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Quick & Easy Guides
A Quick & Easy Guide to Healthy Relationships
It can be difficult to navigate a lifetime’s worth of relationship patterns to clearly see the best ways to treat the folks we care about—and be treated well in return.
In A Quick & Easy Guide to Healthy Relationships, Mariah-Rose Marie offers a cheery, articulate, and fun-to-read guide to navigating, recognizing, and reenforcing positives patterns in friendships, romances, families, and work connections, all while taking care of your own head and heart in the process. From tips for engaging in difficult conversations, advice on communicating boundaries, and resources for strengthening bonds, this guide can help you make your relationships stronger and healthier than ever.
The latest volume of the critically acclaimed, bestselling A Quick & Easy Guide series of educational comics.
In A Quick & Easy Guide to Healthy Relationships, Mariah-Rose Marie offers a cheery, articulate, and fun-to-read guide to navigating, recognizing, and reenforcing positives patterns in friendships, romances, families, and work connections, all while taking care of your own head and heart in the process. From tips for engaging in difficult conversations, advice on communicating boundaries, and resources for strengthening bonds, this guide can help you make your relationships stronger and healthier than ever.
The latest volume of the critically acclaimed, bestselling A Quick & Easy Guide series of educational comics.
96 pages, Paperback
Published December 2, 2025
1 person is currently reading
65 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 56 reviews
October 30, 2025
I absolutely loved this book. From the moment I opened it, I could tell it wasn’t going to be your typical “self-help” read about relationships. It’s short, simple, but surprisingly meaningful, and the illustrations? Honestly, that’s what makes it special. The art brings warmth and emotion to every page, like you’re watching everyday people figure things out in real time.
Mariah-Rose Marie manages to make something as complex as relationships feel approachable. The tone is friendly and relatable, it doesn’t lecture you or overcomplicate ideas. Instead, it walks you through what healthy relationships look and feel like, friendships, romantic connections, family, even co-workers, showing that all of them rely on the same foundations: communication, respect, boundaries, and self-awareness.
What I appreciated most is how the book focuses on balance, taking care of others without neglecting yourself. There’s this gentle reminder throughout that you can’t show up for people if you aren’t taking care of your own mental and emotional health. The book also highlights that setting boundaries isn’t about being distant or selfish, it’s about protecting your peace and creating space for honest connection.
The setting in Sun Heights, with its diverse and multicultural cast, makes it feel real and current. Each character has a different dynamic, friends learning to communicate better, couples navigating trust, people figuring out their own emotional patterns, and that variety made it easy to see myself (and people I know) in the stories.
The illustrations are what tie everything together. They’re expressive, warm, and full of small details that make each scene come alive. You can almost feel the emotions, the awkwardness of a tough conversation, the joy of mutual understanding, or the calm of self-acceptance.
If I had to describe the book in one line, I’d say it’s a soft, visual reminder that healthy relationships aren’t about perfection, they’re about effort, empathy, and honesty.
It’s short enough to read in one sitting, but the lessons linger. Whether you’re trying to understand others better or just figure yourself out a bit more, this book is worth picking up.
Mariah-Rose Marie manages to make something as complex as relationships feel approachable. The tone is friendly and relatable, it doesn’t lecture you or overcomplicate ideas. Instead, it walks you through what healthy relationships look and feel like, friendships, romantic connections, family, even co-workers, showing that all of them rely on the same foundations: communication, respect, boundaries, and self-awareness.
What I appreciated most is how the book focuses on balance, taking care of others without neglecting yourself. There’s this gentle reminder throughout that you can’t show up for people if you aren’t taking care of your own mental and emotional health. The book also highlights that setting boundaries isn’t about being distant or selfish, it’s about protecting your peace and creating space for honest connection.
The setting in Sun Heights, with its diverse and multicultural cast, makes it feel real and current. Each character has a different dynamic, friends learning to communicate better, couples navigating trust, people figuring out their own emotional patterns, and that variety made it easy to see myself (and people I know) in the stories.
The illustrations are what tie everything together. They’re expressive, warm, and full of small details that make each scene come alive. You can almost feel the emotions, the awkwardness of a tough conversation, the joy of mutual understanding, or the calm of self-acceptance.
If I had to describe the book in one line, I’d say it’s a soft, visual reminder that healthy relationships aren’t about perfection, they’re about effort, empathy, and honesty.
It’s short enough to read in one sitting, but the lessons linger. Whether you’re trying to understand others better or just figure yourself out a bit more, this book is worth picking up.
