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Upstaged: A Graphic Novel
In a summer of goodbyes and new beginnings, shy Ashton Price hopes to confess to their theater camp crush in this heartfelt middle-grade graphic novel. Perfect for fans of The Tryout and The Girl from the Sea.
This is the last hurrah, the final curtain call.
Ever since sixth grade, Ashton Price and their best friend and enduring crush, Ivy Santos, have spent their summers together at theater camp. Now it’s their last year before they part ways for high school, and Ash is determined to end it on a high note!
With Ash as stage manager and Ivy the lead in this year’s musical, this summer’s shaping up to be everything the two could have hoped for. Maybe Ash will even work up the courage to ask Ivy out! But between Ivy rehearsing long hours with her colead and Ash throwing themself into an ambitious stage production, will they end up drifting apart instead?
As summer wanes and September looms, Ash and Ivy’s friendship will change forever, one way or another.
This is the last hurrah, the final curtain call.
Ever since sixth grade, Ashton Price and their best friend and enduring crush, Ivy Santos, have spent their summers together at theater camp. Now it’s their last year before they part ways for high school, and Ash is determined to end it on a high note!
With Ash as stage manager and Ivy the lead in this year’s musical, this summer’s shaping up to be everything the two could have hoped for. Maybe Ash will even work up the courage to ask Ivy out! But between Ivy rehearsing long hours with her colead and Ash throwing themself into an ambitious stage production, will they end up drifting apart instead?
As summer wanes and September looms, Ash and Ivy’s friendship will change forever, one way or another.
256 pages, Paperback
First published May 30, 2024
74 people are currently reading
3263 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 157 reviews
August 6, 2024
This was a super cute graphic novel for tweens set at a theatre summer camp! (Calling all theatre nerds!) Ash is excited about their last summer as a camper and wants it to be perfect but they're nervous about telling their BFF that they have a crush on her. Then, everything seems to be getting in the way of Ash and Ivy spending time together. Does Ivy like Ash back? Will Ash build the pumpkin carriage of their dreams for the production of Ella?
Great queer representation (nonbinary and bi for Ash and Ivy) as well as a tween messing up big time in their friendships and apologizing and repairing their relationships. Recommended for fans of Raina Telgemeier!
Great queer representation (nonbinary and bi for Ash and Ivy) as well as a tween messing up big time in their friendships and apologizing and repairing their relationships. Recommended for fans of Raina Telgemeier!
April 1, 2024
This was very cute. I loved the PB&j references that was adorable. I am begging publishers though when they send out advanced copies, please for the love of everything, make them so that the file isn't freaking blurry. I swear I thought my eyesight was going out while trying to read this book because everything was blurry. It took me way longer than it should have to finish because I genuinely had to take breaks.
It has a non-binary main character with a bisexual love interest. It is a nod to summer camp and theater and overall a very cute graphic novel.
It has a non-binary main character with a bisexual love interest. It is a nod to summer camp and theater and overall a very cute graphic novel.
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January 15, 2025
It's the summer before high school, and Ash's last arts summer camp. Their last time, and everything is going to be perfect: they're the stage manager of the camp play, their best friend and crush is the star of the show, and they are going to finally profess their feelings for her. Except...nothing goes as it should.
I really liked this story of learning how to pivot when things don't go your way—or according to plan.
Of learning to make new friends and get outside your own head for a little bit, and to learn that failing at something is okay. Pushing yourself alone is never the answer, not when your friends and teammates are there ready to help.
I did like the support system of Ash's camp counselor, who realized *something* was going on just not what, exactly. And that Ash's friends had several talks to get them back in the game and their head straight.
And I liked that Ash learned when it was okay to step back. To admit they weren't the best fit—at least, not yet—for the position they were in, and recognizing who was ready for the role.
It's short and cute, and I liked the relationships built throughout with the kids, particularly with Ash's new cabin mates. The romance aspect was okay, although underdeveloped IMO, but it's also middle-school and rushed and that's perfectly fine.
Anywho, a fun read for theater geeks, particularly those who are a touch perfectionist.
I really liked this story of learning how to pivot when things don't go your way—or according to plan.
