ALL TOGETHER NOW

Bina wants a band, not a boyfriend: Is that so wrong?

In this follow-up to All Summer Long (2018), Bina, now in eighth grade, has formed a band with new-girl Darcy and aloof prodigy Enzo. When Enzo and Darcy start dating, Bina finds herself dumped by her band mates, who reorganize the group as a duo. Additionally, her neighbor and BFF, Austin, fresh from a breakup with his long-distance girlfriend, now seems to like like her; could her oldest friend become her boyfriend? Everywhere she turns, it seems that everyone is concerned with only one thing—dating—whereas Bina swoons solely for music. Bina feels she must present herself a certain way to find acceptance. Wanting something different from her peers causes her anxiety, and she struggles to be true to herself and her friends as opportunities swirl around her. Bina’s smart, likable, and familiar, and her coming-of-age fears are palpably engaging as she learns that romance need not be romantic. The story is written and drawn by Larson; colorists Sycamore and Edwards add a sophisticated two-toned, muted rose-gold scheme. Larson has a wonderfully sharp eye for her characters, including a range of skin tones, sexual orientations, and body types. Aftermatter includes Larson’s explanation of her artistic process and is sure to inspire budding artists. Bina presents as mixed-race, though it’s not explicitly stated; her dad presents White, and her mom has brown skin.

Altogether perfect.