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Gamerville: A Graphic Novel
A video gamer’s championship aspirations are dashed when his parents send him to Camp Refresh, where electronics are forbidden and you're forced to socialize, eat healthy, and spend time outside. Gamerville is a timely and vulnerable exploration of the importance of human connection and what it means to run in a pack, brought to you by award-winning author Johnnie Christmas.
Max Lightning is howling at the moon—he’s finally qualified for Gamerville, a championship where players compete to be top dog in the multiplayer video game Lone Wolf of Calamity Bay. But his dreams of domination are doomed when his parents send him to Camp Refresh. Gone are the long nights of downing energy drinks and getting copious amounts of screen time. They've been replaced with fresh air and group activities under the hot sun—a shock to the system for a lone wolf like Max. Can Max escape Camp Refresh and level up at Gamerville, or has he finally played his last match?
Max Lightning is howling at the moon—he’s finally qualified for Gamerville, a championship where players compete to be top dog in the multiplayer video game Lone Wolf of Calamity Bay. But his dreams of domination are doomed when his parents send him to Camp Refresh. Gone are the long nights of downing energy drinks and getting copious amounts of screen time. They've been replaced with fresh air and group activities under the hot sun—a shock to the system for a lone wolf like Max. Can Max escape Camp Refresh and level up at Gamerville, or has he finally played his last match?
254 pages, Hardcover
First published July 16, 2024
43 people are currently reading
2782 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 122 reviews
August 13, 2024
I eagerly anticipated diving into Gamerville after enjoying Johnnie Christmas' previous graphic novel, Swim Team. I’m happy to say that Gamerville did not disappoint.
The story follows a homeschooled boy who, being overly passionate about video games, is sent to Camp Reset by his parents (an electronics-free zone). This camp turns out to be exactly what he needs. As he befriends new people, he discovers that camp life offers challenges similar to those in video games, and he also picks up some valuable healthy habits along the way.
This graphic novel is a great pick for kids who love video games. It skillfully explores themes of friendship and belonging, and it provides insightful models for problem-solving and conflict resolution. -Diana F.
The story follows a homeschooled boy who, being overly passionate about video games, is sent to Camp Reset by his parents (an electronics-free zone). This camp turns out to be exactly what he needs. As he befriends new people, he discovers that camp life offers challenges similar to those in video games, and he also picks up some valuable healthy habits along the way.
This graphic novel is a great pick for kids who love video games. It skillfully explores themes of friendship and belonging, and it provides insightful models for problem-solving and conflict resolution. -Diana F.
August 10, 2024
Another FANTASTIC middle grade graphic novel from Canadian writer/artist, Johnnie Christmas. I loved his last book, Swim team and this latest featuring a video game obsessed tween boy, Max, was just as good!
Sent to summer camp by his parents where no devices are allowed, Max has to learn to face his fears, make new friends and experience the joys of nature and being outdoors. I loved the bullying/conflict resolution rep in this book and the great tips on how to repair relationships.
Great illustrations with an important message sure to resonate with young readers today. Highly, highly recommended for summer reading lists!!
Sent to summer camp by his parents where no devices are allowed, Max has to learn to face his fears, make new friends and experience the joys of nature and being outdoors. I loved the bullying/conflict resolution rep in this book and the great tips on how to repair relationships.
Great illustrations with an important message sure to resonate with young readers today. Highly, highly recommended for summer reading lists!!
August 1, 2024
Really enjoyed this middle grade graphic novel about the effects of over-gaming. Max is obsessed with gaming, and his obsession has paid off. He’s been invited to participate in Gamerville, a championship event where players compete to be the best in his favorite video game. But his dream is crushed when his parents decide to send him to Camp Reset, a summer camp that’s tech-free! Hikes, fresh air, and group activities in the hot sun are NOT Max’s idea of fun, so he plans to sneak out and get to the gaming competition.
As an elementary classroom teacher, I appreciated the “Guide to Repair” at the end of the book. Great for students to use to problem-solve differences.
Themes of friendship and human connection.
Favorite lines (page 208):
Max: “No one fits in one hundred percent, Zanzi. And, to tell the truth, I’m terrified that I might lose.
But this summer I learned that going on adventures with your friends is really fun. Better than going alone.”
As an elementary classroom teacher, I appreciated the “Guide to Repair” at the end of the book. Great for students to use to problem-solve differences.
Themes of friendship and human connection.
Favorite lines (page 208):
Max: “No one fits in one hundred percent, Zanzi. And, to tell the truth, I’m terrified that I might lose.
But this summer I learned that going on adventures with your friends is really fun. Better than going alone.”
