Apple Crush

By Lucy Knisley. Published by Penguin Random House.

Softcover, 208 pages, Colour, 2022. 

After finally adjusting to life on a family farm with two brand new step-sisters, a young girl faces an even bigger challenge – figuring out where she fits in at her first year in middle school. This middle grade graphic novel explores family, friendship, and change!

Jen is just getting used to her life on Peapod Farm with her new stepsisters, Andy and Reese. But when the school year starts, there are even more changes in store for her. Jen has to navigate new friends and new challenges–but at least she’ll have Andy with her, right? As she starts the sixth grade, she finds that her stepsister seems way more interested in crushes and boys than hanging out with her, while Jen wants to know when the world decided boys and girls couldn’t be “just friends” anymore.

Jen’s story continues in the standout sequel to Stepping Stones that captures everything awesome (and scary) about growing up.

Readers looking for budding romance (or avoiding it altogether) will find characters to cheer in this autumn-themed follow-up.” —School Library Journal, starred review
 
“Warm, fortifying, and cozy—like a drink of apple cider.” —Kirkus Reviews