Be Prepared by Vera Brosgol generally receives high praise for its engaging storytelling and charming illustrations. Readers appreciate the relatable depiction of the protagonist's struggles with fitting in at summer camp. Some reviews note that the humor and emotional depth are standout features. However, a few critics mention uneven pacing and predictability as drawbacks. Overall, it's deemed a delightful and heartfelt graphic novel.

Readers who enjoy Vera Brosgol's Be Prepared are typically preteens to young teenagers who appreciate humor and coming-of-age stories set in summer camp environments. Comparable to Smile by Raina Telgemeier and El Deafo by Cece Bell, this graphic novel resonates with those who love heartfelt and relatable narratives about fitting in and self-discovery.

Be Prepared by Vera Brosgol follows young Vera, who spends a challenging summer at a camp for Russian and Russian American youth. Struggling to fit in, she encounters conflicts with peers, engages with Russian cultural traditions, faces loneliness, and experiences personal growth through the ups and downs of camp life.

Humorous / Nostalgic / Emotional / Bittersweet

- Be Prepared is partly inspired by Vera Brosgol's own childhood experiences attending a Russian Orthodox summer camp.
- The graphic novel showcases both Brosgol’s writing and artistic talents, capturing the cultural challenges of fitting in as an immigrant child in America.
- Be Prepared was published in 2018 and received a nomination for the Eisner Award for Best Publication for Kids (ages 9-12).

**Vera**  
A young girl nearing her tenth birthday, Vera navigates the complexities of a summer camp experience, where her youthful appearance and eagerness to fit in highlight her struggles and growth throughout the camp.

**Kira**  
An eight-and-a-half-year-old with long blonde hair, Kira becomes close friends with Vera due to their shared interests, contributing significantly to Vera’s camp journey and personal development.

**Natasha**  
Vera’s 17-year-old camp counselor, Natasha is knowledgeable about camp traditions and offers guidance to Vera, helping her navigate the challenges of camp life.

**The Sashas**  
Two 14-year-old girls with a longstanding friendship who, as Vera’s tent-mates, challenge her desire for acceptance and play a complex role in her camp experience.

Vera Brosgol

Middle grade

Graphic Memoir 

Nonfiction

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Pages 176-244

Be Prepared Pages 176-244 Summary & Analysis

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