While the story on the surface of Allergic: A Graphic Novel sounds simple, there is also the complicity of learning of an illness and the result of it being “not fair” to the person dealing with the situation. There is also the typical growing up issues of siblings, friendship, and fear issues. All of it will come to a head by the end and while it might seem overwhelming our heroine, Maggie, finds a way. Megan Wagner Lloyd’s story is an old one (coming to terms with an issue, worries, growing up and changes) but with Michelle Mee Nutter’s illustrations it not only has a modern look, but a modern feeling and form.
Our gal Maggie really really wants a dog for her birthday. Her parents say it is a family pet, but she knows with the new baby on the way, her parents will be busy. And her twin younger brothers? Yeah, do not count on them to step up to the plate. But when she finally finds the right fit, the right fit is not for her. She breaks out in a rash, has a runny nose, and massive sneezing. Tests prove that any animal with fur is probably not a good idea. Top that off with a change in schools, new friends, and the problems they are already facing before the baby comes, Maggie is not a happy camper.
Lloyd takes Maggie and us, the reader, along for a ride. We see the hopes, dreams, sadness, and worries of Maggie. We see her brothers in all their annoyances and even a few tender moments. We see loving, but sometimes clueless parents. The realistic story allows the reader to empathize with a character or see themselves. Ages vary for reader understanding, but up to ages 13 can enjoy
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