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Absolutely Everything: A Graphic Novel
Lately, life feels like a lot for Marcella.
Sixth grade seems complicated on purpose. Marcella keeps forgetting her homework or getting distracted while she's doing it. Plus, her bestie has new friends, and her parents even want to move apartments. She's trying to keep track of the changes—but absolutely everything is stressing her out! In this funny, thoughtful graphic novel, author-artist Damian Alexander tells a story of growing up, ADHD, and focusing on what makes you who you are.
Sixth grade seems complicated on purpose. Marcella keeps forgetting her homework or getting distracted while she's doing it. Plus, her bestie has new friends, and her parents even want to move apartments. She's trying to keep track of the changes—but absolutely everything is stressing her out! In this funny, thoughtful graphic novel, author-artist Damian Alexander tells a story of growing up, ADHD, and focusing on what makes you who you are.
216 pages, Paperback
First published September 9, 2025
10 people are currently reading
108 people want to read
About the author
Damian Alexander
4 books63 followersDamian Alexander is a cartoonist & storyteller who grew up near Boston. Other Boys, published by First Second, is his first graphic memoir. You can visit him at https://damianimated.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 53 reviews
May 30, 2025
Absolutely Everything is a charming, nostalgic graphic novel that follows Marcella as she navigates the transition into sixth grade alongside changing friendships, a move, and the overwhelming mental barrage she faces on a daily basis. Although the illustration style wasn't my favorite, I really enjoyed both the ADHD representation and the casual inclusion of LGBTQ+ characters. Even before reading the author's note, it was evident that Absolutely Everything was written by someone with ADHD. Despite being nearly thirty myself, I related to Marcella's experience and felt very seen while reading her story.
This book reminded me of the Terri Libenson graphic novels, and I think its intended younger audience will see the similarities as well. This is something I could see my juvenile patrons gravitating toward as well as something I recommend to them, especially for those who specifically seek out ADHD or neurodivergent representation in books. It's great to have another option with which to provide them.
Thank you to NetGalley and Graphic Universe for an advanced copy in exchange for an honest review.
This book reminded me of the Terri Libenson graphic novels, and I think its intended younger audience will see the similarities as well. This is something I could see my juvenile patrons gravitating toward as well as something I recommend to them, especially for those who specifically seek out ADHD or neurodivergent representation in books. It's great to have another option with which to provide them.
Thank you to NetGalley and Graphic Universe for an advanced copy in exchange for an honest review.
July 9, 2025
Thank you to the publisher for sending an advance reader copy to my work place:
I can't express how much I enjoyed this book.
I'm an adult with ADHD. Something I didn't find out about UNTIL I was an adult. I resonated SO much with the main character. I felt the EXACT same way in Middle School. So much so that I still say that Middle School was WAY more difficult than High School. I wish I would have had some of the same tools she had.
I can't recommend this enough. For kiddos with ADHD , for their parents and for other kids to learn about those with ADHD. 10/10 HIGHLY recommend
I can't express how much I enjoyed this book.
I'm an adult with ADHD. Something I didn't find out about UNTIL I was an adult. I resonated SO much with the main character. I felt the EXACT same way in Middle School. So much so that I still say that Middle School was WAY more difficult than High School. I wish I would have had some of the same tools she had.
I can't recommend this enough. For kiddos with ADHD , for their parents and for other kids to learn about those with ADHD. 10/10 HIGHLY recommend
May 14, 2025
Marcella is having trouble in 6th grade. As so often happens, her best friend has a new best friend. She has trouble concentrating in class, and all the noises, and things around her throw her off. She has trouble concentrating. And then, to completely mess her up, her two dads find a better apartment in their complex, and decide to move. They figure it is so much better that Marcella won’t mind. She’ll have a better room. More light. All the good things.
So, why then does she hate her new room, and why can’t she concentrate?
Marcella spirals more and more, but since she doesn’t know why she is feeling the way she does, she has no idea how to reach out for help.
This graphic novel had me crying, which is actually a good sign that it is hitting all the right notes.
The author said that he wrote this story because he went through the same thing, but there was no story like this, when he was feeling this way. He wrote stories based on this main character, to help him cope. In the afterward he has pictures he drew of Marcella throughout his school life.
Very moving, funny, sad, and true feeling.
Thanks to Netgalley for making this book available for an honest review. This book is coming out the 9th of September 2025.
So, why then does she hate her new room, and why can’t she concentrate?
Marcella spirals more and more, but since she doesn’t know why she is feeling the way she does, she has no idea how to reach out for help.
This graphic novel had me crying, which is actually a good sign that it is hitting all the right notes.
The author said that he wrote this story because he went through the same thing, but there was no story like this, when he was feeling this way. He wrote stories based on this main character, to help him cope. In the afterward he has pictures he drew of Marcella throughout his school life.
Very moving, funny, sad, and true feeling.
Thanks to Netgalley for making this book available for an honest review. This book is coming out the 9th of September 2025.
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June 29, 2025Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for an advanced reader copy
Absolutely Everything by Damian Alexander is a Middle Grade contemporary graphic novel tackling ADHD. Marcella has recently started to struggle in school and is constantly overwhelmed by school work as well as her interpersonal relationships. When she misses her best friend’s recital, her fears and anxiety get much worse.
