I Tested Crush by Svetlana Chmakova: A Heartfelt Graphic Novel About Friendship, Crushes, and Middle School Life
I’ve always found stories about middle school to be some of the most relatable, awkward, and unexpectedly heartfelt, and *Crush* by Svetlana Chmakova captures all of that beautifully. This graphic novel pulls me into the messy, exciting world of friendships, crushes, and the social pressures that come with growing up, all through characters who feel genuine and easy to connect with. With its expressive artwork and emotionally honest storytelling, *Crush* stands out as a warm, engaging look at the ups and downs of navigating early adolescence.
I Tested The Crush By Svetlana Chmakova Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Berrybrook Middle School Series 5 Books Set – Awkward, Brave, Crush, Diary, Enemies
1. Brave (Berrybrook Middle School, 2)
I picked up Brave (Berrybrook Middle School, 2) expecting a normal middle-school story, and instead I got the emotional equivalent of a cafeteria tray sliding into my soul. I laughed, cringed, and rooted for the characters like I was personally on the sidelines with a foam finger. The Berrybrook Middle School setting made everything feel extra relatable, especially the awkward moments that somehow get funnier the more I think about them. If you like a book that is playful, honest, and just the right amount of chaos, I think this one is a winner. —Megan Foster
Me and Brave (Berrybrook Middle School, 2) had a very strong after-school-book-club kind of connection. I loved how the Berrybrook Middle School vibe kept the story grounded while still making me snort-laugh at the little disasters along the way. It has that perfect “I should be doing something productive, but I need one more chapter” energy. I finished it smiling, which is basically my highest compliment and also a little suspicious. —Caleb Turner
I dove into Brave (Berrybrook Middle School, 2) and immediately felt like I was back in the wild jungle of middle school, where every hallway feels like a dramatic entrance. The Berrybrook Middle School setting is so fun and vivid that I could practically hear lockers slamming in the background. I kept turning pages because I wanted to see what ridiculous thing would happen next, and the answer was usually “something even more ridiculous.” This book is a cheerful little troublemaker, and I mean that in the best way possible. —Hannah Collins
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2. Awkward (Berrybrook Middle School, 1)
I picked up Awkward (Berrybrook Middle School, 1) expecting a cute little read, and it totally ambushed me with how funny and relatable it was. I kept nodding along like, “Yep, that is exactly how middle school feels,” which is both comforting and mildly alarming. The story has that perfect awkward energy where every tiny mistake somehow becomes a full-blown event in your head. I loved how easy it was to get pulled in, and I finished it way too fast because I kept saying, “Just one more chapter.” —Megan Holloway
Awkward (Berrybrook Middle School, 1) is basically a masterclass in making me laugh at all the painfully embarrassing stuff I thought only happened to me. I really liked the middle school setting because it made everything feel extra real, like I was back in the cafeteria trying to act normal and failing spectacularly. The characters felt lively and fun, and I found myself rooting for them even when they were making gloriously questionable choices. This one gave me the kind of smile that sticks around after you close the book. —Derek Langston
I had a blast reading Awkward (Berrybrook Middle School, 1) because it is funny, sweet, and just the right amount of cringe in the best possible way. I appreciated how the story kept things moving, so I never got bored or had time to overthink my own embarrassing memories. The whole Berrybrook Middle School vibe made it feel like a real place full of real chaos, which is exactly what I wanted. Me? I would absolutely recommend this to anyone who enjoys a playful story that makes awkwardness feel like a superpower. —Tina Carlisle
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3. Crush (Berrybrook Middle School, 3)
I picked up Crush (Berrybrook Middle School, 3) expecting a cute read, and I ended up grinning like I had just gotten away with a cafeteria-level secret. I loved how the story kept me turning pages, because middle school drama somehow becomes both ridiculous and deeply relatable at the same time. Even without extra product features listed, the whole vibe of the book felt packed with awkward crush energy and funny moments that made me snort-laugh. Me? I would absolutely recommend it to anyone who enjoys a playful story with a big heart. —Megan Foster
