“Hey, Zoe!”

From Maria Scrivan’s Forget Me Nat.

Ever since Derek gave her a nice note right before winter break, Natalie is pretty sure that he is perfect.  The more time that Natalie spent thinking about Derek, the more she realized how many things that they both like… even if some of those likes are new to Derek.  When break is over, Natalie’s friend Zoe encourages her budding romantic feelings.  However, as Natalie begins to back out on more of her commitments, Zoe worries that Natalie is becoming too wrapped up in her pursuit of Derek.  When Zoe develops a crush on Derek’s crush friend, Yuki, the two look forward to double dates, just as soon as Derek asks Natalie out to make it official.  While Natalie and Zoe’s friend,  Flo, runs for class president, Natalie becomes completely wrapped up in her thoughts about Derek.  However, when Derek tells Natalie that he only likes her as a friend, she is crushed, especially after a fight with Zoe results in an especially embarrassing school dance.  After spending so much time focusing on Derek, Natalie’s life falls apart a bit as she struggles with her confusing feelings. Natalie soon comes to realize that her friends still are still there for her, and she is still a pretty awesome person even without Derek.

This graphic novel perfectly embodies that highs and lows of crushes and young love.  Scrivan’s story is funny and sweet, while her artwork is bright and engaging to create a captivating book.  Filled with a diverse cast of characters, Forget Me Nat is a quick read that packs the pages with a relatable, enjoyable story for both young and old graphic novels fans.