Based on your book
Awkward
by CHMAKOVA, SVETLANA
Penelope is a quintessential middle schooler who tries to follow one simple rule: avoid the weird kids to stay under the radar. But after an impulsive decision lands her in a messy social situation, she realizes that being invisible is not the same as being happy. This graphic novel perfectly captures the high-stakes drama of cafeteria politics, the sting of a misplaced comment, and the relief of finally finding your people. Chmakova writes with a gentle, observational humor that turns minor middle school blunders into significant milestones of character growth. The pacing is snappy and visual, making it feel less like a lecture on growing up and more like a warm conversation with a friend who actually remembers what it feels like to be twelve. It is a perfect pick for anyone currently navigating the social minefield of school or those who look back on those years with a mix of empathy and amusement.
10 Books similar to 'Awkward'
If the social navigation in Awkward hit home for you, these stories will feel like a natural next step. We curated this list because each title captures that specific, wobbly transition between childhood and adolescence where friendships shift and your sense of self is constantly being tested. Whether it is the pressure of fitting into new cliques or the quiet struggle of being an outsider, these graphic novels mirror the same authentic, heartwarming tone you found in Berrybrook Middle School. They are all about the courage it takes to be yourself when everyone else is just trying to blend in.
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As a companion book to 'Awkward' set in the same school, this graphic novel expands on the social ecosystem of Berrybrook Middle School, focusing on Jensen's struggles with bullying and finding his voice. Fans will appreciate the familiar art style, the relatable middle-school anxieties, and the heart-centered narrative.
This quintessential middle-grade graphic novel captures the awkwardness and social hurdles of adolescence with humor and honesty. Like 'Awkward,' it features a protagonist navigating school life, friendships, and the painful process of growing up.
by Jerry Craft
This graphic novel explores the challenges of navigating a new school environment and the social hierarchies within it. It mirrors 'Awkward' in its keen observation of middle-school dynamics and the importance of finding one's authentic self amidst peer pressure.
by Shannon Hale
This memoir-style graphic novel delves into the complexities of childhood friendships and the shifting alliances that define middle school. Readers who enjoyed the social navigation in 'Awkward' will find this exploration of popularity and belonging deeply resonant.
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by Kayla Miller
When a school variety show threatens to tear apart a friend group, the protagonist must navigate the social fallout, much like Penelope in 'Awkward.' It focuses on the relatable drama of middle school cliques and the effort required to maintain genuine connections.
Imogene, a homeschooled girl entering public middle school, struggles to fit in while dealing with her unique background and family expectations. The story shares the same empathetic, humorous, and socially aware tone that makes Chmakova's work so accessible.
by Jen Wang
This story about an unlikely friendship between two very different girls captures the nuances of growing up and the friction that can occur between best friends. Its focus on identity and social standing will appeal to readers who enjoyed the character dynamics in 'Awkward.'
by Vera Brosgol
This graphic memoir depicts the awkwardness of being an outsider at a summer camp, perfectly capturing the feeling of trying to fit in where you don't belong. It echoes the themes of social anxiety and the desperate search for friendship found in 'Awkward.'
Set in the 1970s, this story follows a girl sent to live with her grandfather in Florida, where she has to navigate new social realities. It shares the same gentle, character-driven approach to exploring difficult childhood transitions as 'Awkward.'
While it introduces a touch of the supernatural, the core of this story is about a girl dealing with overwhelming responsibility and loneliness at school. The emotional vulnerability and focus on navigating daily life will resonate with fans of Chmakova's character-focused storytelling.
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