Cover Image: Delicates

Delicates

Pub Date:   |   Archive Date:

Member Reviews

As much as I remember the first part of the series, Sheets, as a good memory, this volume disappointed me. After the serious theme of grief, the focus here is more on the teen drama from Marjorie's side. I didn't like that she started to ignore the ghosts because of her friends, who in her opinion aren't cool. It felt fake than a real friendship, as they don't realise at all how sad Marj is. Alongside her, we get another perspective, in the person of Eliza, who also appears on the cover, and who was much more interesting. She loves photography and collects pictures of ghosts. However, she is very lonely at school and her eccentricity makes her a target for the popular kids, which I was very sorry to see. I wouldn't want to take this volume any less seriously either, as bullying is a pretty tough subject, however its implementation made it feel less serious overall.

Was this review helpful?

A wonderful continuation to 'Sheets'. It felt like we dived further into Marjorie's thoughts with this book, and it was nice to see her make a friend. Eliza herself was also an incredibly fascinating character, with her love for photography and similar feelings of loneliness.

Brenna Thummler does a brilliant job of depicting how it feels to be invisible to those around you, especially during such a turbulent age. The story is a comforting hand on the back, it's a gentle voice telling you that it's okay to step into the light and ask for help

I'm looking forward to the next book!

— Thank you to Netgalley and the publishers for providing the eARC in exchange for a review. All opinions are my own

Was this review helpful?

I enjoyed this one even more than the first one. The message it has is so important! Couldn’t help but cry in a couple of moments. Every adult should encourage the read of this book to their teen.

Was this review helpful?

Somehow I enjoyed this one more than I did Sheets. I think I was still a bit too new to the Graphic Novels to really appreciate how heartfelt the Sheets & Delicates stories are, especially for its intended (younger) audience.

The characters' growth is beautifully visualized, learning to navigate the throes of teenage life, finding acceptance in a world that doesn't feel yours, and learning to come to terms with the cards you're dealt in life. Also: this story needs to be told in full colour. I read Sheets in a B&W version, but the full colour sequel really made it so much easier to get lost into. I loved the colour palette of the series and I look forward to reading more of Thummler's graphic novels.

Was this review helpful?

Thank you very much for the opportunity to read this book early! I really enjoyed it. I thought the writing was very well done, and the story kept me interested. I believe my students/patrons would also love this book and will be acquiring it for the library!

Was this review helpful?

Marjorie Glatt knows there is life after death. Her best friend, Wendell, is a ghost, after all. And a very traditional ghost, manifesting within a bedsheet. Knowing that ghosts exist make it a bit awkward for Marjorie to interact with Eliza Duncan, who is determined to photograph a ghost, to the point of being ostracized at school for her hyper-fixation.

Eliza and Wendell could help Eliza. They could simply be friends. They could confirm her beliefs. But they might need to do something even more heroic, in order to save the depressed girl. Because while Marjorie knows there is life after death, Wendell knows that it’s not worth the passing over.

In the first sheet-ghost graphic novel, aptly titled “Sheets,” Thummler gave us a story with a mix of heavy topics (loss of a parent, another parent’s depression, poverty), but also a lot of whimsy (ghosts are literally sheets, and they have their own special detergent). That having been established, this book goes a bit harder into social and psychological subjects. It’s meant for a slightly more mature audience. Like, a year or two more mature. I imagine, for kids who read “Sheets” and were excited for its sequel, the timing was just right, on their growing-up. But, if you’re a kid’s adult, it’s best to be aware of the themes and make sure your own child is in a good headspace for them.

That said, I enjoyed this one, as much as the high school social situations FRUSTRATED me SO MUCH. I’m sure they’ll resonate with the target age group, but man, I forgot how harsh things were! Woof!

Review copy provided by the publisher.

Was this review helpful?

I loved this book. It was so cute and so relatable. First of all, the illustrations were beautiful. The story was amazing. Often in books geared towards middle schoolers people don't talk much about the victim becoming the bully, but that was present. I felt like I could easily relate to Eliza. It helped me come to terms with the bullying and isolation that I went through myself. This graphic novel is a beautiful amazing story that every middle schooler and teens should read.

Was this review helpful?

Illustrations again were so great. If you liked Sheets, this is a very sweet follow up. I thought Marjorie’s relationship with Tessi was very interesting. Also I loved how Tessi was drawn. And Wendell is back! Overall a great graphic novel that reminded me it’s time to read Pumpkinheads again.

Was this review helpful?

this is a cute little extra! I was pleasantly surprised about this series and I highly recommend. very different than what I expected.

Was this review helpful?

I loved the artwork and storyline and the world in which this is set in. Brenna Thummler is going to be an auto buy author for me.

Was this review helpful?

