The Most Perfect Summer Ever (Lizard Boy #2)
by Jonathan Hill 

5 out of 5 stars

Tommy has a secret. His family are actually lizard people trying to blend in with the human world. Tommy has to wear a human skin over his green lizard face.
It’s difficult trying to fit in, but Tommy has other non-human friends who have the same struggles. One of his human friends, Dung, is a Vietnamese boy who is dealing with culture shock and trying to learn English. They bond over their differences, discovering that you don’t have to be the same species to find something in common.

I loved this second graphic novel in the series! The plot is hilarious and emotional. I cried twice at some of the more emotional scenes! The characters are complex. Their stories are meaningful. The setting and background are interesting. And the storytelling style is superb!

Tommy and Dung’s story really spoke to me because I grew up as a third-culture kid, never quite fitting in with either culture. Having to navigate two different languages and different customs for two cultures can be exhausting and wonderful and scary and rewarding. Tommy’s story was mirrored in other characters’ experiences too, and was deeply relatable.

Although Tommy and his friends are adjusting well to human life, they still wish they didn’t have to hide their true natures. They wish they could be free to be themselves without fear. Although they realize that the human world isn’t quite ready to accept lizard people, sasquatches, or cyborgs, they find a way to connect with their true heritage and support each other within their non-human community.

I loved Tommy’s character development! Everyone feels like they don’t fit in and don’t know how to be their true selves. Tommy’s inward journey led him on a path to find the courage to be real and vulnerable with the people around him, and then he encourages others to be brave and true as well.

The art is so fun and colorful! I love how emotional the artwork is. It really makes you feel strongly for Tommy and his friends.

To see any sensitive content in the book, check it out at the Screen It First website! https://screenitfirst.com/book/lizard-boy-2-the-most-perfect-summer-ever-2591984

Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for a free and honest review. All the opinions stated here are my own true thoughts, and are not influenced by anyone.