Wow. Sweet and sad and ultimately hopeful. This book uses a cloud-like touch to do some heavy emotional lifting. There are no clear or easy answers at the end, and I found that thoroughly satisfying. The art didn't wow me, but it contributes to the much-needed lightness. ( )

Why didn't this book exist when I was 12? For this generation, it could be as significant as a Judy Blume novel. It's the story of Sunny, sent to spend the summer in Florida with her grandfather because her older brother is dealing with drug and alcohol issues. She's an endearing girl who thinks deep thoughts and makes friends of all ages as a fish out of water in a retirement community. I am going to buy it for my middle school age nephew - it is THAT universal. Wish me luck! ( )

This was a fun-quick graphic novel read. It has a positive message to readers about growing up and being honest with family members. It might be hard at times to have a sibling that is struggling as Sunny does in this story with substance abuse. It is never portrayed in a grotesque way, but it is shown and can be understood by younger readers that the brother smokes, drinks, and partakes in drugs. However, that is not the main focus of the story. Our journey is along with Sunshine while she goes away to visit her Grandfather in Florida instead of the vacation she was originally supposed to take with her friend. Now she's stuck in a retirement community and has to figure out how to still enjoy her time. ( )

this is really nice. there is much more depth than the cover might suggest, and it deals with family relationships, substance abuse, misplaced guilt, and friendship. it's not saccharine sweet, although it does have a feel-good ending, but it allows for emotional growth and understanding to develop. there are nice parallels between the older brother's drinking and gramp's smoking, and the older brother's emotional inconsistencies with the hulk's. the superheroes and comics were threaded nicely throughout. this is well done and manages to be both easy and meaningful. ( )

children's graphic novel (dealing with an older brother's substance abuse). ( )