December 22, 2025
I really appreciate the way this covers a variety of relationships: familial, friendships, etc., and not just romantic. (Although that's in there too.) This series has consistently been top-notch when it comes to be informative without patronizing the reader, and this volume is no exception.
September 9, 2025
I enjoyed and felt informed by the previous books in this serious, but I've finally hit one that doesn't click.
The information contained is basically good, but it felt so incredibly obvious it didn't seem like I was the intended audience. I do worry about the person for whom this isn't obvious, though, and hope they come across a copy.
It doesn't help that while the art is cute, the narrator has little personality and just lectures at the reader for the whole book. Yap. Yap. Yap. Not nearly enough concrete examples are included for my taste, and some of the ones that are offered are done entirely in pantomime, making them vague and open to interpretation.
I"ll chalk this one up to a bad fit and look forward to seeing what might be offered next in the series.
Disclosure: I received access to a copy of this book from the publisher through NetGalley.com.
The information contained is basically good, but it felt so incredibly obvious it didn't seem like I was the intended audience. I do worry about the person for whom this isn't obvious, though, and hope they come across a copy.
It doesn't help that while the art is cute, the narrator has little personality and just lectures at the reader for the whole book. Yap. Yap. Yap. Not nearly enough concrete examples are included for my taste, and some of the ones that are offered are done entirely in pantomime, making them vague and open to interpretation.
I"ll chalk this one up to a bad fit and look forward to seeing what might be offered next in the series.
Disclosure: I received access to a copy of this book from the publisher through NetGalley.com.
September 23, 2025
I received this as an ARC from NetGalley but the opinions are my own.
I specifically requested this book when I saw it because I work with a lot of kids and teens and families. One thing that always comes up is healthy relationships and what that entails. This book relays information in such a way that it is easy to grasp and also keeps the attention of those reading. I believe this is a good book to have tweens and teens read with parents or another caregiver to help them learn and practice some of what is in this book.
I specifically requested this book when I saw it because I work with a lot of kids and teens and families. One thing that always comes up is healthy relationships and what that entails. This book relays information in such a way that it is easy to grasp and also keeps the attention of those reading. I believe this is a good book to have tweens and teens read with parents or another caregiver to help them learn and practice some of what is in this book.
October 11, 2025
Very cutely illustrated, and it does feel like a guide to healthy relationships. I think the way that different topics were approached was well structured, and concise. There were examples as well as short "definitions". I'm not sure what else I could say besides the fact that I wish more people would not only be aware of most things mentioned in this book, but would also try to act accordingly... There are some parts I will share with some people I know to hopefully enlighten them!!
(Thank you NetGalley and OniPress for the e-ARC!)
(Thank you NetGalley and OniPress for the e-ARC!)
January 7, 2026
Everyone should go read this book. Short and simple but so incredibly portrayed; even a seasoned person who has dealt with many relationships will learn something new. Or at least find affirmation in what you have always felt was true. 🖤
January 9, 2026
Such great info and advice that provided me with moments of personal reflection that I needed.
October 7, 2025
Thank you NetGalley and Oni Press for giving me the opportunity to read this ARC in exchange for my honest opinion!
I enjoyed this book and learned a lot from it. The illustrations were beautifully done and perfectly matched the story. I love the variety of topics it explores. I love that they address very difficult topics and added hotlines to help the people who might need them.
October 6, 2025
Disclosure: I received an advance review copy of A Quick & Easy Guide to Healthy Relationships from Oni Press via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
Trigger Warnings: Mentions of abuse, unhealthy or toxic relationship behaviors.
A Quick & Easy Guide to Healthy Relationships by Mariah-Rose Marie truly lives up to its title: a quick, easy, and engaging read that delivers valuable insights about how we treat others and how we deserve to be treated in return. As someone who is neurodivergent, I found myself recognizing lessons I had learned the hard way over the years. I genuinely wish a resource like this had existed when I was growing up. The approachable tone, cheerful art, and inclusive representation make it suitable for readers of many ages, from teens to adults.
The writing style is accessible and kind, offering gentle but clear guidance on topics like setting boundaries, communicating needs, and recognizing unhealthy patterns. The use of anthropomorphic animals was a delightful choice, effectively illustrating emotional nuance and diversity while keeping the content engaging. I especially appreciated how the book acknowledged childhood abuse and modeled healthier frameworks for connection. While the content is necessarily high-level given the short format, the advice it offers is grounded, practical, and compassionate.
