Reviews for The history of everything

School Library Journal
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Gr 7 Up—Agnes and Daisy are high school best friends who grew up together. An archive of their friendship has even been documented in a scrapbook called "The History of Everything" that Daisy's grandma made for them when they were eight. When Agnes's mother announces that she has accepted a new job and that they are moving at the end of the summer, the friends set out to complete a checklist of summer activities that has been waiting for them since they set the book aside. Checking off items on the list starts out perfectly and puts them on track for the best summer ever, but when Daisy starts dating Noah, plans take a backseat to the new relationship. Evans explores themes of heartbreak within the context of female friendships as Agnes grapples with the inevitable move compounded by the sudden shift in Daisy's willingness to complete the list, culminating in a devastating falling out between the two. Anyone who has experienced a best friend breakup will recognize the pain the two feel. Readers will root for both girls as they cope in their own ways and begin to heal. Evans's expressive illustrations effectively communicate emotion and growth. VERDICT Evoking parallels to Daniel Clowes's Ghost World, but with far less discomfort and angst, this book is an ultimately feel-good examination of friendship.—Sarah Maciejewski


Kirkus
Copyright © Kirkus Reviews, used with permission.

Daisy and Agnes have been best friends forever, but everything goes sideways in this sharply observed graphic novel about their last summer together before Agnes moves away. Agnes doesn’t want to leave, and even knowing they have all summer together, she and Daisy, who stand out at school for their goth style, are distraught over their impending separation. But when Daisy remembers their childhood scrapbook, “The History of Everything,” with its giant summer checklist, Agnes latches onto the idea of recreating it. Together they compile the ultimate bucket list of summer activities, a perfect way, as Daisy says, “to make these last months you’re here count.” Perfect, that is, until Daisy meets new kid in town Noah, and the plan—and maybe even the girls’ friendship—threatens to fall apart as Daisy chooses Noah over Agnes one time too many. The artwork and panel design are strong, with bold lines, clean backgrounds, and atmospheric blocks of color. However, the plot suffers from some unresolved elements, and the hasty conclusion might frustrate readers who are looking for more than a pat resolution. Still, with its honest look at the natural anxieties surrounding significant change, this title lands as a solid debut from a thoughtful creator. Main characters present white. Despite some weaknesses, an accurate depiction of both the volatility and the deep strength of high school friendships. (character designs and sketches)(Graphic fiction. 14-18) Copyright © Kirkus Reviews, used with permission.

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