I'm truly not a big reader of graphic novels. In fact, I could probably count every graphic novel I've read on one hand. To be honest, I just need more words than pictures, for the most part. I think in words -- and dream in words -- and I tend to just prefer, in general, to read words. But, the cover of this one is cute... and that seemed reason enough to give it a try. 
 For the most part, Friends with Boys is a cute little coming-of-age story that focuses on the family dynamics and self discovery of a young teen who, with the assistance of her older brothers (and only friends) transitions from home-schooling to her very first year in a public high school. 
 We see her nervousness in interacting with strangers in her school, and we watch as she befriends two open-minded loners and learns to find herself through her relationships with those around her. 
 And then there's the whole ghost thing, which seemed kind of random. Our main character is haunted by the ghost of a mysterious older lady, whose identity was later presumed to have been discovered, although the end of the story suggests that such presumptions of motive may be incorrect. 
 Thus lies my biggest issue with this story, I think. I enjoyed the character development and I liked reading about quirky characters and the warm bonds they formed through deepening relationships. But everything beyond this just seemed not to go anywhere worthwhile. 
 Like, what was the deal with the absent mother? Was the ghost a metaphor for this relationship and of the hold she held on the characters? Or were these all just random bits intended to fill out the story? Is there another book coming after this one? 
 On the flip side, the art was cool. I'm sure this story will be most appealing to younger high school aged teenagers who would enjoy identifying with the isolation and growth of the characters. 
 This wasn't my favorite graphic novel, but it wasn't the worst --- and I'll probably check out more by this author in the future.