Common Sense Media Review
By Michael Berry
,
based on child development research. How do we rate?
Funny, affecting memoir of growing up crazy for comics.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 10+?
Any Positive Content?
Where to Read
What's the Story?
At the start of THE DUMBEST IDEA EVER, middle school student Jimmy Gownley thinks he has everything figured out. He gets good grades, plays on a successful basketball team, and wants to create his own comic books. But navigating adolescence isn't easy, and soon Jimmy is getting bad grades, falling ill, and questioning whether he has what it takes to be a cartoonist. Luckily, he has his best friend, Tony, and Ellen, a cute girl who seems interested in him, to boost his confidence while dispensing valuable advice.
Is It Any Good?
The Dumbest Idea Ever is a smart, funny, and affecting memoir in graphic novel form. Author and illustrator Jimmy Gownley does an excellent job of capturing the highs and lows of middle school and early high school, depicting his friends, parents, teachers, and himself with affection and respect. The book also shows that art isn't easy, not even comic book art. Just as he has lessons to learn about being a good student or a good friend, Jimmy has to re-evaluate his own talent. The Dumbest Idea Ever doesn't wallow in fake angst; it's refreshingly realistic in how it approaches its subject.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about graphic novels and comics. Why are they so popular with readers of all ages?
What does it take to become an artist? How important is raw talent? How important is discipline?
Do you have trouble evaluating whether your work's good or not? What strategies can you use to get honest feedback?
Book Details
- Author :
- Illustrator : Jimmy Gownley
- Genre : Autobiography
- Topics : Arts , Friendship , School ( High School )
- Book type : Non-Fiction
- Publisher : Graphix
- Publication date : February 25, 2014
- Publisher's recommended age(s) : 10 - 12
- Number of pages : 240
- Available on : Paperback, Nook, Hardback, Kindle
- Last updated : January 6, 2026
Did we miss something on diversity?
Research shows a connection between kids' healthy self-esteem and positive portrayals in media. That's why we've added a new "Diverse Representations" section to our reviews that will be rolling out on an ongoing basis. You can help us help kids by
Suggest an Update
Common Sense Media's unbiased ratings are created by expert reviewers and aren't influenced by the product's creators or by any of our funders, affiliates, or partners.
See how we rate