JANES IN LOVE
by Cecil Castellucci and illustrated by Jim Rugg
Jane Beckles and her crew of like-named conspirators return in this sequel to The Plain Janes (2007). This time around, they are plagued by all manner of heartache—and plenty of other woes, too. Their guerilla-art group, People Loving Art in Neighborhoods (PLAIN), is hotly pursued by a glowering police officer. They have no money for art supplies, and they can’t seem to stop bickering among themselves. Meanwhile, Jane’s already-troubled mother withdraws further after learning of the anthrax-related death of a friend. At times disheartened, Jane struggles to find a solution that will keep the group going. Rugg’s detailed, shaded drawings effectively bring Castellucci’s realistic, thoughtful characters to life. The novelty of its premise made the first in this series remarkable, and happily, the overarching spirit of art triumphing over fear in this second offering expands on it and still rings true. (Graphic fiction. 12 & up)