April 10, 2024
5 stars
Johnnie Christmas has gifted the middle grade readership with another fantastic and of the moment graphic novel, this time focusing on the perils of technology. What happens when one's whole life plays out in a video game? When they are constantly dehydrated, barely walking 200 steps in a whole afternoon/evening, and sitting in isolation? Young Max and his collaborators are here to answer all of these pressing questions and more.
Max is absolutely obsessed with gaming, and to his credit, he's very good at it. Just before he's supposed to participate in a competition, his parents ship him away to Camp Reset and wow does he need that aptly named adventure. This kid is hooked on his tech and can't seem to spark joy with other people let alone the world in which they all actually exist. Readers follow Max from his video game paradise to his on-ground nightmare in this device-free camp, and then, well, to another space entirely.
I loved _Swim Team_, and while the topic is distinct, there are some pleasing parallels. Max is in a new environment, is faced with challenges, and has to learn how to connect with others. His journey is both entertaining and educational, and I love the fact that the world gets another middle grade male protagonist. As a person who teaches children's, middle grade, and YA lit to college students (and has for almost two decades), I can attest to the fact that the modern pickings on this front are somewhat slim. This book is enjoyable but also fills a long empty niche.
This is another winner from Christmas, and I am already looking forward to reading what this author has to share next.
*Special thanks to NetGalley and HarperAlley for this arc, which I received in exchange for an honest review. The opinions expressed here are my own.
Johnnie Christmas has gifted the middle grade readership with another fantastic and of the moment graphic novel, this time focusing on the perils of technology. What happens when one's whole life plays out in a video game? When they are constantly dehydrated, barely walking 200 steps in a whole afternoon/evening, and sitting in isolation? Young Max and his collaborators are here to answer all of these pressing questions and more.
Max is absolutely obsessed with gaming, and to his credit, he's very good at it. Just before he's supposed to participate in a competition, his parents ship him away to Camp Reset and wow does he need that aptly named adventure. This kid is hooked on his tech and can't seem to spark joy with other people let alone the world in which they all actually exist. Readers follow Max from his video game paradise to his on-ground nightmare in this device-free camp, and then, well, to another space entirely.
I loved _Swim Team_, and while the topic is distinct, there are some pleasing parallels. Max is in a new environment, is faced with challenges, and has to learn how to connect with others. His journey is both entertaining and educational, and I love the fact that the world gets another middle grade male protagonist. As a person who teaches children's, middle grade, and YA lit to college students (and has for almost two decades), I can attest to the fact that the modern pickings on this front are somewhat slim. This book is enjoyable but also fills a long empty niche.
This is another winner from Christmas, and I am already looking forward to reading what this author has to share next.
*Special thanks to NetGalley and HarperAlley for this arc, which I received in exchange for an honest review. The opinions expressed here are my own.
September 7, 2024
Would definite recommend this for a much younger crowd, not 5th going into 6th grade as it felt rather...cheesy and in-your-face regarding the EVILS of screentime and gaming, as well as equally corny about keeping things frozen in the past. I did enjoy the nod to finding your own pack of friends who accept you, but the friends themselves so haphazardly bonded (from "coaches" to friends and camp-buddy to best friend), that it all felt shallow. Some humorous scenes did hit home at least.
And the drawing style was not my favorite, with awkward poses and manic eyes, which I originally thought had to do with the dangers of gaming but just seemed to be part of the style...
Just...an odd read overall. Disappointed.
And the drawing style was not my favorite, with awkward poses and manic eyes, which I originally thought had to do with the dangers of gaming but just seemed to be part of the style...
Just...an odd read overall. Disappointed.
April 6, 2024
A MG graphic novel perfect for those addicted to gaming!
🎮
Max lives his life in his gaming chair. After being homeschooled for a while Max is returning to school where things aren’t so great for him. The time he truly feels the happiest is gaming at home. When Max ends up qualifying for Gamerville, a championship gamer competition, he’s ecstatic. Too bad his mom says he can’t go. She ends up sending Max to Camp Refresh to help him detox from his addiction to gaming and devices. Max hates the fresh air, hiking and other outdoor activities and when he sees how close Gamerville is to camp, he begins plotting his escape.
🏕️
If you read @johnniexmas Swim Team this is a slight detour as he focuses on another important topic: screen time in our tweens and teens. He also discusses cyberbullying and physical bullying. Both topics are prevelant and students will relate to them and hopefully learn too. This book releases July 16.
CW: cyberbullying, bullying, physical assault
This started out strong but lost steam. I liked Swim Team better.
