Sew Totally Nala (Bounce Back, Volume 3)

This middle-grade graphic novel follows Nala, a kid who loves fashion — especially “kawaii” Japanese-style streetwear. Nala is spending the summer at a city fashion camp, excited but nervous because the other students are really talented. As the pressure mounts, she begins to doubt herself. Then she meets Timothy, a squirrel who claims he can help — questionable fashion advice included. With Timothy’s support, Nala works through her insecurities and learns how rewarding it can be to believe in her own designs and herself. The story blends friendship, creativity, and self-confidence, with a bright, kid-friendly tone perfect for elementary to middle-school readers.

“As with the other books in this series, Misako features one childhood struggle — in this case, confidence — and mirrors that struggle in her readership. The art continues to be bright and colorful as with other volumes, but this title focuses even further on brighter patterns owing to the focus on fashion and the outlandish fabrics common in Nala’s wardrobe and the design school’s choices. … [T]he lessons learned are … applicable and poignant.” — School Library Journal