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Inbetweens: A Graphic Novel
A new tween graphic novel by bestselling author Faith Erin Hicks. Perfect for fans of Sweet Valley Twins and Ride On!
Twin sisters Ash and Sloane are headed to animation camp―where their courage, drive, and sisterly bond will be put to the test!
Twin sisters Sloane and Ash are two peas in a pod, and they do everything together: watch movies, attend classes, and most importantly, draw! So when the summer animation classes of their dreams are about to start, they can barely contain their excitement!
Well…Ash is excited but Sloane is surprised to find she isn’t as jubilant about it, which makes no sense, since she loves art. Meanwhile, Ash discovers that just because you love something, doesn’t mean you’ll automatically be good at it, and she struggles under the weight of her own expectations and those of her teacher’s. Soon, the trials of challenging classwork and new friendships drive a wedge between the twins. Can their bond survive the summer?
Twin sisters Ash and Sloane are headed to animation camp―where their courage, drive, and sisterly bond will be put to the test!
Twin sisters Sloane and Ash are two peas in a pod, and they do everything together: watch movies, attend classes, and most importantly, draw! So when the summer animation classes of their dreams are about to start, they can barely contain their excitement!
Well…Ash is excited but Sloane is surprised to find she isn’t as jubilant about it, which makes no sense, since she loves art. Meanwhile, Ash discovers that just because you love something, doesn’t mean you’ll automatically be good at it, and she struggles under the weight of her own expectations and those of her teacher’s. Soon, the trials of challenging classwork and new friendships drive a wedge between the twins. Can their bond survive the summer?
240 pages, Paperback
First published March 31, 2026
About the author
Faith Erin Hicks
124 books1,657 followersBorn in the wilds of British Columbia, the young Faith frolicked among the Sasquatch native to the province before moving to Ontario at age five. There she was homeschooled with her three brothers, and developed an unnatural passion for galloping around on horseback, though never without a proper helmet (because you only get one skull). After twenty years of suffering through Ontario’s obscenely hot summers, she migrated east, and now lives beside the other ocean in Halifax, Nova Scotia. She worked in animation for a bit, and now draws comics full time. She’s not sure how that happened either.
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March 31, 2026Inbetweens is out in bookstores tomorrow! It is my 16th (I think??) graphic novel. It is about 2 sisters, Ash & Sloane, who attend an intensive animation summer camp and discover that their dream of becoming animators might not be everything they thought it would be. Inbetweens is inspired by my experiences at a competitive animation college, both good & bad. I hope readers enjoy this book! Give it to the nerdy art or animation obsessed kid in your life.
August 5, 2025
4.5⭐️; From the moment I saw the cover, I had a feeling I’d love this book. The illustrations are absolutely stunning, and I especially enjoyed the moments where the characters broke out of their panels—it made the visuals feel dynamic and alive. The story itself was equally engaging. Even though I went in knowing nothing about animation, I came away feeling surprisingly informed. The author balances teaching and storytelling really well, and I appreciated how she explored the challenges of turning a hobby into something more serious. The twin dynamic was a standout—they were opposites in many ways, but their bond felt sincere and relatable. I also really liked how the narrative brought up the reality of sexism in animation. It’s handled in a subtle but eye-opening way, challenging the assumption that a creative field is automatically inclusive. The side characters were super fun, too.
That said, I do wish the side characters had been a bit more fleshed out. With so many themes to juggle, it makes sense they didn’t evolve as much, but it’s still something I noticed. Despite that, I genuinely loved this read and will absolutely be watching for whatever the author does next. This book feels like a fresh and important addition to the shelves, and I’m excited for it to find its readers. Big thanks to NetGalley, the publisher, and the author for this ARC—it was a joy to dive into.
That said, I do wish the side characters had been a bit more fleshed out. With so many themes to juggle, it makes sense they didn’t evolve as much, but it’s still something I noticed. Despite that, I genuinely loved this read and will absolutely be watching for whatever the author does next. This book feels like a fresh and important addition to the shelves, and I’m excited for it to find its readers. Big thanks to NetGalley, the publisher, and the author for this ARC—it was a joy to dive into.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
E ARC available through Netgalley
In 1999, twins Sloane and Ash are excited to attend a seven week animation summer camp at Ormidale College. The two have been obsessed with animation since a trip to Disney when they were young, and they have worked on various projects, like a comic book about themselves. Ash is SUPER excited to go, especially since she will get to meet her idol, animator Douglas Frye, who worked on her favorite film, Monstrous. Ash is always anxious about first days, and is worried that she won't make friends. Most of the participants are male, but the two meet Nisha, an excellent animator, and Cameron, who loves to draw backgrounds. There are a variety of activities and projects, although things do not go smoothly. Nisha's work is always dismissed by Frye, and Ash's work is criticized to the point where she loses motivation. Sloane, for a change, is the more social twin, hanging out with Nisha and renting Studio Ghibli videos. Ash throws herself into her work, and is devastated when Frye tells her that maybe animation isn't the right course for her. Sloane begins to realize that while she loves drawing, making it her work takes the joy out of it. Ash realizes with the help of another teacher that she shouldn't let one person's opinion make her stop doing what she loves.
Strengths: While this isn't a straight memoir, it is based on the Hick's (Ride On) own experience with an animation camp. The girls have distinct personalities but are clearly good friends as well as twins, and this was a fun vicarious summer experience, even though there are some problems consistent with the current cultural zeitgeist. I'm not sure how much progress has been made in the art world concerning women; I hadn't realized that this was similar to the treatment of women in tech fields. There are enough details about drawing to make budding artists happy, and I enjoyed learning about Canadian film initiatives. This ended on a happy note, which is always good to see.
Weaknesses: Both girls were drawn with freckles across their noses and under their eyes, but there were also black lines almost like football eye black that distracted me. There didn't seem to be a lot of details other than current films (and the video store!) that would settle this story in 1999, but that might be because the world doesn't seem that different from the 1990s to me!
What I really think: This is a good choice for readers who enjoyed Doodles From the Boogie Down, Doucet's Art Club, or Telgemeier and McCloud's The Cartoonists Club: A Graphic Novel
https://msyinglingreads.blogspot.com/...
https://msyinglingreads.blogspot.com/...
https://msyinglingreads.blogspot.com/...
https://msyinglingreads.blogspot.com/...
In 1999, twins Sloane and Ash are excited to attend a seven week animation summer camp at Ormidale College. The two have been obsessed with animation since a trip to Disney when they were young, and they have worked on various projects, like a comic book about themselves. Ash is SUPER excited to go, especially since she will get to meet her idol, animator Douglas Frye, who worked on her favorite film, Monstrous. Ash is always anxious about first days, and is worried that she won't make friends. Most of the participants are male, but the two meet Nisha, an excellent animator, and Cameron, who loves to draw backgrounds. There are a variety of activities and projects, although things do not go smoothly. Nisha's work is always dismissed by Frye, and Ash's work is criticized to the point where she loses motivation. Sloane, for a change, is the more social twin, hanging out with Nisha and renting Studio Ghibli videos. Ash throws herself into her work, and is devastated when Frye tells her that maybe animation isn't the right course for her. Sloane begins to realize that while she loves drawing, making it her work takes the joy out of it. Ash realizes with the help of another teacher that she shouldn't let one person's opinion make her stop doing what she loves.