🎮
Max lives his life in his gaming chair. After being homeschooled for a while Max is returning to school where things aren’t so great for him. The time he truly feels the happiest is gaming at home. When Max ends up qualifying for Gamerville, a championship gamer competition, he’s ecstatic. Too bad his mom says he can’t go. She ends up sending Max to Camp Refresh to help him detox from his addiction to gaming and devices. Max hates the fresh air, hiking and other outdoor activities and when he sees how close Gamerville is to camp, he begins plotting his escape.
🏕️
If you read @johnniexmas Swim Team this is a slight detour as he focuses on another important topic: screen time in our tweens and teens. He also discusses cyberbullying and physical bullying. Both topics are prevelant and students will relate to them and hopefully learn too. This book releases July 16.
CW: cyberbullying, bullying, physical assault
This started out strong but lost steam. I liked Swim Team better.
February 1, 2025
Gamerville
Overall Rating: ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ .5 (3.5/5) or 7.00/10 overall
Characters - 7
Atmosphere - 7
Writing - 8
Plot - 7
Intrigue - 7
Logic - 7
Enjoyment - 6
Overall Rating: ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ .5 (3.5/5) or 7.00/10 overall
Characters - 7
Atmosphere - 7
Writing - 8
Plot - 7
Intrigue - 7
Logic - 7
Enjoyment - 6
October 5, 2024
Bearing in mind, Johnnie's 'Swim Team' will remain a firm graphic novel favourite of mine for all time, Gamerville, for me, didn't quite reach the same heights. While the book explores themes of technology addiction and the importance of human connection, it suffers from a few significant flaws that detract from its overall impact.
The story follows Max, an avid gamer who is forced to attend Camp Reset, a screen-free summer camp, instead of participating in the Gamerville Video Game Tournament. The setup promises an exploration of friendships and personal growth, but much of the narrative comes off as preachy, particularly in its heavy-handed messages about the dangers of video games and sugar consumption. The tone often feels overly simplistic and lacks nuance, leaving little room for younger readers to engage with the story.
Additionally, while the art in Gamerville is bright and visually engaging, the characters themselves are somewhat flat, with stiff expressions that don't always match the emotional beats of the plot - I can't help but feel that Johnnie was rushed in places although background and scene setting are delightful. This creates a dissonance between the narrative and the artwork, leaving readers wanting more emotional depth and complexity in the characters and their relationships.
The plot resolution also feels a bit too convenient and rushed. Max’s journey toward redemption and self-discovery, which involves breaking into the camp’s Toy Tower to reclaim video games, ends in a way that feels rushed and jumbled rather than thought-provoking. It might still appeal to younger readers looking for a light, fast-paced story, but those seeking a deeper exploration of the themes will likely find it lacking. I wondered, as I was reading, how much editing went on and whether too much was trying to be into a story that probably needed refining and focusing.
The story follows Max, an avid gamer who is forced to attend Camp Reset, a screen-free summer camp, instead of participating in the Gamerville Video Game Tournament. The setup promises an exploration of friendships and personal growth, but much of the narrative comes off as preachy, particularly in its heavy-handed messages about the dangers of video games and sugar consumption. The tone often feels overly simplistic and lacks nuance, leaving little room for younger readers to engage with the story.
Additionally, while the art in Gamerville is bright and visually engaging, the characters themselves are somewhat flat, with stiff expressions that don't always match the emotional beats of the plot - I can't help but feel that Johnnie was rushed in places although background and scene setting are delightful. This creates a dissonance between the narrative and the artwork, leaving readers wanting more emotional depth and complexity in the characters and their relationships.
The plot resolution also feels a bit too convenient and rushed. Max’s journey toward redemption and self-discovery, which involves breaking into the camp’s Toy Tower to reclaim video games, ends in a way that feels rushed and jumbled rather than thought-provoking. It might still appeal to younger readers looking for a light, fast-paced story, but those seeking a deeper exploration of the themes will likely find it lacking. I wondered, as I was reading, how much editing went on and whether too much was trying to be into a story that probably needed refining and focusing.
June 14, 2024
3.5⭐️
It was good, but not GREAT (like Swim Team). Perfect for the early part of middle grade, although my grade 7s would probably read & enjoy it too. My own kid (8.5yo) read it multiple times and prefers this one to Swim Team - likely because of it being about both camp and video games.
Definitely buying for my class library, and I’ll continue to watch out for anything Johnnie Christmas makes in the future!
Thanks to Edelweiss and the publisher for the e-ARC. Publishes July 16th!
It was good, but not GREAT (like Swim Team). Perfect for the early part of middle grade, although my grade 7s would probably read & enjoy it too. My own kid (8.5yo) read it multiple times and prefers this one to Swim Team - likely because of it being about both camp and video games.
Definitely buying for my class library, and I’ll continue to watch out for anything Johnnie Christmas makes in the future!