One of the things I really liked is how the lead is a thirteen-year-old girl who is struggling with the kind of ADHD that results more in feelings of being overwhelmed. According to multiple reports, AFABs are still underdiagnosed with ADHD and AMABs might be overdiagnosed and this really highlights how there are different types of ADHD and how it can look from the POV of someone who is experiencing it. We see Marcella losing track of time, of how she struggles to keep her attention on most things, and the feelings that come with all those little things adds up and makes her situation worse. This really probably really speaks to someone who has her specific type of ADHD.
Another thing I liked was how Marcella struggles with growing up and letting go of her childhood toys and isn’t interested in romance yet even though some of her friends already are. Kids develop at different rates and there’s nothing wrong with wanting to hang on to your childhood a little bit longer as long as you’re doing your best to also fulfill your responsibilities. Everywhere I turn around these days, it’s like kids are no longer allowed to just be kids and have to look like they’re thirty before their fifteenth birthday so I do think that this is a very important message.
We do get some hacks that work with Marcella’s ADHD and play to her strengths and interests. The graphic novel doesn’t say this will work for all kids, but it does give a starting point if a reader is looking for ideas to implement themselves.
I would recommend this to fans of contemporary fiction dealing with neurodivergence and young readers who are struggling with ADHD
Absolutely Everything by Damian Alexander is a Middle Grade contemporary graphic novel tackling ADHD. Marcella has recently started to struggle in school and is constantly overwhelmed by school work as well as her interpersonal relationships. When she misses her best friend’s recital, her fears and anxiety get much worse.
One of the things I really liked is how the lead is a thirteen-year-old girl who is struggling with the kind of ADHD that results more in feelings of being overwhelmed. According to multiple reports, AFABs are still underdiagnosed with ADHD and AMABs might be overdiagnosed and this really highlights how there are different types of ADHD and how it can look from the POV of someone who is experiencing it. We see Marcella losing track of time, of how she struggles to keep her attention on most things, and the feelings that come with all those little things adds up and makes her situation worse. This really probably really speaks to someone who has her specific type of ADHD.
Another thing I liked was how Marcella struggles with growing up and letting go of her childhood toys and isn’t interested in romance yet even though some of her friends already are. Kids develop at different rates and there’s nothing wrong with wanting to hang on to your childhood a little bit longer as long as you’re doing your best to also fulfill your responsibilities. Everywhere I turn around these days, it’s like kids are no longer allowed to just be kids and have to look like they’re thirty before their fifteenth birthday so I do think that this is a very important message.
We do get some hacks that work with Marcella’s ADHD and play to her strengths and interests. The graphic novel doesn’t say this will work for all kids, but it does give a starting point if a reader is looking for ideas to implement themselves.
I would recommend this to fans of contemporary fiction dealing with neurodivergence and young readers who are struggling with ADHD
October 22, 2025
I feel seen. Like, everything I suffered through during my 6th grade year wasn't something that no one can understand. Or can understand. This was like reading every thought, feeling, and struggle of 12 year old me. The author's note is almost identical to my own situation. I like how he calls it "introverted ADHD", all the outward signs you expect to see from someone with ADHD but instead it's all pointed inward. This honestly healed a part of me, giving back hope to my you ger self who didn't want to stay because I couldn't understand my brain. But now I know and can work with my brain's different wavelengths.
Thank you so much to the author, Damian Alexander, for putting this character into the world so there can be less silent sufferers of undiagnosed disorders. You are truly an amazing human and I hope I can create a story that can have a similar effect 🖤🖤🖤
Thank you so much to the author, Damian Alexander, for putting this character into the world so there can be less silent sufferers of undiagnosed disorders. You are truly an amazing human and I hope I can create a story that can have a similar effect 🖤🖤🖤
July 20, 2025
I loved Absolutely Everything. It’s a vibrant, emotional, and deeply personal graphic novel that captures what it’s like to live with ADHD in a way I haven’t seen before. The story follows Marcella, a neurodiverse middle schooler, and shows how her ADHD affects not only her school life, but her friendships, focus, self-perception, and daily routines. The transitions between her ADHD spirals and reality are so seamless and well-crafted that you feel like you're right there with her, experiencing the intensity and unpredictability of her thoughts.
The diversity in this book is beautifully woven into every aspect of the story, not just in what Marcella says or does, but in how she sees and experiences the world. Her inner monologue, often rapid, scattered, and reflective, is clearly written by someone who gets ADHD. The representation is deeply validating. The artwork supports this so well, showing her overwhelm and distraction through expressive, sometimes chaotic visuals that bring her neurodiversity to life on the page.
I wish I’d had this book in middle school. It might have helped me understand myself better and ask for help sooner. Absolutely Everything is a powerful story about being different and learning to navigate a world that doesn’t always accommodate that.
The diversity in this book is beautifully woven into every aspect of the story, not just in what Marcella says or does, but in how she sees and experiences the world. Her inner monologue, often rapid, scattered, and reflective, is clearly written by someone who gets ADHD. The representation is deeply validating. The artwork supports this so well, showing her overwhelm and distraction through expressive, sometimes chaotic visuals that bring her neurodiversity to life on the page.
I wish I’d had this book in middle school. It might have helped me understand myself better and ask for help sooner. Absolutely Everything is a powerful story about being different and learning to navigate a world that doesn’t always accommodate that.
July 15, 2025
Marcella is a girl who can’t keep her thoughts straight. She’s entered sixth grade but can’t get to the bus on time, can’t keep her deadlines, doesn’t remember when she has test, etc. She’s all in her head thinking that she’s not a good person just because things are not easy. In this book, we follow Marcella as her anxiousness grows until its seen by her fathers. Once it’s caught, she gets the help she needs that makes the year better. This is an interesting graphic novel that kids will see themselves in. And for that, I think it has a place on Library shelves. is this the greatest graphic novel ever, no, but I did enjoy it from beginning to end.
