I Tested Crush by Svetlana Chmakova: A Heartfelt, Relatable Graphic Novel Review
I’ve always found that the best stories about middle school are the ones that feel painfully real, funny, and heartfelt all at once, and *Crush* by Svetlana Chmakova captures that balance beautifully. This graphic novel draws me in with its honest portrayal of friendship, awkward emotions, and the complicated excitement of figuring out how to connect with other people. Whether I’m revisiting the story or discovering it for the first time, *Crush* stands out as a warm, relatable look at the ups and downs of growing up, making it a title that continues to resonate with readers of all ages.
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 cute middle-school story, and then it promptly charmed me into grinning like a goof. I loved how the Berrybrook Middle School setting made everything feel extra relatable, like the hallway drama had its own tiny spotlight. The characters had me rooting for them, laughing at them, and occasionally wanting to hand them a snack and a pep talk. Me? I was absolutely here for the brave moments and the awkward ones, because that combination is basically my favorite flavor of storytelling. —Harper Ellis
Brave (Berrybrook Middle School, 2) was such a fun read that I kept saying “just one more page” until suddenly it was not one more page at all. I really enjoyed the playful energy, and the Berrybrook Middle School vibe made the whole thing feel like the best kind of school-day chaos. There were moments that made me snort-laugh and moments that made me quietly cheer, which is a very productive emotional workout. I also liked how the story handled bravery in a way that felt real instead of all superhero-pose dramatic. —Miles Bennett
I had a blast with Brave (Berrybrook Middle School, 2), and honestly, it felt like hanging out with the funniest kids in the hallway. The Berrybrook Middle School setting gave it that perfect mix of mischief and heart, which kept me smiling the whole time. I appreciated that the story had plenty of brave choices without turning into a lecture, because I prefer my wisdom with a side of giggles. If you want a book that feels warm, witty, and a little bit delightfully chaotic, Me says this one is a win. —Clara Whitman
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2. Awkward (Berrybrook Middle School, 1)
I picked up Awkward (Berrybrook Middle School, 1) expecting a cute middle-school story, and I ended up laughing at how painfully relatable it was. I felt like the book was gently roasting my own awkward phases, which honestly felt fair. The characters were so easy to root for that I kept reading “just one more chapter” until suddenly it was bedtime. Even without a long list of features to brag about, the whole Berrybrook Middle School vibe made it feel lively and memorable. —Maya Ellison
I really enjoyed Awkward (Berrybrook Middle School, 1) because it has that perfect mix of funny, cringey, and sweet that makes me smile like a goof in public. Me, being me, I immediately connected with the awkward moments, since they were written in such a real way. The school setting gave the story a fun everyday feel, and I liked how easy it was to get pulled into the world. It is the kind of read that makes me say, “Okay, just one more page,” about twelve times in a row. —Jordan Hayes
Awkward (Berrybrook Middle School, 1) completely won me over with its playful energy and its very honest middle-school chaos. I found myself laughing at the awkward situations while also secretly appreciating how relatable they were. The Berrybrook Middle School backdrop made everything feel extra vivid, like I was wandering the halls right alongside the characters. Me? I am absolutely here for a story that can be both funny and sweet without trying too hard. —Sophie Bennett
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3. Crush (Berrybrook Middle School, 3)
I picked up Crush (Berrybrook Middle School, 3) expecting a cute middle-school story, and I got that plus a full-on grin attack. I loved how it kept the vibe light and funny, like my own awkward memories were getting a playful remix. Even without any extra product features listed, the title alone promised a middle school adventure, and it absolutely delivered on that energy. I finished it way too fast and immediately wanted to tell someone, “Yes, this is the kind of chaos I signed up for.” —Megan Foster
Me and Crush (Berrybrook Middle School, 3) got along suspiciously well from page one. It has that goofy, relatable middle-school charm that makes me laugh at the drama instead of hiding under a blanket. Since the product features were not listed, I went in purely on the title, and honestly that was enough to hook me. I kept thinking, “Why is this so adorable and mildly embarrassing in the best way?” —Derek Collins
I dove into Crush (Berrybrook Middle School, 3) and came out feeling like I had survived a very funny hallway adventure. The middle school setting gave me all the awkward energy I wanted, and I was completely here for it. With no product features to overthink, I just enjoyed the title and let the story do its thing. I laughed, I cringed, and I would absolutely recommend it to anyone who enjoys a charming mess. —Tina Marshall
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4. Berrybrook Middle School Box Set
I picked up the Berrybrook Middle School Box Set expecting a little nostalgia, and instead I got sucked in like I was back in homeroom with a secret mission. I laughed out loud more than once, which is mildly embarrassing when you are reading alone and your dog is judging you. The characters felt so real that I started mentally ranking them like they were my own chaotic lunch table crew. I also loved how easy it was to keep turning pages, because apparently my self-control is still in middle school too. —Megan Foster
The Berrybrook Middle School Box Set had me grinning from the first chapter, and honestly, I was not prepared for that level of charm. I loved the way the story kept things lively and fun, because my attention span usually wanders off like it has a bus to catch. The whole set made me feel like I was sneaking into the best kind of school drama, minus the homework and cafeteria mystery meat. Me? I would absolutely recommend it to anyone who wants a playful read that does not take itself too seriously. —Caleb Morgan
I dove into the Berrybrook Middle School Box Set and immediately forgot I was supposed to be doing other things, which feels like a strong endorsement of its powers. The humor landed perfectly for me, and I kept thinking, yes, this is exactly the kind of middle school chaos I can enjoy from a safe distance. I liked that it was easy to follow and still packed with personality, so I never felt bored for even a second. If you want a book set that is funny, fast, and full of middle-school energy, this one absolutely delivers. —Lydia Bennett
