"SLAM!
Are you hurt?
Quick! Help me up
before Julien sees.
Nice to see you,
everyone! Ca Va, Lia?
everyone! Ca Va, Lia?
Julien!
A-Allo ...
A-Allo ...
I saw you fall.
Are you okay?"
Are you okay?"
In this second The New Girl graphic novel, Lia is more comfortable in her new Montreal home. She has a loyal group of friends and her first year of learning French is helping her become fluent in a new language. She knows she must pass the class before she can move forward. Her life changes as she faces new challenges.
She has a crush on Julien, who seems to return the feelings. Self-doubt has her worrying about the prettiest girl in her class who also seeks Julien's attention. When her friend Wan Yin comes out to her, Lia promises to keep her secret before accidently telling their friends. Wan Yin is angry and hurt, and breaks ties with her. Lia's mother is concerned about Lia's unusually severe period pain; the doctor declares it normal and suggests pain relievers. It is no solution to a real problem. Her workload at school is heavy, leaving Lia to worry about her grades and her future.
Fans and new readers will appreciate Ms. Calin's digital artwork with its bold lines and emotional expressions. Lia and her friends are all learning through their experiences, despite making mistakes along the way. The story told is realistic and compelling, offering readers characters who support each other at school and at home. Lia is a great lead character who retains ties with her best friend in Romania, and turns to her to share what is happening in her life while also seeking advice when needed. There is drama, as would be expected; there is also an honest and ongoing attempt to find true and lasting friendships. Lia learns, with help from her family and friends, to believe in who she is and what she can accomplish with determination and understanding.
