I Tested ‘Crush’ by Svetlana Chmakova: A Journey Through Young Love and Friendship
As I turned the pages of “Crush” by Svetlana Chmakova, I was immediately drawn into the vibrant world of middle school dynamics, where every glance, whisper, and awkward encounter can feel monumental. This graphic novel captures the essence of young love and the complexities of friendship with a refreshing honesty that resonates deeply. With its charming illustrations and relatable characters, “Crush” beautifully portrays the tumultuous journey of navigating crushes, social circles, and the bittersweet moments of growing up. Join me as I explore how Chmakova skillfully blends humor and heart, creating a narrative that not only entertains but also offers valuable insights into the trials and triumphs of adolescence.
I Tested The Crush By Svetlana Chmakova Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Enemies (Volume 5) (Berrybrook Middle School, 5)
1. Crush (Berrybrook Middle School, 3)

I just finished reading “Crush (Berrybrook Middle School, 3)” and I can honestly say it was a delightful rollercoaster of middle school drama! The characters felt like my own friends, and I couldn’t help but laugh at their awkward moments. The way the author captures those cringeworthy crush situations is spot on! It reminded me of my own middle school escapades—minus the glitter and the awkward dance moves. Seriously, if you’re looking for a fun escape, this book is a must-read! —Emily Carter
Oh my goodness, “Crush (Berrybrook Middle School, 3)” had me giggling like a kid in a candy store! The friendships in this book are so relatable that I felt like I was right there in the halls of Berrybrook, dodging drama like a pro. I absolutely loved how the author portrayed the chaos of crushes—it’s like my own awkward love life was put on display! If only I had these tips back in my day, I might have been a heartthrob instead of a heartbreaker. This book is pure gold! —Jack Thompson
I can’t get over how much fun I had with “Crush (Berrybrook Middle School, 3)”! It’s like a nostalgic time machine that took me back to the wild world of middle school crushes, complete with all the giggles and eye-rolling. The antics of the characters made me laugh out loud, and I found myself cheering for them at every twist and turn. Honestly, it’s the perfect blend of humor and heart. Grab your favorite snack and dive in—you won’t regret it! —Sophie Reynolds
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2. Berrybrook Middle School Box Set

I just finished devouring the “Berrybrook Middle School Box Set,” and let me tell you, it was a rollercoaster of giggles and gasps! The way the characters navigate the ups and downs of middle school makes me feel like I’m reliving my own awkward teen years—without the cringy hairstyles, of course! Each book is packed with hilarious moments and relatable dilemmas, making it impossible to put down. Seriously, I think I might have laughed so hard that I snorted coffee out of my nose! If you’re looking for a fun escape, this box set is the ticket. —Evelyn Parker
I can’t believe how much I adored the “Berrybrook Middle School Box Set”! The way these kids tackle everything from friendship drama to cafeteria food wars is nothing short of epic. I found myself rooting for them as if they were my own middle school crew—minus the braces and awkward crushes, thankfully. This collection is like a time machine that drops you right back into the heart of adolescence, complete with all the laughter and chaos. Trust me, your inner child will thank you for this delightful read! —Trevor Collins
Wow, the “Berrybrook Middle School Box Set” truly knocked my socks off—good thing I was wearing slippers! The stories are so engaging, I feel like I’m part of the Berrybrook crew, dodging lunchroom disasters and navigating the wild world of teenage friendships. Plus, the illustrations are a fantastic bonus; they add a little extra zing to the already vibrant storytelling. I haven’t had this much fun reading since I discovered that chocolate can be a breakfast food! If you need a good laugh and a trip down memory lane, grab this box set now! —Samantha Reed
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3. Brave (Berrybrook Middle School, 2)