Thanks to Edelweiss and the publisher for the e-ARC. Publishes July 16th!
August 21, 2024
Quite disappointing. It's a book that does nothing well.
It wants to be set in a realistic world but doesn't seem to understand how the real world works. Most of the characters are flat and two-dimensional; the ones that aren't are predictable.
It wants to be about video games but doesn't understand how video games work (seriously. The conclusion where all the NPCs suddenly do different things? You know how NPCs work, right?). The way they set up the video game tournament is ridiculous, although it did make me think of the movie the Wizard... which actually makes it more ridiculous. I wouldn't hand this book to a gamer because they'd tear it apart.
The art is rarely effective. Character expressions don't convey what they're supposed to and rarely look real. When they're not soulless, the eyes are creepy, and that might be the most consistent thing about the art. The continuity of the art sucks, too; I don't even pay a whole lot of attention and can still count multiple times where clothing or hair cuts don't match panel to panel.
And the subpar art rarely tells the story. That's all in the dialogue, and there's way too much of that. The speech bubbles are way too big and have far too much in them. Add to that it's like Jerry Craft level preachy.
Basically, nothing adds up or is well done.
It wants to be set in a realistic world but doesn't seem to understand how the real world works. Most of the characters are flat and two-dimensional; the ones that aren't are predictable.
It wants to be about video games but doesn't understand how video games work (seriously. The conclusion where all the NPCs suddenly do different things? You know how NPCs work, right?). The way they set up the video game tournament is ridiculous, although it did make me think of the movie the Wizard... which actually makes it more ridiculous. I wouldn't hand this book to a gamer because they'd tear it apart.
The art is rarely effective. Character expressions don't convey what they're supposed to and rarely look real. When they're not soulless, the eyes are creepy, and that might be the most consistent thing about the art. The continuity of the art sucks, too; I don't even pay a whole lot of attention and can still count multiple times where clothing or hair cuts don't match panel to panel.
And the subpar art rarely tells the story. That's all in the dialogue, and there's way too much of that. The speech bubbles are way too big and have far too much in them. Add to that it's like Jerry Craft level preachy.
Basically, nothing adds up or is well done.
December 27, 2024
I want to like it. Indeed I loved Swim Team but this one.....I did not enjoy the characters as much. I struggled to like anyone. We either had whining over change or whining over not playing in a video game tournament.
I was surprised how things were resolved. We still defied parents. We still had a fight between two boys (initially though it doesn't continue). We still had bickering and back stabbing. I find it hard to want to endorse that
Students will like the video game aspect. And there are parallels between the game and adventures at Camp Reset. But I'm not a gamer...so maybe this did fall flat with me for that reason. I just didn't understand the infinity getting to a tournament. (And as we see that feeling of being on top of the world doesn't last)
I was surprised how things were resolved. We still defied parents. We still had a fight between two boys (initially though it doesn't continue). We still had bickering and back stabbing. I find it hard to want to endorse that
Students will like the video game aspect. And there are parallels between the game and adventures at Camp Reset. But I'm not a gamer...so maybe this did fall flat with me for that reason. I just didn't understand the infinity getting to a tournament. (And as we see that feeling of being on top of the world doesn't last)
January 11, 2025
A coming of age story about friendship, balance, and adventure. A young boy obsessed with gaming is sent to a device free camp. He schemes to get to a big gaming conference while interacting with the other kids. The oldest camper tries to deal with changes around her.
Has similar vibes to Unplugged by Gordon Korman. Beautiful graphic novel with diverse characters, and small life lessons sprinkled in that feel authentic and not forced.
Has similar vibes to Unplugged by Gordon Korman. Beautiful graphic novel with diverse characters, and small life lessons sprinkled in that feel authentic and not forced.
February 18, 2025
Johnnie Christmas has done it again! I loved *Swim Team*, and for someone who typically doesn't enjoy graphic novels, that's a significant revelation. This story resonates on many levels, from the perspective of a homeschooled kid to that of an overachiever who struggles with change. I felt a deep connection with these characters. I appreciated their development and the fact that the storylines weren't neatly wrapped up. Bravo!
November 11, 2024
Gamerville is a graphic novel with clear, crisp art and a definite gamer theme even though the bulk of the story takes place at a summer camp where no electronics are allowed. Friendship, life changes, bullying and making amends are prominent themes although they are not explored in great depth, exactly as a video game would handle these issues, in fact. I would have enjoyed the book more if the rule breakers had suffered some sort of consequence, however.
