The Do-Over (Do-Over, 1)

Dive into the vibrant world of middle school friendship, entrepreneurship, and self-discovery with Rodrigo Vargas's delightful graphic novel, *The Do-Over (Do-Over, 1)*. This heartwarming and humorous story, perfect for fans of *Click* and *Smile*, introduces readers to Mariana, a tech-savvy and socially eager young girl yearning to find her place after a challenging cross-country move to Ohio. Mariana's passion lies in hair styling, fueled by her expertise in social media and a keen eye for trends. However, her dreams are stifled by her father's refusal to let her contribute to his own hair salon. Feeling lost and longing for connection, Mariana's life takes an exciting turn when she meets Zoe, a brilliant science enthusiast, and Everly, a creatively gifted artist. Together, these three dynamic girls embark on an adventure by launching their very own hair styling studio, "True Colors." This isn't just a business venture; it's a chance for Mariana to express herself, make genuine friends, and help others embrace their unique identities. The studio quickly becomes a popular spot, with middle schoolers lining up to get their hair styled and express themselves in exciting new ways. Mariana revels in her newfound role, using her social media skills to showcase their incredible transformations and build a strong online presence. However, running a business, even a fun and creative one, comes with its challenges. As the town's Harvest Fest approaches and the demand for their services skyrockets, the girls face the pressures of scaling up. Disagreements arise about how to manage the growing business and keep up with the relentless pace. Mariana, often hesitant to assert herself, must find the courage to voice her opinions and stand up for what she believes in. *The Do-Over* is more than just a story about hair styling; it's a charming exploration of the complexities of friendship, the trials and triumphs of starting a business, and the importance of self-expression. Rodrigo Vargas masterfully weaves together relatable middle school drama, laugh-out-loud humor, and valuable life lessons within the engaging format of a graphic novel. The vibrant artwork brings the characters and their world to life, making it easy for readers to connect with Mariana, Zoe, and Everly as they navigate the ups and downs of friendship and entrepreneurship. This book celebrates the power of creativity, the value of teamwork, and the courage it takes to embrace one's true colors. Perfect for young readers navigating the challenges of growing up, *The Do-Over* is a feel-good story that will inspire them to pursue their passions, embrace their individuality, and find their own unique place in the world. A definite must-read for tweens, middle schoolers, and anyone who loves a heartwarming story about friendship and self-discovery!