Lo and Behold; Wendy Mass, Gabi Mendez (Graphic Novel Review)

Summary: Lo and Behold

In Lo and Behold, Addie has reluctantly moved across the country with her dad for his summer job in the virtual reality industry. He’s working on research to use VR for therapeutic purposes, such as helping people cultivate empathy. Addie is not into VR, but that starts to change when she meets Matteo another kid on campus, and tries out VR on her own. Eventually, the two find a helpful use for VR that helps other people.

The Good

I loved the illustration style in this one and while I found the VR setting a bit disorienting, I appreciated the unique lens of the story. The graphic novel format works brilliantly for helping readers appreciate the power of VR. I think with text, it would have just been too much worldbuilding. This is more engaging and exciting for kids.

Readers should know that Addie’s mom has a history of opioid misuse, and that’s hinted at throughout the story, but not explicitly discussed until the end of the book. That’s the only reason why this would probably be better suited for older kids, at least 10 years old. I also liked the summery feel of the story and the friendship that develops between Matteo and Addie.

Matteo has a story arc of his own and readers get a peek into his struggles with grief too. But the harder topics do not weigh down the levity of this book. This was an enjoyable reading experience overall.

Overall: Lo and Behold

Lo and Behold is a clever middle grade graphic novel about virtual reality, grief, and parental addiction. Readers who enjoy VR will love this one, but as the Author’s Note mentions, it will also be a fantastic introduction for those who, like me, aren’t familiar with it. A fun summer read with hints of serious themes.