Review by Groff Lai
Scholastic Graphix, June 2024
272 pages, Paperback, $16.99CAD, 9781338762457
Middle Grade, ages 9-12
Graphic Novel, Contemporary Realism
“There’s no going back now. Goodbye, old life. Hello new one…”
“It feels strange being so far from Romania… from my friends, my family, my life. It feels like I’m living someone else’s life now… in a completely different world.”
“It’s kinda hard to make friends when no one speaks the same language.”
The New Girl tells the story of Lia, a twelve-year-old immigrant navigating her new life after moving from Romania to Montreal, Canada. Written and illustrated by Cassandra Calin, who draws from her own experiences as an immigrant, the novel weaves semi-autobiographical elements into Lia’s journey. The story captures the challenges of being a new high school student, the transition from childhood to adolescence—marked by Lia getting her period for the first time and dealing with cramps—and the complexities of starting over as a tween in an unfamiliar country.
The book begins with a chapter titled ‘Farewell’ which is set in Bucharest Henri Coandă International Airport. It symbolizes a pivotal moment of change in Lia’s life as we follow her as she grows and stumbles through her new reality. She faces the difficulties of learning French, struggles to fit in, and grapples with the emotional weight of leaving her old life behind. Calin skillfully infuses heavy emotions—such as confusion, homesickness, and loneliness—into the narrative with a light-hearted touch, crafting a story that resonates.
After experiencing loneliness at school, Lia’s teacher introduces her to another new Romanian student, Bogdan. Lia is overjoyed, finding comfort in the connection. However, Bogdan challenges her when he comments that all Lia does is “…talk about Romania and complain about Canada. You’re not even trying to fit in.” This pushes Lia to step out of her comfort zone and ultimately leads to her bonding with a group of girls from many different cultures. Together, they navigate the ups and downs of adolescence and language acquisition, sharing snacks from their home countries, and commiserating over the discomfort of menstruation.
The New Girl is an engaging and heartfelt read that encourages young readers to embrace change and thrive in difficult situations. It celebrates resilience and highlights the beauty of the immigrant experience.
Groff Lai holds a BA in English Language and Literature with a minor in Creative Writing from the University of British Columbia. When she’s not immersed in the world of literature, she enjoys staying active through gym workouts and finding balance with hot yoga. Aspiring to become a published author, Groff has a deep passion for Creative Nonfiction, where storytelling meets personal reflection.
YOUNG ADULTING 