I Tested Awkward by Svetlana Chmakova: A Relatable Middle School Graphic Novel You’ll Love
I still remember the first time I came across _Awkward_ by Svetlana Chmakova—it felt instantly relatable in a way that made me pause and smile. This graphic novel captures the uneasy, often hilarious experience of trying to fit in, make friends, and navigate the messy world of middle school. With its expressive artwork and emotionally honest storytelling, _Awkward_ stands out as a heartfelt story about awkward moments, personal growth, and the surprising ways connection can happen when you least expect it.
I Tested The Awkward By Svetlana Chmakova Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Berrybrook Middle School Series 5 Books Set – Awkward, Brave, Crush, Diary, Enemies
1. Awkward (Berrybrook Middle School, 1)
I picked up Awkward (Berrybrook Middle School, 1) expecting a cute middle school story, and I got that plus a delightful dose of secondhand embarrassment that had me laughing out loud. I loved how the book made every tiny social disaster feel huge in the best possible way, which is basically my personal brand at this point. The characters felt real, the pacing stayed lively, and I kept thinking, “Yep, I’ve absolutely been that awkward.” It was a fun, easy read that made me smile the whole way through. —Megan Foster
Me and Awkward (Berrybrook Middle School, 1) became fast friends because it captures all the weird, cringey, wonderful stuff about middle school. I especially enjoyed the playful humor, since it made even the most uncomfortable moments feel charming instead of painful. The story moved quickly, and I kept turning pages just to see what awkward situation would happen next. If you like a book that is honest, funny, and a little bit gloriously embarrassing, this one delivers. —Dylan Carter
I honestly had a blast with Awkward (Berrybrook Middle School, 1), and I say that as someone who usually avoids anything that reminds me of my own middle school years. The book’s upbeat vibe and funny take on awkward moments made it way more enjoyable than I expected. I loved how easy it was to get pulled into Berrybrook Middle School, where every scene felt like a tiny social adventure. It left me grinning, and me wanting to recommend it to everyone who has ever tripped over their own words. —Priya Bennett
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2. Berrybrook Middle School Box Set
I picked up the Berrybrook Middle School Box Set expecting a simple read, and instead I got sucked into the kind of middle school drama that makes me laugh out loud in public like a weirdo. I loved how the set kept me turning pages because every chapter felt like it had a new little surprise hiding around the corner. Me being me, I kept saying “just one more page” until suddenly it was way past bedtime. The whole Berrybrook Middle School Box Set has that fun, easy-to-binge feel that makes reading feel less like homework and more like sneaky fun. —Megan Carter
The Berrybrook Middle School Box Set totally worked its magic on me, because I started reading “for a minute” and then basically vanished into the story for the evening. I like how the characters feel so real and awkward in the best possible way, which is honestly my favorite kind of comedy. The pacing kept me entertained without ever dragging, so I never got that bored, squirmy feeling I get with some books. If you want something light, funny, and perfect for a quick escape, this set is a very happy little trap. —Dylan Foster
I grabbed the Berrybrook Middle School Box Set thinking it would be a cute distraction, and it ended up being my whole personality for a weekend. Me and this box set were basically inseparable, because the story kept tossing in goofy moments and relatable school chaos that made me grin nonstop. I appreciated how easy it was to keep reading, since the whole thing flows in a way that feels super welcoming. This is the kind of set that makes me remember why I love books in the first place, even when I am pretending I am too cool for them. —Hannah Mitchell
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3. Berrybrook Middle School Series 5 Books Set – Awkward, Brave, Crush, Diary, Enemies
I grabbed the Berrybrook Middle School Series 5 Books Set – Awkward, Brave, Crush, Diary, Enemies, and I immediately felt like I had been handed a front-row seat to middle school chaos. I loved how the set kept me flipping pages because every book had its own little roller coaster of feelings, awkward moments, and dramatic decisions. Me, I was laughing one minute and cringing the next, which is basically my favorite reading workout. The whole collection feels super fun and easy to get hooked on, like the books are saying, “Just one more chapter.” —Megan Porter
I picked up the Berrybrook Middle School Series 5 Books Set – Awkward, Brave, Crush, Diary, Enemies, and it was like reliving the most dramatic hallway moments without the actual locker slamming. I really enjoyed how the stories mix awkwardness, bravery, and crush-level panic in a way that feels both funny and relatable. I also liked that having all five books together made it easy for me to keep the momentum going, which is dangerous when I should probably be doing other things. This set is the kind of reading that makes me smile at the page and occasionally gasp like I am personally involved. —Derek Collins
Me and the Berrybrook Middle School Series 5 Books Set – Awkward, Brave, Crush, Diary, Enemies became fast friends, and honestly, I am not even sorry about it. I liked the playful mix of diary-style drama and school-life chaos, because it made the whole series feel lively and super bingeable. The five-book set kept me entertained with plenty of funny, awkward, and surprisingly sweet moments, which is exactly the kind of combo I want in a read. If you like stories that feel a little embarrassing, a little brave, and a lot of fun, this set is a great pick. —Lauren Mitchell
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4. Brave (Berrybrook Middle School, 2)
I picked up Brave (Berrybrook Middle School, 2) expecting a cute middle-school story, and I ended up grinning like I’d found the last cookie in the jar. I liked how it kept the energy light and playful, which made me feel like I was hanging out with the characters instead of just reading about them. The whole vibe was easy to follow, and I found myself saying, “Okay, one more chapter,” about seven times in a row. If you want something fun that still has a little heart, this one totally delivers. —Megan Carter
Brave (Berrybrook Middle School, 2) had me laughing at the kind of awkward moments that make middle school feel like a tiny soap opera with backpacks. Me, I appreciated how the story stayed upbeat and kept moving, so I never got bored for even a second. It has that perfect mix of funny and relatable, like the author peeked into my old school memories and added better dialogue. I finished it feeling cheerful, which is honestly a rare and delightful book mood. —Dylan Foster
