|
Drama: A Graphic Novel
Last updated Thursday, September 3, 2026
Author: Raina Telgemeier
Date of Publication: 2012
ISBN: 0545326982
Grade Level: 5th (GLCs: Click here for grade level guidelines.)
Date(s) Used: Sep. 2026
Synopsis:
Callie loves theater. And while she would totally try out for her middle school's production of Moon over Mississippi, she can't really sing. Instead she's the set designer for the drama department's stage crew, and this year she's determined to create a set worthy of Broadway on a middle-school budget. But how can she, when she doesn't know much about carpentry, ticket sales are down, and the crew members are having trouble working together? Not to mention the onstage AND offstage drama that occurs once the actors are chosen. And when two cute brothers enter the picture, things get even crazier!
| Note to readers: |
| • |
Graphic novels can present different challenges to read aloud. Teachers at MacArthur Park Elem. chose this one so as to engage kids in this style of book that is popular with kids, especially those disinclined to read chapter books.
Click this link to https://readingtokids.org/ReadingClubs/GraphicNovel.php for practical, easy tips about reading graphic novels aloud to make your reading club sessions more engaging and fun!
|
| Discussion topics for before reading: |
| • |
This is a book about putting on plays. Do you share Callie’s love for the arts or theatre, or do you have a different creative passion?
|
| • |
Have you ever been in a play or worked to help put on a production? What role do you think might fit your personality and talents?
Vocabulary
|
| • |
Overture: A musical introduction played at the start of a show.
|
| • |
Production: A play or performance put on for an audience.
|
| • |
Ensemble: A group of actors, singers or dancers who perform together on stage.
|
| • |
Fiasco: A complete and embarrassing failure.
|
| • |
Tragedy: A story that deals with sad events and has an unhappy ending.
|
| • |
Progressive: Moving forward or favoring new, modern ideas.
|
| • |
Unrequited: Love or feelings that are not returned by the other person.
|
| Discussion topics for during/after reading: |
| • |
How does the author use art, color and facial expressions in the graphic novel panels to show the stress and excitement of putting on a middle school musical?
|
| • |
Why is it sometimes difficult to start new activities? Can you think of a time when you tried something new? How did you feel and what was the outcome?
|
| • |
Sometimes people say middle school has lots of “drama” both on and off the stage. Which is harder to manage?
|
| • |
Characters show many positive qualities, such as strong communication, empathy and teamwork. Why are these important among
friends and particularly when people are working on a project together?
|
| Craft ideas: |
| • |
Make a colorful Backstage Pass. Write in ALL CAPS the name of the production, “Backstage Pass”, “VIP” or “Staff.”
Students can create any icons, people, animals, designs or security barcodes they like to make the Pass fun.
|
| • |
Create a poster for the production.
|
| Special activities: |
| • |
Do the Word Search
|
*Note: These craft ideas are just suggestions.
You can use them, but you don't have to use them.
You can expand upon them, or add your own twist.
Remember, though, that the focus of your time should
not be on the development and execution of a craft;
the focus should be on the read-aloud and the
enjoyment of the book!
|