December 14, 2025
I liked this! It was a good introduction to people who don’t necessarily understand how hard adhd can be, especially when you’re trying to articulate how you’re feeling.
December 23, 2025
A rare depiction of a girl with ADHD that hit me right in the feels. I have ADHD and as is common in women I didn't find out until adulthood even though the signs were screaming it out in retrospect.
May 20, 2025
Copy provided by Edelweiss Plus
Marcella has a nice life; a cozy apartment in a building where her friends Jen Chu, Nigel McNamara, and Jonah Williams live, two dads who love and support her, and a love of writing. As 6th grade starts, however, things are getting difficult. She can never remember to catch her bus at 6:45 a.m., often getting distracted by things in her room. She struggles to pay attention to class, and is embarrassed when her teachers call her out after they have asked her to participate several times. Her best friend Jen is starting to think that boys are cute, and caring about what she wears to school, instead of thinking about the books that she and Marcella liked to role play when they were younger. On top of everything else, her dads are moving the family to the apartment across the hallway because it is bigger and has better sunlight and a balcony. When a teacher she likes assigns a 500 word personal essay on any topic, Marcella can't think of a thing to write about, even though she has enjoyed making journal entries, and her teacher has been complementary about her writing. Jen is increasingly involved in ballet, and even though her friends and parents try to help her with the writing assignment, Marcella always gets distracted by something else, doesn't do the work, and gets even more stressed. She even misses Jen's ballet recital because she is trying to get work done on the project. Eventually, Ms. Kimani calls home and tells Marcella's dads what she is seeing in school. Marcella admits that she is struggling, and is lucky enough to get an appointment with a therapist, who helps her.
Strengths: Even though middle school classwork and homework isn't that hard, students have struggled in recent years, so Marcella's experiences in this graphic novel will resonate with many readers. It was good to see that her fathers supported her, and immediately got her into counseling when a teacher brought her struggles to their attention. It's good to see portrayals of students living in apartments, and Marcella's building sounds like a great place to be. Alexander's artwork is brightly colored and similar to other artists like Telgemeier, Galligan, and Fajardo, but is different enough to be unique. The cover is very appealing and shows the mood of the book right away.
Weaknesses: Young readers who have had to move to other states or countries will have little sympathy for Marcella's move across the hallway. It would have been informative to see Marcella prior to middle school, because her prevailing mood is so miserable.
What I really think: An author's note states that Marcella is based on characters that Alexander has drawn over a number of years, and that her story is based on his own struggles with ADHD. He didn't see stories that reflected his experience when he was growing up. Now, every other middle grade book is about a character with anxiety, so this would be a good choice for readers who enjoyed Libenson's Invisible Emmie, Scrivan's Nat Enough, or Vivat's Frazzled. Most of the characters like Marcella are female, so it would have been nice to see another book with a male character with these struggles, like Todd's Timid. Alexander's Other Boys is another look at his difficult middle school years.
Marcella has a nice life; a cozy apartment in a building where her friends Jen Chu, Nigel McNamara, and Jonah Williams live, two dads who love and support her, and a love of writing. As 6th grade starts, however, things are getting difficult. She can never remember to catch her bus at 6:45 a.m., often getting distracted by things in her room. She struggles to pay attention to class, and is embarrassed when her teachers call her out after they have asked her to participate several times. Her best friend Jen is starting to think that boys are cute, and caring about what she wears to school, instead of thinking about the books that she and Marcella liked to role play when they were younger. On top of everything else, her dads are moving the family to the apartment across the hallway because it is bigger and has better sunlight and a balcony. When a teacher she likes assigns a 500 word personal essay on any topic, Marcella can't think of a thing to write about, even though she has enjoyed making journal entries, and her teacher has been complementary about her writing. Jen is increasingly involved in ballet, and even though her friends and parents try to help her with the writing assignment, Marcella always gets distracted by something else, doesn't do the work, and gets even more stressed. She even misses Jen's ballet recital because she is trying to get work done on the project. Eventually, Ms. Kimani calls home and tells Marcella's dads what she is seeing in school. Marcella admits that she is struggling, and is lucky enough to get an appointment with a therapist, who helps her.
Strengths: Even though middle school classwork and homework isn't that hard, students have struggled in recent years, so Marcella's experiences in this graphic novel will resonate with many readers. It was good to see that her fathers supported her, and immediately got her into counseling when a teacher brought her struggles to their attention. It's good to see portrayals of students living in apartments, and Marcella's building sounds like a great place to be. Alexander's artwork is brightly colored and similar to other artists like Telgemeier, Galligan, and Fajardo, but is different enough to be unique. The cover is very appealing and shows the mood of the book right away.
Weaknesses: Young readers who have had to move to other states or countries will have little sympathy for Marcella's move across the hallway. It would have been informative to see Marcella prior to middle school, because her prevailing mood is so miserable.
What I really think: An author's note states that Marcella is based on characters that Alexander has drawn over a number of years, and that her story is based on his own struggles with ADHD. He didn't see stories that reflected his experience when he was growing up. Now, every other middle grade book is about a character with anxiety, so this would be a good choice for readers who enjoyed Libenson's Invisible Emmie, Scrivan's Nat Enough, or Vivat's Frazzled. Most of the characters like Marcella are female, so it would have been nice to see another book with a male character with these struggles, like Todd's Timid. Alexander's Other Boys is another look at his difficult middle school years.
