On Guard!: A Marshall Middle School Graphic Novel – A Heartfelt Journey Through Change and Courage
When I first came across On Guard!: A Marshall Middle School Graphic Novel by J.A. Aurore, I had a feeling I was about to dive into a story that would resonate with anyone who has ever faced the emotional upheaval of friendship, family, and self-discovery. And let me tell you, I was not disappointed!
At the heart of this vibrant graphic novel is Grace, a young girl navigating the tumultuous waters of middle school life after her best friend, Ava, suddenly dumps her. As any of us can recognize from our own formative years, this is no small tragedy. Grace’s life has been further complicated by her parents’ divorce—an emotional landscape rife with feelings of loneliness and confusion. What struck me most is how Aurore captures Grace’s struggles in a way that feels achingly familiar yet distinctively hers.
Watching Grace retreat into isolation, opting to sit in the gym instead of facing the cafeteria, really tugged at my heartstrings. Here was a girl trying to find solace while feeling utterly lost. It’s in this familiar setting—the fencing matches she begins to watch—that her story takes a delightful turn. The introduction of fencing as a metaphor for courage, resilience, and new beginnings is beautifully rendered, offering not just a new passion for Grace but also a way to break free from her past.
One of my absolute favorite elements of the book is the author’s seamless integration of a non-binary character into the tapestry of Grace’s new friendships. It was refreshing to see their identity depicted as a natural part of the narrative, free from dramatic exposition. This simple representation speaks volumes about inclusivity and normalizes the experiences of many young readers today. Grace’s journey toward self-expression and her courage to voice her feelings to her mother echoed with depth and sincerity, making it a reading experience that bubbled with emotion, even leading me to shed a tear or two—though I won’t admit how many! 😄
Aurore’s writing style is approachable, with a flow that feels conversational while maintaining a vibrant energy through the illustrations. The pacing kept me engaged from start to finish, effortlessly guiding me through Grace’s triumphs and challenges.
If you’ve ever found yourself grappling with the complexities of growing up—whether it be the heartache of a broken friendship or the strains of parental relationships—this book will resonate deeply with you. It’s not just a tale of moving on; it’s about finding your voice and realizing that it’s okay to reach out for help and connection.
On Guard! is a perfect read for middle schoolers and anyone who enjoys coming-of-age stories sprinkled with genuine emotion. Whether you’re a parent looking for a book to share with your child or an adult in need of a heartwarming reminder of resilience, this graphic novel offers something special.
As I closed the book, I found myself reflecting on my own experiences with change, and felt grateful for the brave voices like Grace’s that remind us of the importance of vulnerability and bravery in our journey of self-discovery. I can’t wait to see what J.A. Aurore comes up with next!
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