March 18, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️/5. A formerly homeschooled gamer with an overprotective mom is sent to a Camp Reset, where he is forced to live without technology for a month. The camp comes with its own drama among existing campers, including the head counselor and his sister, regarding tradition versus embracing change. This one seems to have a very limited target audience. Recommended for grades 5-8.
October 3, 2024
Couldn't get over how the child looked older than his father.
Read
October 20, 2024Huh.
February 9, 2025
My son’s first graphic novel, read as a bedtime story for a week. He’s hooked, we are headed to the library to find more Johnnie Christmas books asap.
June 20, 2025
A little pedantic, but I liked this one a lot overall!
August 9, 2024
By the author of Swim Team, this was another really great graphic novel that touched on a lot of trending topics: over-consumption of video games, bullying, trolling, importance of traditions but not being afraid to reinvent yourself. Loved the artistic style of this novel too. This would be a great addition to any classroom library.
August 4, 2024
Really cool concept and good life lessons!
August 3, 2024
Gaming is a real thing that is here to stay and is a main stay for many kids. Yet, is it truly everything or as Max wonders is there something to Camp Reset?
July 14, 2024
This is an auto-buy graphic novel author for me. There is always a great balance between drama, serious themes, and positive resolutions. Great values and life lessons.
In this volume, we have two main cores and several subthemes. First: the life of gamers who focus on online lifestyle vs. outdoor activities. The author shows more similarities than differences, and I appreciate that, I love both: games and the outdoors in a balanced way, and I would be sad if it leaned towards one only as the solution. I love the guide about repairing relationships at the end. It should be a poster to display for all to see.
The second main theme is bullying, which can also be cyberbullying. The parallelism between life online vs. offline is always there to show bad behavior exists in both worlds.
The message is relevant: communicating to avoid misunderstanding and to reach cooperation and positive resolution. I felt this volume had a longer middle with a lot of text that slowed us down but loved the extra character attitude at the end.
In this volume, we have two main cores and several subthemes. First: the life of gamers who focus on online lifestyle vs. outdoor activities. The author shows more similarities than differences, and I appreciate that, I love both: games and the outdoors in a balanced way, and I would be sad if it leaned towards one only as the solution. I love the guide about repairing relationships at the end. It should be a poster to display for all to see.
The second main theme is bullying, which can also be cyberbullying. The parallelism between life online vs. offline is always there to show bad behavior exists in both worlds.
The message is relevant: communicating to avoid misunderstanding and to reach cooperation and positive resolution. I felt this volume had a longer middle with a lot of text that slowed us down but loved the extra character attitude at the end.
August 25, 2024
I really enjoyed this! What’s a gamer to do when he’s sent to a camp to totally switch off? Some gorgeous messages about friendship and growing up here; about passions and hobbies; about making good choices and reconciliation. Brilliantly illustrated too!
March 23, 2024
I’d like to thank edelweiss and the publisher for an advance copy in exchange for an honest review. I really enjoyed Swim Team so I was excited to read this. We follow Max, a video game-aholic who wants to enter a video game competition over the summer but instead his parents send him to Camp Reset where there is no devices, video games, social media, or internet. All Max can do is think of ways to escape but in the end will he really see what the camp is for and will his new friends help him see the light. I really enjoyed the plot line and the art to match.
March 30, 2024
E ARC provided by Edelweiss Plus
In this graphic novel, we meet Max, whose loves video games. His favorite is Lone Wolf of Calamity Bay, and he's dedicated himself to the game, playing through the night, and has made the semifinals of the Gamerville Tournament. His parents are concerned, and his mother, who is overprotective after homeschooling him for years, thinks he needs to be outside more. Max doesn't have many friends at school, but when fellow gaming club members Rosa and Armand find out that he's made the semifinals, they offer to coach him. Another student at the school, Wilder, is the reigning champ of the game, and constantly gives Max a hard time for being geeky. Once he makes the finals, Max rebrands his look at "Max Lightning" and makes plans to attend the tournament. Sadly, his parents put an end to his aspirations by making him attend Camp Reset to get him away from the adverse effects of screens. They don't care in the least that he's made the tournament. At the camp, he meets Dylan, who has a past and few friends, and Zanzi, whose great-great-grandfather started the camp. There are lots of old traditions, like uniforms, a Toy Tower, and a talent show, which Zanzi wants to uphold. There's even a tortoise, Major, who has been at the camp for 100 years! When Zanzi's friends want to embrace some new ideas, like doing a Tip Top dance at the talent show instead of reenacting Peter Pan, she's upset, and this is exacerbated when her older brother Byron tells her about plans he has to update the facilities. Meanwhile, Max has figured out that the Gamerville tournament is being help on the other side of the lake, and he has a week to figure out how to make his escape. When Dylan introduces him to RPGs that aren't online, Max makes a campaign strategy to get across the lake, and starts to secretly gain skills and enlist help. When Dylan's nemesis, Ari, is appointed keeper of the Toy Tower, Dylan is upset, and convinces Max to help him get into the Tower, since Max needs to confirm his entry in the Gamerville Tournament, something he can only do if he retrieves his Game Guy device that is locked in the Tower. Zanzi's friends have abandoned her, and when Major dies, she is distraught. Dylan and Max find a way into the tower through long abandoned mines, which they discovered when Max passed out from dehydration (which is an ongoing problem for him) and fell into a cave, surviving because he landed on an old mattress. Having made contact with Rosa, Max is able to get to Gamerville when Rosa and Armand come to get him in a boat. Zanzi is angry that Max is leaving, but agrees to go with the group to watch Max compete. The camp, alarmed that Max has run away, alerts Max's parents, who go to Gamerville, knowing that's where their son has gone. They allow Max to compete. In the game, Max realizes for the first time that the NPCs in Calamity Bay need to be rescued more than he needs to get the various treasures, because of something Rosa has said. Wilder thinks he has won the game, but will the judge of the game weigh Max's accomplishment of saving citizens against Wilder's larger amount of treasure?
