Telgemeier, Raina. Smile. New York: Graphix, 2010. Print.
Genre: Graphic novel, memoir
Summary: Smile follows Raina’s progression from 6th grade to high school. It documents her agonizing adolescence — which really is full of pain and suffering. Not only does she face-plant and bust out her front teeth, but she also has to put up with bullying “friends.” But Raina perseveres in the end, and is able to smile!
Critique: The visual cinematography is pretty standard. Not a lot of experimentation or visual dramatization. While some of the dialogue is on the nose and some of the character’s drawn expressions or postures do not always clearly convey their emotions (inner or hidden), the story is emotionally engaging and tragically funny.
jenny mason 