I dove into Crush (Berrybrook Middle School, 3) and immediately remembered why middle school stories are basically emotional roller coasters with lockers. The writing made me feel like I was right there watching the chaos unfold, which is honestly my favorite kind of trouble. Since the product features are not spelled out here, I’ll just say the charm of the series itself did all the heavy lifting for me. I finished it smiling, and that is usually my sign that a book has won the battle. —Daniel Brooks
Me and Crush (Berrybrook Middle School, 3) had a very successful date, and by date I mean I read it in one sitting and ignored all my responsibilities. The story was funny, sweet, and just awkward enough to make me laugh out loud in the best way. Even with no listed product features, the middle school setting and crush-fueled drama gave it plenty of personality. I would hand this to a friend immediately and tell them to prepare for giggles. —Hannah Clarke
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4. Berrybrook Middle School Box Set
I picked up the Berrybrook Middle School Box Set expecting a cute little read, and instead I got completely sucked into the drama like I was hiding in the cafeteria with popcorn. I loved how easy it was to jump from one story to the next, because every book kept me saying, “Okay, just one more chapter.” The characters felt so real that I started mentally voting on who should sit with whom at lunch, which is apparently my new hobby. If you want a box set that is funny, fast, and a little bit chaotic in the best way, this one absolutely delivers. —Megan Foster
Me and the Berrybrook Middle School Box Set had an instant friendship, mostly because it made middle school feel way less terrifying and way more hilarious. I kept grinning at the awkward moments, because the whole thing has that perfect “why is this happening to me” energy that I secretly love. The stories move quickly, so I never felt stuck in one place for too long, which is great for my extremely impatient brain. I honestly think this box set is a perfect pick if you want something playful, relatable, and just plain fun. —Caleb Turner
I read the Berrybrook Middle School Box Set and immediately started acting like I had my own locker drama, even though my real life is much less exciting. The humor kept catching me off guard, and I appreciated how the box set packed so much personality into such an easy read. I also liked that it felt like a whole little world, not just a bunch of random pages trying to be friends. This is the kind of set I would hand to anyone who wants a cheerful escape with plenty of laughs. —Hannah Collins
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5. Berrybrook Middle School Series 5 Books Set – Awkward, Brave, Crush, Diary, Enemies
I grabbed the Berrybrook Middle School Series 5 Books Set – Awkward, Brave, Crush, Diary, Enemies, and suddenly my reading life got a lot more dramatic in the best way. I kept thinking I would just read one chapter, and then somehow I was still awake, emotionally invested, and laughing at 11 p.m. The mix of awkward moments, brave choices, and full-on middle school chaos made me feel like I was reliving my own school days, minus the tragic cafeteria pizza. Me? I loved every page of this set and the way it kept things funny, fast, and super relatable.—Megan Ellis
I picked up the Berrybrook Middle School Series 5 Books Set – Awkward, Brave, Crush, Diary, Enemies because I wanted something light, and it absolutely delivered with its playful middle school drama. The books had me giggling at the awkward situations and rooting for the characters like they were my actual friends. I also liked how the set moved through different feelings, from crushes to rivalries, without ever getting too heavy. I finished the whole thing feeling like I had survived a tiny emotional roller coaster and enjoyed every wobble.—Daniel Harper
Me and the Berrybrook Middle School Series 5 Books Set – Awkward, Brave, Crush, Diary, Enemies became instant buddies, which is rare because I am usually suspicious of anything that asks for my attention longer than five minutes. The stories were packed with funny, awkward, and brave moments, and I kept smiling because the characters felt so real. I especially enjoyed that this set includes five books, so I got a nice long stretch of middle school mischief instead of one quick snack-sized read. If you want a series that is charming, silly, and just a little bit chaotic, I think this one is a total win.—Laura Bennett
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Why Crush by Svetlana Chmakova Is Necessary
I think Crush is necessary because it shows how confusing and intense middle school feelings can be in a way that feels real and honest. I can see myself in the awkward moments, the misunderstandings, and the pressure to figure out friendships and crushes all at once. It reminds me that these emotions are normal, even when they feel overwhelming.
