If You'll Have Me

Starred review from August 7, 2023
Missed connections and miscommunication abound in this rich and engaging graphic novel by Eunnie (Bestest Friends), a solo debut. Queer college student Momo, who reads as Black, is a wallflower who cares too much about what other people think of her; this awareness stems from incidents in her childhood during which crushes took her kindness for granted. Meanwhile, acquaintance and classmate PG, who cues as East Asian, is a notorious and cavalier flirt. When a string of chance encounters between the two develops into earnest friendship, and potentially something more, Momo—who is convinced she’s reading too deeply into PG’s friendly overtures—worries that she’s falling into patterns from her youth. But when her attempts to curb her growing feelings start pushing PG away, Momo must decide if she’s willing to take a chance on love. Eunnie’s lively, expressive style expertly combines classic shoujo manga flair with visually poppy cartoon elements, depicted in saturated jewel tones, that amplify key moments and the work’s dreamy ambiance. Distinctly designed characters portrayed with varying body types and skin tones, and boasting amicable personalities, bring PG and Momo’s college campus to life, cultivating a rollicking environment in which the girls’ relationship blossoms. Ages 14–up.

September 1, 2023

Gr 9 Up-Momo is a shy college student whose closest friends are, like her, queer women of color. She's insecure about dating after being badly hurt in an early relationship. Classmate PG has a reputation as someone who dates lots of women, none seriously. Momo first encounters PG while dropping off class notes to a friend when unexpectedly, a partially undressed PG answers the door. Momo is both attracted and intimidated. She sees PG again at a dance; PG gets slapped while arguing over her mistreatment of someone she dated. Momo follows PG into the bathroom to see if she needs help. Given Momo's insecurities, she's surprised and somewhat distrustful when PG invites her to spend time together. Their relationship blossoms but isn't without bumps. In the end they both understand that putting assumptions aside in favor of honest communication will help them both get over hurts from the past and make room for their own relationship to thrive. The narrative lovingly centers on queer women of color. The art, with its rich color palette and beautiful depiction of distinct characters, makes the story vibrant and engaging. PG is Vietnamese American, and all other characters have a wide range of skin tones and hair textures. Another strength of this book is the inclusiveness of expression, showing women ranging from femme to androgynous. VERDICT This sweet romance will attract many readers, especially queer women of color who will see women like them getting their happily ever after.-Carla Riemer

Copyright 2023 School Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.

Starred review from October 15, 2023
Grades 9-12 *Starred Review* Iyashikei, or healing-type, manga is a subgenre designed to be mellow and comfort readers. While this isn't from Japan and has higher emotional stakes than a true example of that subgenre, the way it delights in the small joys of falling in love expresses the same wonder and warmth. Readers follow shy Momo and aloof PG as they meet in college and get to know each other. While both girls have baggage from their pasts to work through and communication issues that threaten to derail their relationship, the book revels in all the little things that make up knowing another person, from learning what her favorite snack from the vending machine is to talking for hours to watching the sunset. Expressive art underlines the connection between the girls through blushes, smiles, and shared glances. Additionally, the style of each girl communicates not only her look but also how she interfaces with the world. Momo is awkwardly adorable in her casual clothes and simply delightful in her dresses, while PG's effortless androgyny highlights the coolness others attribute her, though it contributes to a stressful relationship with her parents. An absolutely charming read for anyone interested in romance and relationship building.

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