Strengths: While this isn't a straight memoir, it is based on the Hick's (Ride On) own experience with an animation camp. The girls have distinct personalities but are clearly good friends as well as twins, and this was a fun vicarious summer experience, even though there are some problems consistent with the current cultural zeitgeist. I'm not sure how much progress has been made in the art world concerning women; I hadn't realized that this was similar to the treatment of women in tech fields. There are enough details about drawing to make budding artists happy, and I enjoyed learning about Canadian film initiatives. This ended on a happy note, which is always good to see.
Weaknesses: Both girls were drawn with freckles across their noses and under their eyes, but there were also black lines almost like football eye black that distracted me. There didn't seem to be a lot of details other than current films (and the video store!) that would settle this story in 1999, but that might be because the world doesn't seem that different from the 1990s to me!
What I really think: This is a good choice for readers who enjoyed Doodles From the Boogie Down, Doucet's Art Club, or Telgemeier and McCloud's The Cartoonists Club: A Graphic Novel
https://msyinglingreads.blogspot.com/...
https://msyinglingreads.blogspot.com/...
https://msyinglingreads.blogspot.com/...
https://msyinglingreads.blogspot.com/...
August 31, 2025
A MG graphic novel by the great @faitherinhicks
✍️
It’s 1999 and twin sisters Ash and Sloan have both been admitted to animation camp for the summer. Both love to draw and have been obsessed with animating movies since they went to Disney World as kids. But when they get there, they both have very different experiences and realize that while art is a love for them both, they might not follow the same path as each other or as they once thought.
🖌️
I love everything Hicks writes and this was no exception. The artistry is some of my favorite in the GN community and the fact that this book centers around becoming a professional artist was so surreal to see how it starts to where it ends up. This entire novel was joy and inclusiveness and really shined a light on the sexism and racism that can be embedded in any industry, even now. Fans of the graphic novels Art Club and Twins will love this one when it releases March 31!
CW: racism, sexism, dementia
✍️
It’s 1999 and twin sisters Ash and Sloan have both been admitted to animation camp for the summer. Both love to draw and have been obsessed with animating movies since they went to Disney World as kids. But when they get there, they both have very different experiences and realize that while art is a love for them both, they might not follow the same path as each other or as they once thought.
🖌️
I love everything Hicks writes and this was no exception. The artistry is some of my favorite in the GN community and the fact that this book centers around becoming a professional artist was so surreal to see how it starts to where it ends up. This entire novel was joy and inclusiveness and really shined a light on the sexism and racism that can be embedded in any industry, even now. Fans of the graphic novels Art Club and Twins will love this one when it releases March 31!
CW: racism, sexism, dementia
November 6, 2025
I loved this, as I do almost everything I read from Faith Erin Hicks. It shows so much, the excitement of reaching your goal, worrying you might still not be good enough, realizing it actually might not be what you want to do with your life, dealing with people who put your work down, etc. and does it in a very relatable way.
Thanks to Netgalley and Macmillan Publishers for the opportunity to read an advance copy
Thanks to Netgalley and Macmillan Publishers for the opportunity to read an advance copy
May 9, 2026
3.5
Good for a children’s graphic novel
Good for a children’s graphic novel
September 22, 2025
4.5 stars
This is a fantastic graphic novel packed full of themes and motifs that will easily speak to and engage both middle grade and young adult audiences...and let's be real. The rest of us, too!
Ash and Sloane are siblings, and they are spending their summer doing something their peers cannot believe: opting for more school! In this case, they'll be attending an exclusive animation program where they'll continue to hone their skills and passions. Before the session begins, it's clear that both characters have different relationships to art and to their reasons for pursuing it. This passtime is a foundational connecting point between them, so more seasoned readers will know immediately that both characters' futures are at stake, and their relationship might be to some degree also.
While the sibling relationship is at the forefront, I LOVE what Hicks does with the secondary characters. It's very easy to establish utter respect and aggressive loathing respectively for the teachers, full devotion to some of the classmates, and absolute heartbreak over one character's family member. How Hicks accomplishes this is a real testament to the power of the genre. The words are meaningful, but these strong emotions show up through the interplay between text and images. That is expertly accomplished here.
Another highlight? Representation, which is always important, but maybe much more so now than in the recent past. Readers are likely to make assumptions about Ash especially in direct comparison to Sloane, but it's the small, intentional details that really feature who Ash is. There are a lot of readers who will feel very seen by observing how some of these characters are NOT seen and how others are bizarrely promoted. Hicks addresses these issues explicitly at times, but it's the implicit showing versus telling that really hammers in the meaningfulness of this full package.
While I have limited but positive experience with this author, I have a lot of experience with First Second, and I'm consistently grateful for the attention this publisher pays to very specific writers and artists, characters, and themes. This is an incredibly successful collab between all parties, and I can't wait to recommend this to my students with hearty enthusiasm.
*Special thanks to NetGalley and First Second for this arc, which I received in exchange for an honest review. The opinions expressed here are my own.
This is a fantastic graphic novel packed full of themes and motifs that will easily speak to and engage both middle grade and young adult audiences...and let's be real. The rest of us, too!
Ash and Sloane are siblings, and they are spending their summer doing something their peers cannot believe: opting for more school! In this case, they'll be attending an exclusive animation program where they'll continue to hone their skills and passions. Before the session begins, it's clear that both characters have different relationships to art and to their reasons for pursuing it. This passtime is a foundational connecting point between them, so more seasoned readers will know immediately that both characters' futures are at stake, and their relationship might be to some degree also.
While the sibling relationship is at the forefront, I LOVE what Hicks does with the secondary characters. It's very easy to establish utter respect and aggressive loathing respectively for the teachers, full devotion to some of the classmates, and absolute heartbreak over one character's family member. How Hicks accomplishes this is a real testament to the power of the genre. The words are meaningful, but these strong emotions show up through the interplay between text and images. That is expertly accomplished here.
Another highlight? Representation, which is always important, but maybe much more so now than in the recent past. Readers are likely to make assumptions about Ash especially in direct comparison to Sloane, but it's the small, intentional details that really feature who Ash is. There are a lot of readers who will feel very seen by observing how some of these characters are NOT seen and how others are bizarrely promoted. Hicks addresses these issues explicitly at times, but it's the implicit showing versus telling that really hammers in the meaningfulness of this full package.
While I have limited but positive experience with this author, I have a lot of experience with First Second, and I'm consistently grateful for the attention this publisher pays to very specific writers and artists, characters, and themes. This is an incredibly successful collab between all parties, and I can't wait to recommend this to my students with hearty enthusiasm.
*Special thanks to NetGalley and First Second for this arc, which I received in exchange for an honest review. The opinions expressed here are my own.
November 17, 2025
***Thank you to Netgalley and First Second for an e-arc of Inbetweens by Faith Erin Hicks! All thoughts are my own!***
In the summer of 1999, twin sisters, Ash and Sloane, go to Ormidale College for their prestigious animation camp. They do everything together are excited to accomplish this together to better their art.
This is the feel good, palette cleanser of a graphic novel I needed. I'm familiar with Faith Erin Hicks's art style, but I've never actually read one of her graphic novels. Her art is always stunning to me, but so legible. As much as this is a cute YA graphic novel, I feel like I actually walked away learning things about the animation industry that I didn't know before.
Our main characters are so different from each other, Ash being a social butterfly and Sloane being the wallflower, but they share their love for art and animation. I absolutely loved the message of this story. I loved the different references and inspiration in the graphic novel. I enjoyed the addition of the side characters and how they all help each other in the end.
I enjoyed the constructs that we were shown in the graphic novel from sexism and inclusivity in the animation industry, dealing with criticism, and maybe finding out you may not want your passion to be your career.