Strengths: Any book that involves children obsessed with video games has a built in audience of the millions of children obsessed with video games. Often, these children are also big graphic novel fans, so this is perfect. The fact that Max gets into a gaming tournament is pure wish fulfillment, even though he is thwarted by his evil parents who want him to do a screen detox. There are good messages in this about controlling anger, making friends, and even exploring the outdoors, so a lot of thought went into this story. The drawings have lots of details, and do a great job of depicting both the camp and the Calamity Bay settings. Bonus points for the history of the camp and a long lived tortoise, although Major's death was sad.
Weaknesses: The timeline of Max getting in to the camp was forced, even though the mother claims she had to call in a lot of favors to get him in, and the fact that it was located so close to the Gamerville location was overly coincindental. Will young readers who like video games care? No. They will just vibrate to Max's early assertion that "When I grow up, I'll play video games whenever I want." Also, I needed to know more about why Max was prone to dehydration dizziness.
What I really think: This is a good choice for readers who liked Hansen's My Video Game Ate My Homework or Ali-A's Adventures: Game On graphic novels. I much preferred this author's Swim Team, but but reading about video games is at least better than having children PLAY video games. I'll never be a fan and think that the American Academy of Pediatrics limits of no more than 60 minutes on school days and 2 hours on non-school days are excessive. Children only have about five hours a day of time after school. Half and hour a day seems like more than enough time to spend on screens. (Remember, I was raised in that tiny generational bubble when screen time was seen to be evil for children, as depicted in Brown's excellent The He-Man Effect. https://msyinglingreads.blogspot.com/...
In this graphic novel, we meet Max, whose loves video games. His favorite is Lone Wolf of Calamity Bay, and he's dedicated himself to the game, playing through the night, and has made the semifinals of the Gamerville Tournament. His parents are concerned, and his mother, who is overprotective after homeschooling him for years, thinks he needs to be outside more. Max doesn't have many friends at school, but when fellow gaming club members Rosa and Armand find out that he's made the semifinals, they offer to coach him. Another student at the school, Wilder, is the reigning champ of the game, and constantly gives Max a hard time for being geeky. Once he makes the finals, Max rebrands his look at "Max Lightning" and makes plans to attend the tournament. Sadly, his parents put an end to his aspirations by making him attend Camp Reset to get him away from the adverse effects of screens. They don't care in the least that he's made the tournament. At the camp, he meets Dylan, who has a past and few friends, and Zanzi, whose great-great-grandfather started the camp. There are lots of old traditions, like uniforms, a Toy Tower, and a talent show, which Zanzi wants to uphold. There's even a tortoise, Major, who has been at the camp for 100 years! When Zanzi's friends want to embrace some new ideas, like doing a Tip Top dance at the talent show instead of reenacting Peter Pan, she's upset, and this is exacerbated when her older brother Byron tells her about plans he has to update the facilities. Meanwhile, Max has figured out that the Gamerville tournament is being help on the other side of the lake, and he has a week to figure out how to make his escape. When Dylan introduces him to RPGs that aren't online, Max makes a campaign strategy to get across the lake, and starts to secretly gain skills and enlist help. When Dylan's nemesis, Ari, is appointed keeper of the Toy Tower, Dylan is upset, and convinces Max to help him get into the Tower, since Max needs to confirm his entry in the Gamerville Tournament, something he can only do if he retrieves his Game Guy device that is locked in the Tower. Zanzi's friends have abandoned her, and when Major dies, she is distraught. Dylan and Max find a way into the tower through long abandoned mines, which they discovered when Max passed out from dehydration (which is an ongoing problem for him) and fell into a cave, surviving because he landed on an old mattress. Having made contact with Rosa, Max is able to get to Gamerville when Rosa and Armand come to get him in a boat. Zanzi is angry that Max is leaving, but agrees to go with the group to watch Max compete. The camp, alarmed that Max has run away, alerts Max's parents, who go to Gamerville, knowing that's where their son has gone. They allow Max to compete. In the game, Max realizes for the first time that the NPCs in Calamity Bay need to be rescued more than he needs to get the various treasures, because of something Rosa has said. Wilder thinks he has won the game, but will the judge of the game weigh Max's accomplishment of saving citizens against Wilder's larger amount of treasure?
