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Sheets #1
Sheets
Marjorie Glatt feels like a ghost. A practical thirteen year old in charge of the family laundry business, her daily routine features unforgiving customers, unbearable P.E. classes, and the fastidious Mr. Saubertuck who is committed to destroying everything she’s worked for.
Wendell is a ghost. A boy who lost his life much too young, his daily routine features ineffective death therapy, a sheet-dependent identity, and a dangerous need to seek purpose in the forbidden human world.
When their worlds collide, Marjorie is confronted by unexplainable disasters as Wendell transforms Glatt’s Laundry into his midnight playground, appearing as a mere sheet during the day. While Wendell attempts to create a new afterlife for himself, he unknowingly sabotages the life that Marjorie is struggling to maintain.
Wendell is a ghost. A boy who lost his life much too young, his daily routine features ineffective death therapy, a sheet-dependent identity, and a dangerous need to seek purpose in the forbidden human world.
When their worlds collide, Marjorie is confronted by unexplainable disasters as Wendell transforms Glatt’s Laundry into his midnight playground, appearing as a mere sheet during the day. While Wendell attempts to create a new afterlife for himself, he unknowingly sabotages the life that Marjorie is struggling to maintain.
242 pages, Paperback
First published August 28, 2018
513 people are currently reading
68.5k people want to read
About the author
Brenna Thummler
11books569followersBrenna Thummler grew up in northwestern Pennsylvania, where she developed a great love for nature trails, peanut butter, and, above all, drawing. A graduate of Ringling College of Art and Design, she was named the Society of Illustrators Zankel Scholar during her junior year. Since graduation, she has done editorial and advertising work for such clients as the New York Times, the Washington Post, Razorfish, and Empathic Films LLC. While Anne of Green Gables is her first published graphic novel, her first original graphic novel is Sheets. In those rare moments she’s not creating art, you might find her dancing, making music, baking cheesecakes, or spending time with kindred spirits.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 6,518 reviews
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August 30, 2018It has been a long time since I've read a graphic novel where I left it FEELING something. Don't get me wrong, I love graphic novels and I think they're so fun, but few really have left an emotional impact on me. I'm leaving this one, feeling the mark of that impact. (or should I say "stain", since our main character works at a laundromat?) I loved this story to pieces. I'll admit that I felt emotionally drained by it, because our main character is dragged through life. From the loss of her mother, to supporting her family, and the crippling loneliness that consumes her. It covers some heavy things, but it was worth making my way to the end to see how everything turned out. I really hope Brenna Thummler continues to create books like this, because I need MORE.
August 24, 2023
had me at ghosts.
this was silly and goofy and weird, and some parts of it were unrealistic to the point of being endlessly annoying � this coming from a girl who believes in ghosts and thinks it's hyperlifelike that laundromats would be like water parks for them � but i loved the ghost drawings and the town drawing and this was halloween-y.
and that's better than a lot of things.
bottom line: ghosts!
3.5
this was silly and goofy and weird, and some parts of it were unrealistic to the point of being endlessly annoying � this coming from a girl who believes in ghosts and thinks it's hyperlifelike that laundromats would be like water parks for them � but i loved the ghost drawings and the town drawing and this was halloween-y.
and that's better than a lot of things.
bottom line: ghosts!
3.5
August 29, 2018
Rating: 3.5 stars
In Sheets we follow Wendell, a ghost wearing a sheet, and Marjorie, a young girl running her family's laundromat. At first, we jump between their two stories but eventually, they weave together. This is such a sweet read, both heartbreaking and heartwarming. I absolutely love the colour palette - the illustrations are truly stunning!
I did find the pacing to be a little off. The start is slow, but I actually really liked this. I enjoyed getting to know Marjorie, and seeing how she moved through her life. Then 3/4 of the way through, it's like a switch is flipped, and the pacing quickens and speeds towards the end. I thought it wrapped up a little quickly, and I was hoping to spend a little more time savouring the resolution.
That being said, Wendell's perspective was definitely my favourite. The pacing was a little more consistent when we follow him, and I really loved the concept behind the ghost world and how they interact with the living world.
In Sheets we follow Wendell, a ghost wearing a sheet, and Marjorie, a young girl running her family's laundromat. At first, we jump between their two stories but eventually, they weave together. This is such a sweet read, both heartbreaking and heartwarming. I absolutely love the colour palette - the illustrations are truly stunning!
I did find the pacing to be a little off. The start is slow, but I actually really liked this. I enjoyed getting to know Marjorie, and seeing how she moved through her life. Then 3/4 of the way through, it's like a switch is flipped, and the pacing quickens and speeds towards the end. I thought it wrapped up a little quickly, and I was hoping to spend a little more time savouring the resolution.
That being said, Wendell's perspective was definitely my favourite. The pacing was a little more consistent when we follow him, and I really loved the concept behind the ghost world and how they interact with the living world.
September 10, 2018
I loved this book soooo much! I added to my favorites! It just had a homey feel to it. I can't explain it! And the graphics are wonderful! And ghosts!! Grief, trying to find yourself, family. Just wonderful!
Mel 🖤🐺🐾
Mel 🖤🐺🐾
October 7, 2023
Ahhh, I’ve been wanting to read this graphic novel for years now, this cover is so insanely cute and adorable. I wasn’t expecting this story to be so sad, but it was so heartfelt. I felt so much for Marjorie, the main character who is a young girl who just lost her Mom and she’s trying to run the laundromat on her own. And the ghost Wendell, he was so precious too. This was such a wholesome story, and I loved the colorful illustrations and it was such a perfect autumn read.