This guide is both cute and wholesome, with bright illustrations that make serious subjects approachable without minimizing their importance. It’s an excellent starting point for readers who may be exploring what healthy relationships look like for the first time, or for neurodivergent individuals who want a clear and visually engaging reminder of key principles.
A Quick & Easy Guide to Healthy Relationships is a book I’d recommend wholeheartedly to anyone, especially younger readers and those still learning about emotional boundaries and mutual respect.
Trigger Warnings: Mentions of abuse, unhealthy or toxic relationship behaviors.
A Quick & Easy Guide to Healthy Relationships by Mariah-Rose Marie truly lives up to its title: a quick, easy, and engaging read that delivers valuable insights about how we treat others and how we deserve to be treated in return. As someone who is neurodivergent, I found myself recognizing lessons I had learned the hard way over the years. I genuinely wish a resource like this had existed when I was growing up. The approachable tone, cheerful art, and inclusive representation make it suitable for readers of many ages, from teens to adults.
The writing style is accessible and kind, offering gentle but clear guidance on topics like setting boundaries, communicating needs, and recognizing unhealthy patterns. The use of anthropomorphic animals was a delightful choice, effectively illustrating emotional nuance and diversity while keeping the content engaging. I especially appreciated how the book acknowledged childhood abuse and modeled healthier frameworks for connection. While the content is necessarily high-level given the short format, the advice it offers is grounded, practical, and compassionate.
This guide is both cute and wholesome, with bright illustrations that make serious subjects approachable without minimizing their importance. It’s an excellent starting point for readers who may be exploring what healthy relationships look like for the first time, or for neurodivergent individuals who want a clear and visually engaging reminder of key principles.
A Quick & Easy Guide to Healthy Relationships is a book I’d recommend wholeheartedly to anyone, especially younger readers and those still learning about emotional boundaries and mutual respect.
September 7, 2025
I did receive this book as an ARC on Netgalley, however all opinions are my own.
So the reason I wanted to read this is because one: it is from one of my favourite graphic novel publishers Oni Press, but two: I feel like everyone could always use as much information as possible when it comes to healthy relationships, and even at the ripe old age of 31, that includes me too. Friends, I am so happy that I applied for this one and got it. The art in this graphic novel is beautiful, I loved the artist's colour palette as well as their use of anthropomorphism to show the different humans and helping them look more unique! In my personal opinion, this comic is so GOOD, and so IMPORTANT especially for younger readers who might not know what healthy relationships are, not just in the form of romance, but in friendships, families and in the workplace etc etc. Even at 31, there were things that I learned that I did not know before. I loved that each type of relationship was formed into categories and what would be considered healthy within that category whilst also showing if you wouldn't accept it in one type of relationship, you shouldn't accept it in the other. I read this in one sitting and loved every minute of reading it. Not only was the learning fun but the diversity within this book was beautiful (I almost cried because there was a wheelchair user depicted as a panda, which if you didn't know is my favourite animal). I genuinely believe whether you're 15 or 50 this book is suitable for people of all ages, and is 100% something that everyone should read at least once. I will definitely be looking at the other books in the series and I will be picking a physical copy of this one when it is out.
So the reason I wanted to read this is because one: it is from one of my favourite graphic novel publishers Oni Press, but two: I feel like everyone could always use as much information as possible when it comes to healthy relationships, and even at the ripe old age of 31, that includes me too. Friends, I am so happy that I applied for this one and got it. The art in this graphic novel is beautiful, I loved the artist's colour palette as well as their use of anthropomorphism to show the different humans and helping them look more unique! In my personal opinion, this comic is so GOOD, and so IMPORTANT especially for younger readers who might not know what healthy relationships are, not just in the form of romance, but in friendships, families and in the workplace etc etc. Even at 31, there were things that I learned that I did not know before. I loved that each type of relationship was formed into categories and what would be considered healthy within that category whilst also showing if you wouldn't accept it in one type of relationship, you shouldn't accept it in the other. I read this in one sitting and loved every minute of reading it. Not only was the learning fun but the diversity within this book was beautiful (I almost cried because there was a wheelchair user depicted as a panda, which if you didn't know is my favourite animal). I genuinely believe whether you're 15 or 50 this book is suitable for people of all ages, and is 100% something that everyone should read at least once. I will definitely be looking at the other books in the series and I will be picking a physical copy of this one when it is out.