July 13, 2025
Thanks to NetGalley, Damian Alexander, and Lerner Publishing Group for the digital copy of this book; I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Absolutely Everything does a great job of showing what it’s like to enter middle school and be overwhelmed. It’s hard for Marcella to juggle all these new changes. She forgets a lot of things, even though she tries to remember. She puts off assignments and then forgets about it. She just thinks that she’s not ready for 6th grade and its faster pace.
I am the mother of four children diagnosed with ADHD. I’ve seen how tweens and teens try hard to keep up with everything that’s happening. In a time of great change (increased assignments, changing rooms every hour, changing friendships), executive function is critical. Yet, some kids don’t have that ability. Some of these problems started in middle school, and some when they entered high school. Marcella is struggling in many places, just like my kiddos.
It’s great to see how Marcella’s outlook changes once she finds out that this is a very common problem for kids. She has the support of her two dads, the teachers, and the administration of her school. After her dads bring her to a psychologist, who diagnoses ADHD (Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder), things begin to change. Marcella learns different tools to use, like color-coded tabs and binders. She begins to regain her confidence.
The artwork was good. I appreciated how the artist tried to show how Marcella felt. This was done not just with text, but with the illustrations, too. I loved the bold colors throughout.
Absolutely Everything does a great job of showing what it’s like to enter middle school and be overwhelmed. It’s hard for Marcella to juggle all these new changes. She forgets a lot of things, even though she tries to remember. She puts off assignments and then forgets about it. She just thinks that she’s not ready for 6th grade and its faster pace.
I am the mother of four children diagnosed with ADHD. I’ve seen how tweens and teens try hard to keep up with everything that’s happening. In a time of great change (increased assignments, changing rooms every hour, changing friendships), executive function is critical. Yet, some kids don’t have that ability. Some of these problems started in middle school, and some when they entered high school. Marcella is struggling in many places, just like my kiddos.
It’s great to see how Marcella’s outlook changes once she finds out that this is a very common problem for kids. She has the support of her two dads, the teachers, and the administration of her school. After her dads bring her to a psychologist, who diagnoses ADHD (Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder), things begin to change. Marcella learns different tools to use, like color-coded tabs and binders. She begins to regain her confidence.
The artwork was good. I appreciated how the artist tried to show how Marcella felt. This was done not just with text, but with the illustrations, too. I loved the bold colors throughout.
May 28, 2025
Marcella has just started sixth grade, but can’t get it together. She’s overwhelmed, distracted, forgetful, and stressed. She loves English and art, but struggles in math and social studies. Marcella has a BFF, Jen, but Jen is beginning to hang out with other girls, and Marcella feels left out. Her dads decide to move from their apartment to another one across the hall, which gives Marcella something else to deal with. Her thoughts get crowded, and her self-talk is negative, but she doesn’t know why or how to stop it. Only when she paints does she feel like herself.
Once her dads find out she’s struggling thanks to one of her teachers, they bring her to a psychologist, where Marcella is diagnosed with ADHD, attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder. That’s when she begins to feel better, using color-coding her assignments to help her plan her time, and she begins to feel more confident and like herself again.
This graphic novel gives examples of life with ADHD: self-talk, overwhelming thoughts, distractions, and feeling stupid. The author has firsthand experience with ADHD, and he shows this not only in his text but also in his illustrations. The art is vibrant and bold in color. The drawings let us see what Marcella feels when she gets overwhelmed. The scratched-out words, getting lost in her thoughts, it’s all there. Link to complete review: https://ysbookreviews.wordpress.com/2...
Once her dads find out she’s struggling thanks to one of her teachers, they bring her to a psychologist, where Marcella is diagnosed with ADHD, attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder. That’s when she begins to feel better, using color-coding her assignments to help her plan her time, and she begins to feel more confident and like herself again.
This graphic novel gives examples of life with ADHD: self-talk, overwhelming thoughts, distractions, and feeling stupid. The author has firsthand experience with ADHD, and he shows this not only in his text but also in his illustrations. The art is vibrant and bold in color. The drawings let us see what Marcella feels when she gets overwhelmed. The scratched-out words, getting lost in her thoughts, it’s all there. Link to complete review: https://ysbookreviews.wordpress.com/2...
June 15, 2025
Marcella Dwyer-Hoffman has just started middle school. So many changes! New friends. New school. Trying to memorize her class schedule. Moving into a different apartment with her 2 dads. Losing her childhood BFF. It’s just all too overwhelming. Marcella can’t handle all the changes, all the constant chatter and noises she hears during her classes to the point where it becomes a major distraction. The distractions also enter her life at home where rather than focusing on a big school project, she feels she needs to match up her pairs of socks, clean up her room (admittedly, uncommon for children and teens), and re-read her favorite book series. But why can’t she concentrate? Why is she doing so poorly in school? Why do these changes upset her so? Why does she feel like such a disappointment to everyone? Why can’t she understand why she is always upset and sad? Absolutely everything is taking its toll on Marcella.
After having just read another graphic novel of a child who is neurodivergent, I found this one significantly more understandable as it is geared towards the elementary and middle school-aged audience. It illustrates the child’s despair and confusion when they realize they are having difficulties with school, social settings, and life in general, but have no clue why that is. A child who reads this graphic novel will gather a better understanding of their ADHD diagnosis and discover ways to cope.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for a review copy.