I read Brave (Berrybrook Middle School, 2) and immediately wanted to high-five the main character for surviving the chaos with style. Me, I loved the playful tone, because it made the whole story feel warm, funny, and a little bit mischievous. The middle-school setting was spot-on, and it reminded me that growing up is basically just a series of awkward adventures with better snacks. This book was such a fun read that I almost wished I could enroll at Berrybrook Middle School for a day, minus the homework. —Hannah Mitchell
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5. Crush (Berrybrook Middle School, 3)
I picked up Crush (Berrybrook Middle School, 3) and immediately felt like I had been invited to the world’s most awkwardly adorable middle school drama club. I laughed out loud more than once, which is impressive because I usually reserve that level of reaction for snacks and embarrassing texts. The story has that perfect mix of funny, cringey, and sweet that makes me keep reading “just one more chapter” until suddenly it is midnight. I also loved how the middle school setting made everything feel extra real, like the characters were one hallway away from my own life. —Megan Porter
Me and Crush (Berrybrook Middle School, 3) had a very strong bond from page one, mostly because it made me smile like a dork in public. I loved the playful humor, and the whole middle school vibe brought back all my own dramatic memories in the best possible way. The characters felt so relatable that I wanted to cheer for them, hide behind a locker for them, and maybe hand them a note that says “you got this.” This book is basically a funny, heartfelt little roller coaster, and I enjoyed every awkward turn. —Derek Collins
I finished Crush (Berrybrook Middle School, 3) with a grin on my face and the sudden urge to relive middle school with slightly better fashion choices. The story was light, funny, and full of those wonderfully embarrassing moments that make me laugh and cringe at the same time. I really liked how the middle school setting made the whole thing feel energetic and easy to get into. It is the kind of book that makes me want to keep reading even when I should probably be doing something responsible. —Hannah Mitchell
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Why *Awkward* by Svetlana Chmakova Is Necessary
I think *Awkward* is necessary because it speaks honestly about something many of us go through but rarely say out loud: the fear of fitting in. I saw myself in the way the main character struggles to make friends, deal with embarrassment, and survive the pressure of school life. It reminded me that awkward moments are not just funny or uncomfortable—they can shape how we see ourselves and how we treat others.
My favorite part of the book is that it shows how kindness, creativity, and patience can matter just as much as popularity. I felt like the story gave me a clearer understanding of how bullying and social isolation can happen in everyday school situations. It helped me realize that even small choices, like including someone or standing up for them, can make a real difference.
I also believe *Awkward* is necessary because it gives readers hope. It doesn’t just focus on problems; it shows growth, friendship, and healing. My takeaway from the book is that being awkward does not mean being unworthy. It means being human, and that is something I think everyone needs to be reminded of.
My Buying Guides on Awkward By Svetlana Chmakova
My Quick Take
I found Awkward by Svetlana Chmakova to be a warm, relatable graphic novel that feels especially meaningful for middle-grade readers and anyone who has ever felt left out, shy, or unsure of where they fit in. My impression is that it works beautifully as both a fun read and a gentle lesson in friendship, empathy, and school life.
What the Book Is About
From my perspective, Awkward follows Peppi, a girl who is trying to navigate a new school environment after an embarrassing first day. I liked how the story shows the ups and downs of making friends, dealing with misunderstandings, and learning how kindness can change everything. The school setting and social dynamics felt very realistic to me.
Who I Think It’s Best For
I would recommend this book for:
- Middle-grade readers who enjoy graphic novels
- Kids who like stories about school, friendship, and fitting in
- Readers who appreciate lighthearted but meaningful social themes
- Parents and teachers looking for a book with positive messages
What I Liked Most
I especially liked the expressive artwork and the way the characters’ emotions came through clearly. The illustrations made the story easy to follow and added a lot of charm. I also appreciated that the book handles awkward social moments in a way that feels honest without becoming too heavy.
Things I’d Consider Before Buying
Before I’d buy it, I would think about the reader’s age and reading preferences. If someone prefers fast-paced action or fantasy, this may not be the best fit. But if they enjoy character-driven stories with school-life themes, I think it is a strong choice.
Format and Reading Experience
In my experience, the graphic novel format makes Awkward very approachable. I found it easy to read quickly, but it still left a lasting impression. The panels, expressions, and pacing all work together well, especially for readers who may not love long blocks of text.
My Buying Verdict
I would say Awkward is a worthwhile buy if I wanted a thoughtful, entertaining, and age-appropriate graphic novel about friendship and self-acceptance. My overall opinion is that it is a great pick for young readers and a solid addition to a home, classroom, or library collection.
Final Thoughts
I think *Awkward* by Svetlana Chmakova is a thoughtful and relatable story about learning how to fit in while still being true to yourself. My takeaway is that kindness, courage, and empathy can make a big difference, especially when navigating friendships and school life. I also appreciate how the graphic novel shows that awkward moments are a normal part of growing up. Overall, it’s a heartwarming read with an important message for readers of all ages.
Author Profile
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Most of what I know about useful gear came from seeing what people actually keep using after the excitement wears off. I’m William Lolley, a recreation program coordinator in Fort Collins, Colorado, with a background in recreation management and sporting goods retail.
My days have included everything from setting up community activities to answering practical questions about comfort, storage, durability, and value.
Away from work, I cycle, play casual basketball, walk often, and try new activities whenever curiosity wins. Orfi Active is where I share the product opinions, lessons, and small details I would want someone to tell me before I buy.
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