Drama tells the story of Callie, stage-struck and boy-crazy, who becomes embroiled in the offstage drama of producing her school’s play. When it was published, the graphic novel was praised for its thoughtful, humorous depiction of pre-teen life, with all its complexities and emotion. Drama won numerous awards, including the Harvey Award, Publishers Weekly Best Book of 2012, Washington Post Best Book of 2012, New York Times Editors’ Choice, and Booklist Editors’ Choice.

Author/illustrator Raina Telgemeier included in the storyline two gay characters based on her memories of two of high school friends. The book became the target of parents who objected to the inclusion of these gay characters, and in particular one scene where on boy kisses another (while playing a role in the school play). In challenging the book, critics have stated the subject matter is too sexually explicit for a middle-school audience and advances a “gay agenda”. The American Library Association has listed the graphic novel as seventh-most banned book from 2010 to 2019.

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