June 13, 2019
3,5* - The ending felt a little rushed but overall I enjoyed this quite a lot! :)
August 10, 2018
Local Friendly Ghosts, Grief, and Solitude
Sheets illustrates the determination of a young girl to fight, even when all parts of her world seem to be conspiring against her. It proves that second chances are possible whether life feels over or life is over. But above all, it is a story of the forgiveness and unlikely friendship that can only transpire inside a haunted laundromat.
This book is alsoquite a looker; I only wish that the storyline would've managed to stir me just as much as the art did. I mean, just take a look at the below:
The amount of dedication it takes to capture the intricate details in one page is mind-boggling.
The color pallets in here make for a visually stunning graphic novel, which means that I have to share my many, many favorites:
I seriously can't get enough of the above. Every time I look, it stirs me anew.
There's so much truth in the last panel.
Just your local friendly ghost telling ghost stories:
I think this last one might be my favorite. I can't stop staring.
Overall, I'd say that though the nonsensical plot felt a bit lacking,in comparison the art style had me wholeheartedly committed to the story. SO MUCH VISUAL INTRICACIES.
Also, fittingly, came on loop during my reading:
ARC kindly provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
Expected publication: August 28th, 2018
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August 22, 2022
Aw, I enjoy this book. The scenery and the colour palette incorporating the violet hues is my absolute favourite albeit the human illustration being something I'm not really fond of.
Even so, as vibrant as it looks, Sheets is an emotional journey through loss, depression, friendship, and fear. Trying to get through middle school with no friends and run the family laundry with no aid while your father is grieving is a huge load to bear.
It's unmistakable, with the heartbreaking plot, this novel came off a bit slow and might stall your drive to continue reading this. Marjorie's sadness and pain are palpable, but the book never becomes overbearing. I'd say, pick this up for it's lovely and adorably spooky theme.
I also love the message how when all seems lost, hope is still there!
(p/s: bringing Wendell home with me as I speak!)
Even so, as vibrant as it looks, Sheets is an emotional journey through loss, depression, friendship, and fear. Trying to get through middle school with no friends and run the family laundry with no aid while your father is grieving is a huge load to bear.
It's unmistakable, with the heartbreaking plot, this novel came off a bit slow and might stall your drive to continue reading this. Marjorie's sadness and pain are palpable, but the book never becomes overbearing. I'd say, pick this up for it's lovely and adorably spooky theme.
I also love the message how when all seems lost, hope is still there!
(p/s: bringing Wendell home with me as I speak!)
April 18, 2020
4.5 STARS
- The cutest little graphic novel that gives me major Steven Universe vibes with its color palette. The story is so adorable, as well.
- The cutest little graphic novel that gives me major Steven Universe vibes with its color palette. The story is so adorable, as well.
October 10, 2018
This didn't work for me as a YA graphic novel or a juvenile graphic novel.
Protagonist Marjorie Glatt (dear lord that name) is a middle schooler who's horrible father has left her as the sole person in charge of her beloved dead mother's laundromat. That's right, a child has been put in charge of running the family business because dad is too sad to come out of his room and take any responsibility at all for his children. She also has a very young brother who seems to be in kindergarten and is being left entirely to his own devices, again because dad's too sad to do anything.
I couldn't get away from that. Its just so awful. I was like immediately heart broken for these kids.
So Marjorie works insanely hard to keep this pretty damn gross laundromat going and every single customer who comes in treats her like absolute shit and says nothing about how insane it is that a 12 year old is running a business.
There's a local, deeply, deeply insane man who keeps breaking in and trying to convince/strong arm Marjorie into letting him turn the laundromat into a spa. He is just so deeply, deeply insane it defies any kind of understanding. He runs around the town telling everyone that the laundromat is horrible when he isn't actively engaging in sabotage by putting dye in the laundry soap. Again no one thinks this is weird or troubling or that this man should be arrested.
Then there's a ghost who lives in "the land of ghosts." Everyone in the land of ghosts in covered in a sheet that they must take care of at all costs and they can't ever be seen by people and a bunch of other rules typical in this kind of story. This particular ghost makes up a lot of silly stories about how amazing his life was when he was alive and is having problems coming to terms with being a ghost. I think. Honestly I found ghost world deeply confusing and kind of boring.
There really isn't a solid bridge of any kind between Marjorie and the ghost. I guess she cleans a lot of sheets in the laundromat? But somehow they sort of get into each other's orbits and learn from each other?
I just didn't get this. None of the important stuff like the families grief over mom's death or Marjorie's horrible father or the legal repurcussions of a child running a business or a madman routinely breaking into said business are ever even a little bit addressed and everything just sort of works out because ghosts!!! yay ghosts!
I also really don't mean to be a total jerk here but I hated the artwork. Everyone is drawn with these very long faces and super weird long noses that just make everyone look absolutely miserable all the time. The colors are very muted, which I get, but it just left me feeling horribly depressed.
There was nothing uplifting about this and no real magic. It left me sad and uncomfortable.
Protagonist Marjorie Glatt (dear lord that name) is a middle schooler who's horrible father has left her as the sole person in charge of her beloved dead mother's laundromat. That's right, a child has been put in charge of running the family business because dad is too sad to come out of his room and take any responsibility at all for his children. She also has a very young brother who seems to be in kindergarten and is being left entirely to his own devices, again because dad's too sad to do anything.
I couldn't get away from that. Its just so awful. I was like immediately heart broken for these kids.
So Marjorie works insanely hard to keep this pretty damn gross laundromat going and every single customer who comes in treats her like absolute shit and says nothing about how insane it is that a 12 year old is running a business.