Inbetweens by Faith Erin Hicks is available March 31st, 2026! Thanks again to Netgalley and First Second for an e-arc!
In the summer of 1999, twin sisters, Ash and Sloane, go to Ormidale College for their prestigious animation camp. They do everything together are excited to accomplish this together to better their art.
This is the feel good, palette cleanser of a graphic novel I needed. I'm familiar with Faith Erin Hicks's art style, but I've never actually read one of her graphic novels. Her art is always stunning to me, but so legible. As much as this is a cute YA graphic novel, I feel like I actually walked away learning things about the animation industry that I didn't know before.
Our main characters are so different from each other, Ash being a social butterfly and Sloane being the wallflower, but they share their love for art and animation. I absolutely loved the message of this story. I loved the different references and inspiration in the graphic novel. I enjoyed the addition of the side characters and how they all help each other in the end.
I enjoyed the constructs that we were shown in the graphic novel from sexism and inclusivity in the animation industry, dealing with criticism, and maybe finding out you may not want your passion to be your career.
Inbetweens by Faith Erin Hicks is available March 31st, 2026! Thanks again to Netgalley and First Second for an e-arc!
April 25, 2026
4.5 stars.
When a pair of self-acknowledged “crazy art twins” earn the chance to attend Canada’s most prestigious animation school’s summer session, it is the realization of a shared dream. But dreams often throw unexpected curves. Richly-colored and patterned frames reveal the fourteen-year-old twins’ differences: dark-haired, boyish Ash’s vibrant energy and passion for animation, contrasted with red-haired, bohemian Sloane’s quieter introspection. The tough reality of pre-professional expectations, the obstacle of an unsympathetic mentor, and the forging of new friendships are shown in dynamic and varied panels that are a master class in cartoon and animé styles. The in-betweeness of middle-school growth and struggle is richly represented in a warm, humorous and satisfying story of siblings pursuing their passion and dealing with reality. Characters are white and Indian-Canadian. Review based on an ARC.
When a pair of self-acknowledged “crazy art twins” earn the chance to attend Canada’s most prestigious animation school’s summer session, it is the realization of a shared dream. But dreams often throw unexpected curves. Richly-colored and patterned frames reveal the fourteen-year-old twins’ differences: dark-haired, boyish Ash’s vibrant energy and passion for animation, contrasted with red-haired, bohemian Sloane’s quieter introspection. The tough reality of pre-professional expectations, the obstacle of an unsympathetic mentor, and the forging of new friendships are shown in dynamic and varied panels that are a master class in cartoon and animé styles. The in-betweeness of middle-school growth and struggle is richly represented in a warm, humorous and satisfying story of siblings pursuing their passion and dealing with reality. Characters are white and Indian-Canadian. Review based on an ARC.
August 23, 2025
Faith Erin Hicks is back with another gem! I'll always pick up the latest by Faith due to her stellar art style alone. I appreciate how consistent her style is between graphic novels, but with a slight upgrade every time. All of the characters feel unique but still so distinctly her. Inbetweens follows teen twins who enroll in an animation summer program of their dreams. It explores how the reality of living your dreams can be so vastly different and nuanced from what you've anticipated, as well as how difficult those unexpected complications can be to process. I did also really appreciate the slow realization of disappointment when your heroes do not live up to your expectations, that they're flawed and sometimes terrible people even though they make work you admire. Ultimately, as all Faith Erin Hicks graphic novels do, this one left me feeling super hopeful and cozy.
Thanks to NetGalley and First Second Books for the arc!
Thanks to NetGalley and First Second Books for the arc!
April 13, 2026
This was a confusing book. It seems aimed at middle-schoolers but it is absolutely not timeless or placeless. It is presumably on or after 1999. And the only animation that the characters know about is Disney and Sailor Moon and Pokemon. There was always more animation around then that. And there is a mixture of fact and fiction - more or less would have been better. We never really know what is going on with the star bad teacher. We do get the message that you work to be better at something, you don't go in expecting to be already great. I'm not sure if this would land with middle schoolers. The art and text are both good and the characters do seem real. 3.5 of 5
January 27, 2026
Students will really enjoy this book. Artists will really enjoy this book. Middle schoolers will really enjoy this book. I really enjoyed this book.
The dynamic between the twins was very realistically portrayed. The depth of emotion that can come at any age with the idea of a dream shifting or feeling unreachable was well captured. This will be a very relatable story for a lot of middle schoolers even if they are not artists. Hicks books already do well with middle schoolers, and this is my personal favorite one yet!
The dynamic between the twins was very realistically portrayed. The depth of emotion that can come at any age with the idea of a dream shifting or feeling unreachable was well captured. This will be a very relatable story for a lot of middle schoolers even if they are not artists. Hicks books already do well with middle schoolers, and this is my personal favorite one yet!
October 1, 2025
This was good! It was heavy on the topic of animation, which was only mildly interesting to me, but to a late elementary or middle schooler who was interested in art, I could see this resonating. I enjoyed Hicks’ artistic talent as this was a graphic novel, and I loved the twin main characters (especially having a fraternal twin sister myself!)
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
4.5- A graphic novel about twin sisters who take an animation course over the summer at a prestigious animation college. Of course they learn a few lessons along the way, about the animation industry, art, finding/restoring your passion, and hard work/talent. A must read for any young artist interested in animation and design.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Thank you to NetGalley for the ARC.
I generally really love Hicks' works. "Nothing Can Possibly Go Wrong" is one of my favorite graphic novels, and I really liked "Friends With Boys", "The Nameless City", "Pumpkinheads", "Superhero Girl", and "Hockey Girl Loves Drama Boy". I don't love them all equally: "Ride On", "Pumpkinheads" and "The War at Ellsmere" aren't at the top of my list for her works. But I do really love her art style and writing.
This book unfortunately sits closer to those of Hicks' work I think are enjoyable on their own but not things I'd reread. The art is lovely as always, and the narration is quite good. I think bias comes in here that I have my own sibling discomfort to unpack when it comes to the leads, and that made connecting with them quite difficult. It's not a constant thing: I can read plenty of stories with siblings just fine. I think the issue was the story being about sisters, which I always have trouble with. It sucks, because I think stories like this that tackle sexism (and racism, though Nisha was not a problem for me) in different industries are important. It's worse because I appreciate Hicks' ability to write other close-to-home issues. This one just didn't work out for some reason. But I think she wrote an enjoyable sibling relationship with great characters. I've met a number of twins in my life and these felt quite true to them.
There was also something really meaty missing from this one that Hicks' better works have. I don't know if it was the sibling issue that made it not as big to me as "Nothing Can Possibly Go Wrong" or "Hockey Girl Loves Drama Boy", but this just didn't feel as punchy as Hicks' other works. And that's fine. I don't think the story is small, exactly: it's about the futures of these very young animators exposing themselves to important opportunities and learning from big names in the field. But it feels small. And that's not usually a problem either: I like very gentle stories with low stakes (even though the stakes are arguably not low here just because it's not as dire as "The Nameless City"). Hicks is good at writing that, and making small things feel as important as they are. But the central plot just didn't matter as much to me. Maybe it's because too much time was spent focused on talking about movies I knew rather than developing the plot or exploring the art of animation or something. I don't know.
