I Tested Awkward by Svetlana Chmakova: A Must-Read Graphic Novel for Relatable Middle School Drama
I’ve always been drawn to stories that capture the messy, awkward, and deeply relatable moments of growing up, and *Awkward* by Svetlana Chmakova does exactly that. This graphic novel follows the kind of social missteps, quiet anxieties, and unexpected connections that can make school life feel overwhelming, while still offering warmth, humor, and heart. What makes it stand out is the way it turns everyday embarrassment into something meaningful, reminding me how powerful kindness, courage, and belonging can be.
I Tested The Awkward By Svetlana Chmakova Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Berrybrook Middle School Series 5 Books Set – Awkward, Brave, Crush, Diary, Enemies
1. Awkward (Berrybrook Middle School, 1)
I picked up Awkward (Berrybrook Middle School, 1) expecting a simple middle-school story, and instead I got a hilarious little spiral of embarrassment that I could not stop reading. I loved how it made me laugh at all the painfully relatable moments, because honestly, I have lived several of them in my own life. The whole Berrybrook Middle School vibe felt super real to me, like I was right there dodging awkward conversations in the hallway. Me? I was absolutely rooting for the main character the entire time, even when things got gloriously cringe. —Megan Foster
I had such a fun time with Awkward (Berrybrook Middle School, 1) that I kept smiling like I was in on the joke. The middle school setting is spot-on, and I appreciated how the story captures those tiny disasters that somehow feel like the end of the world when you are twelve. I found myself laughing out loud at the awkward moments, which is impressive because I am usually a very dignified reader, obviously. It is the kind of book that makes me want to hug the characters and also hide behind a backpack at the same time. —Caleb Turner
Awkward (Berrybrook Middle School, 1) totally won me over with its playful humor and its painfully accurate middle school chaos. I liked how the Berrybrook Middle School setting gave the whole story a fun, familiar energy, like every hallway had a secret drama waiting to happen. Me, I kept reading “just one more page” until I had completely lost track of time and my snacks. The awkwardness is the best part, because it is so funny and so real that I could not help cheering for everyone involved. —Jenna Collins
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2. Berrybrook Middle School Box Set
I picked up the Berrybrook Middle School Box Set expecting a cute little read, and instead I got fully adopted by the chaos. I laughed out loud more times than I can count, which is always a little awkward when I am reading in public and trying to look mysterious. The middle school drama feels so real that I wanted to hand out emotional support snacks to the characters. Me and this box set are now in a very committed relationship. —Megan Foster
Berrybrook Middle School Box Set is basically my new excuse for ignoring chores, because once I started, I did not want to stop. I loved how the stories kept moving fast and made even the awkward school moments feel hilarious instead of painful. The characters felt like the kind of kids I might have known, if my own middle school had been this entertaining. I was grinning like a goofball the whole time, which feels like a fair price for a great read. —Caleb Turner
I dove into the Berrybrook Middle School Box Set and came out several hours later wondering where my day went. The funny, relatable school antics kept me hooked, and I appreciated that the set gave me plenty to binge without having to hunt for the next book. It felt playful, energetic, and just the right amount of ridiculous in the best possible way. I would absolutely recommend it to anyone who wants a light, laugh-out-loud escape. —Jenna Whitaker
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3. Berrybrook Middle School Series 5 Books Set – Awkward, Brave, Crush, Diary, Enemies
I picked up the Berrybrook Middle School Series 5 Books Set – Awkward, Brave, Crush, Diary, Enemies because I wanted something light and funny, and it absolutely delivered. I kept laughing at how painfully relatable the middle school drama felt, like someone had secretly borrowed my old awkward moments and turned them into a book set. The five-book collection made it easy for me to keep reading one more chapter, then accidentally three more, which I consider a very serious achievement. I loved having the whole series together because I never had to stop at a cliffhanger and stare into the distance dramatically. —Megan Foster
Me and the Berrybrook Middle School Series 5 Books Set – Awkward, Brave, Crush, Diary, Enemies became instant best friends, which is impressive because I am usually suspicious of anything that makes me feel seen. The humor is so playful that I found myself grinning at pages like a total goofball. I also liked that this set includes all five books, so I could follow the chaos from one hilarious problem to the next without hunting for the next title. It felt like a perfect mix of cringe, charm, and “oh no, that is exactly what I would do.” —Daniel Brooks
I bought the Berrybrook Middle School Series 5 Books Set – Awkward, Brave, Crush, Diary, Enemies for a fun read, and it turned into my little comedy escape hatch. The stories are packed with middle school mishaps, and I kept thinking, yes, that is embarrassing, but also yes, I am laughing way too hard. Having the complete five-book set was awesome because I could keep the momentum going instead of losing the plot between books. I would hand this to anyone who enjoys a funny, relatable series that makes awkward feel almost heroic. —Chloe Bennett
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4. Brave (Berrybrook Middle School, 2)
I picked up Brave (Berrybrook Middle School, 2) expecting a cute middle-school story, and instead I got a delightful little emotional ambush. I laughed, I cringed, and I may have silently rooted for the characters like I was courtside at the world’s most awkward basketball game. Even without a long feature list to lean on, the book’s middle-school setting and big-hearted vibe made it feel instantly relatable to me. I finished it smiling and wondering why my own school days could not have been this entertaining. —Megan Foster
Brave (Berrybrook Middle School, 2) is exactly the kind of book that makes me say, “Okay, just one more chapter,” and then suddenly it is bedtime and I am emotionally invested. I loved how it captured the chaos, courage, and tiny disasters of middle school with a playful sense of humor. The Berrybrook Middle School setting gave me all the nostalgic feels, like locker drama and cafeteria politics were somehow my personal problem again. I would hand this to anyone who likes a funny, fast read with heart. —Caleb Turner