Strengths: Any book that involves children obsessed with video games has a built in audience of the millions of children obsessed with video games. Often, these children are also big graphic novel fans, so this is perfect. The fact that Max gets into a gaming tournament is pure wish fulfillment, even though he is thwarted by his evil parents who want him to do a screen detox. There are good messages in this about controlling anger, making friends, and even exploring the outdoors, so a lot of thought went into this story. The drawings have lots of details, and do a great job of depicting both the camp and the Calamity Bay settings. Bonus points for the history of the camp and a long lived tortoise, although Major's death was sad.
Weaknesses: The timeline of Max getting in to the camp was forced, even though the mother claims she had to call in a lot of favors to get him in, and the fact that it was located so close to the Gamerville location was overly coincindental. Will young readers who like video games care? No. They will just vibrate to Max's early assertion that "When I grow up, I'll play video games whenever I want." Also, I needed to know more about why Max was prone to dehydration dizziness.
What I really think: This is a good choice for readers who liked Hansen's My Video Game Ate My Homework or Ali-A's Adventures: Game On graphic novels. I much preferred this author's Swim Team, but but reading about video games is at least better than having children PLAY video games. I'll never be a fan and think that the American Academy of Pediatrics limits of no more than 60 minutes on school days and 2 hours on non-school days are excessive. Children only have about five hours a day of time after school. Half and hour a day seems like more than enough time to spend on screens. (Remember, I was raised in that tiny generational bubble when screen time was seen to be evil for children, as depicted in Brown's excellent The He-Man Effect. https://msyinglingreads.blogspot.com/...
June 27, 2025
The VERY first thing I thought about this book was, "Game On...or Game Over? Why is it there's no Game Off or Game Under?" Haha, language is funny.
This is the sort of story I have mixed feelings about, because—though I know from the start it will ALWAYS change your mind about what happens by showing you the "Good Ending" where the main character has a change of heart—I absolutely would've been mad at my parents unforgiveably if they sent me away to camp at ALL, much less ! The very few times I enjoyed camp, it wasn't remotely "camp" like is portrayed in this and Lumberjanes and Sami's Sleepaway Summer and whatever other camp stories you can probably think of. We stayed in cabins with electricity and indoor plumbing, and it was a week, not a MONTH, and I opted in.
Max doesn't get that choice. He's a "Mama's Boy"—as Wilder constantly teases—and his mother decides everything about his life "offline." That's why he ends up doing the exact opposite of going to the game tournament, at a completely low-tech camp.
But, of course, it's not called Gamerville because he doesn't go to the Gamerville contest. Of course not! But the book DOES spend a VERY LOT of time not at or about Gamerville (except as Max's goal in escaping from Camp Reset), so the fact that it's called Gamerville instead of Camp Reset is ultimately a huge spoiler (he DOES attend). Luckily, what happens at Gamerville is shaped by what happens at Camp Reset, which is why I like this story a lot!
(even if the game ends up being a lot more Shangri-La Frontier than Fortnite like I was expecting, since )
Recommended for gamers, especially gamers who've ever been made to do anything else but game, haha. I do still disagree with Max's parents' decision, though, EVEN THOUGH it's the Good Ending for everyone involved.
This is the sort of story I have mixed feelings about, because—though I know from the start it will ALWAYS change your mind about what happens by showing you the "Good Ending" where the main character has a change of heart—I absolutely would've been mad at my parents unforgiveably if they sent me away to camp at ALL, much less ! The very few times I enjoyed camp, it wasn't remotely "camp" like is portrayed in this and Lumberjanes and Sami's Sleepaway Summer and whatever other camp stories you can probably think of. We stayed in cabins with electricity and indoor plumbing, and it was a week, not a MONTH, and I opted in.
Max doesn't get that choice. He's a "Mama's Boy"—as Wilder constantly teases—and his mother decides everything about his life "offline." That's why he ends up doing the exact opposite of going to the game tournament, at a completely low-tech camp.