Of learning to make new friends and get outside your own head for a little bit, and to learn that failing at something is okay. Pushing yourself alone is never the answer, not when your friends and teammates are there ready to help.
I did like the support system of Ash's camp counselor, who realized *something* was going on just not what, exactly. And that Ash's friends had several talks to get them back in the game and their head straight.
And I liked that Ash learned when it was okay to step back. To admit they weren't the best fit—at least, not yet—for the position they were in, and recognizing who was ready for the role.
It's short and cute, and I liked the relationships built throughout with the kids, particularly with Ash's new cabin mates. The romance aspect was okay, although underdeveloped IMO, but it's also middle-school and rushed and that's perfectly fine.
Anywho, a fun read for theater geeks, particularly those who are a touch perfectionist.
April 10, 2024
This is such a sweet queer middle grade romance graphic novel. I smiled so much while reading it! Ash (they/them) and Ivy (she/her) always share a cabin together at a musical theater summer camp. This is the last year they can attend the camp, and Ash wants it to be the best year yet. But Ivy and Ash are put in different cabins, and it feels like Ivy is falling for her fellow costar in the musical they're performing—Ella, a retelling of Cinderella. Ash is feeling a bit jealous and doesn't know how to tell Ivy they have a crush on her.
I love the main characters, but what I especially appreciate is that all the secondary and tertiary characters had personalities, too. I loved everyone! I only had miserable experiences at summer camps as a tween, but take me to this one now! I don't care that I'm 40. :)
I love the main characters, but what I especially appreciate is that all the secondary and tertiary characters had personalities, too. I loved everyone! I only had miserable experiences at summer camps as a tween, but take me to this one now! I don't care that I'm 40. :)
June 4, 2024
Highlights:
✨Vibrant Illustrations that really bring the story to life
✨Summer Camp for theater kids
✨Sweet romance
✨Importance of leaning on each other
✨Queer Rep, including a non-binary MC - This is not a coming-of-age story. Instead, all the campers are confident and comfortable in their queer identity or their friends’ queer identity.
✨Vibrant Illustrations that really bring the story to life
✨Summer Camp for theater kids
✨Sweet romance
✨Importance of leaning on each other
✨Queer Rep, including a non-binary MC - This is not a coming-of-age story. Instead, all the campers are confident and comfortable in their queer identity or their friends’ queer identity.
June 17, 2024
Very cute story on being honest with your friends! Perfect for middle schoolers, also really excellent art!
June 4, 2024
A summer filled with goodbyes and new beginnings.
🎭
Ash is hoping to finally confess their real feelings for their best friend, Ivy, at the last camp visit before high school starts. Only the two aren’t assigned in the same cabin and with Ivy starring in the upcoming play, she’s spending all her time rehearsing. Ash’s stage manager position keeps them busy, but all they want to do is ask Ivy out. When they finally get the chance, everything goes wrong. As summer comes to an end, will the two patch things up?
🏕️
Why isn’t this MG graphic novel getting more attention?! I found it randomly searching up camp books and could t believe I hadn’t heard about it yet, even though it released last week. I ended up purchasing it on @amazonkindle because none of my library cards had it yet. I’m obsessed! I added it to my fall order immediately: great representation, plot, artwork, characters, etc. Fans of Drama, Camp, Summer Vamp, and Be Prepared will adore this one too. Add this to your TBR immediately!
CW: fire
🎭
Ash is hoping to finally confess their real feelings for their best friend, Ivy, at the last camp visit before high school starts. Only the two aren’t assigned in the same cabin and with Ivy starring in the upcoming play, she’s spending all her time rehearsing. Ash’s stage manager position keeps them busy, but all they want to do is ask Ivy out. When they finally get the chance, everything goes wrong. As summer comes to an end, will the two patch things up?
🏕️
Why isn’t this MG graphic novel getting more attention?! I found it randomly searching up camp books and could t believe I hadn’t heard about it yet, even though it released last week. I ended up purchasing it on @amazonkindle because none of my library cards had it yet. I’m obsessed! I added it to my fall order immediately: great representation, plot, artwork, characters, etc. Fans of Drama, Camp, Summer Vamp, and Be Prepared will adore this one too. Add this to your TBR immediately!
