Common Sense Media Review
By Kya Jones
,
based on child development research. How do we rate?
Funny '70s-set graphic novel about navigating romance.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 10+?
Any Positive Content?
Where to Read
Parent and Kid Reviews
What's the Story?
In SUNNY FIGURES IT OUT, Sunny is spending more time with Tony, who her friend Deb insists is her boyfriend. Sunny isn't so sure though. She's been reading so many romance novels, but they don't really mirror her reality. Also, her mom is struggling with the newness of being a working mother. Her mom always feels like she isn't doing enough, which Sunny can relate to on many levels. At school, Deb starts pushing Sunny and Tony to go on double dates with her and her boyfriend and telling Sunny all these things a boyfriend and girlfriend are supposed to do together. It puts a strain on her relationship with Tony, so she needs to hurry and figure out what she really wants. Why is growing up so complicated?
Is It Any Good?
A delightful graphic novel about preteen dating in the 1970s that really holds up today. Sunny Figures It Out is a charming tale about the stresses of crushes and budding romance that many kids will be able to relate to as they approach adolescence. Siblings Jennifer and Matthew Holm, through the use of vivid, nostalgic illustrations and authentic dialogue, make a story about preteen dating feel extremely heartwarming and fun rather than emotionally heavy. Parents will feel comfortable sharing this book with their middle grade readers, and kids will enjoy watching Sunny figure it out once again.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about curiosity in Sunny Figures It Out. Sunny is curious about dating, so she reads a lot of romance novels to better understand the expectations. When was the last time you discovered something new? After researching, what did you learn that surprised you?
Sunny volunteers to help her mom at the store so she can finish her tasks. How is this an example of teamwork? Have you ever volunteered to help someone complete a large task? How did you feel afterward?
Sunny decides to talk to Tony about their relationship after Deb tells her all of the dating rules she should be following. How does communicating help Sunny? Have you ever talked with a friend or family member to clarify something? What would have been different if you didn't talk to them about your feelings?
Book Details
- Author :
- Illustrator : Matthew Holm
- Genre : Graphic Novel
- Topics : Friendship , School ( Middle School )
- Character Strengths : Communication , Curiosity , Teamwork
- Book type : Fiction
- Publisher : Graphix
- Publication date : July 1, 2025
- Publisher's recommended age(s) : 8 - 12
- Number of pages : 224
- Available on : Paperback, Hardback, Apple Books, Kindle
- Last updated : September 18, 2025
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