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Cover of Drama

Age rating and parents' guide:Drama

by Raina Telgemeier

Ages 12–14

Drama by Raina Telgemeier is best for children aged 12–14. It has no violence, nothing scary, some romance and no bad language. Worth knowing: Mild school romance incl. LGBTQ subplot.

Callie is a middle schooler who loves theatre, working behind the scenes as set designer for the school's musical production. As opening night approaches, Callie faces the chaotic world of stage crew alongside the everyday complications of friendships, school dances, and blossoming crushes. Readers are drawn into the lively, colourful drama both on and off the stage, making it an engaging and relatable pick for middle schoolers navigating early romance and identity.

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Content ratings

How much of each a parent can expect, from none to strong.

Violence
None
Scary moments
None
Romance
Moderate
Bad language
None

Worth knowing: Mild school romance incl. LGBTQ subplot

Dhiraj Bodade

Content checked by Dhiraj Bodade, co-founder of Bookstaken, on 4 October 2026.

At a glance

  • ★Graphic novel
  • ★A steady start that picks up quickly
  • ★Pictures on almost every page
  • ★Some emotionally heavy moments
  • ★A good pick for reluctant readers

Great for kids who like

  • Art & drawing
  • Friendship

Reading mood

  • Thoughtful
  • Suspenseful

Good to talk about

  • Friendship
  • Emotions & empathy

Books like Drama

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  • Cover of To Dance: A Ballerina's Graphic Novel

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Questions parents ask

Q: What age is Drama for?
Drama suits children aged 12–14. It is a graphic novel: a steady start that picks up quickly, pictures on almost every page.
Q: Is Drama appropriate for a 12 year old?
Yes. Bookstaken rates it for ages 12–14. It has no violence, nothing scary, some romance and no bad language. Worth knowing before reading: Mild school romance incl. LGBTQ subplot.
Q: What should my child read after Drama?
Try The King of Nothing, To Dance: A Ballerina's Graphic Novel and Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone. They share the same kind of story and suit the same ages.
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