This is such a charming graphic novel about friendship and growing up. Lara must confront her fear of losing her imaginary world, while realizing that when you grow up you can keep pieces of yourself, but also add new pieces. Lara and Alexa become super close, but Alexa realizes the importance of Lara also having corporeal, aging friends. Alexa also regrets not having been able to age, missing out on her own life. She wants Lara to have what she never had, but after years of imaginary friends, Alexa mostly wants to move on. She is ready to stop seeing other children outgrow her, as they move on from make believe. The illustrations really add a calming and beautiful element to a sad story. The bright colours and vibrant images contrast with the sadness of Lara's loneliness, and then when she must confront losing Alexa permanently. There are also 'imaginary' critters that follow Lara around everywhere she goes that seem to be a reminder of her innocence and childlike wonder, but also mimic other kids imaginary critter's (or at least other kids Alexa interacts with). Which might be important when you learn these critters are very similar to ones that an older woman draws. Are they real? Can imagination conjure true magic? Strangely, or not so strangely, this story is very relatable. Lara and Alexa are growing away from each other, which happens to all middle school children. It is just the reality of life that friendships last as long as they are meant to, and oftentimes (when you are young), friendships change along with you. Whether your interests pull you apart or push you closer together. Friends are meant to help you develop who you are outside of your family unit, help you to understand the parts of yourself that are unique and special, and friends help you to find that group that will support and nurture you throughout your life. Just a really heartwarming story about a ghost evaluating her death, her impact on those around her, and her future. But also a story about a young girl learning what it truly means to 'grow up,' and how we are all still growing and changing no matter our age. Magic is not limited to childhood. Love, love, love!
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