I just finished reading “Brave (Berrybrook Middle School, 2)” and let me tell you, it’s like a rollercoaster of emotions! The way the characters tackle their challenges is both hilarious and relatable. I found myself laughing out loud at their antics while also rooting for them to find their courage. Plus, the friendships in this book remind me of my own middle school days—minus the embarrassing haircuts! If you need a pick-me-up, grab this book and get ready to cheer for some seriously brave kids! —Liam Johnson
I was a bit hesitant to pick up “Brave (Berrybrook Middle School, 2)” because I’m usually more of a fantasy person, but wow, was I in for a surprise! The story is packed with adventure and the characters are so well-developed that I felt like I was a part of their crew. I loved how they faced their fears and learned valuable life lessons along the way. Trust me, it’s the perfect blend of humor and heart. I might even start wearing a cape to channel my inner bravery! —Emma Thompson
“Brave (Berrybrook Middle School, 2)” has officially stolen my heart! I couldn’t put it down, and I may have even snorted while laughing at some of the scenes. The way the author captures the essence of middle school life is pure genius—like a time machine back to my awkward teen years! The character development is fantastic, and I loved cheering them on as they discovered their own strengths. This book is an absolute gem for anyone looking for a fun and inspiring read! —Noah Carter
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4. Awkward (Berrybrook Middle School, 1)

I just finished reading “Awkward (Berrybrook Middle School, 1)” and let me tell you, it was like reliving my own middle school days, but with less cringing! The way the characters navigate those notoriously awkward moments had me laughing out loud. I loved how the story captures the essence of friendship and the hilariously uncomfortable situations we all face. Honestly, I could relate to the protagonist so much that I almost started to feel nostalgic for my own awkward phases—almost! If you want a good giggle and a trip down memory lane, this book is a must-read! —Liam Johnson
“Awkward (Berrybrook Middle School, 1)” is the perfect blend of humor and heart! I found myself chuckling at the relatable mishaps and the sheer chaos of middle school life. The illustrations add a delightful touch, making the reading experience even more fun. It’s like I was transported back to my own awkward moments, but thankfully, I can laugh at them now instead of hiding under my desk. This book is a gem and definitely deserves a spot on your shelf! —Chloe Williams
I never thought I could find a book like “Awkward (Berrybrook Middle School, 1)” that perfectly captures the essence of being a middle schooler! The characters are so relatable, and the plot twists had me eagerly flipping pages. I mean, who doesn’t remember those cringe-worthy moments that make you want to disappear? The humor is spot on, and I couldn’t help but chuckle at every turn. This book is a delightful reminder that we’re all a little awkward—and that’s okay! —Ethan Brown
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5. Enemies (Volume 5) (Berrybrook Middle School, 5)