There's a local, deeply, deeply insane man who keeps breaking in and trying to convince/strong arm Marjorie into letting him turn the laundromat into a spa. He is just so deeply, deeply insane it defies any kind of understanding. He runs around the town telling everyone that the laundromat is horrible when he isn't actively engaging in sabotage by putting dye in the laundry soap. Again no one thinks this is weird or troubling or that this man should be arrested.
Then there's a ghost who lives in "the land of ghosts." Everyone in the land of ghosts in covered in a sheet that they must take care of at all costs and they can't ever be seen by people and a bunch of other rules typical in this kind of story. This particular ghost makes up a lot of silly stories about how amazing his life was when he was alive and is having problems coming to terms with being a ghost. I think. Honestly I found ghost world deeply confusing and kind of boring.
There really isn't a solid bridge of any kind between Marjorie and the ghost. I guess she cleans a lot of sheets in the laundromat? But somehow they sort of get into each other's orbits and learn from each other?
I just didn't get this. None of the important stuff like the families grief over mom's death or Marjorie's horrible father or the legal repurcussions of a child running a business or a madman routinely breaking into said business are ever even a little bit addressed and everything just sort of works out because ghosts!!! yay ghosts!
I also really don't mean to be a total jerk here but I hated the artwork. Everyone is drawn with these very long faces and super weird long noses that just make everyone look absolutely miserable all the time. The colors are very muted, which I get, but it just left me feeling horribly depressed.
There was nothing uplifting about this and no real magic. It left me sad and uncomfortable.
September 19, 2018
Brenna Thummler illustrated the fabulous, wonderful, I can't-say-enough-good-things-about-it Anne of Green Gables a graphic novel, so when I saw she was flying solo on her own debut graphic novel, I didn't hesitate to pre-order a copy and pay the full price for it.
When it arrived, my 10-year-old (who is our resident artist), couldn't wait to get her hands on it, but I wasn't sure she was the target age, so I retreated to my room to read it.
I came out of the room, finished, with the book in my hand and my dramatic middle child (the artist), who is also highly intuitive, took one look at me and said, “Mommy! You'd better be nice when you review it!! It's hard to be an artist!�
(Sheesh—why does she think I wouldn't be nice? Did she stumble upon my Jaws review?)
How could I not be nice to the young woman who illustrated the newest Anne of Green Gables?
I will be nice. How about 5 stars for her stunning artwork and 1 star for the faulty story arc, nonsensical plotlines and total lack of character development?
That averages out to a 3. Ish. Not bad for a solo debut. And, if Brenna Thummler ever reads this, I'd like to remind her that both Trina Schart Hyman and Grace Lin (two of my all-time favorite illustrators) both started their careers with powerhouse visuals and weak storylines.
They both achieved greatness, and so will you.
When it arrived, my 10-year-old (who is our resident artist), couldn't wait to get her hands on it, but I wasn't sure she was the target age, so I retreated to my room to read it.
I came out of the room, finished, with the book in my hand and my dramatic middle child (the artist), who is also highly intuitive, took one look at me and said, “Mommy! You'd better be nice when you review it!! It's hard to be an artist!�
(Sheesh—why does she think I wouldn't be nice? Did she stumble upon my Jaws review?)
How could I not be nice to the young woman who illustrated the newest Anne of Green Gables?
I will be nice. How about 5 stars for her stunning artwork and 1 star for the faulty story arc, nonsensical plotlines and total lack of character development?
That averages out to a 3. Ish. Not bad for a solo debut. And, if Brenna Thummler ever reads this, I'd like to remind her that both Trina Schart Hyman and Grace Lin (two of my all-time favorite illustrators) both started their careers with powerhouse visuals and weak storylines.
They both achieved greatness, and so will you.
June 5, 2023
In a Nutshell: A sweet story about a girl and a ghost who come together in an unusual friendship after some hiccups. Good for middle-graders and younger teens.
Story Synopsis:
The story begins somewhat slowly, but once we are clear about the reason behind Marjorie’s sadness, the going is much smoother. Seeing the story from Marjorie’s and Wendell’s alternating perspectives also makes a big difference. Wendell doesn’t stay a random ghost but as someone with feelings and needs, so hearing from him even in third person elevates the experience.
With the themes of the death of one parent, the grief and depression of the other parent, and death of a young boy, the story is quite heavy. There is a subtle melancholy to most of the pages, heightened by Marjorie’s feeling as if she herself is a ghost, wandering through life without any meaning. At the same time, the author weaves in some light humour through Wendell’s habit of exaggerating the stories of his life. The final effect is still feel-good.
Wendell’s “lively� imagination and his yearning for acceptance make him a ghost as adorable as Casper. I loved everything about the ghost world, including the use of sheets, the need for death therapy, and of course, the “Ghosturizer� � wish I too could have access to it.
The book could have handled the following points better:
Of course, this is just the first of the series, so I hope some of the above gaps are plugged in by the remaining two books. I also hope to see more of Mr. Duncan, the PE teacher, as his character had tremendous potential.
The illustrations are pretty good, while not mind-blowing. The human world is depicted in myriad colours, while the ghost world is almost monochromatic, coming only in shades of dull green, black and white. This establishes the difference of location instantly in the minds of the readers. Though the ghost world had duller palettes, I still enjoyed the sketches of the various ghosts. They were fun, and their expressions despite the sheets were “out of this world�.
I read this with my younger daughter, who is of the right age group for this graphic novel. Her reaction showed me that the book works perfectly for its target readers, and as long as the book can keep its intended audience happy, who am I to crib?