CW: fire
February 28, 2024
4 stars
This is so cute, age appropriate, and very well told through both words and pictures. Any middle grade reader (and, well, maybe slightly older readers, too) will get a lot of enjoyment out of this one.
Ash, the m.c., is heading off to performing arts camp with their best friend, Ivy, and MANY expectations about exactly how the perfect summer will go. To the surprise of no one, things do not go according to Ash's plan, and drama - yep, DRAMA - ensues! There are great theater scenes (acting, choreo, set building, costuming), a lot of realistic conversation about relationships (friendships and more than platonic ones, too), and, of course, making and learning from one's mistakes. Ash does a lot of the latter, which is good, because they have some growth to accomplish!
This middle grade graphic novel is visually appealing, and the plot is straightforward. The representation is excellent. Most featured characters are explicitly queer and possess distinct identities within this realm.
I enjoyed this and look forward to more from this creator. I'll also be recommending this one to my students.
*Special thanks to NetGalley and Little, Brown Ink for this arc, which I received in exchange for an honest review. The opinions expressed here are my own.
This is so cute, age appropriate, and very well told through both words and pictures. Any middle grade reader (and, well, maybe slightly older readers, too) will get a lot of enjoyment out of this one.
Ash, the m.c., is heading off to performing arts camp with their best friend, Ivy, and MANY expectations about exactly how the perfect summer will go. To the surprise of no one, things do not go according to Ash's plan, and drama - yep, DRAMA - ensues! There are great theater scenes (acting, choreo, set building, costuming), a lot of realistic conversation about relationships (friendships and more than platonic ones, too), and, of course, making and learning from one's mistakes. Ash does a lot of the latter, which is good, because they have some growth to accomplish!
This middle grade graphic novel is visually appealing, and the plot is straightforward. The representation is excellent. Most featured characters are explicitly queer and possess distinct identities within this realm.
I enjoyed this and look forward to more from this creator. I'll also be recommending this one to my students.
*Special thanks to NetGalley and Little, Brown Ink for this arc, which I received in exchange for an honest review. The opinions expressed here are my own.
June 2, 2024
I love a theater camp story! Like give me a summer camp with theater gays any day and I am the biggest of happy campers (pun intended).
Upstaged was the perfect summer graphic novel for any kid who feels different. The MC, Ash, is nonbinary and has a crush on their best friend Ivy. Their feelings are the biggest catalyst for the majority of their actions throughout the book. Which could be a good thing, but for the most part, it isn’t.
This is their last year going to camp, as they’re both about to go into high school. So this summer has to be one to remember. With Ash being chosen as stage manager for this year’s play, Ella (based on Cinderella), and Ivy as the lead actor. But when they aren’t given cabin assignments together, it seems to be the beginning of the end in Ash’s eyes.
As a former theater kid, I definitely know the feeling of needing everything to go right, BUT the show must go on. PLUS, you can’t dictate every moment of real life like you can a musical. Which is what Ash learns in the end.😅
I LOVED that after the ending, Robin Easter talks a little bit of theater magic, explaining how quick changes work. So not only do they give us a beautiful book, but we got a little knowledge on the behind the scenes.
Upstaged was the perfect summer graphic novel for any kid who feels different. The MC, Ash, is nonbinary and has a crush on their best friend Ivy. Their feelings are the biggest catalyst for the majority of their actions throughout the book. Which could be a good thing, but for the most part, it isn’t.
This is their last year going to camp, as they’re both about to go into high school. So this summer has to be one to remember. With Ash being chosen as stage manager for this year’s play, Ella (based on Cinderella), and Ivy as the lead actor. But when they aren’t given cabin assignments together, it seems to be the beginning of the end in Ash’s eyes.
As a former theater kid, I definitely know the feeling of needing everything to go right, BUT the show must go on. PLUS, you can’t dictate every moment of real life like you can a musical. Which is what Ash learns in the end.😅
I LOVED that after the ending, Robin Easter talks a little bit of theater magic, explaining how quick changes work. So not only do they give us a beautiful book, but we got a little knowledge on the behind the scenes.
