Wires Crossed written by Beth Fantaskey and illustrated by ONeill Jones is a graphic novel about the complicated friend dynamics that occur in middle and high school. The main character, Mia, has a passion for science. Every year she goes to a sleep-away science camp, where she gets to see her best friend, Tariq, who lives in a different state. Because she only gets to see him once a year, Mia is ecstatic when she learns that Tariq is moving to her town! When he arrives, however, she realizes he’s changed a lot since she last saw him. Unfortunately, Mia’s friend troubles don’t end there. There’s Addy, who tells Mia she needs to drop the science-nerd personality to fit in more, and Kinsey, whom Mia wants to be friends with but is afraid about her reputation. And then there’s Mia’s family, with her ant-obsessed brother, coupon-clipping mom, and sci-fi movie fan dad. When Mia’s science teacher tells her class about their school’s science contest, Mia and Tariq jump right in. Their team also includes Kinsey, the drawing and design wizard, and Evan, the comedic relief. Things are going better than ever for Mia, and she thinks she can keep her friendship with Tariq. However, rumors start to swirl that Kinsey and Tariq are more than friends and that Tariq asked Kinsey to the school dance, and Mia feels more disconnected from them than ever.
In Wires Crossed, the author does a fantastic job documenting the friendship dynamics that are constantly shifting in the teenage years. The book is lighthearted while conveying strong themes. The book inspires traits of friendship, creativity, perseverance, and being genuine to your true self. Mia represents being caught up in friend dynamics, while Kinsey represents being creative no matter what others think. Beth Fantaskey is known for her other book series, including the Jessica series. ONeill Jones has worked on many other graphic novels and comic strips, and they frequently draw short stories for publication on various sites.
Wires Crossed is a good read for anyone interested in friend dynamics through middle and high school. It is also a good story for anyone who likes science. If you enjoy Wires Crossed, you might enjoy similar books like Invisible Emmie by Terri Libenson and Smile by Raina Telgemeier.
