Parents' Guide to

Just Jaime: Emmie & Friends, Book 3

By Amanda Nojadera, Common Sense Media Reviewer

age 9+

Fast-paced, emotional tale of middle school friend drama.

Book Terri Libenson Graphic Novel 2019
Just Jaime: Emmie & Friends, Book 3 Poster Image

A Lot or a Little?

What you will—and won't—find in this book.

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age 8+

Based on 1 parent review

ELIZABETH D.
ELIZABETH D. Parent
September 23, 2019
age 8+

Really good

I liked it because there was something happening at every moment that kept the story moving and interesting. The message was to be yourself and not let others bring you down. She wasn't the best role model since she let her anger get the best of her and did the wrong thing to her friend's friend. Although, she did learn her lesson in the end.

This title has:

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What's the Story?

It’s the last day of seventh grade and Jaime should be excited that summer's about to start. Instead, she's trying to figure out why her friends have been teasing her and excluding her over the past few months. She knows that she should talk to her BFF Maya, but even Maya has been pretty distant lately. Meanwhile, Maya's been annoyed that Jaime doesn't like the same things as the rest of the girls in their popular group. But that doesn't mean it’ll be easy to tell Jaime that she's been voted out. Will their friendship survive or will it be JUST JAIME this summer?

Is It Any Good?

Our review:
Parents say (1 ):
Kids say (5 ):

Terri Libenson has created a fast-paced, emotional graphic novel that perfectly captures the ups and downs of middle school friendships. As in her previous books, Libenson brilliantly uses alternating chapters with different formats -- prose with sketches for Jaime, and comic-style panels for Maya -- to tell the story, which takes place over the course of one eventful day. As Jaime and Maya deal with the drama of "popular" cliques, peer pressure, and jealousy, tweens will see how "mean girl" behavior and gossiping hurts others. Just Jaime might have a predictable ending, but it provides important lessons about communication, self-control, and apologizing for your mistakes.

Talk to Your Kids About ...

  • Families can talk about the graphic novel format. How is it effective in telling the story of Just Jaime?

  • Do you ever feel different or left out? When? Do you think others in your class or school feel that way? What can you do to help them feel included? How have new friends come into your life? How have you helped build new friendships?

  • How do the kids demonstrate communication and self-control? Why are these important character strengths?

Book Details

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