4.5 stars from the kiddo. (3.5 stars from adult me, not that it matters much.) Averaging the two.
Onto the second book of the series with the little one for company. 😊
—ĔĔĔĔĔĔĔĔĔĔĔĔĔ�
Connect with me through:
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Story Synopsis:
Marjorie, a high schooler, has recently lost her mom, and her dad isn’t able to cope with the grief. So it is up to Marjorie to handle her school work, help her younger brother Owen, and keep the family laundry running, though it is getting tougher by the day, thanks to a greedy businessman who wants to grab their prime-location property.
Wendell is a ghost who died too young and doesn’t have any friends in the ghost town he now resides in. Even death therapy isn’t helping, and in a desperate bid to find some purpose, he escapes to the human world.
When Marjorie and Wendell meet, the initial encounter is as you might expect, but soon proceeds to a journey of mutual healing and helping.
The story comes to us in the alternate perspectives of Marjorie (written in first person) and Wendell (written in third person.)
The story begins somewhat slowly, but once we are clear about the reason behind Marjorie’s sadness, the going is much smoother. Seeing the story from Marjorie’s and Wendell’s alternating perspectives also makes a big difference. Wendell doesn’t stay a random ghost but as someone with feelings and needs, so hearing from him even in third person elevates the experience.
With the themes of the death of one parent, the grief and depression of the other parent, and death of a young boy, the story is quite heavy. There is a subtle melancholy to most of the pages, heightened by Marjorie’s feeling as if she herself is a ghost, wandering through life without any meaning. At the same time, the author weaves in some light humour through Wendell’s habit of exaggerating the stories of his life. The final effect is still feel-good.
Wendell’s “lively� imagination and his yearning for acceptance make him a ghost as adorable as Casper. I loved everything about the ghost world, including the use of sheets, the need for death therapy, and of course, the “Ghosturizer� � wish I too could have access to it.
The book could have handled the following points better:
1. It doesn’t even mention Marjorie’s age, a fact crucial to understanding the character’s behaviour. Only the ŷ blurb reveals that she is thirteen.
2. The storyboarding is at time jumpy, skipping over certain scenes and not continuing certain minor tracks.
3. There is also a stock antagonist in the form of Mr. Saubertuck. While his track contains some interesting moments, some parts of his arc (especially about the finances) might not be clear to younger readers.
4. Marjorie’s dad handling of grief should have been better written. His character sketching is somewhat fuzzy.
5. The backstory is quite vague.
Of course, this is just the first of the series, so I hope some of the above gaps are plugged in by the remaining two books. I also hope to see more of Mr. Duncan, the PE teacher, as his character had tremendous potential.
The illustrations are pretty good, while not mind-blowing. The human world is depicted in myriad colours, while the ghost world is almost monochromatic, coming only in shades of dull green, black and white. This establishes the difference of location instantly in the minds of the readers. Though the ghost world had duller palettes, I still enjoyed the sketches of the various ghosts. They were fun, and their expressions despite the sheets were “out of this world�.
I read this with my younger daughter, who is of the right age group for this graphic novel. Her reaction showed me that the book works perfectly for its target readers, and as long as the book can keep its intended audience happy, who am I to crib?
4.5 stars from the kiddo. (3.5 stars from adult me, not that it matters much.) Averaging the two.
Onto the second book of the series with the little one for company. 😊
—ĔĔĔĔĔĔĔĔĔĔĔĔĔ�
Connect with me through:
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July 4, 2020
I have officially given up my human form and turned into the googly eye emoji (🥺) and it is solely for the purpose of accurately portraying my feelings towards this graphic novel.
There is something incredibly pure and wholesome about reading about a sad girl becoming friends with a sad ghost. My heart grew at least three sizes during the progression of the story and i found myself staring at my phone and grinning from ear to ear (like the pathetic, soft-hearted loser that i am).
It is a seldom thing for a graphic novel to make me this giddy and happy. I think this kind of story is something that everybody needs right now, or generally during a rough patch in life. Something that reminds you, even for a moment, that there is still kindness out there and that you can find friendship in the most unlikely of places.
rating: ★★★�
There is something incredibly pure and wholesome about reading about a sad girl becoming friends with a sad ghost. My heart grew at least three sizes during the progression of the story and i found myself staring at my phone and grinning from ear to ear (like the pathetic, soft-hearted loser that i am).
It is a seldom thing for a graphic novel to make me this giddy and happy. I think this kind of story is something that everybody needs right now, or generally during a rough patch in life. Something that reminds you, even for a moment, that there is still kindness out there and that you can find friendship in the most unlikely of places.
� buddy read with may, you are my unlikely place 🥺
rating: ★★★�
March 28, 2025
Before I begin, I have to share some things with you.
First� I chose this book because of a review I read by one of you. (You is my amazing ŷ friend, Sara) who only gave it 3 stars� (which she considers still makes it a good read!)
And…Her review was still compelling enough, and the issues she presented within her review seemed like it would make it a worthwhile read.
So....Thank you Sara. Her review is here: /review/show...
And thus…I decided to order it from my local library.
Second…This is a graphic novel.
I am not typically attracted to graphic novels.
But…Several of my GR friends read graphic novels, and have shown how beautiful their messages can be.
So…I thought I would challenge myself.
Third…The day, I received the book from the library, there was a knock at my door. A semi-new “patron� to my Little Free Library Shed came by with a homemade jar of apricot jam for my husband and I. She just wanted to say thank you for all the books she has been reading over the last several months, and felt this was one way to show her appreciation.
