The Many Misfortunes of Eugenia Wang

Gr 4 Up–Eugenia Wang turns 13 on the fourth of April, which is extremely unfortunate because the word four in Cantonese sounds like the word for death, and is therefore considered unlucky. Eugenia’s mom, who has very high academic and social standards, has never allowed Eugenia to celebrate her birthday on its actual date. Eugenia and her best friend Keisha scheme to hold a secret party and invite a crush. High jinks and mystery ensue as Eugenia’s passion for art and comics takes sordid and confusing turns through vivid, disturbing dreams, portrayed in captivating shades of red, that end with loved ones dying. Yan’s art and storytelling are both quirky and compelling; the facial expressions are full of nuance and dialogue is snappy. Many scenes are portrayed in unique perspectives; in fact, everything in this story is a bit off-kilter and weirdly funny. Panels flow easily and the coloring is thoughtfully considered. Intense sound effects and the calendar countdown to the big day make Eugenia’s moral conundrums and zany days speed by. The racially, culturally, and emotionally diverse cast of biological and found family that accompany Eugenia in her many misadventures are constantly entertaining. Her sidekick pup, Peanut, serves as an easter egg and sage that will compel astute middle graders to return for repeat readings. Though the resolution is rather quick and tidy, the story contains many layers of meaning. Readers will quickly fall in like with Eugenia’s desire for independence. Includes helpful back matter materials.