"Delicates" by Brenna Thummler is a beautifully crafted graphic novel that continues the poignant story of the characters from "Sheets." This delightful sequel manages to surpass its predecessor in both storytelling and artistic prowess, making it a must-read for fans of young adult literature and graphic novels alike.

The story centers around Marjorie Glatt, a young girl who is still coming to terms with the loss of her mother, and her unexpected friendship with the ghostly inhabitants of the local laundromat. In "Delicates," Marjorie is back, and she's facing the ups and downs of adolescence, including friendship, self-discovery, and navigating the complexities of middle school. This time, the focus shifts towards Marjorie's interactions with her peers, particularly her new friend Eliza, who introduces her to the intriguing world of extracurricular activities, friendships, and the challenges that come with growing up.

One of the strengths of "Delicates" lies in its relatable characters and the way it explores the emotions and experiences of early adolescence. Brenna Thummler masterfully captures the essence of this stage in life, making readers of all ages empathize with Marjorie's struggles and triumphs. The characters are well-developed and multi-dimensional, and their growth throughout the story is both realistic and heartwarming.

Thummler's artwork is a visual treat. Her delicate and expressive illustrations bring the characters and their emotions to life. The muted color palette and subtle use of watercolors add a dreamlike quality to the narrative, perfectly complementing the story's themes of nostalgia, friendship, and the passage of time. The attention to detail in the illustrations, from the characters' expressions to the intricate backgrounds, enhances the overall reading experience.

The themes explored in "Delicates" are both universal and timely. Friendship, peer pressure, self-identity, and the importance of self-expression are all skillfully woven into the narrative. Thummler addresses these issues with sensitivity and authenticity, making them accessible to readers of all ages. It's a story that encourages empathy and understanding, making it an excellent choice for both young readers and adults.

In conclusion, "Delicates" is a remarkable graphic novel that surpasses its predecessor in terms of storytelling and artistry. Brenna Thummler's ability to capture the nuances of adolescence and the power of friendship is truly commendable. This is a graphic novel that will resonate with readers of all ages, offering a heartfelt and beautifully illustrated journey through the trials and triumphs of growing up. "Delicates" is a must-read, and it solidifies Brenna Thummler's place as a standout talent in the world of graphic novels.

Was this review helpful?

Thanks for the arc Netgalley.
Delicates is a sequel to Sheets by Brenna Thummler.
I really enjoy the story, as their friendship is beautiful.

Was this review helpful?

Thank you to #Netgalley and #OniBooks for access to this arc in return for an honest review.

The illustrations are beautiful throughout the story. Who knew a simple sheet ghost could evoke such an empathetic feeling? Wendell is a great character and continues to experience more with Marjorie as they move on to new experiences.
I enjoyed Delicates even more than Sheets. Charming without being whimsical.

Was this review helpful?

This graphic novel is the sequel to Sheets. It's about friendship and trying to fit in and being different.. The illustrations are beautifully done. I'll have to look for Lights next!

Was this review helpful?

Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for this ARC. Interesting sequel to Ghosts. Good for a younger audience exploring important themes and topics. I really like the art and the colours.

Was this review helpful?

This whole series, Sheets, Delicates, and Lights are so beautiful, both in story and in illustration. It's such a fun idea for a way to explain and deal with death, in a way that doesn't make it seem scary or upsetting. Love it.

Was this review helpful?

Book 61 of 200

🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟

Wowza! This was so beautifully illustrated and handled such a heavy topic brilliantly.

I got all the feels, and given that I have been hearing about so many kids that I know personally getting bullied badly breaks my heart.

I was bullied by some girls in school, one of whom followed me from primary school to secondary school and was...still is...a thorn in my side if you will.. till today, she still harbours ridiculous hatred for me, and god alone knows why.

I am so glad that this was dealt with delicately yet in sych a realitic, raw way.

Kudos to @brennathummler ~ fabulous job!

Was this review helpful?

“Delicates” is the second installment in the "Sheets" series. Much like the first book, this one is also simply a heartwarming, although heavy, read. I do have to say that I truly began to appreciated the illustrations in this specific book, because I realize just how much they help to tell the story. I might even say that this story could be told by the illustrations alone!!!

Thank you to @netgalley and @onipress for providing me with the eARCs in exchange for an honest review!

Was this review helpful?

Delicates was another brilliant graphic novel from Brenna Thummler. It was so much fun going back to Marjorie's story and meeting some the other characters. I really enjoyed this story, and the illustrations are so much fun. I'm really looking forward to reading the next one.

Was this review helpful?

thank you NetGallery for sending me a digital copy

I liked Delicates so so much I actually cried a bit. I think is definitely a lot better than Sheets. The art style improved and I loved all Marjorie new outfits. I loved how the author managed to keep the two colors scenes in this book too.
Eliza's character and storyline was really touching and added a significance that Sheets lacked.

Was this review helpful?