Lately, it’s been a Cybils lovefest around here, as Nancy and I declare our admiration for various finalists for the award. Well, get ready for more… because today I’m recommending Milo: Sticky Notes and Brain Freeze by Alan Silberberg.
Yes, this book has a fun and funky title. Yes, this book has humorous illustrations sprinkled throughout the story. Yes, this book is about a guy who’s trying to figure out friends and school and life and who the heck he is. BUT this is no Diary of a Wimpy Kid. I repeat: Milo is NOT Greg Heffley.
The most important difference between Milo and Greg is that whereas many of Greg’s problems are his own darn fault, Milo is facing a much more serious issue: the recent death of his mother. It affects how his dad acts; how he feels about school; and, well, everything.
But don’t think Milo is just gloom and doom. There may not be pages dedicated to the Cheese Touch, but it’s got disgusting slushie flavors, several crush-on-a-cute-girl disasters, and an alter ego named Dabney St. Claire. Not to mention some hilarious writing. Plus, the comics do a really great job of lightening the mood just when things get really serious. Because like I said, this book is NOT Diary of a Wimpy Kid. So you should expect lots of sad stuff — but happy stuff and funny stuff too. Just like real life! With cartoons. 
— Karen
Karen would love a world filled with doodles, but sadly, she’s never been a good artist herself. Nowadays, the margins of her notebook are filled with triangles. Yes, that’s all she’s capable of drawing…
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