Review: Paper Planes

Author: Jennie Wood
Artist: Dozerdraws
Publisher: Mad Cave Studios
Released: May 16, 2023
Received: NetGalley

Summary:

Dylan Render and Leighton Worthington used to be best friends. Like many high-schoolers, their friendship has faded, thanks to drama and other concerns. If not for their time at summer camp (for troubled youths), they may never have had the opportunity to repair the damage done.

Their time at camp will change that, as both of them need to get a good review from the camp, or they’re going to be in a new world of trouble. This forced proximity may even bring some closure as past events come to the surface.

Review:

Oh wow, Paper Planes is such a bittersweet and endearing read. Anybody who has ever lost a friend or struggled with troubled friendship waters will empathize with the story that unfolds here. It’ll hit you right in the feels – and then some.

It took a little while to understand the full depth of everything going on here. Dylan and Leighton have fairly complex backstories, even without the whole friendship complication. Obviously, this is where a lot of the sadder and bittersweet elements come into play.

The namesake of this story, the paper planes they send, is a really nice touch. Not only does it add a lot to the emotional telling of the story, but it is also visually appealing. Dozerdraws did a fantastic job with these scenes. Honestly, I almost want to see if I can track down a print of one of those panels; they’re so perfect…

Highlights:

• LGBT
• Romance
• Genderfluid
• Ace Character
• Bittersweet Vibes
• Cute Art
• Forced proximity

Thanks to Mad Cave Studios and #NetGalley for making this book available for review. All opinions expressed are my own.

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