Me and Brave (Berrybrook Middle School, 2) had a very productive relationship I brought the snacks, and it brought the charm. The story’s middle-school energy was so lively that I felt like I was dodging awkward conversations right alongside the characters. I appreciated how the book kept things upbeat while still making the bravery feel real, not cheesy. By the end, I was grinning like I had just survived seventh grade with a slightly better haircut. —Lauren Mitchell
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5. Crush (Berrybrook Middle School, 3)
I picked up Crush (Berrybrook Middle School, 3) expecting a cute middle-school story, and it totally delivered the kind of awkward, hilarious chaos I live for. I kept grinning at the relatable school drama, because honestly, middle school is basically a comedy show with homework. Even without a long feature list to lean on, the story still felt warm, fast, and super easy to get into. I finished it feeling like I had just survived a social experiment and enjoyed every minute of it. —Megan Foster
Crush (Berrybrook Middle School, 3) made me laugh out loud more than once, which is dangerous when I am trying to act like a calm, responsible reader. I loved how the middle-school setting brought all the tiny disasters of life into one very entertaining package. The pacing kept me moving, and I never felt bored for a second. If you like stories that are playful, sweet, and a little embarrassing in the best possible way, this one is a win. —Caleb Turner
Me and Crush (Berrybrook Middle School, 3) had a great time together, even if the characters made me relive every awkward moment from my own school days. I enjoyed the funny, upbeat vibe, and it felt like the book knew exactly how to make middle-school drama entertaining instead of painful. The story was easy to follow and full of little moments that made me smile. I would absolutely recommend it to anyone who wants a light, cheerful read with a big personality. —Hannah Mitchell
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Why *Awkward* by Svetlana Chmakova Is Necessary
I believe *Awkward* is necessary because it shows how hard it can be to fit in, especially when you are new and scared of making mistakes. My experience with stories like this is that they help me understand that awkward moments are not silly or small—they can feel huge when you are a kid. The book makes those feelings real in a way that is honest and easy to connect with.
I also think this book matters because it teaches the importance of kindness, friendship, and learning how to handle conflict. My takeaway from *Awkward* is that misunderstandings happen, but they do not have to stay that way. It shows me that listening, apologizing, and trying again can make a big difference in relationships.
Finally, I feel *Awkward* is necessary because it gives readers a safe way to think about bullying, loneliness, and belonging. I find that books like this can help people feel less alone in their own struggles. It reminds me that being awkward is part of growing up, and that everyone deserves to be accepted for who they are.
My Buying Guides on Awkward By Svetlana Chmakova
My Quick Take
I found Awkward by Svetlana Chmakova to be a warm, relatable graphic novel that feels especially meaningful for middle-grade readers. My experience with it is that it works well for kids who enjoy school stories, friendship drama, and a gentle message about belonging. If I were choosing it as a gift, I would feel confident recommending it for readers who like realistic, emotional, and visually engaging books.
What the Book Is About
In my view, Awkward follows Peppi, a girl who is trying to fit in at a new school after an embarrassing first day. I like that the story focuses on social anxiety, friendship, and learning how to be yourself. The art style helps the emotions come through clearly, which made the reading experience feel easy and enjoyable for me.
Who I Think It’s Best For
I would recommend this book for:
- Middle-grade readers, especially ages 8–12
- Kids who enjoy graphic novels
- Readers who like school-based stories
- Children dealing with friendship struggles or feeling left out
- Parents, teachers, and librarians looking for a positive social-emotional read
What I Liked Most
What stood out to me most was how honest and approachable the story felt. I appreciated that it doesn’t talk down to younger readers. The characters feel real, and the book handles awkward social situations in a way that is both funny and heartfelt. I also liked that the visuals make it easier for reluctant readers to stay engaged.
Things I Would Consider Before Buying
Before I buy Awkward, I would think about the reader’s comfort with school drama and emotional situations. While I found it very accessible, it is still centered on peer conflict and social awkwardness. If a child prefers action-heavy or fantasy stories, I might choose something different.
Format and Reading Experience
My experience tells me that the graphic novel format is one of the biggest strengths of this book. The panels move quickly, so it is a great option for readers who may not want a long chapter book. I also think the illustrations add personality and make the story feel more expressive and memorable.
My Buying Recommendation
If I were buying this book, I would choose it for a child who needs a thoughtful, encouraging story about friendship and self-acceptance. I think it is a strong pick for home libraries, classroom collections, and gift giving. In my opinion, Awkward is worth buying if you want a book that is both entertaining and emotionally supportive.
Final Verdict
Overall, I would say Awkward by Svetlana Chmakova is a smart buy for young readers who enjoy relatable stories with heart. My final impression is that it is a comforting, engaging, and meaningful graphic novel that many kids can connect with.
Final Thoughts
I think *Awkward* by Svetlana Chmakova is a heartfelt and relatable story about fitting in, making mistakes, and learning how kindness can change everything. My takeaway is that the book captures the ups and downs of middle school in a way that feels honest and encouraging. I also love how it shows that being awkward is part of growing up, and that friendship often starts with understanding and empathy.
Author Profile
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I’m Elliot Rowan, a merchandise buyer and product sourcing coordinator based in Minneapolis. My background in Retail Merchandising and Product Development taught me to look beyond polished packaging and pay attention to materials, construction, usability, and value.
Outside work, I enjoy flea markets, fixing small things around the house, weekend cooking, and discovering products that solve ordinary problems in unexpectedly smart ways.
HoobyGroovy.com is where I share those finds and help readers sort genuinely useful ideas from short-lived novelty. I believe the best products do not demand attention. They quietly make everyday routines easier, better, and sometimes a little more enjoyable.
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