Now…The apricot jam may not have anything to do with this story�
But…How could I not have felt such joy that this Little Free Library Shed was making such a difference to so many in this neighborhood�
And now� I get to partake of homemade apricot jam.
This must be a sign…That…The timing was perfect for me to begin reading this book.
This is a YA Novel.
Marjorie Glatt is a very sad, but responsible 13-year-old girl. Her mother has passed away, her father sleeps away the days, and she is left to be responsible for their launderette business, dealing with demanding customers and never-ending laundry.
As well as being responsible for her little brother, and keeping up with school.
And then…There is Mr. Saubertuck who wants their family business (which is also their home) so he can turn it into a yoga spa resort.
What is Marjorie going to do?
One day, Wendell the Ghost jumps the train out of the ghost realm and shows up at the launderette.
(Hence the title of the book: Sheets � looks like a ghost.)
Can he be the friend she needs and the answer to Marjorie’s problems?
Sheets addresses very sensitively, issues of grief, loss, and feelings of overwhelmingness, especially to a teenager.
To do it in graphic form, is genius.
The author does an amazing job using the sequential art narrative to showcase the expectations placed upon a girl this young, and how the responsibilities she is shouldering impact her daily life.
As readers, it is hard to fathom what she is experiencing at such a young age.
But…We could see it visually through each narration box.
Wendell’s entrance to the story, and to Marjorie’s life brings humor and lightness to the darkness and gloom that took up the earlier pages showing Marjorie’s slice of life. Even as just a sheet, his expressions come through.
Although the ending seemed quick, almost too abrupt, it still felt resolved in a way that left readers feeling a sense of hope for Marjorie and her family.
Lessons gained through this book�
Importance of friendship, kindness, it’s okay to apologize when you are in the wrong.
Certainly, the harder topics�
Grief and the effect death has on a family.
“Patience is the thread of healing.�
Concern…It would be nice if the father could engage more as a parent figure, and become better in his awareness with his grief and helping with his children, so that they all could find ways to cope with the loss together.
Special note�
The illustrations were creative, quite intricate and colorful. Even through the various speech bubbles or thought balloons.
One more thought�
Apparently, there is a second in the series, called Delicates. Should I continue? Stay tuned.
First� I chose this book because of a review I read by one of you. (You is my amazing ŷ friend, Sara) who only gave it 3 stars� (which she considers still makes it a good read!)
And…Her review was still compelling enough, and the issues she presented within her review seemed like it would make it a worthwhile read.
So....Thank you Sara. Her review is here: /review/show...
And thus…I decided to order it from my local library.
Second…This is a graphic novel.
I am not typically attracted to graphic novels.
But…Several of my GR friends read graphic novels, and have shown how beautiful their messages can be.
So…I thought I would challenge myself.
Third…The day, I received the book from the library, there was a knock at my door. A semi-new “patron� to my Little Free Library Shed came by with a homemade jar of apricot jam for my husband and I. She just wanted to say thank you for all the books she has been reading over the last several months, and felt this was one way to show her appreciation.
Now…The apricot jam may not have anything to do with this story�
But…How could I not have felt such joy that this Little Free Library Shed was making such a difference to so many in this neighborhood�
And now� I get to partake of homemade apricot jam.
This must be a sign…That…The timing was perfect for me to begin reading this book.
This is a YA Novel.
Marjorie Glatt is a very sad, but responsible 13-year-old girl. Her mother has passed away, her father sleeps away the days, and she is left to be responsible for their launderette business, dealing with demanding customers and never-ending laundry.
As well as being responsible for her little brother, and keeping up with school.
And then…There is Mr. Saubertuck who wants their family business (which is also their home) so he can turn it into a yoga spa resort.
What is Marjorie going to do?
One day, Wendell the Ghost jumps the train out of the ghost realm and shows up at the launderette.
(Hence the title of the book: Sheets � looks like a ghost.)
Can he be the friend she needs and the answer to Marjorie’s problems?
Sheets addresses very sensitively, issues of grief, loss, and feelings of overwhelmingness, especially to a teenager.
To do it in graphic form, is genius.
The author does an amazing job using the sequential art narrative to showcase the expectations placed upon a girl this young, and how the responsibilities she is shouldering impact her daily life.
As readers, it is hard to fathom what she is experiencing at such a young age.
But…We could see it visually through each narration box.
Wendell’s entrance to the story, and to Marjorie’s life brings humor and lightness to the darkness and gloom that took up the earlier pages showing Marjorie’s slice of life. Even as just a sheet, his expressions come through.
Although the ending seemed quick, almost too abrupt, it still felt resolved in a way that left readers feeling a sense of hope for Marjorie and her family.
Lessons gained through this book�
Importance of friendship, kindness, it’s okay to apologize when you are in the wrong.
Certainly, the harder topics�
Grief and the effect death has on a family.
“Patience is the thread of healing.�
Concern…It would be nice if the father could engage more as a parent figure, and become better in his awareness with his grief and helping with his children, so that they all could find ways to cope with the loss together.
Special note�
The illustrations were creative, quite intricate and colorful. Even through the various speech bubbles or thought balloons.
One more thought�
Apparently, there is a second in the series, called Delicates. Should I continue? Stay tuned.
