Sisters

The story moves between the road trip, told in the present, and flashbacks to the sisters' childhood, shown in different colours, which explain how their rivalry grew. There is a broken-down van, a cousin who ignores Raina, a lost pet snake and plenty of squabbling in the back seat. Underneath the comedy, Raina gradually notices that something is wrong between her parents, which gives the story real emotional weight.

Raina Telgemeier tells true stories from her own childhood with warmth and humour, and her clear, expressive drawings, coloured by Braden Lamb, make every argument and eye-roll feel familiar. The book does not pretend that siblings must always be best friends, but it shows how shared experiences, and a frightening moment on the road, can bring them closer. The worry about the parents is handled gently and honestly.

A quick, satisfying read that works for reluctant readers and graphic novel fans alike, and pairs naturally with Smile and Drama. Many readers finish it and immediately hand it to a brother or sister, which may be the best recommendation of all. About 208 pages in the Graphix paperback.