Slip by Marika McCoola and Aatmaja Panya

Most of my reviews are for middle-grade readers, but this book is for young adults.

What worked:

In the opening pages, Jade learns that her best friend Phoebe has tried to commit suicide, so readers know this isn’t a light-hearted graphic novel. Jade’s unable to talk to Phoebe during her hospital stay, so the story focuses on Jade’s struggles to understand what’s happening. She’s frustrated with their inability to communicate and feels some guilt that she might have missed signs of her friend’s depression. The isolation at the camp makes it difficult for her to create meaningful ceramics and to develop relationships with the other campers.

The story has a supernatural twist to it, as Jade discovers she can use fire to reflect with Phoebe’s spirit. She’s not speaking directly with her friend, but the image shares ideas Jade needs to hear. She also learns the wood-burning kiln used to fire her creations has more dangerous consequences. For some reason, Jade’s clay cat becomes animated and lashes out at her. It remains elusive for much of the book and becomes especially vicious as her emotions are in turmoil.

Jade’s emotional and mental well-being is at the forefront of the plot and is a catalyst for the events. The campers are all specially selected, and one of them will win a scholarship to a prestigious art school. That pressure is compounded due to Jade’s lack of self-confidence. She compares herself to the phenomenal pieces done by others, and she’s on edge toward the approaching days when her mentor and other campers critique what she’s done. Phoebe’s issues just add to the stress. Then, another girl expresses a romantic interest in Jade, and Jade’s not sure how to respond. The idea appeals to her, but her relationship with her best friend Phoebe confuses her emotions.

What didn’t work as well:

Jade spends most of the book at an art camp, and the characters frequently discuss art-related concepts. Jade’s thoughts are otherwise dominated by Phoebe’s attempted suicide. Consequently, the book may not appeal to readers uninterested in art talk or trying to understand suicide.

The Final Verdict:

This book is for mature readers due to the serious topics of suicide and sexuality, and it includes mild profanity. The story is interesting and compelling, but it may not have wide appeal to general readers. It may be a book that kids should read even though they may find it more challenging to make personal connections.