Overall, I feel mixed about this one, which is unfortunate because that's not how I usually feel about Hicks' works. I've bought "Nothing Can Possibly Go Wrong" multiple times, and I own a number of her other works. I don't know about this one, though. It's a very good graphic novel that I think a lot of art folks will appreciate, and it's a nice dig at people - including artsy people - who shit on anime in particular. I KNOW people like that guy who mocked anime for being ugly. And they are as foolish and small-minded and just racist, and I'm glad that attitude was confronted. And I really loved the . So if you likes Hicks' works, this is another pretty decent one, and I would recommend it on that front. If this is your first time reading her stuff and it doesn't wow you, I would highly recommend checking out some of her other works, as she's a great artist and writer.
I generally really love Hicks' works. "Nothing Can Possibly Go Wrong" is one of my favorite graphic novels, and I really liked "Friends With Boys", "The Nameless City", "Pumpkinheads", "Superhero Girl", and "Hockey Girl Loves Drama Boy". I don't love them all equally: "Ride On", "Pumpkinheads" and "The War at Ellsmere" aren't at the top of my list for her works. But I do really love her art style and writing.
This book unfortunately sits closer to those of Hicks' work I think are enjoyable on their own but not things I'd reread. The art is lovely as always, and the narration is quite good. I think bias comes in here that I have my own sibling discomfort to unpack when it comes to the leads, and that made connecting with them quite difficult. It's not a constant thing: I can read plenty of stories with siblings just fine. I think the issue was the story being about sisters, which I always have trouble with. It sucks, because I think stories like this that tackle sexism (and racism, though Nisha was not a problem for me) in different industries are important. It's worse because I appreciate Hicks' ability to write other close-to-home issues. This one just didn't work out for some reason. But I think she wrote an enjoyable sibling relationship with great characters. I've met a number of twins in my life and these felt quite true to them.
There was also something really meaty missing from this one that Hicks' better works have. I don't know if it was the sibling issue that made it not as big to me as "Nothing Can Possibly Go Wrong" or "Hockey Girl Loves Drama Boy", but this just didn't feel as punchy as Hicks' other works. And that's fine. I don't think the story is small, exactly: it's about the futures of these very young animators exposing themselves to important opportunities and learning from big names in the field. But it feels small. And that's not usually a problem either: I like very gentle stories with low stakes (even though the stakes are arguably not low here just because it's not as dire as "The Nameless City"). Hicks is good at writing that, and making small things feel as important as they are. But the central plot just didn't matter as much to me. Maybe it's because too much time was spent focused on talking about movies I knew rather than developing the plot or exploring the art of animation or something. I don't know.
Overall, I feel mixed about this one, which is unfortunate because that's not how I usually feel about Hicks' works. I've bought "Nothing Can Possibly Go Wrong" multiple times, and I own a number of her other works. I don't know about this one, though. It's a very good graphic novel that I think a lot of art folks will appreciate, and it's a nice dig at people - including artsy people - who shit on anime in particular. I KNOW people like that guy who mocked anime for being ugly. And they are as foolish and small-minded and just racist, and I'm glad that attitude was confronted. And I really loved the . So if you likes Hicks' works, this is another pretty decent one, and I would recommend it on that front. If this is your first time reading her stuff and it doesn't wow you, I would highly recommend checking out some of her other works, as she's a great artist and writer.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Twins Ash and Sloane have always loved drawing together. They’ve said for years that they are both going to be animators and work on the Disney movies they love. The summer between 8th grade and 9th grade they get into the prestigious Ormdale College summer animation course. The instructor is a legend in the business who created one of Ash’s favorite animated films. Ash is psyched for the summer and the next step in her dreams, while Sloane seems more reluctant. But will this course be everything they hoped? Or will it challenge them in unexpected ways and test the strength of their dreams?
This appears to be set in Canada in the early 1990s. Computer graphics isn’t even a discussion at any point, and they do all the animation by hand. The real animated movies referenced were big in the 80s and 90s. And clothing styles seem to be from that era. Ash and Sloane have opposite personalities. Ash is the extrovert, Sloane is the introvert. Ash is gung ho on everything, and Sloane takes her time to make decisions. It also appears that Ash is a perfectionist, and Sloane is ok with good enough. They make some good friends at this weeks-long, overnight course which I liked seeing. The other kids and they learn a lot about themselves and their art over the span of the weeks, which is great. And they learn some resilience and how to figure out if animation is what they really want to do. Unfortunately, they experience a bit of misogyny and/or racism from the instructor who praises a work until he finds out a Indian Canadian girl did it. It felt like it was more a comment on her gender (and probably the author/illustrator commenting on such issues in the field historically and currently…you just have to read Nathalia Holt’s The Queens of Animation about women animators in Disney to get a glimpse of the uphill climb women have faced in this field). I wish there were more resolution to that plot line, but it did feel realistic for the time and setting in how it was dealt with. Overall, this is an encouragement to artistic readers to do what they love for their own enjoyment and to not worry about what anyone else thinks. And to make sure how much you love something before you dive into making it your job; exploring it like the twins did at a summer camp is a fantastic idea to test the waters. (It will also likely get readers to go watch or read Kiki’s Delivery Service since the characters talk so much about it.)
Notes on content [based on the eARC]:
Language: None
Sexual content: None
Violence: None
Ethnic diversity: The twins are white Canadian and so is their friend Cameron, their friend Nisha is Indian Canadian. The instructors are white Canadian.
LGBTQ+ content: Cameron at the very end introduces Ash and Sloane to his 2 dads at the end of the course.
Other: See above about the passive aggressive misogyny/racism.
I received an ARC of this title from the publisher through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
This appears to be set in Canada in the early 1990s. Computer graphics isn’t even a discussion at any point, and they do all the animation by hand. The real animated movies referenced were big in the 80s and 90s. And clothing styles seem to be from that era. Ash and Sloane have opposite personalities. Ash is the extrovert, Sloane is the introvert. Ash is gung ho on everything, and Sloane takes her time to make decisions. It also appears that Ash is a perfectionist, and Sloane is ok with good enough. They make some good friends at this weeks-long, overnight course which I liked seeing. The other kids and they learn a lot about themselves and their art over the span of the weeks, which is great. And they learn some resilience and how to figure out if animation is what they really want to do. Unfortunately, they experience a bit of misogyny and/or racism from the instructor who praises a work until he finds out a Indian Canadian girl did it. It felt like it was more a comment on her gender (and probably the author/illustrator commenting on such issues in the field historically and currently…you just have to read Nathalia Holt’s The Queens of Animation about women animators in Disney to get a glimpse of the uphill climb women have faced in this field). I wish there were more resolution to that plot line, but it did feel realistic for the time and setting in how it was dealt with. Overall, this is an encouragement to artistic readers to do what they love for their own enjoyment and to not worry about what anyone else thinks. And to make sure how much you love something before you dive into making it your job; exploring it like the twins did at a summer camp is a fantastic idea to test the waters. (It will also likely get readers to go watch or read Kiki’s Delivery Service since the characters talk so much about it.)
Notes on content [based on the eARC]:
Language: None
Sexual content: None
Violence: None
Ethnic diversity: The twins are white Canadian and so is their friend Cameron, their friend Nisha is Indian Canadian. The instructors are white Canadian.
LGBTQ+ content: Cameron at the very end introduces Ash and Sloane to his 2 dads at the end of the course.
Other: See above about the passive aggressive misogyny/racism.
I received an ARC of this title from the publisher through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
September 8, 2025
"Inbetweens" is the term used for the moments of animation between the big movements. It's a good title for the story of sisters Ash and Sloane, who are accepted to an illustrious (pun intended) Ormidale animation program in the 1990's. Ash is more than excited to attend, while Sloane seems subdued in comparison to her sibling's enthusiasm. The graphic novel takes place over the course of their studies, finishing in a group project of a student film.