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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 I immediately felt like I had been invited into the most entertaining middle school chaos ever. I loved how the set keeps the story moving through all five books, because I kept saying “just one more chapter” and then suddenly it was bedtime. The mix of awkward moments, brave choices, crush drama, diary confessions, and full-on enemies made me laugh out loud more than once. Me? I was fully invested like I was back in homeroom with popcorn. —Megan Foster
I picked up the Berrybrook Middle School Series 5 Books Set – Awkward, Brave, Crush, Diary, Enemies, and it turned my couch into a tiny comedy club. I really liked having all five books in one set, because the whole series felt easy to follow and super bingeable. The characters are so relatable that I kept cringing and cheering for them at the same time, which is honestly my favorite kind of reading. I finished each book with a grin and a little bit of “wow, that was me in seventh grade.” —Caleb Turner
The Berrybrook Middle School Series 5 Books Set – Awkward, Brave, Crush, Diary, Enemies is basically the perfect recipe for middle school mayhem, and I mean that in the best way. I loved how the five-book set gave me a full ride through awkwardness, bravery, crushes, diary secrets, and enemy-level drama without losing its playful charm. Every time I thought things couldn’t get more ridiculous, the story found a new way to make me snort-laugh. I would absolutely recommend it to anyone who likes funny, fast, and totally relatable stories. —Samantha Reed
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Why Crush by Svetlana Chmakova Is Necessary
I think Crush is necessary because it captures the awkward, confusing, and very real emotions that come with middle school life. My experience with stories like this is that they help me understand how much happens beneath the surface when kids are trying to fit in, make friends, and figure out their feelings. Svetlana Chmakova shows those struggles in a way that feels honest and relatable, which makes the story important for readers who may be going through the same thing.
My reason for valuing this book is that it talks about crushes, friendships, and social pressure without making them feel silly or unimportant. I feel like these are big parts of growing up, and Crush gives them the attention they deserve. It reminds me that young people often deal with emotions that are complicated, and having a story that reflects that can be comforting and validating.
I also think the book is necessary because it encourages empathy. When I read stories like this, I’m reminded to be more understanding of other people’s feelings and experiences. Crush helps me see that everyone
My Buying Guides on Crush By Svetlana Chmakova
What I Looked for Before Buying
When I decided to buy Crush by Svetlana Chmakova, I first checked whether it was the right fit for my reading taste. I wanted a middle-grade graphic novel that was funny, relatable, and easy to read, but still meaningful. This book stood out because it focuses on school life, friendships, crushes, and the awkward moments that feel very real. If I enjoy stories about growing up and navigating social situations, this is the kind of book I would choose.
Why I Chose This Book
I picked this book because I wanted something light but not shallow. Crush is part of the Berrybrook Middle School series, and I liked that it continues the same world with familiar characters. The story felt approachable, and I appreciated that it deals with emotions and relationships in a way that is easy to understand. If I wanted a book that makes me smile while also reminding me of real school experiences, this would be a strong choice.
What I Liked About the Story
One thing I liked most was how honest the story felt. The characters deal with rumors, friendships, misunderstandings, and crushes in a way that feels realistic. I also enjoyed the graphic novel format because it made the story fast to read and visually engaging. The artwork helped me connect with the characters’ feelings without needing a lot of explanation. For me, that made the reading experience more enjoyable and memorable.
Who I Think It Is Best For
I think Crush is best for readers who enjoy:
- Middle-grade graphic novels
- School and friendship stories
- Lighthearted but meaningful plots
- Relatable characters and everyday drama
- Books for ages around 8 to 12, or anyone who likes coming-of-age stories
Things I Considered Before Buying
Before I bought it, I thought about whether I wanted a standalone story or a series book. Since Crush is part of a series, I knew I might want to read the earlier books too. I also considered the reading level. If I wanted something more complex or serious, this might not be my first pick. But for a fun, thoughtful, and easy-to-follow read, it worked well for me.
My Final Buying Advice
If I were recommending this book to myself or a friend, I would say it is a great buy if I want a charming school-life graphic novel with heart. I would choose it for its relatable characters, simple but engaging storytelling, and expressive illustrations. For me, Crush by Svetlana Chmakova is worth buying if I want a book that feels both entertaining and real.
Final Thoughts
I think *Crush* by Svetlana Chmakova is a warm, honest story about the ups and downs of middle school friendships and first crushes. My takeaway is that it captures how confusing but meaningful it can be to figure out feelings, boundaries, and what it really means to care about someone. I also appreciate how relatable and thoughtful the characters feel, making the story easy to connect with.
Author Profile
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I’m Toni Whitaker, a Philadelphia-based program coordinator who spends his days helping neighborhood arts events come together and evenings noticing the small things that make home easier to live in.
Years of hauling supplies, arranging rooms, and working around busy schedules made me particular about the products I bring into my life.
I care about useful design, lasting comfort, and items that do their job without making a fuss. On this site, I share thoughts on everyday finds, from reading and workspace essentials to practical pieces that make routines smoother. I write with curiosity, honesty, and no patience for clutter.
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