Brenna Thummler

Brenna Thummler is an American illustrator and graphic novelist known for her work in middle-grade and young adult literature. Her art style incorporates soft color palettes and ethereal elements, particularly in her exploration of supernatural themes. Thummler illustrated the graphic novel adaptation of Anne of Green Gables in 2017, working with writer Mariah Marsden to reimagine the classic story. This marked her entry into the graphic novel field and established her distinctive artistic approach. Her original graphic novels Sheets (2018) and its sequel Delicates (2021) follow the story of Marjorie Glatt, a young girl who runs a laundromat while dealing with ghosts. These works address themes of grief, friendship, and growing up while incorporating supernatural elements. Beyond her graphic novel work, Thummler has created illustrations for various publications and projects, including The New York Times and Smithsonian Magazine. She received her BFA in illustration from the Ringling College of Art and Design.

Readers connect strongly with Thummler's handling of grief, anxiety, and childhood struggles in her graphic novels. Her art style receives frequent mentions for its use of muted colors and atmospheric qualities. What readers liked: - Authentic portrayal of middle school social dynamics and mental health - Ghost characters add lightness to serious themes - Art style enhances emotional moments without being overwhelming - Accessible for young readers while tackling complex topics What readers disliked: - Pacing in Sheets feels slow for some readers - Some found the endings unsatisfying - Text can be difficult to read in certain color combinations Ratings across platforms: Sheets - Goodreads: 3.9/5 (23,000+ ratings) - Amazon: 4.6/5 (500+ reviews) Delicates - Goodreads: 4.1/5 (5,000+ ratings) - Amazon: 4.8/5 (200+ reviews) Reader quote: "The art perfectly captures that hollow feeling of depression without becoming too dark for younger readers." - Goodreads reviewer

Sheets (2017) A graphic novel about a 13-year-old girl named Marjorie who helps her family run a laundromat while dealing with ghost encounters and middle school challenges.

Ghost on the Landing (2017) A short story featuring a ghost who resides in an old house and interacts with its new inhabitants.

Delicates (2021) A graphic novel sequel to Sheets, following Marjorie as she befriends a new student while navigating depression, bullying, and supernatural elements.

Anne of West Philly (2022) A contemporary graphic novel adaptation of Anne of Green Gables, set in West Philadelphia, featuring a foster child with a passion for art and engineering.

Tillie Walden creates graphic novels about young women navigating relationships, identity, and coming-of-age experiences. Her works feature supernatural elements mixed with slice-of-life storytelling, similar to Thummler's approach.

Hope Larson writes middle-grade graphic novels that blend everyday life with magical realism. Her stories focus on female protagonists dealing with family dynamics and self-discovery.

Lucy Knisley produces autobiographical and fiction graphic novels centered on life transitions and personal growth. Her art style incorporates clean lines and uses color to convey emotion throughout the narrative.

Vera Brosgol creates stories about outsiders finding their place in the world through both supernatural and realistic scenarios. Her work balances humor with deeper themes of belonging and identity.

Faith Erin Hicks develops character-driven graphic novels featuring protagonists who overcome personal challenges while navigating social relationships. Her stories combine elements of fantasy with grounded emotional narratives.