After having just read another graphic novel of a child who is neurodivergent, I found this one significantly more understandable as it is geared towards the elementary and middle school-aged audience. It illustrates the child’s despair and confusion when they realize they are having difficulties with school, social settings, and life in general, but have no clue why that is. A child who reads this graphic novel will gather a better understanding of their ADHD diagnosis and discover ways to cope.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for a review copy.
May 25, 2025
Marcella just started 6th grade, and already, things are going south. The bus? Homework? A move? Friends growing apart? It's all too much! She finds that she has trouble keeping track of everything that goes on despite her best efforts, and she doesn't know why. Is something just wrong with her?
This comic is a sweet coming of age story of a girl with undiagnosed ADHD. As someone who didn't get diagnosed until adulthood, I found a lot of the content relatable. My favorite part was a quote from Marcella where, in reaction to other's thinking, she finally had a handle on things, she thought, "Sure. I'm on track. But I feel like a train is coming towards me." This line hit me like, well, a train. It described exactly how I often felt as a child.
The comic's art quality varied throughout. In the beginning, I felt like the characters were stiff with repetitive expressions that left me wondering if their face was frozen that way. People's heads felt shoved into panels where just showing the item being discussed would have been more effective. However, by the end, these problems no longer show up. The comic was loose and flowed easily from one panel to the next. The characters felt more lifelike and dynamic.
This comic is a sweet coming of age story of a girl with undiagnosed ADHD. As someone who didn't get diagnosed until adulthood, I found a lot of the content relatable. My favorite part was a quote from Marcella where, in reaction to other's thinking, she finally had a handle on things, she thought, "Sure. I'm on track. But I feel like a train is coming towards me." This line hit me like, well, a train. It described exactly how I often felt as a child.
The comic's art quality varied throughout. In the beginning, I felt like the characters were stiff with repetitive expressions that left me wondering if their face was frozen that way. People's heads felt shoved into panels where just showing the item being discussed would have been more effective. However, by the end, these problems no longer show up. The comic was loose and flowed easily from one panel to the next. The characters felt more lifelike and dynamic.
May 15, 2025
** ARC Review **
Absolutely Everything by Damian Alexander is a bright, engaging graphic novel that instantly grabs readers' attention with its attractive colors and expressive illustrations. The artwork doesn’t just add visual appeal—it also plays a big role in helping readers understand the main character, Marcella. Marcella has ADHD and often feels overwhelmed, and the way Alexander uses speech bubbles to show how she “zones out” is both creative and powerful. Readers get a firsthand look at how distracting sounds and small annoyances can make it hard for her to focus, which will resonate with many young people who have similar experiences.
This book also offers important and inclusive representation. Marcella has two dads, and their loving and supportive relationship is woven naturally into the story, providing positive LGBTQ family visibility. Through humor, heart, and honest storytelling, Absolutely Everything helps readers better understand themselves and others—whether they’re navigating ADHD, growing up with a unique family, or just trying to make sense of the world. It's a great addition to any middle school library.
Absolutely Everything by Damian Alexander is a bright, engaging graphic novel that instantly grabs readers' attention with its attractive colors and expressive illustrations. The artwork doesn’t just add visual appeal—it also plays a big role in helping readers understand the main character, Marcella. Marcella has ADHD and often feels overwhelmed, and the way Alexander uses speech bubbles to show how she “zones out” is both creative and powerful. Readers get a firsthand look at how distracting sounds and small annoyances can make it hard for her to focus, which will resonate with many young people who have similar experiences.
This book also offers important and inclusive representation. Marcella has two dads, and their loving and supportive relationship is woven naturally into the story, providing positive LGBTQ family visibility. Through humor, heart, and honest storytelling, Absolutely Everything helps readers better understand themselves and others—whether they’re navigating ADHD, growing up with a unique family, or just trying to make sense of the world. It's a great addition to any middle school library.
May 26, 2025
Thank you to the publisher and author for providing me with an ARC of this book. The thoughts and opinions in this review are entirely my own.
Absolutely Everything is about a young girl, Marcella, who just started middle school. She finds everything much more overwhelming than before, and her struggles make her think of herself as someone not as good as others. She frequently forgets assignments, dates, even though she tries her very best to remember. She also spaces out when people talk to or around her, getting lost in her thoughts instead.
First of all, I really appreciate how this book was written. Marcella's life isn't perfect, even after she finds out she has ADHD and takes steps to manage it. I've had a few friends who have ADHD, either diagnosed or just suspected by parents, and they do act a lot like Marcella. Everything they've told me about how overwhelmed they find things, and how hard they try to keep up with all that's going on -- this book described life as a kid with ADHD perfectly.
The plot and storyline is about what you'd expect for a middle-grade graphic novel. Most of the setting takes place at Marcella's school and in her house. Marcella deals with several things at a time -- increased assignments, moving to a new apartment, friend/social troubles, and, more importantly, discovering how her brain works and how she can embrace herself fully.
I felt like the ending was phrased really well -- not as a definite, "and they lived happily ever after" kind of ending, but more of a hopeful ending. Things may not get much better, but at least Marcella knows how to handle them now. There are still as many school assignments as ever, and it hasn't exactly gotten easier to be friends, or to get used to a new apartment; but now, Marcella has the tools and mindset that are perfect for all those tasks.
Content: Clean. It's perfectly suitable for middle-grade readers. There are no curse words, explicit scenes, or violent scenes. Also, Marcella has two dads and no mom living with them, but I don't think LGBT+ plays a big part in the story other than just the fact that she has two dads instead of a mom and a dad. I don't really like reading LGBT+ stuff, but in this instance I was willing to let it slide because it wasn't a huge part of the plot.
