44 pages • 1 hour read
Be Prepared
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Book Brief
256
Graphic Memoir • Nonfiction
Russian Summer Camp • 1990s
2018
Middle grade
9-12 years
GN360L
Super Short Summary
Be Prepared by Vera Brosgol follows young Vera, who spends a challenging summer at a camp for Russian and Russian American youth. Struggling to fit in, she encounters conflicts with peers, engages with Russian cultural traditions, faces loneliness, and experiences personal growth through the ups and downs of camp life.
Humorous
Nostalgic
Emotional
Bittersweet
Reviews & Readership
20,430 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
Be Prepared by Vera Brosgol generally receives high praise for its engaging storytelling and charming illustrations. Readers appreciate the relatable depiction of the protagonist's struggles with fitting in at summer camp. Some reviews note that the humor and emotional depth are standout features. However, a few critics mention uneven pacing and predictability as drawbacks. Overall, it's deemed a delightful and heartfelt graphic novel.
Who Should Read Be Prepared?
Readers who enjoy Vera Brosgol's Be Prepared are typically preteens to young teenagers who appreciate humor and coming-of-age stories set in summer camp environments. Comparable to Smile by Raina Telgemeier and El Deafo by Cece Bell, this graphic novel resonates with those who love heartfelt and relatable narratives about fitting in and self-discovery.
20,430 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Kira
Kira
An eight-and-a-half-year-old with long blonde hair, Kira becomes close friends with Vera due to their shared interests, contributing significantly to Vera’s camp journey and personal development.
Natasha
Natasha
Vera’s 17-year-old camp counselor, Natasha is knowledgeable about camp traditions and offers guidance to Vera, helping her navigate the challenges of camp life.
The Sashas
The Sashas
Two 14-year-old girls with a longstanding friendship who, as Vera’s tent-mates, challenge her desire for acceptance and play a complex role in her camp experience.
256
Graphic Memoir • Nonfiction
Russian Summer Camp • 1990s
2018
Middle grade
9-12 years
GN360L
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