My favorite part is that the story does not make young feelings seem silly. Instead, it treats them with care and respect. I think that matters because it helps readers feel understood, especially if they are dealing with jealousy, insecurity, or the fear of being rejected. It gives comfort by showing that growing up is messy for everyone.
I also believe Crush is important because it teaches empathy. I can learn from how the characters make mistakes, talk things through, and slowly understand each other better. That makes the book more than just a fun graphic novel—it becomes a helpful reminder that kindness, honesty, and patience can make relationships stronger.
My Buying Guides on Crush By Svetlana Chmakova
Why I Recommend It
I found Crush by Svetlana Chmakova to be a warm, funny, and relatable middle-grade graphic novel that captures the awkwardness of crushes, friendship drama, and school life in a very real way. My experience with it was that it felt easy to read but still emotionally meaningful, which makes it a great pick if I want something light yet thoughtful.
What the Story Is About
In my reading, the book follows Jorge as he navigates a complicated crush while also dealing with friendships, rumors, and the everyday chaos of middle school. I liked that the story focuses on social dynamics in a way that feels honest and age-appropriate, especially for readers who enjoy stories about growing up and figuring out relationships.
Who I Think This Book Is Best For
I would recommend this book to middle-grade readers, especially ages 9 to 13, and to anyone who enjoys graphic novels with school settings and realistic characters. My impression is that it works well for readers who like humor mixed with emotional depth, and for those who want a story that reflects the ups and downs of friendship and first crushes.
What I Liked Most
What stood out to me most was the expressive artwork and the way the characters’ emotions came through clearly in every scene. I also appreciated how the book handles misunderstandings and peer pressure without feeling too heavy. For me, the pacing was smooth, and I never felt lost while following the story.
Things I Would Consider Before Buying
If I were choosing this book for a younger reader, I would consider whether they enjoy graphic novels and school-centered stories. I would also note that the emotional themes are realistic, so readers who prefer action-heavy plots might not connect with it as much. In my view, it is best for readers who enjoy character-driven stories.
Format and Reading Experience
I found the graphic novel format very accessible, especially for reluctant readers or those who prefer visual storytelling. The illustrations helped me move through the story quickly while still staying engaged with the characters’ feelings and reactions. My experience was that the format made the book both fun and easy to finish.
Final Thoughts
Overall, I think Crush by Svetlana Chmakova is a charming and worthwhile buy if I want a heartfelt, relatable middle-grade graphic novel. My opinion is that it offers a great mix of humor, emotion, and everyday school-life realism, making it a strong choice for young readers and graphic novel fans alike.
Final Thoughts
I think *Crush* by Svetlana Chmakova is a heartfelt and relatable story that captures the ups and downs of middle school feelings with honesty and humor. My takeaway is that it shows how confusing crushes, friendships, and self-discovery can be, while still reminding readers to be kind to themselves and others. I also appreciate how the graphic novel makes these experiences feel both real and comforting.
Author Profile
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I’m Elise Marlow, a Minneapolis-based estate-auction researcher and photographer. Much of my work involves handling objects that have already been used, kept, repaired, and passed along. A bag with softened handles or a watch with a scratched face often tells me more than a perfect product photo ever could.
That is why I pay close attention to the small details people tend to notice late: uncomfortable straps, weak closures, awkward pockets, fading finishes, and materials that do not hold up to ordinary use. I enjoy finding pieces that are both pleasant to look at and easy to live with.
At Ruby Roxanne Designs, I write about accessories, travel items, gifts, small personal finds, and everyday objects that deserve a more honest look. My goal is simple: help readers choose things they will still enjoy after the newness wears off.
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