In terms of strengths, you can tell that Hicks knows her stuff and a lot of this seems to come from her history. The animation homework pieces are still used in animation classes today, and the student body accurately reflects 1990's animation nerds perfectly. The side characters of Cameron and Nisha are fleshed out personalities and inhibit a real world dynamic with the twins. Although it almost creates a problem because Nisha's story is far more engaging than Sloane or Ash's, once readers understand her backstory. Her inclusion in the graphic novel is what gives Sloane her big character arc moment, and puts Ash's frustration at not being immediately amazing at animation in a nuanced context.
I will point out a continued annoyance I have of pop culture books putting the actual title of famous stories alongside knockoff titles, which creates a dissonance as to the reality of the world. Hicks does this too, and it creates a confusing set up since animation titles play a central part in the story, with "Kiki's Delivery Service" being a huge creative revelation for Sloane and one of the strongest sequences of the graphic novel. But it's more than a little frustrating to have a world where students name drop Disney's "The Great Mouse Detective" and Ormidale have a poster of "Mystery Mice" with the same character design. Same thing goes for Don Bluth's "All Dogs Go to Heaven" poster but with the title "All Good Boys." The part where becomes harder to ignore as a fun "Easter Egg" experience is the character Douglas Frye, who creates the "Inbetweens"-only movie, "Monstrous" but it looks exactly like Brad Bird's "Iron Giant." And considering Douglas Frye is a bad teacher who shows misogynistic favoritism to the boy animators, it leaves me wondering if Hicks left those knock off titles in to give some legal plausibility for any critical discussions.
Overall, the strengths of "Inbetweens" comes from the inbetween moments, small discussions between the sisters, and the slight frustrations of schoolwork that challenges you. There is no action sequence or huge dramatic moment to point to in terms of interest. In fact, the ending feels a little bit of a let down since the graphic novel's theme about collaboration and creativity is achieved in the student project, and Sloane/Ash's rebellion against Douglas Frye's institutionalized artwork seems to detract from that rather than strengthen their positions. I also would have liked more of the siblings dealing with their newer relationship dynamic rather than that. There was a lot of really great material left untapped in the story (Nisha in particular) that keeps it from being an amazing 5-star review, but it's a great graphic novel to give to kids interested in sibling dynamics and creative pursuits like animation.
In terms of strengths, you can tell that Hicks knows her stuff and a lot of this seems to come from her history. The animation homework pieces are still used in animation classes today, and the student body accurately reflects 1990's animation nerds perfectly. The side characters of Cameron and Nisha are fleshed out personalities and inhibit a real world dynamic with the twins. Although it almost creates a problem because Nisha's story is far more engaging than Sloane or Ash's, once readers understand her backstory. Her inclusion in the graphic novel is what gives Sloane her big character arc moment, and puts Ash's frustration at not being immediately amazing at animation in a nuanced context.
I will point out a continued annoyance I have of pop culture books putting the actual title of famous stories alongside knockoff titles, which creates a dissonance as to the reality of the world. Hicks does this too, and it creates a confusing set up since animation titles play a central part in the story, with "Kiki's Delivery Service" being a huge creative revelation for Sloane and one of the strongest sequences of the graphic novel. But it's more than a little frustrating to have a world where students name drop Disney's "The Great Mouse Detective" and Ormidale have a poster of "Mystery Mice" with the same character design. Same thing goes for Don Bluth's "All Dogs Go to Heaven" poster but with the title "All Good Boys." The part where becomes harder to ignore as a fun "Easter Egg" experience is the character Douglas Frye, who creates the "Inbetweens"-only movie, "Monstrous" but it looks exactly like Brad Bird's "Iron Giant." And considering Douglas Frye is a bad teacher who shows misogynistic favoritism to the boy animators, it leaves me wondering if Hicks left those knock off titles in to give some legal plausibility for any critical discussions.
Overall, the strengths of "Inbetweens" comes from the inbetween moments, small discussions between the sisters, and the slight frustrations of schoolwork that challenges you. There is no action sequence or huge dramatic moment to point to in terms of interest. In fact, the ending feels a little bit of a let down since the graphic novel's theme about collaboration and creativity is achieved in the student project, and Sloane/Ash's rebellion against Douglas Frye's institutionalized artwork seems to detract from that rather than strengthen their positions. I also would have liked more of the siblings dealing with their newer relationship dynamic rather than that. There was a lot of really great material left untapped in the story (Nisha in particular) that keeps it from being an amazing 5-star review, but it's a great graphic novel to give to kids interested in sibling dynamics and creative pursuits like animation.
July 14, 2025
Inbetweens was absolutely breathtaking, from the art, to the relatable characters, to the realistic storytelling it featured. This is a must-have for the shelves of all comic lovers, teachers, parents, and people who love art and animation.
The story follows two twin sisters (Ash and Sloane) who get to attend a summer animation intensive. Throughout the story, the twins learn how racism and sexism can be embedded at the core of animation culture, how your heroes can sometimes let you down, and why loving your art is more important than simply working for a big-name brand. Themes from the comic center around friendship, sisterhood, overcoming self-doubt, and pursuing one's goals for the right reasons.
The artwork in this was stunning, and I wish it were a full series! At my middle school and high school, almost everyone went through a phase where they wanted to be an animator or work for a comic strip company. This story will reach back through time and touch everyone who once held the dream of working in an industry that inspired their passion and nurtured their joy. It is wholesome and sweet in every way! The story will also teach children (and remind adults) that art is nuanced and unique to each artist. Many cultures have broad art forms that not everyone will appreciate, but they still deserve respect. Part of being an artist is learning to see things for the unique beauties that they are-- Not just judging art by one cookie-cutter standard.
Thank you so much to NetGalley and the publishers at First Second Books for sending me an ARC of Inbetweens! If readers want a patch of light in a dark world, this comic offers a joyous reprieve from the monotonous siren-songs of obligation and perfectionism, and gently reminds us how to stay in touch with our passions, instead.
The story follows two twin sisters (Ash and Sloane) who get to attend a summer animation intensive. Throughout the story, the twins learn how racism and sexism can be embedded at the core of animation culture, how your heroes can sometimes let you down, and why loving your art is more important than simply working for a big-name brand. Themes from the comic center around friendship, sisterhood, overcoming self-doubt, and pursuing one's goals for the right reasons.
The artwork in this was stunning, and I wish it were a full series! At my middle school and high school, almost everyone went through a phase where they wanted to be an animator or work for a comic strip company. This story will reach back through time and touch everyone who once held the dream of working in an industry that inspired their passion and nurtured their joy. It is wholesome and sweet in every way! The story will also teach children (and remind adults) that art is nuanced and unique to each artist. Many cultures have broad art forms that not everyone will appreciate, but they still deserve respect. Part of being an artist is learning to see things for the unique beauties that they are-- Not just judging art by one cookie-cutter standard.
Thank you so much to NetGalley and the publishers at First Second Books for sending me an ARC of Inbetweens! If readers want a patch of light in a dark world, this comic offers a joyous reprieve from the monotonous siren-songs of obligation and perfectionism, and gently reminds us how to stay in touch with our passions, instead.
July 1, 2025
Yes, please!
