THE HISTORY OF EVERYTHING

Daisy and Agnes have been best friends forever, but everything goes sideways in this sharply observed graphic novel about their last summer together before Agnes moves away.

Agnes doesn’t want to leave, and even knowing they have all summer together, she and Daisy, who stand out at school for their goth style, are distraught over their impending separation. But when Daisy remembers their childhood scrapbook, “The History of Everything,” with its giant summer checklist, Agnes latches onto the idea of recreating it. Together they compile the ultimate bucket list of summer activities, a perfect way, as Daisy says, “to make these last months you’re here count.” Perfect, that is, until Daisy meets new kid in town Noah, and the plan—and maybe even the girls’ friendship—threatens to fall apart as Daisy chooses Noah over Agnes one time too many. The artwork and panel design are strong, with bold lines, clean backgrounds, and atmospheric blocks of color. However, the plot suffers from some unresolved elements, and the hasty conclusion might frustrate readers who are looking for more than a pat resolution. Still, with its honest look at the natural anxieties surrounding significant change, this title lands as a solid debut from a thoughtful creator. Main characters present white.

Despite some weaknesses, an accurate depiction of both the volatility and the deep strength of high school friendships.