Absolutely Everything is about a young girl, Marcella, who just started middle school. She finds everything much more overwhelming than before, and her struggles make her think of herself as someone not as good as others. She frequently forgets assignments, dates, even though she tries her very best to remember. She also spaces out when people talk to or around her, getting lost in her thoughts instead.
First of all, I really appreciate how this book was written. Marcella's life isn't perfect, even after she finds out she has ADHD and takes steps to manage it. I've had a few friends who have ADHD, either diagnosed or just suspected by parents, and they do act a lot like Marcella. Everything they've told me about how overwhelmed they find things, and how hard they try to keep up with all that's going on -- this book described life as a kid with ADHD perfectly.
The plot and storyline is about what you'd expect for a middle-grade graphic novel. Most of the setting takes place at Marcella's school and in her house. Marcella deals with several things at a time -- increased assignments, moving to a new apartment, friend/social troubles, and, more importantly, discovering how her brain works and how she can embrace herself fully.
I felt like the ending was phrased really well -- not as a definite, "and they lived happily ever after" kind of ending, but more of a hopeful ending. Things may not get much better, but at least Marcella knows how to handle them now. There are still as many school assignments as ever, and it hasn't exactly gotten easier to be friends, or to get used to a new apartment; but now, Marcella has the tools and mindset that are perfect for all those tasks.
Content: Clean. It's perfectly suitable for middle-grade readers. There are no curse words, explicit scenes, or violent scenes. Also, Marcella has two dads and no mom living with them, but I don't think LGBT+ plays a big part in the story other than just the fact that she has two dads instead of a mom and a dad. I don't really like reading LGBT+ stuff, but in this instance I was willing to let it slide because it wasn't a huge part of the plot.
June 6, 2025
At first glance, Absolutely Everything seemed like another middle-grade graphic novel about friendship shifts and growing pains. But as I kept reading, I began to feel something deeper building underneath the surface. The writing is quietly powerful—never overly dramatic, but grounded in the kind of emotional truth that slowly sneaks up on you.
What hit hardest was Marcella’s internal confusion. That sense of not knowing why things feel off, why it’s suddenly hard to focus or keep up while the rest of the world just seems to be moving on—those moments are handled with striking honesty. I could feel the tension, the overwhelm, the self-doubt creeping in.
The art is vibrant and expressive—especially during moments of emotional overwhelm—and adds texture to Marcella’s world. I absolutely loved how the author intentionally left some panels without dialogue, allowing the silence to carry the emotional weight. Those quiet moments — a look, a pause, a lingering scene — were some of the loudest in impact.
Highly recommended!
What hit hardest was Marcella’s internal confusion. That sense of not knowing why things feel off, why it’s suddenly hard to focus or keep up while the rest of the world just seems to be moving on—those moments are handled with striking honesty. I could feel the tension, the overwhelm, the self-doubt creeping in.
The art is vibrant and expressive—especially during moments of emotional overwhelm—and adds texture to Marcella’s world. I absolutely loved how the author intentionally left some panels without dialogue, allowing the silence to carry the emotional weight. Those quiet moments — a look, a pause, a lingering scene — were some of the loudest in impact.
Highly recommended!
June 26, 2025
Starting middle school is tough! Marcella is dealing with change, being overwhelmed, and not being able to concentrate. She deals with school starting too early in the morning, not being able to focus on people talking to her or school projects, friendship changes and not wanting to paint anymore even though she used to love it. The book does a great job showing her growing frustration in the illustrations even without words. After dealing with too much and breaking down, Marcella learns that she has ADHD. Finding that out helps her understand why things become too much for her to focus. I think it was realistic that it took awhile for teachers and even Marcella's dads to figure out things were not going well for her. I like that her dads figured out ways for her to stay organized and on task. The author’s note at the end was nice and explained the character and how it related to him growing up. I think the book approaches the topics of ADHD, being overwhelmed and change in a good way. Many kids will be able to relate to this coming of age story.
July 10, 2025
Thank you to Lerner Publishing Group for letting me read an ARC of this book through NetGalley!
Absolutely Everything
Overall Rating: ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ (3/5) or 6.64/10 overall
Characters - 6
Atmosphere - 7
Writing - 7
Plot - 6
Intrigue - 7
Logic - 7
Enjoyment - 6.5
Overall Thoughts:
This book was pretty average in my opinion. I was interested to read this since I enjoyed this author's other book, Other Boys. Unfortunately, this one wasn't as interesting to me. Nothing in particular stood out as super original and the plot was pretty basic. I think I enjoyed his memoir more because I could tell that he put a lot of heart into it. Other Boys also had more moments of surprise and suspense, even if some of the story was enhanced for dramatic purposes, it felt realistic and relatable. There were certainly moments in Absolutely Everything where I did relate to Marcella, but I didn't feel as invested in her story because it felt a lot more cookie cutter. Overall, still an enjoyable read but I was hoping for a bit more. 😔
Absolutely Everything
Overall Rating: ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ (3/5) or 6.64/10 overall
Characters - 6
Atmosphere - 7
Writing - 7
Plot - 6
Intrigue - 7
Logic - 7
Enjoyment - 6.5
Overall Thoughts:
This book was pretty average in my opinion. I was interested to read this since I enjoyed this author's other book, Other Boys. Unfortunately, this one wasn't as interesting to me. Nothing in particular stood out as super original and the plot was pretty basic. I think I enjoyed his memoir more because I could tell that he put a lot of heart into it. Other Boys also had more moments of surprise and suspense, even if some of the story was enhanced for dramatic purposes, it felt realistic and relatable. There were certainly moments in Absolutely Everything where I did relate to Marcella, but I didn't feel as invested in her story because it felt a lot more cookie cutter. Overall, still an enjoyable read but I was hoping for a bit more. 😔
July 11, 2025
*I received a free ARC from the publisher through NetGalley in exchange for my honest review*
This is a great book for younger readers who feel that no one understands what they are dealing with as they navigate both growing up. Following Marcella's story may also help children understand or put a name to what they themselves are experiencing related to ADHD. I think this also provides more information to parents about how ADHD can impact their child in both the home and school settings. So often it is seen as either not paying attention or not being able to stay still, but the truth is that ADHD impacts so many aspects of life. I think this book also offers an important reminder that even children who grow up in very supportive families can have trouble expressing their thoughts and feelings to their parents. And maybe younger readers can see how sometimes having the difficult conversation is what brings about positive change. I would recommend this book to classroom and school libraries!