September 4, 2023
sheets is a somber yet adorable ghostie graphic novel with beautiful coloring. i love ghosts, especially cute ones, so i really enjoyed this!
the art is interesting, because i love how the ghosts are drawn, and the purply-pink coloring is absolutely lovely (and in keeping with the 90s setting). but i'm not a fan of the art for the humans, especially the main characters.
rosalind's review mentions how fucked up it is that the villain is a the only fat character, and that's something that also bothered me a great deal. this came out in 2018... can't we do better? don't young readers deserve better? (a few reviews also mention that the villain may be queer-coded, which is also pretty fucked up)
otherwise it's a touching story, and the grief theme meshes really well with the ghost theme. i wish the relationships were more developed, as they are far more interesting than the save-the-laundromat plot. and some more worldbuilding for the ghost towns would be cool too. but hopefully the sequel digs deeper into the characters, and brings even more pretty pages!
the art is interesting, because i love how the ghosts are drawn, and the purply-pink coloring is absolutely lovely (and in keeping with the 90s setting). but i'm not a fan of the art for the humans, especially the main characters.
rosalind's review mentions how fucked up it is that the villain is a the only fat character, and that's something that also bothered me a great deal. this came out in 2018... can't we do better? don't young readers deserve better? (a few reviews also mention that the villain may be queer-coded, which is also pretty fucked up)
otherwise it's a touching story, and the grief theme meshes really well with the ghost theme. i wish the relationships were more developed, as they are far more interesting than the save-the-laundromat plot. and some more worldbuilding for the ghost towns would be cool too. but hopefully the sequel digs deeper into the characters, and brings even more pretty pages!
July 31, 2023
Sheets by Brenna Thummlers is my first graphic novel for a while, I am so happy I chose this one because it possesses some classic elements that make any story enjoyable.
We have a main character, Marjorie Glatt, an awkward girl who struggles to be accepted at school. She is also missing her mother, who died a while back, leaving her father and her to run their laundry business. But it’s really the 13-year-old Marjorie who runs the show. Dad is sad.
Now this is where Graphic Novels hit the mark for me � we usually use our minds-eye to envisage a character in a novel, and that’s cool. But here, the image of poor Marjorie shows a truly sad girl. She's really miserable. She appears awkward and totally despondent as she deals with the downs of her life and the stress of dealing with obnoxious customers in the struggling family business. Oh dear.
It just so happens, a bunch of ghosts � you know, the conventional sheeted ones visit Marjorie’s laundry from time to time and cause all types of mayhem.
Now, there’s a bad man involved, and his name is Nigel Saubertuck � what a nasty bloke he is too � well, he’s trying to con Marjorie into handing over the business to him in exchange for a bogus offering.
This work has the classic good vs. evil elements with the added dimension of the old-fashioned ghost adorned in their white sheets � who play a major role in the outcome.
I enjoyed this 4 Stars
Many thanks to NetGalley for handing me a copy of this enjoyable book in exchange for my thoughts.
We have a main character, Marjorie Glatt, an awkward girl who struggles to be accepted at school. She is also missing her mother, who died a while back, leaving her father and her to run their laundry business. But it’s really the 13-year-old Marjorie who runs the show. Dad is sad.
Now this is where Graphic Novels hit the mark for me � we usually use our minds-eye to envisage a character in a novel, and that’s cool. But here, the image of poor Marjorie shows a truly sad girl. She's really miserable. She appears awkward and totally despondent as she deals with the downs of her life and the stress of dealing with obnoxious customers in the struggling family business. Oh dear.
It just so happens, a bunch of ghosts � you know, the conventional sheeted ones visit Marjorie’s laundry from time to time and cause all types of mayhem.
Now, there’s a bad man involved, and his name is Nigel Saubertuck � what a nasty bloke he is too � well, he’s trying to con Marjorie into handing over the business to him in exchange for a bogus offering.
This work has the classic good vs. evil elements with the added dimension of the old-fashioned ghost adorned in their white sheets � who play a major role in the outcome.
I enjoyed this 4 Stars
Many thanks to NetGalley for handing me a copy of this enjoyable book in exchange for my thoughts.
September 5, 2018
SOLD! The ghostly book cover....the inside front and back covers....the detailed soft colored illustrations....just wonderful!
The memories are bittersweet....the laundry never-ending....or is it!
Poor Marjorie....so much to do. Trying to survive middle school with no friends and run the family laundry with no help while dad mourns is such a heavy burden to bear; and that coupled with an evil minded villain and mischievous young ghost bring anguish to Marjorie's face in many of the meaningful illustrations.
SHEETS (great name) is a sad, but powerful little middle grade graphic story about loss, perseverance, forgiveness and new unlikely friendships....plus one fine debut for Brenna Thummler.
Many thanks to Diamond Book Distributors and NetGalley for the complimentary ebook in exchange for review.
October 10, 2019
What a great book we have here! I read this book in one sitting and it absolutely blew me away. This is such a moving story about the girl, Marjorie, who spends most of her time doing the family laundary business. Alone in that world, she feels invisible. People treat her so bad and they have no understanding for her. Mar J is that type of girl who will forgive you anything in order to live her life peacefully.
Once you're dead,
you're dead.
You can't over-die.
Even though people treat her so bad, she still finds her will to fight for a good life. And once she meets Wendell, her life turns upside down. She doesn't believe in ghosts, yet he comes to her house every night. Firstly, she's not happy at all - ghosts are not real! But Wendell proves her that she's wrong. Also, he brings faith in her life. True friendships exists just like ghosts does.
But this place is home, baby.
And once you have that,
there's nowhere you'd rather be.
I loved everything about this book. It has lovely art and this type of setting is so unusual, I didn't know I would like it this much. I'm so happy that I read this book and I highly recommend it to everyone!
Once you're dead,
you're dead.
You can't over-die.
