In this episode of Reading in the Middle, Annisha sits down with acclaimed cartoonist and author Liz Montague to discuss her new graphic novel, Camp Frienemies. This summer camp story is full of humor, heart, and the beautifully messy journey of tween friendship.

Best known for her groundbreaking memoir Maybe an Artist, Liz shares how she crafted three unforgettable characters—Bea, Roxy, and Virginia—and how their one-week cabin experience catalyzes growth, connection, and maybe even forgiveness.

We talk about visual storytelling, bunk bed drama, the art of writing quiet kids, and why being a “little bit of everything” is something to embrace. Liz shares her thoughts on what she'd bring to camp (besides bug spray) and the campfire song that still haunts her.

📚 Camp Frienemies by Liz Montague – https://www.penguinrandomhouse.com/books/740088/camp-frenemies-by-liz-montague
🎨 Maybe an Artist – Liz’s award-nominated graphic memoir
🖼️ Liz Montague’s work: lizmontague.com
📍 Liz's featured work in The New Yorker, Food Network, and the Joe Biden campaign
🎉 Follow Liz on Instagram: @lizatlarge]
🎙️ More episodes of Reading in the Middle: [Podcast Link]

00:00 – Intro and welcome
02:45 – Liz’s journey to Camp Frienemies
07:10 – Creating Bea, Roxy, and Virginia
12:55 – Drawing tension and quiet moments in comics
18:00 – Camp snacks, BFFs vs. frenemies, and camp survival gear
22:30 – What Liz hopes kids take away from the book
26:00 – Advice for young creatives
29:15 – What’s next for Liz Montague

Follow host Annisha Jeffries on Instagram:@reading_in_the_middle
Subscribe, rate, and review to support more conversations with your favorite middle grade authors!