Common Sense Media Review
By Michael Berry
,
based on child development research. How do we rate?
Graphic novel about musical theater has positive messages.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 10+?
Any Positive Content?
Where to Read
Parent and Kid Reviews
Based on 27 parent reviews
Parents say that while the book may be visually appealing and filled with relatable themes about school and drama, it contains mature content related to LGBTQ topics that might not be suitable for younger readers. Many reviews highlight the mixed feelings among parents regarding its appropriateness, emphasizing that it can serve as a valuable conversation starter about sexuality and acceptance, but caution against potential confusion for younger children who are not ready for these discussions.
- LGBTQ themes
- Mixed reactions
- Conversation starter
- Age-appropriate concerns
- Humor and illustrations
- Relatable characters
Summarized with AI
Summarized with AI
Based on 127 kid reviews
Kids say this book is an engaging read that addresses themes of friendship, crushes, and identity within a theatrical setting, making it relatable for middle schoolers. While some readers are concerned about its LGBTQ+ content, many emphasize its importance in promoting acceptance and understanding of diverse sexual orientations, arguing it can serve as an educational tool for parents and children alike; nevertheless, a few suggest that younger readers might benefit from guidance in navigating its themes.
- fun story
- relatable characters
- LGBTQ+ representation
- educational value
- suitable for tweens
Summarized with AI
What's the Story?
In DRAMA, seventh grader Callie has a passion for theater. When her middle school prepares a production of the musical Moon Over Mississippi, she has ambitious ideas for building Broadway-worthy sets. But the reality of a small budget, unimpressive ticket sales, and a chaotic backstage crew threatens to puncture her dream. Add in a series of romantic misunderstandings and friends with their own struggles going on, and Callie has her hands full.
Is It Any Good?
Written with affection and humor, this graphic novel captures the excitement and chaos of producing an ambitious school musical. Author-illustrator Raina Telgemeier creates an engaging cast of different personality types and plenty of chaos, both onstage and off, before Drama gets to its final act.
Telgemeier's cartoony artwork has the humor and expressiveness of an Archie comic in its prime, but with a slightly younger -- and more inclusive -- cast of characters. Her middle school kids are diverse in ethnicity and sexuality, with the journey of gay and bisexual characters treated with warmth and sensitivity. This is a fun, energetic story, with plenty of positive messages and discussion points.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about the graphic novel format. How is it effective in telling the story of Drama? Do you think this would also work as a prose novel, TV show, or movie?
Does Drama give you a good idea of what it takes to stage an ambitious school musical? Does this book make you want to work on a school production? What role do you think might suit your personality and talents?
Characters show many positive qualities, such as strong communication, empathy, and teamwork. Why are these important among friends generally and, particularly, in working on a project together?
Why is it sometimes difficult to try new activities? What prevents kids from exploring unfamiliar social circles? Can you think of a time when you tried something new? How did you feel, and what was the outcome?
Book Details
- Author :
- Illustrator : Raina Telgemeier
- Genre : Coming of Age
- Topics : Arts ( Music and Sing-Along ) , Friendship , School ( Middle School )
- Character Strengths : Communication , Empathy , Teamwork
- Book type : Fiction
- Publisher : Graphix
- Publication date : September 1, 2012
- Publisher's recommended age(s) : 10 - 14
- Number of pages : 240
- Available on : Paperback, Nook, Hardback
- Last updated : March 14, 2026
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