Common Sense Media Review
By Kya Jones
,
based on child development research. How do we rate?
Bubbly girl joins debate team in funny 1970s-set story.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 8+?
Any Positive Content?
Where to Read
Parent and Kid Reviews
What's the Story?
In SUNNY MAKES HER CASE, Sunny dreams of finding something she's good at to stand out at her middle school. Her friend Deb suggests that she try out for cheerleading, but Sunny isn't so great at that, or any sport for that matter. She has lunch with her friend Arun, and they agree that sports aren't everything, and they plan to start a debate club. Mr. Roy, the physics teacher, agrees to be their adviser and begins training them in the art of debate. Arun is a natural, but Sunny, not so much. As they enter their first competition, Sunny struggles to build arguments, but with the help of her family, she starts to feel more confident in her abilities and they win second place. Upon returning to school, Sunny is bummed that the debate club isn't more widely known, but with the support of her friends and family, including her crush, Tony, Sunny gains the confidence to try to make her case.
Is It Any Good?
This charming graphic novel is a fun, nostalgic tale about finding your own strengths. Sunny Makes Her Case is a heartwarming and lighthearted story that any kid will delight in reading. The Holm siblings bring life to the feeling of longing to accomplish something. Matt Holm uses colorful graphics to highlight how fun creating your own lane can be. Sunny's debate aspirations are relatable, and while there aren't many twists and turns in this story, readers will enjoy following her journey. Not only will parents appreciate the nostalgia of this book, but they can also feel comfortable sharing this sweet book with their kids time and time again.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about perseverance in Sunny Makes Her Case. Sunny initially feels discouraged since debate club isn't easy for her. Have you ever tried something new and challenging? What happened when you didn't give up?
Sunny and Arun work together to create a successful debate club. How has teamwork helped you accomplish new things? What have you created with the help of others?
Sunny tries different activities at school to find out what she likes to do. What have you learned about yourself when trying out new things? What groups or events are you curious about at your school or in your community?
Book Details
- Author :
- Illustrator : Matthew Holm
- Genre : Graphic Novel
- Topics : Friendship , School ( Middle School )
- Character Strengths : Courage , Curiosity , Perseverance , Teamwork
- Book type : Fiction
- Publisher : Graphix
- Publication date : February 6, 2024
- 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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