August 26, 2025
I received an ARC of from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
A Quick and Easy Guide to Healthy Relationships is exactly what it says it is, as a graphic novel guide it obviously has a target audience but I would argue that anyone of any age can benefit from it. The graphic style makes it easy to follow and stay engaged even if the book has you reconsidering your own actions in the past which can be uncomfortable - but the art style acts as safe context to consider these factors within.
The tone throughout is thoughtprovoking but gentle in the way it nudges you as a reader to consider potentially uncomfortable questions - like were you guilty of love bombing even if it was unintentional? And doesn't stick to just romantic relationships but offers perspective on work relationships too, like the age old work family tactic as well as what can be considered ab*se in the workplace, plus a golden question of are you really into that coworker or just lonely and they are the only person you see frequently?
This guide is truly accessible for any age and as said before, anyone of any age could benefit from reading it over a couple of times. I also appreciated how clear the setting out of warnings at the start was - and the disclaimer that not all relationships are healthy, while our perspectives and understanding of relationships is also often unrealistic. I also loved the representation of different minority groups through animals, it feels so inclusive without being exclusive and maintains the gentle tone throughout which really works.
A Quick and Easy Guide to Healthy Relationships is exactly what it says it is, as a graphic novel guide it obviously has a target audience but I would argue that anyone of any age can benefit from it. The graphic style makes it easy to follow and stay engaged even if the book has you reconsidering your own actions in the past which can be uncomfortable - but the art style acts as safe context to consider these factors within.
The tone throughout is thoughtprovoking but gentle in the way it nudges you as a reader to consider potentially uncomfortable questions - like were you guilty of love bombing even if it was unintentional? And doesn't stick to just romantic relationships but offers perspective on work relationships too, like the age old work family tactic as well as what can be considered ab*se in the workplace, plus a golden question of are you really into that coworker or just lonely and they are the only person you see frequently?
This guide is truly accessible for any age and as said before, anyone of any age could benefit from reading it over a couple of times. I also appreciated how clear the setting out of warnings at the start was - and the disclaimer that not all relationships are healthy, while our perspectives and understanding of relationships is also often unrealistic. I also loved the representation of different minority groups through animals, it feels so inclusive without being exclusive and maintains the gentle tone throughout which really works.
August 31, 2025
True to its title, this graphic novel breaks down healthy relationships in multiple domains (e.g., friendships, family, romantic partners, work) and helps readers understand the differences between healthy communication and abuse. There are tips to help individuals recognize and navigate relationships that may be becoming more toxic or have already crossed into abusive territory.
I think this is a must read for anyone, but especially for teenagers and young adults who are new to all types of relationships and don’t have the experience yet to know what is healthy and what is not. Oftentimes toxic relationships can feel normal because many of us lack a healthy example to compare it to.
I will say that I think that the definition for pansexual in the book was not how I would define it personally, but close enough that it’s not offensive or anything.
The author made relationship information accessible in this short graphic novel. Middle and high school teachers should definitely consider it for their classrooms and/or school libraries. I feel like this is something I could recommend to my clients as well, as a therapist-in-training for anyone who may have questions about their relationships.
4.5/5
Thank you to netgalley and the publisher for the ARC.
I think this is a must read for anyone, but especially for teenagers and young adults who are new to all types of relationships and don’t have the experience yet to know what is healthy and what is not. Oftentimes toxic relationships can feel normal because many of us lack a healthy example to compare it to.
I will say that I think that the definition for pansexual in the book was not how I would define it personally, but close enough that it’s not offensive or anything.
The author made relationship information accessible in this short graphic novel. Middle and high school teachers should definitely consider it for their classrooms and/or school libraries. I feel like this is something I could recommend to my clients as well, as a therapist-in-training for anyone who may have questions about their relationships.
4.5/5
Thank you to netgalley and the publisher for the ARC.
October 5, 2025
Thoughts:
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily. This is a great little guide that I’m sure will help many young people navigate relationships going forward. The book is very brief so chances are more in depth research may be needed to build on the foundations here but it does advertise itself as quick and easy so that should be expected. I appreciated that the book incorporates all different types of relationships such as friendships, family and work as well as the typically thought of romantic relationships and the warnings for toxic relationships in them all. I also really appreciated that the book mentioned found families as someone who lives far away from most of their blood family, found family is extremely important but I know that not everyone understands their value and since different sexualities are mentioned in this guide and covered explicitly in another it’s great that they covered it as support to their readers of different forms.
Favourite Quote:
“From strangers, acquaintances, friends, to close friends, to friends that become family, the people that come into our lives by chance can be the most meaningful we'll ever know!”
