of Raina Telgemeier and Kayla Miller are sure to enjoy it. Recommended for most collections.--Ellen Conlin

Copyright 2022 School Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.

Eminently relatable for middle schoolers, taking the shame out of OCD and anxiety. —NPR 

An incisive and empathetic look at fitting in, anxiety, and what it means to be a good friend. —Faith Erin Hicks, creator of The Adventures of Superhero Girl

Kids will be buzzing about Growing Pangs! —Jennifer L. Holm & Matthew Holm, co-creators of Sunnyside Up and Swing It, Sunny

A poignant and relatable story about making friends, letting go, and opening up —Terri Libenson, creator of the Emmie & Friends series