This is a great book for younger readers who feel that no one understands what they are dealing with as they navigate both growing up. Following Marcella's story may also help children understand or put a name to what they themselves are experiencing related to ADHD. I think this also provides more information to parents about how ADHD can impact their child in both the home and school settings. So often it is seen as either not paying attention or not being able to stay still, but the truth is that ADHD impacts so many aspects of life. I think this book also offers an important reminder that even children who grow up in very supportive families can have trouble expressing their thoughts and feelings to their parents. And maybe younger readers can see how sometimes having the difficult conversation is what brings about positive change. I would recommend this book to classroom and school libraries!
August 9, 2025
Marcella used to crush school and friendships, but now sixth grade, with its changing rooms and schedules, increased homework, and changing friendships seems like too much to manage, especially when absolutely everything is changing, even her dads' decision to move to a new apartment. As Marcella struggles to understand what is going on with her, competing voices in her head tell her she is a great friend, a bad friend, a good student, a bad student, and more. She is missing assignments and forgetting to study for tests. Marcella's problems come to a head after the move and she isn't ready for a personal essay assignment. Fortunately, she is able to talk with her dads, who take her to get help. Although Marcella's problems don't magically vanish, she is able to be more organized and manage her ADHD brain, to diminish her anxiety and begin to feel better about where she is heading in life. Marcella's story is told with authenticity and compassion and reminds us that we never really completely understand another person's struggles until we ask and they let us in.
June 5, 2025
Graphic Novel
I received an electronic ARC from Lerner Publishing Group through NetGalley.
Alexander captures how it feels to start middle school and not be able to keep up. Readers see Marcella struggle with assignments and schedules and friends. Though it's painful at times, readers will connect with her and the other characters as they navigate sixth grade. I appreciate how involved her parents were and that they sought help when one of her teachers called them. However, I also felt they were so caught up in their own lives and the move that they missed some obvious ways she was in trouble. The author treated the ADHD diagnosis in a matter of fact manner and the counselor offered coping skills and methods to figure out planning for the school day. We even see one of her friendships heal. I love the ending where she figures out what makes her happy and brings her peace. A definite must for school libraries.
I received an electronic ARC from Lerner Publishing Group through NetGalley.
Alexander captures how it feels to start middle school and not be able to keep up. Readers see Marcella struggle with assignments and schedules and friends. Though it's painful at times, readers will connect with her and the other characters as they navigate sixth grade. I appreciate how involved her parents were and that they sought help when one of her teachers called them. However, I also felt they were so caught up in their own lives and the move that they missed some obvious ways she was in trouble. The author treated the ADHD diagnosis in a matter of fact manner and the counselor offered coping skills and methods to figure out planning for the school day. We even see one of her friendships heal. I love the ending where she figures out what makes her happy and brings her peace. A definite must for school libraries.
June 5, 2025
A new MG graphic novel by Damian Alexander.
🧠
Marcella has been struggling lately. Sixth grade seems to be harder for her than everyone else. She’s always late, forgets her homework, doesn’t hear her name when it’s called in class, and seems to always be distracted. Add her bestie having new friends of her own and her parents wanting to move apartments—it’s all too much for Marcella!
😣
I was such a huge fan of Alexander’s graphic memoir Other Boys and nominated it for the Maverick GN reading list for Texas so when I saw he had a new #book coming out, I snapped it up! I can’t wait to get this into my middle school library because I see this with so many of my incoming sixth graders and even my seventh graders who have added sports and other extra curriculars into their life. Very relatable! This title releases September 9!
CW: ADHD
3.5 ⭐️
🧠
Marcella has been struggling lately. Sixth grade seems to be harder for her than everyone else. She’s always late, forgets her homework, doesn’t hear her name when it’s called in class, and seems to always be distracted. Add her bestie having new friends of her own and her parents wanting to move apartments—it’s all too much for Marcella!
😣
I was such a huge fan of Alexander’s graphic memoir Other Boys and nominated it for the Maverick GN reading list for Texas so when I saw he had a new #book coming out, I snapped it up! I can’t wait to get this into my middle school library because I see this with so many of my incoming sixth graders and even my seventh graders who have added sports and other extra curriculars into their life. Very relatable! This title releases September 9!
CW: ADHD
3.5 ⭐️
June 24, 2025
Thank you to Netgalley for the free arc!