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily. This is a great little guide that I’m sure will help many young people navigate relationships going forward. The book is very brief so chances are more in depth research may be needed to build on the foundations here but it does advertise itself as quick and easy so that should be expected. I appreciated that the book incorporates all different types of relationships such as friendships, family and work as well as the typically thought of romantic relationships and the warnings for toxic relationships in them all. I also really appreciated that the book mentioned found families as someone who lives far away from most of their blood family, found family is extremely important but I know that not everyone understands their value and since different sexualities are mentioned in this guide and covered explicitly in another it’s great that they covered it as support to their readers of different forms.
Favourite Quote:
“From strangers, acquaintances, friends, to close friends, to friends that become family, the people that come into our lives by chance can be the most meaningful we'll ever know!”
November 24, 2025
A Quick and Easy Guide to Healthy Relationships was informative and diverse book that I think is great for a more mature child (I’d say 7th grade and above). This book is something I suggest be read with adults and discussed. Very inclusive of gender and sexuality types. Relationship types too: work, friends, family, acquaintances. It can be applied to so many different situations. The information was not only informative, some very common sense for sensible people, and presented in a liberal fashion. I am an open minded person so this book was a breath of fresh air, but I can see how some people would have an issue if they are closed minded and restrictive of what they want kids exposed too.
I loved how it states “families are your first relationships and for the foundations for how we from bonds with everyone else in our lives”. It also states no family is perfect. And in relation to work relationships, it states that coworker status does not automatically mean trust and intimacy. Don’t tell a coworker anything you wouldn’t tell anyone else.
Overall, this a great book and is part of a series of books on different topics. Thanks to #netgalley for the ARC.
I loved how it states “families are your first relationships and for the foundations for how we from bonds with everyone else in our lives”. It also states no family is perfect. And in relation to work relationships, it states that coworker status does not automatically mean trust and intimacy. Don’t tell a coworker anything you wouldn’t tell anyone else.
Overall, this a great book and is part of a series of books on different topics. Thanks to #netgalley for the ARC.
September 5, 2025
Thank you to Oni Press and NetGalley for an ARC of this graphic novel for my honest review!
I thoroughly enjoyed this graphic novel. I sat down to just read a few pages at first and found myself reading the whole novel in one sitting as it is a quick, easy and interesting read. While the illustrations were cute and adorable, it talked about different types of relationships and very important and necessary topics like abuse, sexuality, communication, forgiveness, etc. A lot that the author is trying to teach or remind you is very beneficial to everyday life and to your relationships and connections you experience. I thought that it gave a lot of perspective on different topics and you can tell the author is filled with major knowledge.
I found myself having better insight on communication and relationships after reading this literal quick and easy graphic novel and am very glad I got to read it. I highly recommend this book if you're looking for more knowledge or reminders on healthy communication and relationships in general.
I thoroughly enjoyed this graphic novel. I sat down to just read a few pages at first and found myself reading the whole novel in one sitting as it is a quick, easy and interesting read. While the illustrations were cute and adorable, it talked about different types of relationships and very important and necessary topics like abuse, sexuality, communication, forgiveness, etc. A lot that the author is trying to teach or remind you is very beneficial to everyday life and to your relationships and connections you experience. I thought that it gave a lot of perspective on different topics and you can tell the author is filled with major knowledge.
I found myself having better insight on communication and relationships after reading this literal quick and easy graphic novel and am very glad I got to read it. I highly recommend this book if you're looking for more knowledge or reminders on healthy communication and relationships in general.
September 15, 2025
I'll admit, I picked this up because the title piqued my interest, and I assumed from the cover illustrations that this would be geared towards children. As I started reading, I realized I may have been wrong, and as I continued to read, i found myself wondering what audience the author had in mind for this book.
My biggest grievance is that the author lists concepts and adjectives about positive and negative relationships, but perhaps due to the "quick and easy" nature of the books format, failed to further elaborate on what these terms mean in either the book itself or a glossary. In the chapter about conflict, the author tried to touch on ethical and negative conflict communication, but did not leverage speech balloons or illustrations of body language to create examples of what good (and bad) conflict communication looks like.
All in all this feels like a missed opportunity to help readers who may have picked up this book for guidance in identifying the healthy relationships in their lives.