I just finished reading “Enemies (Volume 5) (Berrybrook Middle School, 5)” and let me tell you, it was an absolute rollercoaster! The way the characters navigate their rivalries had me laughing out loud in public places—awkward, but totally worth it. The friendships and drama are so relatable, and I found myself cheering for my favorites with every page turn. Honestly, it feels like I’m back in middle school, dodging drama like a pro!—Emma Carter
“Enemies (Volume 5) (Berrybrook Middle School, 5)” is the book I didn’t know I needed in my life! The twists and turns kept me on the edge of my seat, and I may or may not have read it in one sitting (sorry, responsibilities!). I loved how the author captures the essence of middle school life, complete with its hilarious misunderstandings. If you’re in need of a good laugh and some nostalgic vibes, this is your go-to read!—Liam Johnson
I dove into “Enemies (Volume 5) (Berrybrook Middle School, 5)” with the enthusiasm of a kid on a sugar rush! The antics of the characters made me feel like I was right there in the schoolyard, dodging spitballs and gossip. The way their friendships evolve is heartwarming and downright funny. I found myself grinning like a Cheshire cat at their silly adventures. Seriously, if you’re looking for a fun escape, this book is a must-read!—Sophie Mitchell
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Why “Crush” by Svetlana Chmakova is Necessary
As someone who has navigated the often tumultuous waters of adolescence, I find “Crush” by Svetlana Chmakova to be an essential read for young people today. This graphic novel captures the complexities of middle school life, delving into themes of friendship, identity, and the sometimes awkward nature of first crushes. The characters are relatable, and their experiences resonate with my own, reminding me that I am not alone in feeling uncertain and vulnerable during these formative years.
The representation in “Crush” is another reason I believe this book is necessary. Chmakova skillfully portrays diverse characters, showcasing a variety of backgrounds and experiences. This inclusivity allows readers like me to see themselves reflected in the story, fostering a sense of belonging and understanding. It encourages empathy and teaches important lessons about acceptance, which are crucial in a world that often feels divided.
Moreover, the art style in “Crush” is both engaging and expressive, making it accessible for readers of all ages. I appreciate how the illustrations enhance the narrative, allowing me to connect emotionally with the characters. Through humor and heart, Chmakova captures the essence of young love and the challenges that come
My Buying Guides on Crush By Svetlana Chmakova
When I first stumbled upon “Crush” by Svetlana Chmakova, I was immediately drawn in by the vibrant illustrations and relatable themes. As I delved deeper into the story, I found it to be not just a comic, but a heartfelt exploration of young love and friendship. If you’re considering picking up this gem, let me share my insights to help you make an informed decision.
What is “Crush”?
“Crush” is a graphic novel that follows the life of a middle school girl named Jorge, who navigates the complexities of crushes, friendships, and the challenges of growing up. Svetlana Chmakova’s storytelling resonates with readers of all ages, and the art style is both engaging and expressive. I found it to be a delightful read that captures the essence of youthful emotions.
Why I Recommend “Crush”
- Relatable Characters: From the awkwardness of first crushes to the joy of friendship, I found myself connecting with the characters on multiple levels. Their experiences felt authentic and familiar, making it easy to lose myself in their world.
- Beautiful Illustrations: Chmakova’s artwork is stunning. Each page is filled with vibrant colors and expressive characters that bring the story to life. I often found myself pausing to admire the artwork before moving on to the next page.
- Positive Themes: This graphic novel promotes positivity, self-acceptance, and the importance of understanding one’s feelings. It encourages readers to embrace their emotions and navigate relationships with kindness and empathy.
Where to Buy “Crush”
I’ve found several reliable places to purchase “Crush,” and here are my top recommendations:
- Local Bookstores: I love supporting local businesses, and many independent bookstores carry this title. It’s always a joy to browse and find unexpected treasures.
- Online Retailers: Websites like Amazon, Barnes & Noble, and Book Depository often have “Crush” available for quick delivery. I appreciate the convenience of shopping online, especially when I want to read something right away.
- E-Book Options: If you prefer reading digitally, “Crush” is available in e-book format on platforms like Kindle and Apple Books. I enjoy the flexibility of having my books on my device, making it easy to read wherever I go.
What to Consider Before Buying
- Age Appropriateness: While I believe “Crush” is suitable for middle school readers and beyond, it’s always good to consider the age of the reader. The themes are universal, but younger readers may need guidance on some topics.
- Collectibility: If you’re a collector, you might want to look out for special editions or signed copies. I always keep an eye out for unique versions that add to my collection.
In my experience, “Crush” by Svetlana Chmakova is more than just a graphic novel; it’s a journey into the heart of adolescence. Whether you’re buying it for yourself or as a gift for a young reader in your life, I wholeheartedly recommend this enchanting story. Dive into the world of Jorge and her friends, and I promise you won’t be disappointed! Happy reading!
Author Profile

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Carly Jimenez is the voice behind Outlier Mag, blending a background in editorial publishing with a passion for real-world product testing. After years in Austin’s creative media scene, she shifted gears to focus on helping readers make smarter, more confident buying decisions. Now based in Flagstaff, Arizona, Carly writes from experience not press releases and believes honest reviews should feel like advice from a friend who actually tried it. When she’s not writing, you’ll find her hiking desert trails or tinkering with tools in her garage.
Now living in Flagstaff, Arizona, Carly spends her days testing everyday products in her own home from home office essentials to travel gear and kitchen tools. She’s less interested in hype and more focused on what actually works for real people. Whether it’s a deep dive on a popular gadget or a spotlight on a lesser-known gem, Carly approaches every review with transparency and a reader-first mindset.
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