TL:DR
5 stars
Appropriate for 3rd Grade +
Primary appeal to 5th Grade +
Fans of Telgemeier, Twins by Varian Johnson
Faith Erin Hicks does it again. Set in the late 1990s, this story about twins going to art school hits all the right notes. Sisters going in different directions, but yearning to stay connected. Finding of friends, finding of self. Don't meet your heroes. Find new heroes.
It also illuminates the Canadian Animation scene in a really interesting light, and highlights the need for smaller companies to make sure that more than just the voice of Disney is heard.
But all that might sound really dry and boring. This book is anything but. Fast paced without feeling rushed. Beautiful examples of different styles of art...
The scenes where the artist intertwines her characters with classic scenes from Studio Ghibli films are MAGIC.
Really great mini bibliography of animation.
This would be great for a school animation club or graphic novel book group. Or a crossover of the two.
Although I would happily encourage an interested 3rd grader to read this - none of the typically objectionable topics are here - it is the type of book that older student will get different messages from it. And it will really appeal to 5th grade+. And although it is based in reality and does NOT involve a magical boarding school, it feels very much like a classic "going off to boarding school" story in ways.
Loved it.
---
Thank you to NetGalley for providing an advance digital copy of this book for review. All opinions are my own.
KC
School Librarian for 3rd - 5th Grade
Storyteller
Lover of cheese & tiny boxes
TL:DR
5 stars
Appropriate for 3rd Grade +
Primary appeal to 5th Grade +
Fans of Telgemeier, Twins by Varian Johnson
Faith Erin Hicks does it again. Set in the late 1990s, this story about twins going to art school hits all the right notes. Sisters going in different directions, but yearning to stay connected. Finding of friends, finding of self. Don't meet your heroes. Find new heroes.
It also illuminates the Canadian Animation scene in a really interesting light, and highlights the need for smaller companies to make sure that more than just the voice of Disney is heard.
But all that might sound really dry and boring. This book is anything but. Fast paced without feeling rushed. Beautiful examples of different styles of art...
The scenes where the artist intertwines her characters with classic scenes from Studio Ghibli films are MAGIC.
Really great mini bibliography of animation.
This would be great for a school animation club or graphic novel book group. Or a crossover of the two.
Although I would happily encourage an interested 3rd grader to read this - none of the typically objectionable topics are here - it is the type of book that older student will get different messages from it. And it will really appeal to 5th grade+. And although it is based in reality and does NOT involve a magical boarding school, it feels very much like a classic "going off to boarding school" story in ways.
Loved it.
---
Thank you to NetGalley for providing an advance digital copy of this book for review. All opinions are my own.
KC
School Librarian for 3rd - 5th Grade
Storyteller
Lover of cheese & tiny boxes
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Faith Erin Hicks always writes a graphic that both breaks and heals my heart at the same time. Twins Sloane and Ash do everything together and love so many of the same things, including art and animation. When the summer animation camp accepts them, they are both excited. Camp, however, isn't everything either of them expects. Slone loves art but finds she likes to do it more just for herself and less for assignments and expectations. Ash loves the work she's doing but the artist she idolizes isn't supportive and Ash finds herself questioning everything she's ever loved about animation and art itself. Her own expectations feel crushing and why isn't her sister trying harder?! Inbetweens gives the reader a look at what preparing for just one part of an art career can look like and how the path you mind end up on can be better than the path you originally saw yourself on.
As a college graduate with 2 art degrees, this graphic was a big oof. I teared up a little when the artist Ash loves, really lets her down because he's just a pompous person. The artwork is just stunning and the kids gushing over Studio Ghibli films felt like I was watching them for the first time again. Kiki's Delivery Service is also my favorite of the Ghibli films, so I felt this novel deeply. Thanks Faith Erin Hicks, for taking a little stab at Disney, Art Professors who should guide students instead of lording over them, and finding one's path we didn't know we'd be great at. Amazing graphic novel with fantastic art!
As a college graduate with 2 art degrees, this graphic was a big oof. I teared up a little when the artist Ash loves, really lets her down because he's just a pompous person. The artwork is just stunning and the kids gushing over Studio Ghibli films felt like I was watching them for the first time again. Kiki's Delivery Service is also my favorite of the Ghibli films, so I felt this novel deeply. Thanks Faith Erin Hicks, for taking a little stab at Disney, Art Professors who should guide students instead of lording over them, and finding one's path we didn't know we'd be great at. Amazing graphic novel with fantastic art!
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Teen twin sisters Ash and Sloane have loved animation ever since they went on the magic animation ride at Disney World in 4th grade. Now their dream of learning classical animation at the prestigious Ormidale College for 7 weeks in the summer is an absolute dream come true. In addition, their legendary idol Douglas Frye, who previously worked for Disney and now has his own studio, will be their teacher. Ash is beyond excited and exuberant while Sloane is beyond anxious and underwhelmed; Ash the extrovert, Sloane the introvert; Ash is Susie Sunshine, Sloane is Debbie Downer. They are twins but have totally opposite personalities. One commonality is their intense passion for drawing and art. During the course of the story, the twins’ dreams of becoming animators shift in the ensuing weeks which places some strain between them. However, being their lifelong supporters of one another, you can only root for them both.
I have read many of this author’s graphic novels. I am not a fan of her artwork, just my personal taste. Her stories on the other hand are rich and full. The same applies to this graphic novel. I don’t care for the illustration style but I liked the unique story and the camaraderie between the bonded twin sisters. As a side note, I love the references to the Kiki’s Delivery Service movie (not the book) which plays a significant role in how the students at Ormidale College view animation and their future in animation and art.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for a review copy.
I have read many of this author’s graphic novels. I am not a fan of her artwork, just my personal taste. Her stories on the other hand are rich and full. The same applies to this graphic novel. I don’t care for the illustration style but I liked the unique story and the camaraderie between the bonded twin sisters. As a side note, I love the references to the Kiki’s Delivery Service movie (not the book) which plays a significant role in how the students at Ormidale College view animation and their future in animation and art.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for a review copy.
July 17, 2025
Starting in the 1930s and continuing probably at least up to WWII, or even the 1950s,, women weren’t allowed to be animators, because only men could animate. The women were hired to be the in-betweeners, and the painters. An in-betweener is the person who animates the character from keyframe to keyframe. Much harder work, actually. The point of all this is that the name of Faith Erin Hick’s newest graphic novel, is playing on this, because the two sisters are having do to animation, including the inbetweens, plus they are the age of tweens.
Both Sloane and Ash love drawing. And they are going to take intensive classes at a local university that teaches animation to young students. Plus their instructors are going to be professionals in the industry. What could possibly go wrong?
Never meet your heroes, is what goes wrong. The director of their favorite animated movies is one of the instructors, and he is a total jerk. Plus there are very few other girls in the classes.
The art is gorgeous. The story is very believable. Heartbreaking at times even, as the best stories are. I well know the feeling of having something you love stomped into the ground because an authority doesn’t like it. It is hard being an artist of any kind.
I also liked the animated movies suggested for further viewing.
All the stars.
Thanks to Netgalley for making this book available for an honest review. This book is being published on the 31st of March 2026.
Both Sloane and Ash love drawing. And they are going to take intensive classes at a local university that teaches animation to young students. Plus their instructors are going to be professionals in the industry. What could possibly go wrong?
Never meet your heroes, is what goes wrong. The director of their favorite animated movies is one of the instructors, and he is a total jerk. Plus there are very few other girls in the classes.
The art is gorgeous. The story is very believable. Heartbreaking at times even, as the best stories are. I well know the feeling of having something you love stomped into the ground because an authority doesn’t like it. It is hard being an artist of any kind.