October 1, 2024
Upstaged
Overall Rating: ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ .5 (3.5/5) or 7.14/10 overall
Characters - 7
Atmosphere - 8
Writing - 7
Plot - 7
Intrigue - 7
Logic - 7
Enjoyment - 7
Overall Rating: ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ .5 (3.5/5) or 7.14/10 overall
Characters - 7
Atmosphere - 8
Writing - 7
Plot - 7
Intrigue - 7
Logic - 7
Enjoyment - 7
July 1, 2024
I had access to an ARC of this graphic novel, and had sold a few copies at my job before reading it myself. I think the art really does catch young reader's attention who are looking for this book, which is wonderful.
It was an okay read for me. I liked the small details in the art, down to Ash and Ivy's bracelets, all of the supporting characters are strong, and the ending was cute. I also like that it shows how to apologize to your friends, though I do think there was another character who may have deserved another individual apology but did not receive one (Tania). It also shows a respectful way to decline someone's confession of feelings, and still be friends (Viv). I also really appreciated everything about Paige, and the eagerness, loyalty, and enthusiasm she shows.
Ash as the main character, while my younger self related in some ways to their isolationist and hyper-independent tendencies, did annoy me at times with their moodiness. It is necessary for the story for them to react the way they do, but I do like to imagine what would have happened of Ash had seen past their arguably unhealthy possessiveness of Ivy enough for one second to get closer to Lucas, who I think reads very clearly and very quickly as gay in the best way possible. He is a positive representation of being a young gay boy and potentially a very good, supportive friend, as he shows himself to be to Ivy. It was also nice to see Ash be aware enough to thank all their peers who genuinely tried at every turn to include them.
It was an okay read for me. I liked the small details in the art, down to Ash and Ivy's bracelets, all of the supporting characters are strong, and the ending was cute. I also like that it shows how to apologize to your friends, though I do think there was another character who may have deserved another individual apology but did not receive one (Tania). It also shows a respectful way to decline someone's confession of feelings, and still be friends (Viv). I also really appreciated everything about Paige, and the eagerness, loyalty, and enthusiasm she shows.
Ash as the main character, while my younger self related in some ways to their isolationist and hyper-independent tendencies, did annoy me at times with their moodiness. It is necessary for the story for them to react the way they do, but I do like to imagine what would have happened of Ash had seen past their arguably unhealthy possessiveness of Ivy enough for one second to get closer to Lucas, who I think reads very clearly and very quickly as gay in the best way possible. He is a positive representation of being a young gay boy and potentially a very good, supportive friend, as he shows himself to be to Ivy. It was also nice to see Ash be aware enough to thank all their peers who genuinely tried at every turn to include them.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 16, 2024
(Note: this review is based on an ARC)
Upstaged is a very cute graphic novel with wonderful representation! Having a nonbinary main character crush on their bisexual best friend is the kind of story I would have loved to read as a kid (and still love to read as an adult!). The casual introduction of pronouns and normalcy of queerness in this book was a breath of fresh air. I am also personally a major fan of the diabetic representation!
I will say that I tend to get a little frustrated when books wait until the very last minute to resolve the issues, but I do think that the resolutions were handled well and overall it was a very realistic story arc for a 14-year-old. I would have liked a little bit more story after the resolutions, but I didn’t mind the resolutions themselves.
Overall, I would highly recommend this graphic novel for middle-grade readers and anybody that loves a fun, queer story! 4.5/5
Upstaged is a very cute graphic novel with wonderful representation! Having a nonbinary main character crush on their bisexual best friend is the kind of story I would have loved to read as a kid (and still love to read as an adult!). The casual introduction of pronouns and normalcy of queerness in this book was a breath of fresh air. I am also personally a major fan of the diabetic representation!
I will say that I tend to get a little frustrated when books wait until the very last minute to resolve the issues, but I do think that the resolutions were handled well and overall it was a very realistic story arc for a 14-year-old. I would have liked a little bit more story after the resolutions, but I didn’t mind the resolutions themselves.
