Stars in their Eyes by Jessica Walton and Aśka (Review)

Title: Stars in Their Eyes
Creators: Jessica Walton and Aśka
Type: Graphic Novel
Genre: Young Adult,
Contemporary, LGBTQ+
Publisher: Graphix (Scholastic)
Date published: August 1, 2023

A complimentary physical copy of this book was kindly provided by the publishers in exchange for an honest review.

In this lighthearted YA romance, Maisie and Ollie discover that nothing beats the feeling of falling in love for the first time.

Maisie is on her way to Fancon! She’s looking forward to meeting her idol, Kara Bufano, the action hero from her favorite TV show, who has a lower-leg amputation, just like Maisie. But when Maisie and her mom arrive at the convention center, she is stopped in her tracks by Ollie, a cute volunteer working the show. They are kind, charming, and geek out about nerd culture just as much as Maisie does. And as the day wears on, Maisie notices feelings for Ollie that she’s never had before. Is this what it feels like to fall in love?

Perfect for fans of Heartstopper and Laura Dean Keeps Breaking Up with Me, this graphic novel debut is a fresh, one-of-a-kind story that celebrates the excitement of meeting someone special for the first time.

⤖ My Review ⬻

I stumbled upon Stars in Their Eyes thanks to an email blast from Scholastic Canada showcasing their seasonal picks. The cover instantly grabbed my attention—vibrant colors and a captivating design that demanded a closer look. But what really piqued my interest was noticing a character with what seemed like a prosthetic leg. That unique detail, along with the promise of an inclusive YA romance, sealed the deal for me.

Diving into the story, I happily found the illustrations within Stars in Their Eyes perfectly matched what was promised by the cover. The inclusive themes were evident throughout the narrative, weaving in moments that felt genuine and raw, alongside the cute and exciting elements promised in the synopsis. These real, sometimes sad moments added depth, keeping the story not only realistic but also informative and relevant.

As someone new to this author-illustrator duo’s work, I was pleasantly surprised by how well they brought Maisie and Ollie’s love story to life. The inclusive nature of Stars in Their Eyes, combined with the cute and fun aspects, made it an enjoyable and engaging read from start to finish. It was refreshing to witness their journey as they navigated the thrilling, often tumultuous experience of first love. It also gave me a glimpse into the world of conventions, since I’ve never been to one.

Stars in Their Eyes is a testament to the power of representation and genuine storytelling. It blends inclusive themes seamlessly into a charming and heartfelt YA romance, providing a compelling narrative that not only entertains but also educates and deeply resonates.