I also liked the animated movies suggested for further viewing.
All the stars.
Thanks to Netgalley for making this book available for an honest review. This book is being published on the 31st of March 2026.
November 30, 2025
Faith Erin Hicks’ upcoming graphic novel Inbetweens is a heartfelt and nostalgic story about art, ambition, and the complications of sisterhood. Set in the summer of 1999, it’s the cusp of a new millennium but still firmly in the era of VHS tapes and hand-drawn animation. The story follows twin sisters Sloane and Ash as they enter the prestigious Ormidale College summer animation program, a place they’ve idolized for years.
But Inbetweens is far from a simple nostalgia trip. It’s a thoughtful look at the process of becoming an artist and how differently that journey can unfold, even for two people raised side by side. Ash struggles with the fundamentals of animation despite her passion. Sloane excels immediately but finds herself unsatisfied by the work. Hicks subtly explores the tension between natural ability and genuine fulfillment.
The introduction of a teacher who favors the male students further complicates the dynamics in the classroom, pushing the girls into uncomfortable realizations about gender, confidence, and who receives encouragement in creative spaces.
Visually, Inbetweens feels bold and full of motion. The late-night drawing scenes and the moments when the characters watch old anime movies have an energy that seems to jump off the page.
What ultimately makes Inbetweens shine is the relationship between the two twins and their growth. A perfect read for graphic novel-loving middle schoolers or middle school artists.
But Inbetweens is far from a simple nostalgia trip. It’s a thoughtful look at the process of becoming an artist and how differently that journey can unfold, even for two people raised side by side. Ash struggles with the fundamentals of animation despite her passion. Sloane excels immediately but finds herself unsatisfied by the work. Hicks subtly explores the tension between natural ability and genuine fulfillment.
The introduction of a teacher who favors the male students further complicates the dynamics in the classroom, pushing the girls into uncomfortable realizations about gender, confidence, and who receives encouragement in creative spaces.
Visually, Inbetweens feels bold and full of motion. The late-night drawing scenes and the moments when the characters watch old anime movies have an energy that seems to jump off the page.
What ultimately makes Inbetweens shine is the relationship between the two twins and their growth. A perfect read for graphic novel-loving middle schoolers or middle school artists.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the ARC in return for an honest, from-the-heart review.
Never meet your heroes. Or, do, and sometimes they will help you figure out the real you. That's how I feel about what happened in this book.
My Rambling Thoughts:
Douglas Fyre is exactly the character I expected him to be from the start and that shows the author knows what they're doing. The entire book was fantastic. The art was just so breathtaking in some places. I'm not someone who is into art like that, but for the people who are, this book will hit you in your soul. I did like the throwback to the 90s with this book, too, because it made me remember those days.
What Worked:
All of the characters. The growth from start to finish was fantastic. The artwork really just pops off the page. Honestly, all the way around this book was great.
What Didn’t Work:
I needed the "enemy" to get what was coming to them.
Emotional Impact:
Did I Cry? No
Did I Get Angry? No
Did I Run To My Wife And Tell Her To “Read This Now!”: No, but I will be 100% purchasing copies for my media center!
This Book Is For:
Those out there who believe they're not good enough. Those out there who want to be an artist.
⭐ Rating:
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
- Brock Seng -
Life is too short for re-reads and not DNFing “The Goldfinch”
Never meet your heroes. Or, do, and sometimes they will help you figure out the real you. That's how I feel about what happened in this book.
My Rambling Thoughts:
Douglas Fyre is exactly the character I expected him to be from the start and that shows the author knows what they're doing. The entire book was fantastic. The art was just so breathtaking in some places. I'm not someone who is into art like that, but for the people who are, this book will hit you in your soul. I did like the throwback to the 90s with this book, too, because it made me remember those days.
What Worked:
All of the characters. The growth from start to finish was fantastic. The artwork really just pops off the page. Honestly, all the way around this book was great.
What Didn’t Work:
I needed the "enemy" to get what was coming to them.
Emotional Impact:
Did I Cry? No
Did I Get Angry? No
Did I Run To My Wife And Tell Her To “Read This Now!”: No, but I will be 100% purchasing copies for my media center!
This Book Is For:
Those out there who believe they're not good enough. Those out there who want to be an artist.
⭐ Rating:
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
- Brock Seng -
Life is too short for re-reads and not DNFing “The Goldfinch”
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
I received an advanced copy from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
It’s the summer of 1999, and twin sisters Sloan and Ash are getting ready for animation camp. With a childhood of drawing and watching animation films together, this summer can either break or make them in so many different directions. Ash is excited to meet her hero, an animator who’s prickly and has an opinion that’s judgmental, making her question her artistic skills. Sloan begins to think differently about animation while making friends and seeing Kiki’s Delivery Service for the first time. Yet, could these twins overcome their obstacles in time for the end of the summer film showing?
Deeply impactful about the bonds of sisterhood growing up in the late nineties. As an older sister, growing up in the nineties, watching as many Studio Ghibli films as my two younger sisters and I could meant everything. Those first reactions from Sloan as she watched Kiki’s Delivery Service reminded me so much of my own childhood. Ash and Sloan’s sisterhood and twinhood are as special and unique as their different personalities. It was enjoyable reading about the ins and outs of animation, anime, and just the feeling of creating something new meant a lot as an aspiring writer. This graphic novel really hit the heart of what it meant as a kid in 1999, and the hope of regaining one’s “spark.”
It’s the summer of 1999, and twin sisters Sloan and Ash are getting ready for animation camp. With a childhood of drawing and watching animation films together, this summer can either break or make them in so many different directions. Ash is excited to meet her hero, an animator who’s prickly and has an opinion that’s judgmental, making her question her artistic skills. Sloan begins to think differently about animation while making friends and seeing Kiki’s Delivery Service for the first time. Yet, could these twins overcome their obstacles in time for the end of the summer film showing?
Deeply impactful about the bonds of sisterhood growing up in the late nineties. As an older sister, growing up in the nineties, watching as many Studio Ghibli films as my two younger sisters and I could meant everything. Those first reactions from Sloan as she watched Kiki’s Delivery Service reminded me so much of my own childhood. Ash and Sloan’s sisterhood and twinhood are as special and unique as their different personalities. It was enjoyable reading about the ins and outs of animation, anime, and just the feeling of creating something new meant a lot as an aspiring writer. This graphic novel really hit the heart of what it meant as a kid in 1999, and the hope of regaining one’s “spark.”
August 17, 2025
Thank you NetGalley, First Second Books, and Hicks for the e-ARC of Inbetweens.
I really enjoy books for middle grade students that focus on a niche career, but is wildly informative and supports students' understanding of what to do in the face of adversity.
Ash and Sloane, twin sisters, attend a prestigious and rigorous animation course at the local university. This summer course is taught by none other than the twins' heroes: professionals in the field. When one of the *star professors* says some offhanded and disparaging advice, I thought that the twins handled it well and showed a human response - becoming upset, confronting it quietly, and just letting it slide. Showing students that not everything has to end in confrontation is important, too. Handling these situations may happen, and their response is natural if that's how they wish to process.
I appreciated how this novel also showed various styles of animation, the process, history of female animators, and a varying demographics of people within the animation class and their families.
I do wish there was a bit more depth to the discrimination piece, especially with middle grade readers to emphasize the wrongness, but at the same time...it's thought provoking. Overall, I enjoyed the novel!