Overall, I would highly recommend this graphic novel for middle-grade readers and anybody that loves a fun, queer story! 4.5/5
February 28, 2024
I would like to thank netgalley and the publisher for an advance copy in exchange for an honest review. Ash and Ivy are summer camp friends and this is their last summer together before they each head off to high school, except for one thing, Ash has a crush on Ivy and can't find a way to tell her. During camp they are putting on a play and when Ivy's leading man steps into the picture, Ash doesn't know what to do. An interesting story about love, friendship and how not saying what you mean can really get in the way of things.
March 1, 2024
Such a sweet graphic novel highlighting a variety of genders at a theater summer camp. We mainly follow Ash as they learn about themselves and combat jealousy in a very LBGTQ+ friendly story.
July 14, 2024
3.5 stars
July 21, 2024
Graphic novel, quick, easy read
Was enjoyable
Was enjoyable
July 25, 2024
Literary Merit: 2/5 This graphic novel has a lot going on with the characters emotionally, but the motivations for each character isn't very clear. The only motivations that were clear to me was the MC's crush on Ivy. For such a character focused novel I would have loved more details and information on the cast and their motivations. The setting also felt underdeveloped I don't think we even get a name for the camp.
Originality: 3/5 Standard coming-of-age character focused story revolving around a crush and a desire to confess.
Accuracy: 3/5 There were not enough details for most things to feel consistent or accurate.
Clarity: 3/5 Character motivations and relationships were not always evident leaving the reader to fill in the blank. The setting felt very vague, like the author was relying on "generic camp experience", but then cabins were made up of mixed genders and they were doing stagecraft and orchestra practice? I have not been to such a camp and needed more details to understand.
Total: 11/20
Age Range: KR 9-13 age, PW ages 7-12, SLJ grades 6-9
Originality: 3/5 Standard coming-of-age character focused story revolving around a crush and a desire to confess.
Accuracy: 3/5 There were not enough details for most things to feel consistent or accurate.
Clarity: 3/5 Character motivations and relationships were not always evident leaving the reader to fill in the blank. The setting felt very vague, like the author was relying on "generic camp experience", but then cabins were made up of mixed genders and they were doing stagecraft and orchestra practice? I have not been to such a camp and needed more details to understand.
Total: 11/20
Age Range: KR 9-13 age, PW ages 7-12, SLJ grades 6-9
November 20, 2024
*3 Stars*
Upstaged is an adorable middle grade coming-of-age story about firsts--first crushes, first experiences, first fights, and first resolutions. It's vaguely reminiscent of Drama and The Prince and the Dressmaker, and features strong LGBTQ+ representation for kids. I wasn't super wowed by the story (stories that conclude with a perfect bow ring a little hollow in my opinion), but I appreciate the strong themes of inclusion, friendship, and teamwork that ran throughout. This isn't my favorite book of all time, but I could see it being very important for someone.
Upstaged is an adorable middle grade coming-of-age story about firsts--first crushes, first experiences, first fights, and first resolutions. It's vaguely reminiscent of Drama and The Prince and the Dressmaker, and features strong LGBTQ+ representation for kids. I wasn't super wowed by the story (stories that conclude with a perfect bow ring a little hollow in my opinion), but I appreciate the strong themes of inclusion, friendship, and teamwork that ran throughout. This isn't my favorite book of all time, but I could see it being very important for someone.
July 25, 2024
IM HERE WITH ANOTHER GRAPHIC NOVEL REVIEW (because that’s my thing lol)
~minor spoilers (??)~
The art style was cute and the characters were interesting! I was a bit disappointed that most of the story contained relationship drama instead of a story focusing on friendship and adventure. I would have liked more of a balance there instead of Ash moping for a lot of it.
Text was easy to understand, pacing was unnoticeable (which is a good thing!), and characters were distinct and alive.
I thought it strange that the camp had kids of different genders bunking together because I normally don’t see that but now that i’m thinking about it… i might like to see that happen more?? Idk. If our culture puts less focus on sex and romance then maybe it would be easier for boys and girls to maintain normal platonic friendships instead of being scared to talk to each other. It’s not a perfect take, and there’s probably better ways to tackle that but i must say it was a nice change to have kids interacting without the “OH GASP THEY MUST BE IN LOVE HES A BOY SHES A GIRL AND THEY MADE EYE CONTACT WE DONT CARE IF THEY’RE 12 OH THE ROMANCE” etc X’D (Maybe Ash does this a little but the poor kid is jealous/hurt so i think we can excuse them)
This ended in a rant, I’m sorry.
