Review by: Vivian V.
5/5 Stars
After finishing this graphic novel, I couldn’t wait to make a review for it; it was an amazing read. I finished it in a few hours over a couple days, and it was definitely worth my time. It goes over LGBTQ themes, platonic and romantic relationship dynamics, and the stress of school and other expectations. By looking at the cover, I assumed the story would be a romance between the two girls on the front. In reality, the story follows both of the girl’s experiences with their gay awakening. Ana is struggling in her first relationship, while Sara wonders if she feels something more than awe for her mentor. They help each other through their struggles and bond as good friends throughout their first term of the school year. The book is set in Bucharest, Romania, where the girls attend a high school that specializes in dance. Besides her relationship troubles, Ana struggles with the “loss of her spark” for dance. I don’t study dance, nor am I preparing for my career directly, but I understand the feeling of being stuck, not seeing happiness in the future from something I’m doing now. Although, I should remember there will always be periods of burnout on the way to a goal, and I need breaks and sometimes change in routine to be happy now, not just in the future. The girls strive for happiness in the present as well. For Ana, she feels almost neglected in her relationship; she doesn’t feel like her girlfriend is meeting her halfway, and she dislikes having to hide their relationship. For anyone who is struggling in a relationship or with a breakup, if there is a recurring problem that isn’t solved—like one person providing or giving more to the relationship than the other—then ending the relationship is a better option than staying, for both parties. I relate to Ana’s story, because I went through a similar relationship, and we broke up. Life will continue, and it will be ok. This book made me feel seen, and I hope it makes others dealing with similar feats feel seen as well.