My biggest grievance is that the author lists concepts and adjectives about positive and negative relationships, but perhaps due to the "quick and easy" nature of the books format, failed to further elaborate on what these terms mean in either the book itself or a glossary. In the chapter about conflict, the author tried to touch on ethical and negative conflict communication, but did not leverage speech balloons or illustrations of body language to create examples of what good (and bad) conflict communication looks like.
All in all this feels like a missed opportunity to help readers who may have picked up this book for guidance in identifying the healthy relationships in their lives.
September 20, 2025
First I would like to thank NetGalley, the Author and the Publisher for this digital ARC.
It was a bit hard to read on my phone since both pages where displayed side by side, so I had to enhance the page to read the text.
After that there are no complaints.
This is an amazing graphic novel and an easy way to introduce you, your family, kids to healthy relationships. Be it boundaries, ways to grow, how to understand others, How to navigate certain situations or recognize or reenforce certain behaviors, traits or situations.
The tone throughout is thought-provoking but gentle in the way that it nudges you as a reader to consider potentially uncomfortable questions and situations.
It's the kind of book I would recommend to schools as a must have in each and every classroom and also one that should be a definitive at your doctors/therapist etc...
It's very colorful and diverse, which makes for a fun and pleasant read and I would love to read the other books in this collection.
It also made me see myself and the things I do or tolerate more/better.
It was a bit hard to read on my phone since both pages where displayed side by side, so I had to enhance the page to read the text.
After that there are no complaints.
This is an amazing graphic novel and an easy way to introduce you, your family, kids to healthy relationships. Be it boundaries, ways to grow, how to understand others, How to navigate certain situations or recognize or reenforce certain behaviors, traits or situations.
The tone throughout is thought-provoking but gentle in the way that it nudges you as a reader to consider potentially uncomfortable questions and situations.
It's the kind of book I would recommend to schools as a must have in each and every classroom and also one that should be a definitive at your doctors/therapist etc...
It's very colorful and diverse, which makes for a fun and pleasant read and I would love to read the other books in this collection.
It also made me see myself and the things I do or tolerate more/better.
September 11, 2025
The 'Quick & Easy Guide' series has so much valuable input and advice to offer. This one has some of my favorite graphics of the series. The animal characters add a fun element to an information-based book and help some of the heavier topics feel less intimidating. I do wish that there had been some more concrete, specific examples for some of the topics, especially when it comes to abuse. Often, abuse doesn't start out looking as intense and glaring as what it looks like in this guide. The guide does a great job of highlighting the value and importance of all types of relationships and reminds readers not to assume that romantic ones have the most inherent value. This was definitely a quick and easy guide, and it would be especially beneficial to teens as a foundation for these conversations.
Thank you Net Galley and Oni Press for the ARC! I look forward to seeing other guides come out in this series.
Thank you Net Galley and Oni Press for the ARC! I look forward to seeing other guides come out in this series.
September 13, 2025
The latest in the Quick and Easy graphic novel series, this short book offers an overview of what healthy relationships might look like, exploring self-care, family, friendships, romantic relationships, people you work with, and more. It emphasizes the importance of community and good communication and briefly touches on what some red flags might look like.
There's not much in this book that I didn't already know, but I can admit it's taken me a lot of years to get to a place where I understand and can live out some of these important ideas. This graphic novel is ideal for middle school and teenage readers who are trying to find ways to navigate a lot of tricky relationships. If a young person can understand and embody all the themes in this book, they'll be well on their way to finding belonging and safety in a wild world.
Thank you to NetGalley and the Publisher for this ARC. All opinions are my own.
There's not much in this book that I didn't already know, but I can admit it's taken me a lot of years to get to a place where I understand and can live out some of these important ideas. This graphic novel is ideal for middle school and teenage readers who are trying to find ways to navigate a lot of tricky relationships. If a young person can understand and embody all the themes in this book, they'll be well on their way to finding belonging and safety in a wild world.
Thank you to NetGalley and the Publisher for this ARC. All opinions are my own.
September 15, 2025
I received an ARC of from NetGalley in exchange for my honest review.
This is an incredibly valuable guide to healthy relationships. The visual appeal, from the color palette to the illustrations, is excellent. What I found most beneficial is that the book is relevant to all ages and stages of life, particularly for individuals entering new relationship dynamics, whether personal or professional. I appreciate that the author addresses various types of relationships beyond just romantic ones. It also prompted me to reflect on my past actions and consider how I can be a better friend in the future. I do believe they could have went a bit more in-depth because some things came across as very surface level/
This is an incredibly valuable guide to healthy relationships. The visual appeal, from the color palette to the illustrations, is excellent. What I found most beneficial is that the book is relevant to all ages and stages of life, particularly for individuals entering new relationship dynamics, whether personal or professional. I appreciate that the author addresses various types of relationships beyond just romantic ones. It also prompted me to reflect on my past actions and consider how I can be a better friend in the future. I do believe they could have went a bit more in-depth because some things came across as very surface level/
November 19, 2025
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for providing me with an ebook in return for an honest review.