This graphic novel does a great job of showing what it feels like for a six grade girl with unmanaged and undiagnosed ADHD. It affects every aspect of her life-- her school work, her friendships, and her home life. I'm confused though what time period it is supposed to take place in. There is much diversity in her friend group in terms of races , genders, and other disability types like autism. Her parents are two dads. However, when she is diagnosed she has never heard of ADHD. It is hard to believe that in the present day, a middle schooler would have never heard of ADHD. While the author does a good job of portraying how ADHD affects a middle schooler based on their own experiences growing up, it seems very unrealistic that the main character has never heard of ADHD.
This graphic novel does a great job of showing what it feels like for a six grade girl with unmanaged and undiagnosed ADHD. It affects every aspect of her life-- her school work, her friendships, and her home life. I'm confused though what time period it is supposed to take place in. There is much diversity in her friend group in terms of races , genders, and other disability types like autism. Her parents are two dads. However, when she is diagnosed she has never heard of ADHD. It is hard to believe that in the present day, a middle schooler would have never heard of ADHD. While the author does a good job of portraying how ADHD affects a middle schooler based on their own experiences growing up, it seems very unrealistic that the main character has never heard of ADHD.
August 19, 2025
Marcella has started sixth grade, and lately it seems like a LOT. She keeps forgetting her homework or getting distracted while doing it, and too many things are changing! Her dads are moving them into a new apartment and her best friend is hanging out with new people. How is she going to survive this year?
There are a lot of kid comic books out there about ADHD and I think this is one of the ones that handled it best, or at least felt the most relatable to me. Marcella gets distracted when there are too many noises or stuck in her own head, or gets caught up deep cleaning her room instead of doing her homework (all things that I've done). The cast features a bunch of different types of families with different living situations, which makes the story feel that more believable. I think this one will be really helpful for kids, and now I have to check out the rest of Damien's work.
There are a lot of kid comic books out there about ADHD and I think this is one of the ones that handled it best, or at least felt the most relatable to me. Marcella gets distracted when there are too many noises or stuck in her own head, or gets caught up deep cleaning her room instead of doing her homework (all things that I've done). The cast features a bunch of different types of families with different living situations, which makes the story feel that more believable. I think this one will be really helpful for kids, and now I have to check out the rest of Damien's work.
August 19, 2025
Marcella is just your average 6th grader. Middle school means new obstacles to overcome. Between all the changes, including a new schedule to keep track of, her bestie getting new friends, and moving, this would be too much for anyone, let alone a 12-year-old. Marcella finds it difficult to balance all these scary changes, which leaves her feeling overwhelmed and anxious. Follow this kiddo’s journey through middle school. This one would be good for any new 6th graders and their parents.
#ThxNetGalley #DamianAlexander #AbsolutelyEverything
Merged review:
Marcella is just your average 6th grader. Middle school means new obstacles to overcome. Between all the changes, including a new schedule to keep track of, her bestie getting new friends, and moving, this would be too much for anyone, let alone a 12-year-old. Marcella finds it difficult to balance all these scary changes, which leaves her feeling overwhelmed and anxious. Follow this kiddo’s journey through middle school. This one would be good for any new 6th graders and their parents.
#ThxNetGalley #DamianAlexander #AbsolutelyEverything
#ThxNetGalley #DamianAlexander #AbsolutelyEverything
Merged review:
Marcella is just your average 6th grader. Middle school means new obstacles to overcome. Between all the changes, including a new schedule to keep track of, her bestie getting new friends, and moving, this would be too much for anyone, let alone a 12-year-old. Marcella finds it difficult to balance all these scary changes, which leaves her feeling overwhelmed and anxious. Follow this kiddo’s journey through middle school. This one would be good for any new 6th graders and their parents.
#ThxNetGalley #DamianAlexander #AbsolutelyEverything
May 29, 2025
What a complex yet accessible and relatable look at the transition into sixth grade! While the story itself isn't centered around ADHD, it drastically affects all of the ways the main character navigates the many new changes in her life. At that age, even the smallest of changes feels dramatic and overwhelming. With her studies increasing in difficulty, her friend group's priorities shifting, and new routines being forced upon her, Marcella feels like she's getting left behind whilst everyone else is growing up. I loved her arc of growing into her own person and accepting help once she finally admitted that she needed it. The art style was a bit inconsistent, but usually the expressions were on point.
Thanks to NetGalley and Lerner Publishing Group for the arc!
Thanks to NetGalley and Lerner Publishing Group for the arc!
December 9, 2025
As a special educator, I really enjoyed this book and the representation of a child learning how to navigate their way through life with ADHD. I felt that the book did a great job of building scenes and the dialogue felt genuine/significant. I also can't express enough how much I love Jonah!! As far as supporting side characters go, he's up there with my top favorites. My only critique is that I felt the end of the book wrapped up too quickly. The story building was fantastic and I was very invested, only for it to wrap up and end pretty abruptly in the last few pages. I wanted more! I hope to read more from this author.
June 16, 2025
I loved this book. It felt like a window into my neurospicy brain. Loud environments that completely derail me without bugging others. The rumba cleaning as you flit from project to project without finishing something. The trouble with deadlines and appointments.
A solid middle grade graphic novel that covers middle school friendships, changes and challenges. Loved the wide spread representation, the visual way ADHD overstimulation was represented, and the growth of the characters.
Thank you to NetGalley and Lerner Publishing Group for a digital ARC. All thoughts are my own.
A solid middle grade graphic novel that covers middle school friendships, changes and challenges. Loved the wide spread representation, the visual way ADHD overstimulation was represented, and the growth of the characters.
Thank you to NetGalley and Lerner Publishing Group for a digital ARC. All thoughts are my own.
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