I really enjoy books for middle grade students that focus on a niche career, but is wildly informative and supports students' understanding of what to do in the face of adversity.
Ash and Sloane, twin sisters, attend a prestigious and rigorous animation course at the local university. This summer course is taught by none other than the twins' heroes: professionals in the field. When one of the *star professors* says some offhanded and disparaging advice, I thought that the twins handled it well and showed a human response - becoming upset, confronting it quietly, and just letting it slide. Showing students that not everything has to end in confrontation is important, too. Handling these situations may happen, and their response is natural if that's how they wish to process.
I appreciated how this novel also showed various styles of animation, the process, history of female animators, and a varying demographics of people within the animation class and their families.
I do wish there was a bit more depth to the discrimination piece, especially with middle grade readers to emphasize the wrongness, but at the same time...it's thought provoking. Overall, I enjoyed the novel!
August 28, 2025
Thanks so much to NetGalley & First Second Books for the early copy in exchange for an honest review.
Excellent graphic novel, Hicks strikes again with appealing to artsy teens!
It was very personal, bittersweet at times, but very well rounded in terms of character development.
I LOVED all the animation references and the details--also the sly "future" jokes such as a Frozen poster in the background when it didn't release until 14 years later. Hicks did a great job in fleshing out the world with little bits of animation history peppered throughout which I greatly appreciated as an animation fan.
I like how each of the kids use their strengths and weaknesses and work together. It was a very heartwarming message.
I also liked that there's always Those Guys that think they're better than everyone else in an art class and they never got a redemption or explanation for their behavior. Sometimes you just run into Those Guys in real life and have to ignore them!
Also side note, I will be recommending this title along with Drawn That Way by Elissa Sussman because they both talk about the animation industry and its promises and pitfalls. An excellent pairing for any teens interested in the animation industry--whether it'd be a personal interest or career interest.
Excellent graphic novel, Hicks strikes again with appealing to artsy teens!
It was very personal, bittersweet at times, but very well rounded in terms of character development.
I LOVED all the animation references and the details--also the sly "future" jokes such as a Frozen poster in the background when it didn't release until 14 years later. Hicks did a great job in fleshing out the world with little bits of animation history peppered throughout which I greatly appreciated as an animation fan.
I like how each of the kids use their strengths and weaknesses and work together. It was a very heartwarming message.
I also liked that there's always Those Guys that think they're better than everyone else in an art class and they never got a redemption or explanation for their behavior. Sometimes you just run into Those Guys in real life and have to ignore them!
Also side note, I will be recommending this title along with Drawn That Way by Elissa Sussman because they both talk about the animation industry and its promises and pitfalls. An excellent pairing for any teens interested in the animation industry--whether it'd be a personal interest or career interest.
March 25, 2026
Thanks to NetGalley for the e-ARC!
“Inbetweens” is a heartwarming middle-grade graphic novel about twin sisters, Ash and Sloane, whose love of animation is the one thing they share in common. The twins are accepted into a prestigious animation summer camp, where they are forced to confront their differences.
Faith Erin Hicks, illustrator of some “Avatar: The Last Airbender” comics, has shown a great range in her art style as well as merit as a storyteller. Every page is crafted with obvious love and attention. The world is lush and vibrant and jam-packed with references to the animation industry—Studio Ghibli, “Neon Genesis: Evangelion,” NFB, even “Nadia: The Secret of Blue Water.” The characters are likeable yet realistic middle schoolers, who all undergo a decent amount of character growth throughout the storyline.
“Inbetweens” would make a great gift for budding artists, both animators and non-animators. The story had little to teach me, which goes for the majority of middle-grade/YA graphic novels (but not all; see Mariko Tamaki), but I thoroughly enjoyed the read. I would recommend it to readers looking for a light-hearted and easy-going tale with charming art.
“Inbetweens” is a heartwarming middle-grade graphic novel about twin sisters, Ash and Sloane, whose love of animation is the one thing they share in common. The twins are accepted into a prestigious animation summer camp, where they are forced to confront their differences.
Faith Erin Hicks, illustrator of some “Avatar: The Last Airbender” comics, has shown a great range in her art style as well as merit as a storyteller. Every page is crafted with obvious love and attention. The world is lush and vibrant and jam-packed with references to the animation industry—Studio Ghibli, “Neon Genesis: Evangelion,” NFB, even “Nadia: The Secret of Blue Water.” The characters are likeable yet realistic middle schoolers, who all undergo a decent amount of character growth throughout the storyline.
“Inbetweens” would make a great gift for budding artists, both animators and non-animators. The story had little to teach me, which goes for the majority of middle-grade/YA graphic novels (but not all; see Mariko Tamaki), but I thoroughly enjoyed the read. I would recommend it to readers looking for a light-hearted and easy-going tale with charming art.
March 31, 2026
Ash and Sloane are twin sisters who share a passion for art. Ever since they rode the Magic of Animation Ride at Disney World, their dream has been to work on animation for Disney. After years of dreaming, they finally enrolled in a summer animation program to pursue their goal of becoming animators. Ash is thrilled about this opportunity, but Sloane feels a bit more timid and questions whether her creative spark might be meant for something else. Meanwhile, Ash is trying her hardest but growing frustrated because her animation teacher keeps telling her she isn’t good enough.
This book was so good that I devoured it in one sitting. I am not very experienced with animation, but this book made me want to learn. One thing I noticed was that the setting was set further back in time, as they didn't have access to modern technology. I also really enjoyed the art, especially the way the artist portrayed emotions. I loved both twins, but my favorite has to be Ash for her bright, intense personality.
Overall, I recommend this book to anyone who enjoys reading.
Happy Reading, Paige and Laly ❤️ 📚
Thank you, @netgalley and @mackidsbooks, for the complimentary ARC, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
This book was so good that I devoured it in one sitting. I am not very experienced with animation, but this book made me want to learn. One thing I noticed was that the setting was set further back in time, as they didn't have access to modern technology. I also really enjoyed the art, especially the way the artist portrayed emotions. I loved both twins, but my favorite has to be Ash for her bright, intense personality.
Overall, I recommend this book to anyone who enjoys reading.
Happy Reading, Paige and Laly ❤️ 📚
Thank you, @netgalley and @mackidsbooks, for the complimentary ARC, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
August 19, 2025
This is one the first times when I realize I'm no longer in the age demographic for the book I'm reading haha. Inbetweens is a very simple story that hits all the marks to tell you exactly what it is about: the trials and tribulations of being a young artist. However, it over-explains this message so many times just in case you miss it -- as it is spoken by so many characters, making them seem more like soapboxes rather than actual characters (Sloane takes the biggest hit, interestingly enough).
Because while I got the basic personalities from the cast, they never step out of their bubble (Ash, technically yes with her development but I found Nisha to be more interesting overall but we barely get anything from her.) It is hard for me to put into words, but the story really are focused on the beauty of animation (Studio Ghibli and Disney mainly, with only one standout) and why its important but doesn't spend time for is to care about its characters.
The art is wonderful as usual. But the plot felt thin to me. As if we needed more in between.
received as an ARC from NetGalley
Because while I got the basic personalities from the cast, they never step out of their bubble (Ash, technically yes with her development but I found Nisha to be more interesting overall but we barely get anything from her.) It is hard for me to put into words, but the story really are focused on the beauty of animation (Studio Ghibli and Disney mainly, with only one standout) and why its important but doesn't spend time for is to care about its characters.
The art is wonderful as usual. But the plot felt thin to me. As if we needed more in between.
received as an ARC from NetGalley
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