Even though people treat her so bad, she still finds her will to fight for a good life. And once she meets Wendell, her life turns upside down. She doesn't believe in ghosts, yet he comes to her house every night. Firstly, she's not happy at all - ghosts are not real! But Wendell proves her that she's wrong. Also, he brings faith in her life. True friendships exists just like ghosts does.
But this place is home, baby.
And once you have that,
there's nowhere you'd rather be.
I loved everything about this book. It has lovely art and this type of setting is so unusual, I didn't know I would like it this much. I'm so happy that I read this book and I highly recommend it to everyone!
September 27, 2020
A lovely story about friendship overcoming frustrations in a unique way. Although graphic novels are not really my "go to" genre (I have read a couple from the AMULET and BONE series), I found that my young students would "devour" them, and hey, anything that gets kids reading is alright by me! Many educators, including myself, teach students that there are 3 ways to read: read the pictures, read the words, and retell the story. Graphic novels, such as SHEETS, really lend themselves well to "read the pictures". The illustrations tell such a realistic story, right up to the facial expressions. I had to really focus on all the details so as not to miss anything. This book is definitely relatable for middle school-aged students!
December 11, 2018
The story of Marjorie Glatt and Wendell in this graphic novel is quite entertaining to read. While reading this, Wendell reminds me of the famous Casper not only because they are both young ghosts but also for their personality and the way they try to help as much as they can. However, I was torn on the rating between 4 and 5 stars; I am hoping that there would be a second volume because I like how there was a panel that shows that Marjorie and Wendell might have met already when he was still alive.
The story of grief, loneliness, depression, moving on and remembering our departed loved ones were all tackled in this fast-paced story. The colorful illustrations are also highly appealing that makes the story charming and delightful to read. A must-read if you are looking for something that is a light-read yet still captivating.
The story of grief, loneliness, depression, moving on and remembering our departed loved ones were all tackled in this fast-paced story. The colorful illustrations are also highly appealing that makes the story charming and delightful to read. A must-read if you are looking for something that is a light-read yet still captivating.
November 27, 2018
I read this because I was looking over the shoulder of someone else in this house reading it and recognized the drawing style and distinctive coloring of Brenna Thummler, whose illustration work I liked very much on her and Mariah Marsden's adaptation of Lucy Maud Montgomery's Anne of Green Gables. This is Thummler's solo effort, featuring Wendell the friendly ghost (cue Casper meme here) and other ghosts, all wearing sheets.
Marjorie Glatt's mother died; she's thirteen and now pretty much in charge of running her family's laundry business, though Mr. Saubertuck wants to take over the building. Wendell mistakenly undermines the laundry business, but Marjorie is determined to survive, and a friendship develops.
The story isn't great, in my opinion, but Marjorie's personality comes through, and I like the art style a lot, conveying warmth and intimacy.
Marjorie Glatt's mother died; she's thirteen and now pretty much in charge of running her family's laundry business, though Mr. Saubertuck wants to take over the building. Wendell mistakenly undermines the laundry business, but Marjorie is determined to survive, and a friendship develops.
The story isn't great, in my opinion, but Marjorie's personality comes through, and I like the art style a lot, conveying warmth and intimacy.
October 20, 2018
Such an interesting new kind of story. There aren't too many stories set in a Laundromat and it sets up the tone very well. Down trodden and an endless cycle. There is a creepy weird dude named Mr. Saubertuck who is trying to take advantage of the family who owns the Laundromat. He wants to build a spa and take over the building and have a yoga studio. He puts pressure on Marjorie, the lead teen of the piece. He wants them to work for him and live in the studio.
I've never seen an evil yoga practitioner, but Brenna dreamed one up. I suppose it's possible, but highly unlikely. He also doesn't have that Yoga 'air' about him. He is doing everything including breaking in and putting dye in the soap to sabotage the business. He is one sneaky Pete.
A ghost named Wendell shows up trying to help Marjorie. We see the ghosts all in their land separate from the people. A Laundromat is like a playground for a ghost. He has fun there. We also get to see ghost culture and how many rules they have- so many rules.
The story is all about how to say the business and family. It's about Marjorie figuring out how to do life. I felt this was a clever story about death and life and finding your way. I enjoyed the ghosts and the sheets. Fun stuff all around.
I enjoyed this and had fun with it. I'm glad I gave it a whirl.(get it)
I've never seen an evil yoga practitioner, but Brenna dreamed one up. I suppose it's possible, but highly unlikely. He also doesn't have that Yoga 'air' about him. He is doing everything including breaking in and putting dye in the soap to sabotage the business. He is one sneaky Pete.
A ghost named Wendell shows up trying to help Marjorie. We see the ghosts all in their land separate from the people. A Laundromat is like a playground for a ghost. He has fun there. We also get to see ghost culture and how many rules they have- so many rules.
The story is all about how to say the business and family. It's about Marjorie figuring out how to do life. I felt this was a clever story about death and life and finding your way. I enjoyed the ghosts and the sheets. Fun stuff all around.
I enjoyed this and had fun with it. I'm glad I gave it a whirl.(get it)
March 7, 2019
This is an unusual idea for a story, a 13 yr old girl runs a laundrette, her mother has recently died and her father appears to be housebound by his depression. The other storyline involve the ghosts that inhabit the town where Marjory lives and how she comes into contact with one who helps her turn her life around. Full of interesting characters you might meet in everyday life, the mean girls, the kind teacher, the annoying younger brother, the unusual yoga teacher, and the characters you might not meet like the ghosts, this turned out to be a really enjoyable read.
