47 pages • 1 hour read
The Cardboard Kingdom
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Book Brief
288
Graphic Novel/Book • Fiction
2010s
2018
Middle grade
9-12 years
GN150L
Super Short Summary
The Cardboard Kingdom by Chad Sell is a middle-grade graphic novel about a diverse group of neighborhood children who creatively use cardboard to transform their world into a fantastical kingdom, exploring themes of friendship, identity, and the transformative power of play during their summer holidays. The novel highlights the importance of parental and guardian support as the kids navigate various personal challenges and work together to create an imaginative community full of adventure and inclusivity. The book involves themes of parental separation and bullying.
Playful
Nostalgic
Heartwarming
Emotional
Reviews & Readership
8,866 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
Chad Sell's The Cardboard Kingdom is widely praised for its vibrant artwork and imaginative storytelling, capturing the essence of childhood creativity and community. Readers appreciate its diverse characters and inclusive themes. Some critiques mention a lack of depth in character development. Overall, it’s celebrated as an uplifting and visually engaging read for all ages.
Who Should Read The Cardboard Kingdom?
Readers who enjoy The Cardboard Kingdom by Chad Sell are likely middle-grade students who appreciate imaginative, community-driven narratives. They might also enjoy Smile by Raina Telgemeier or Amulet by Kazu Kibuishi, as these books similarly combine engaging visuals with themes of friendship, creativity, and personal growth.
8,866 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Seth (The Gargoyle)
Seth (The Gargoyle)
A kind and patient boy living with his separated mom, he adopts the persona of the Gargoyle to cope with family issues and assert control over his emotions.
Sophie (Big Banshee)
Sophie (Big Banshee)
An energetic girl under the care of her grandmother, Sophie embraces her loud nature through the persona of Big Banshee, expressing pride in her individuality.
Egon (Professor Everything)
Egon (Professor Everything)
An intelligent boy interested in science and logic, Egon initially struggles to fit in with the group but learns to be patient in building friendships.
Roy
Roy
A boy living with his grandmother, Roy grapples with feeling too old for play and navigates a tension between wanting to grow up quickly and being bullied by older kids.
288
Graphic Novel/Book • Fiction
2010s
2018
Middle grade
9-12 years
GN150L
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