Amber Fraley’s The Bug Diary (Anamcara, 2021) is a loving and authentic tribute to undergraduate life, to the risks, vulnerabilities—and ultimately profound misunderstandings and awareness—that can arise when young people expose themselves to personal transformation. -Nathan Pettengill, editor, Sunflower Publishing

A great read from beginning to end. Fraley had me at the first paragraph. It also doesn’t hurt that it is set in Lawrence, Kansas. Rock Chalk Jayhawk. Go KU! -Mark Davoren

The tale of Kymer Charvat and her first-year-of-college adventures is a wonderful coming of age story that is altogether relatable, at times hilarious, at others painful, yet decidedly entertaining at all turns. The intertwining of her fictional story with guest appearances from characters taken straight from the historical archives of the University of Kansas is weaved together through paranormal elements that are sure to keep you captivated. Locals from Lawrence, Kansas, as well as KU alumni, will delight in the placement of familiar locales that help illuminate the backdrop for Kymer’s story. Though at times readers may worry about some of the protagonist’s choices, the fact that they are so engrossed in how Fraley’s narrative unfolds leaves this reader longing for a sequel to The Bug Diary.

-Tracey Kastens

The Bug Diary follows as Kymer, a freshman at the University of Kansas, begins her entomology studies while navigating the changes young adulthood brings—the blossoming of new relationships and reevaluation of established ones, the loosening of family ties, the allure of experimentation. While her academic and life lessons themselves are not atypical, they often come to her in strange ways.

The author, Amber Fraley, expertly intertwines this coming-of-age tale with historical facts about the University of Kansas, a few entomology lessons, and a dose of paranormal intrigue! Fraley’s creativity, insight into the human condition and love of research shine bright in this novel.

Penned as a new adult novel, The Bug Diary will doubtless appeal to high school and college age readers in the thick of their metamorphosis into adulthood. A pleasant surprise is that it is equally entertaining to older generations as it masterfully reunites the reader with their own youthful struggles and triumphs. Relatable and informative, The Bug Diary, is a fun and engaging read.

-Erin Hatton 

Amber Fraley has a full schedule of events planned for fall 2021, and would be happy to add additional book club appearances to her busy schedule.