2/5 stars
This one is hard to rate. The information it contains is all good, but it’s a bit TOO quick and easy for the subject matter. It skates through a huge number of topics without delving into any of them in any detail. I felt like it would be more suited to middle grade readers than YA because of how basic it was. The art was goofy and cute, but again, it felt more like it would appeal to middle grade readers. There’s nothing specifically wrong with the information in this book, but it could’ve been much more. Quick and easy it may be, but for most people (dear god, I hope for most people) it will be far too shallow to actually be of any help.
2/5 stars
This one is hard to rate. The information it contains is all good, but it’s a bit TOO quick and easy for the subject matter. It skates through a huge number of topics without delving into any of them in any detail. I felt like it would be more suited to middle grade readers than YA because of how basic it was. The art was goofy and cute, but again, it felt more like it would appeal to middle grade readers. There’s nothing specifically wrong with the information in this book, but it could’ve been much more. Quick and easy it may be, but for most people (dear god, I hope for most people) it will be far too shallow to actually be of any help.
December 6, 2025
As the title states this was a quick and easy read. Perhaps even a bit too easy and a more surface level than I would have liked.
I do wish there was more elaboration on family relationships and especially found family. Understanding those relationship dynamics and how they differ is pretty important to a persons self identity. Only having 4 pages touching on family was simply not enough.
One part I did really enjoy was the inclusion of proximal versus lasting friendships because I don't think that is talked about enough.
Overall I adore the artwork and style of Mariah Rose Marie. From the color palette to the the conversational tone of the book, this was very easy to enjoy if a bit lackluster.
I do wish there was more elaboration on family relationships and especially found family. Understanding those relationship dynamics and how they differ is pretty important to a persons self identity. Only having 4 pages touching on family was simply not enough.
One part I did really enjoy was the inclusion of proximal versus lasting friendships because I don't think that is talked about enough.
Overall I adore the artwork and style of Mariah Rose Marie. From the color palette to the the conversational tone of the book, this was very easy to enjoy if a bit lackluster.
December 8, 2025
4.25/5 stars
Thank you NetGalley and Oni Press for the ARC!
A Quick & Easy Guide to Healthy Relationships is, well, exactly what the title says. This nonfiction graphic novel uses animal friends to discuss relationships, from familial to platonic to romantic.
This is a good primer, and it does a great job at covering almost every type of relationship there is. It explains both healthy dynamics and unhealthy ones. I also like that it discussed being on both the giving and receiving end of toxic dynamics.
If you’re well-versed in relationship texts, this may not be for you, but it’s a great starting place if you’re new to the topic.
CW: abuse (family & partner); toxic relationships (family & friends)
Thank you NetGalley and Oni Press for the ARC!
A Quick & Easy Guide to Healthy Relationships is, well, exactly what the title says. This nonfiction graphic novel uses animal friends to discuss relationships, from familial to platonic to romantic.
This is a good primer, and it does a great job at covering almost every type of relationship there is. It explains both healthy dynamics and unhealthy ones. I also like that it discussed being on both the giving and receiving end of toxic dynamics.
If you’re well-versed in relationship texts, this may not be for you, but it’s a great starting place if you’re new to the topic.
CW: abuse (family & partner); toxic relationships (family & friends)
January 20, 2026
I enjoyed this book and thought it was a great resource for teens. While some might think the information and tips are 'obvious,' I thought it was a great resource for teens or young adults who are still navigating and learning boundaries/ relationship types that adults have had years to learn and discover. It covers all types of relationships as well, from personal to professional, and had a great resource page at the end for people who are interested in learning more. Plus, the illustrations are cute and emotive, so you can easily see what type of relationship the characters are trying to display, as well as their feelings towards one another. A strong recommendation for teens and young adults.
April 12, 2025
With quirky and cute animal illustrations, this book is just what it purports to be, and would be a good read for middle- and high-schoolers. From an intersectional perspective, it covers topics such as conflict, restoration, family, friendships, and partnerships across the gender and sexuality spectrums. It raises important considerations like "Do you really have a crush on your coworker, or do you just see them all the time and you're just kinda lonely?" The tone is sincere yet light, and, well, I'm not sure whether to call it PC or just youthful. It certainly paints the world as it should be, and maybe young people who read this book will help make that world a reality.
