‘Crush’ by Svetlana Chmakova

The character of Jorge lends a protective presence to the hallways of Berrybrook Middle School; I met him in Brave, patrolling the halls and persuading bullies to leave their targets alone.

In Crush, the latest by Svetlana Chmakova, Jorge takes center stage and we learn the wisdom from Jorge’s father that Jorge takes to heart: “Strength is a resource. If you have a lot and someone doesn’t, you gotta share yours.” But Jorge’s calm presence is ruffled by a schoolmate, Jazmine.

What I think especially well-done in this book is the conveying of Jorge’s mental processes. Jazmine is very much on his mind, and he dwells upon those brief exchanges they share in the Berrybrook Middle School hallways. When Jazmine is drawn as part of Jorge’s memory, there’s a different artistic quality to that rendition than when she’s physically present.

I mentioned in my review of Chmakova’s Brave that the book imparts valuable wisdom: about understanding how REAL friends will treat you, learning to recognize subtler forms of bullying, and speaking up for yourself.

In Crush, Coach Rashad — reviewing conduct-expectations for an upcoming dance — talks about respecting personal boundaries with the Athletics Club. Without wanting to go into too many specifics that might inadvertently be spoilers, there are numerous delineations between characters in this book: those who respect personal boundaries and choices, and those who don’t.

Altogether, this book is another solid addition to the young readers’ graphic-novel collection. I look forward to seeing it on the shelf at my local school library.

Disclosure of material connection: I originally read an excerpt of this book in a special publication for Free Comic Book Day, and was later able to complete the story via a copy from the public library. My taxes support libraries’ acquisition of this and other resources, and I consider the access I enjoy to be a “priceless” return on my investment.