Evelyn and Avery: The Art of Friendship: A Graphic Novel – A Relatable Story About Emotions, Forgiveness, and Creative Solutions for Kids

by Elle Pierre

Set in a whimsical world with both human and animal friends, this debut graphic novel series is about besties who make crafts, mistakes, and friendships. Eight-year-old Evelyn is beyond excited to enter her town's annual art show! She joins two of her friends with a plan to submit a group project, but Dylan and Avery (a playful and imaginative skunk kit) start butting heads early on in the creative process. When Evelyn tries to diffuse the tension, both friends end up angry at her and the group splits apart. What will this mean for their art—and, more importantly, for their friendships? The first book in the new graphic novel series for young readers, Evelyn and Avery is all about navigating friendship and emotions, fostering different kinds of creativity, and forgiveness. Set in a world with both human and animal characters, the series is both relatable and whimsical.

Genres: Graphic Novels, Friendship, Animals, Art

96 pages, Hardcover

First published September 3, 2024

About the author

Ellis "Elle" Pierre, known online as Boxfulthoughts (they/he) is a transmasc cartoonist and illustrator living in Carborro, North Carolina.

Tapping into the warm, nostalgic feelings of innocence and wonder from childhood, Elle strives to create a softer, kinder world through their art and stories, placing a strong emphasis on friendship and the importance of community. He hopes to create characters that become readers' lifelong BFFs and worlds that feel like home. As a neurodivergent individual (Autism/C-PTSD), Elle knows firsthand the impact a good story can have on a kid navigating the ever-confusing and complex world of growing up a bit outside the norm.

Elle has done color work for such graphic novels as Twins (Scholastic 2020), Shiny Misfits (Scholastic 2023), and Creaky Acres (Kokila, TBD), as well as part-time colorist work for the webcomic Tamberlane. The first installment of their debut graphic novel series EVELYN & AVERY is being released in Fall 2024 by HarperCollins.

When he's not drawing, Elle can be found in the company of good friends, exploring nature, or at home watching their favorite comfort shows.

Reviews

[Eliott · Rating 3 out of 5]

Evelyn and Avery: The Art of Friendship
Overall Rating: ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ (3/5) or 5.85/10 overall

Characters - 6

Atmosphere - 7

Writing - 6

Plot - 5

Intrigue - 6

Logic - 6

Enjoyment - 5

[Kay Davault · Rating 5 out of 5]

Such a sweet story about being honest with your friends and feelings! I really enjoyed the vivid colors and expressions. Perfect for young readers (and aspiring artists!).

[Miss Melissa · Rating 5 out of 5]

Evelyn is excited to work with Avery and Dylan for their local art contest, but when Avery and Dylan get into an argument and put Evelyn in the middle; it has the potential to ruin their friendships as well as their art submission. This short graphic novel is perfect for reluctant readers. The friendships and fights depicted will be universally recognizable and the resolution will leave the reader feeling warmhearted. Recommended for purchase by any library serving children in grades 1st through 4th.

[SOYAMRG · Rating 4 out of 5]

Evelyn is excited to work with Avery and Dylan for their local art contest, but when Avery and Dylan get into an argument and put Evelyn in the middle; it has the potential to ruin their friendships as well as their art submission.

This short graphic novel is perfect for reluctant readers. The friendships and fights depicted will be universally recognizable and the resolution will leave the reader feeling warmhearted.

Recommended for purchase by any library serving children in grades 1st through 4th.

M.S.
Children's Librarian

[Melissa Escobar · Rating 5 out of 5]

This warm, wonderful book tells the story of Evelyn navigating the sometimes turbulent waters of friendship. There is such a sweetness to this book and it took me back to that time in my life when I was Evelyn’s age. A delightful treat for all readers that will make you smile, laugh and root for Evelyn and friendship!

[Liam Epic Sir · Rating 5 out of 5]

I might write a more detailed review later, but I just wanna say this is one of the most adorable books I have ever written!! And a perfect comp title for a book I’m working on too!! Can’t recommend this enough, it’s so good!!!

[Rae the Reviewer · Rating 5 out of 5]

I got an e-galley from NetGalley and absolutely loved this. The illustration style is adorable and it’s a perfect bridge book for kids transitioning from picture books to chapter books.

[Caroline · Rating 3 out of 5]

Cutesy new series about being honest with friends and making and keeping good friends. There are so many books like this, this one was cute but won't stand out.

[Jessica · Rating 4 out of 5]

Adorable 🥰

[Steph · Rating 4 out of 5]

Adorable little graphic novel, especially perfect for 2nd-4th grade readers! Love the focus on friendship and forgiveness. :-)

[Kait · Rating 5 out of 5]

One of my favorite books of all time! :D

[Yolotzin · Rating 4 out of 5]

Cute.

[Alexcia · Rating 5 out of 5]

Super cute and a really great book for kids!

[Miss Sarah · Rating 4 out of 5]

I loved this early elementary graphic novel about three friends having fight while preparing for an art show and having to deal with the friendship fallout of the project and differn't sides.