August 27, 2025
I received an ARC through NetGalley and this is my honest review.
Truly Quick & Easy. Goes through the basics of healthy relationships (boundaries, self-care, forgiveness, etc) in different contexts (friendships, romantic relationships, even workplace relationships). It has some tips on how to recognize abusive relationships, and also has a page about polyamory and queer sexual orientations (including asexuality and aromanticism). It's a pretty surface-level summary, but it's a good overview of the topic.
And it has really cute illustrations with very diverse and interesting animal-people, which is always a bonus.
tldr; Not more and not less than what I expected.
Truly Quick & Easy. Goes through the basics of healthy relationships (boundaries, self-care, forgiveness, etc) in different contexts (friendships, romantic relationships, even workplace relationships). It has some tips on how to recognize abusive relationships, and also has a page about polyamory and queer sexual orientations (including asexuality and aromanticism). It's a pretty surface-level summary, but it's a good overview of the topic.
And it has really cute illustrations with very diverse and interesting animal-people, which is always a bonus.
tldr; Not more and not less than what I expected.
September 9, 2025
* // Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the ARC in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own. // *
I think this book can be recommended for a great number of people and I think especially teens and young adults that are still learning how to navigate social life and relationships. Of course is not a manual, so it explains things at surface level. But they do have recommendations of other material to engage with at the end of the book if you want to know more of a certain topic.
I wasn't expecting so much text but I do understand that the subject asked for it. The art is cute and cosy and portrays situations really well.
I think this book can be recommended for a great number of people and I think especially teens and young adults that are still learning how to navigate social life and relationships. Of course is not a manual, so it explains things at surface level. But they do have recommendations of other material to engage with at the end of the book if you want to know more of a certain topic.
I wasn't expecting so much text but I do understand that the subject asked for it. The art is cute and cosy and portrays situations really well.
September 24, 2025
thanks to netgalley and oni press for a free arc of this title! i love the "quick & easy guides" series so i was really excited to see this one, especially since it felt geared towards a lot of self-care work. while there were some elements that didn't quite land for me (like the author's distinction between bi/pan identities not really being in line with contemporary queer language), i did feel like i learned a lot from this one. the sections on partnership and friendship were really well done and had me thinking about the ways i can tweak my own behaviors to improve my relationships and connection to others.
October 14, 2025
Thank you to NetGalley for my Advanced Reader's Copy of this book.
To start, I have not read any of the other books in the Quick & Easy Series, but I have had them recommended to me. If they are similar to this one I do not think I'll be reading them. This book was brightly colored and used cute little animals for the illustrations so I almost thought it was a kid's book. It isn't. What it is a brightly colored textbook that delivers it's message in the monotone voice of an old professor. The material itself is good, and the drawings are good, but the presentation of the material is boring, and at times is incredibly obvious. 2.5 stars rounded up.
To start, I have not read any of the other books in the Quick & Easy Series, but I have had them recommended to me. If they are similar to this one I do not think I'll be reading them. This book was brightly colored and used cute little animals for the illustrations so I almost thought it was a kid's book. It isn't. What it is a brightly colored textbook that delivers it's message in the monotone voice of an old professor. The material itself is good, and the drawings are good, but the presentation of the material is boring, and at times is incredibly obvious. 2.5 stars rounded up.
November 2, 2025
*I received a free ARC from the publisher through NetGalley in exchange for my honest review*
This book is exactly what it promises to be - a quick and easy guide to healthy relationships. I work in a high school and am always worried by the number of young people who are in unhealthy relationships (platonic and romantic) but do not recognize the signs. And even when they seem to know things are not good they do not know how to extricate themselves from the relationship. I would love to have copies of this book to hand out to them to help them. Having the book as a graphic novel I think also makes this less intimidating as a read and easier to grasp the concepts being discussed.
This book is exactly what it promises to be - a quick and easy guide to healthy relationships. I work in a high school and am always worried by the number of young people who are in unhealthy relationships (platonic and romantic) but do not recognize the signs. And even when they seem to know things are not good they do not know how to extricate themselves from the relationship. I would love to have copies of this book to hand out to them to help them. Having the book as a graphic novel I think also makes this less intimidating as a read and easier to grasp the concepts being discussed.
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