Bottom line: Wholesome story, good art, cool theatre production scenes!! Could use less relationship drama though. Overall, the author made a nice graphic novel! :D
~minor spoilers (??)~
The art style was cute and the characters were interesting! I was a bit disappointed that most of the story contained relationship drama instead of a story focusing on friendship and adventure. I would have liked more of a balance there instead of Ash moping for a lot of it.
Text was easy to understand, pacing was unnoticeable (which is a good thing!), and characters were distinct and alive.
I thought it strange that the camp had kids of different genders bunking together because I normally don’t see that but now that i’m thinking about it… i might like to see that happen more?? Idk. If our culture puts less focus on sex and romance then maybe it would be easier for boys and girls to maintain normal platonic friendships instead of being scared to talk to each other. It’s not a perfect take, and there’s probably better ways to tackle that but i must say it was a nice change to have kids interacting without the “OH GASP THEY MUST BE IN LOVE HES A BOY SHES A GIRL AND THEY MADE EYE CONTACT WE DONT CARE IF THEY’RE 12 OH THE ROMANCE” etc X’D (Maybe Ash does this a little but the poor kid is jealous/hurt so i think we can excuse them)
This ended in a rant, I’m sorry.
Bottom line: Wholesome story, good art, cool theatre production scenes!! Could use less relationship drama though. Overall, the author made a nice graphic novel! :D
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 8, 2024
A sweet middle grade graphic novel about kids going to a performing arts camp for the summer. I loved the main artwork for this and found the drawings by Ash adorable. I liked how pronouns came up but no one outed themselves as trans, nonbinary, etc. You see Ash crossing out his deadname in one panel but aren't told why. The friend drama in this is high but realistic for the age group and it was interesting to learn about what goes into producing a musical. A quick read with great pace, the only negative for me was things were kept at a pretty shallow knowledge of all the characters.
February 28, 2025
3.5🌟
This was a really fun read! I thought the romance was cute and I loved the illustrations. I also really enjoyed that it took place at a theatre camp. The issue I had with this book was the LGBTQ themes because I don’t support that. This wasn’t anything super memorable but I’m still glad I read it. For ages 11 and up.
This was a really fun read! I thought the romance was cute and I loved the illustrations. I also really enjoyed that it took place at a theatre camp. The issue I had with this book was the LGBTQ themes because I don’t support that. This wasn’t anything super memorable but I’m still glad I read it. For ages 11 and up.
August 5, 2024
A fun read, great representation and a gentle MG romance will-they/wont-they
January 1, 2025
Just realizing I read this a couple weeks ago and I thought it was super wholesome! Can never turn down a Honor graphic novel recommendation 💕💕
March 11, 2025
Rating: 3.5/5
June 12, 2024
This book really rings true as far as I can tell from being an outside observer of theatre life while I had a theatre kid in my home! There’s so much that goes on to put together a show, and this book really shows the moving parts on stage and behind stage. The friendships seem relatable and the bit of drama seems authentic. (If anything the kids I know in real life were extra dramatic!) The angst feels real. I was happy with the conclusion! I loved the drawings both for the main story and the asides that Ash was drawing. I was reading this as part of a “camp reading” in Mid June with friends online.
April 3, 2025
Summer lovin'.
October 19, 2024
Definitely for younger readers but a sweet story with some good character growth!
July 18, 2024
This graphic novel was quirky and a perfectly timed read. I plan to read Cinder with my students next year and this graphic novel has a Cinderella tie-in that I can use and recommend! Huzzah! I loved the character dynamics and the realistic drama with the larger drama/theater camp. Sometimes, life throws you curve balls and you have to learn to roll with them. This novel showcases a realistic and holistic look at the drama of teens and how to cope with the drama. I liked the colors (and the panel debating about color schemes). I really enjoyed the camp vibes from the novel too.
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