October 5, 2021
The art is so vivid and captivating. I was pausing on pages to just soak it in (which adhd usually never allows but that's shows how stunning the artist really is). The colors are so rich and meaningful. There would be different color schemes for different moods or different points in certain character's lives. Stunning.
I wish we had focused a bit more on Wendell and the past between him and Marjorie.
This is not sadness that hits you in the gut and takes your breath away. It is soft and whispers in your ear. The facial expressions Marjorie wears 95% of the time tells a whole story. There is this grief that has settled on the entire house and laundry mat that is palpable. It's depressing honestly. But it lends itself to the character understanding other people's situations in a much more nuanced way than others might.
This is a lot about standing up to others and standing up for your self. It's about loneliness and trauma and innocence.
I highly recommend this. Such a stunning graphic novel.
I wish we had focused a bit more on Wendell and the past between him and Marjorie.
This is not sadness that hits you in the gut and takes your breath away. It is soft and whispers in your ear. The facial expressions Marjorie wears 95% of the time tells a whole story. There is this grief that has settled on the entire house and laundry mat that is palpable. It's depressing honestly. But it lends itself to the character understanding other people's situations in a much more nuanced way than others might.
This is a lot about standing up to others and standing up for your self. It's about loneliness and trauma and innocence.
I highly recommend this. Such a stunning graphic novel.
May 2, 2020
To odważne, ale mówię to z pełnym przekonaniem- to najpiękniejszy komiks jaki widziały moje oczy! Mogłabym sobie nim ściany wykleić! A sama historia wzruszająca 😭❤️
August 26, 2022
This is a middle grade graphic novel, and this is the first book in the Sheets series. I have to say that I felt the beginning pacing was way to slow, but when we got to the middle it picked up. The pictures where very well done, and I think the pictures pull the story together. I love the colors of the pictures. This graphic novel does have a underlined sadness that is through out this book, but that fits the story. I think if the beginning of this book's pacing was better I would enjoy it more. I do think this book covers death of a family member very well, and it also shows it is ok to be sad after a death of a family member.
August 15, 2021
Rereading because I have the sequel.
It's a rather sad story and deals with grief.
A girl trying her best to keep her family laundry business working while the business is at stake.
The ghosts/sheets have a role to play in this. I wish the adult characters were a bit understanding but then the world is not always a beautiful place to survive in.
Initially I thought it would be a cute graphic novel. I wish I was right. I was both right and wrong here. It's serious, sad and cute all the same time.
It's a rather sad story and deals with grief.
A girl trying her best to keep her family laundry business working while the business is at stake.
The ghosts/sheets have a role to play in this. I wish the adult characters were a bit understanding but then the world is not always a beautiful place to survive in.
Initially I thought it would be a cute graphic novel. I wish I was right. I was both right and wrong here. It's serious, sad and cute all the same time.
May 19, 2020
more like 3.5 - overall a really lovely story about loneliness and loss, but i wish it was a bit longer to flesh out the plot a bit more.
May 6, 2018
It's 1998 in Marjorie's world and the feels are no less in 2018.
"Mom opened glatt's Laundry when she was only nineteen. Bath then, it was "Dellaway Laundry", which is loads better. But then she met Dad and lost the ability to make rational decisions."...She died the past spring, and then Dad sort of did, too. He's still 100% opaque but slightly less visible."
This is the story of a girl, Marjorie. Not just any girl; a girl who feels out of place and invisible to the world. And she loves books and the piano. She's blond and awkward and has to care for a family while her father, depressed after his wife's death, (not a spoiler) stays in bed all day. It's basically teenage me. Except while I worked at a bookstore, she works at a laundromat. Let's just say I don't think I've ever related more to a character.
"Grown-ups are skilled at making terrible things great."
Our other character is Wendell, the ghost of a little boy. He is the cutest thing ever. He's a cute little ghost that over-exaggerated how he died to a bunch of other ghosts.
And he lives in a trailer. And goes to ghost AA meetings.
But Wendell gets kicked out of his house and needs a place to stay.
So a lot of things go wrong because of one big asshole (and Wendell's clumsiness)
Owen, her little brother, is just precious but a little bastard, like most pre-schoolers. Marjorie has to deal with being the mother, father and bread winner of the house while still going to middle school.
But Wendell, the ghosts and Marjorie work together to save the laundromat. Everything ends well. I know this sounds like a child's comic, but it's not. It deals with death of family and friends and the depression of the child in the child-headed household as well as the bullying and heckling she faces. It's very dark at times, but extremely sweet and endearing.
I listened to The Pillows while reading Sheets. The upbeat rock/grunge really set the tone. And I think this lyric from one of their songs describes Marjorie so well:
Japanese:
Ride on Shooting Star
kokoro no koe de sandanjuu no you ni
utai tsutzuketa
Ride on shooting star
With the voice of my heart, like a shotgun
I kept on singing
I was given this book by NetGalley in exchange for an honest review
June 24, 2018
Sheets by Brenna Thummler is a book I requested from NetGalley and the review is voluntary.
I found the first part of the book a bit slow but it did pick up when there was more interaction with the ghost. I felt for the girl and the ghost but I wasn't too invested in them. I found the flirting scene near the end out of place. It was an okay read.
I really loved the art work! Very nice! Wonderful colors and could almost tell the story without words!
I found the first part of the book a bit slow but it did pick up when there was more interaction with the ghost. I felt for the girl and the ghost but I wasn't too invested in them. I found the flirting scene near the end out of place. It was an okay read.
I really loved the art work! Very nice! Wonderful colors and could almost tell the story without words!
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