But, of course, it's not called Gamerville because he doesn't go to the Gamerville contest. Of course not! But the book DOES spend a VERY LOT of time not at or about Gamerville (except as Max's goal in escaping from Camp Reset), so the fact that it's called Gamerville instead of Camp Reset is ultimately a huge spoiler (he DOES attend). Luckily, what happens at Gamerville is shaped by what happens at Camp Reset, which is why I like this story a lot!
(even if the game ends up being a lot more Shangri-La Frontier than Fortnite like I was expecting, since )
Recommended for gamers, especially gamers who've ever been made to do anything else but game, haha. I do still disagree with Max's parents' decision, though, EVEN THOUGH it's the Good Ending for everyone involved.
April 9, 2024
Whew! I had REALLY mixed feelings on this one. To be clear the writing and artwork is top notch, the story is excellent, and the journey Max goes on is a really good one and I think a lot of kids will relate.
I just really struggled with how I felt about the decisions Max's parents made and honestly it made me feel some sort of way. Max is a kid who was homeschooled for years, and is now heading back to school. He's also a gamer and has worked really hard to qualify for the finals on his favorite game at the Gamerville competition. His gaming is what opened some doors for new friends at school, and it's really important to him. And then instead of supporting his hobby and celebrating his success, his parents send him to camp, one without any technology so he can detox his game addiction. And while he's there he steps outside his comfort zone, he makes new friends and he goes on adventures that prior to this he only experienced through a screen.
When Max discovers that he can sneak out and get to Gamerville (conveniently nearby), he makes his plan and makes his escape. His parents are notified and ultimately allow him to compete, and Max uses some of the knowledge he gained at camp to succeed at the game.
Ultimately there is a nice message of finding balance and stepping outside your comfort zone, but for me, the parents swinging back and forth on not caring at all about Max's interests and literally sending him away, and then allowing him to participate later felt really disjointed. I think I would have like more of their relationship or more background on how his parents felt about the gaming prior to yanking the rug out from under Max.
Now... I'm imagining that as an adult this is something that is more noticeable to me then will be to my students, who I think will absolutely love Max and relate to his story. With that in mind I will absolutely be ordering this one for the library next year!
I just really struggled with how I felt about the decisions Max's parents made and honestly it made me feel some sort of way. Max is a kid who was homeschooled for years, and is now heading back to school. He's also a gamer and has worked really hard to qualify for the finals on his favorite game at the Gamerville competition. His gaming is what opened some doors for new friends at school, and it's really important to him. And then instead of supporting his hobby and celebrating his success, his parents send him to camp, one without any technology so he can detox his game addiction. And while he's there he steps outside his comfort zone, he makes new friends and he goes on adventures that prior to this he only experienced through a screen.
When Max discovers that he can sneak out and get to Gamerville (conveniently nearby), he makes his plan and makes his escape. His parents are notified and ultimately allow him to compete, and Max uses some of the knowledge he gained at camp to succeed at the game.
Ultimately there is a nice message of finding balance and stepping outside your comfort zone, but for me, the parents swinging back and forth on not caring at all about Max's interests and literally sending him away, and then allowing him to participate later felt really disjointed. I think I would have like more of their relationship or more background on how his parents felt about the gaming prior to yanking the rug out from under Max.
Now... I'm imagining that as an adult this is something that is more noticeable to me then will be to my students, who I think will absolutely love Max and relate to his story. With that in mind I will absolutely be ordering this one for the library next year!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 9, 2024
Max loves video games. Especially Lone Wolf of Calamity Bay. What he is not so great at is the real world - things like making friends. He was homeschooled for a while but his parents have enrolled him in public school. His mom is very protective and still walks him to school - which makes him the target of a few bullies, one in particular. Max would rather just play video games and eat junk food.
There is a competition for his favorite game and he has made semi-finals and is hoping to make finals. So has his arch-nemesis - Wilder. Two kids at school in the Video Game Club with Max - Rosa and Armand - offer to help coach him so he can beat Wilder. They work hard and Max makes finals for Gamerville! Even though he refuses to use the underground cave network in the video game because it scares him.
But unbeknownst to Max, his mom has enrolled him in Camp Reset - a month long camp that starts immediately. And has no video games. Or any electronics.
Can Max escape from Camp Reset and make it to Gamerville in time?
And make a few friends along the way? And learn that you can hydrate and eat healthy food and still be a video game champ?
Maybe!
There are a lot of themes running throughout the book -- and it might be a tiny bit didactic in places. We have Max's video game playing vs. being out in nature. Eating junk food and not hydrating which causes him to be dizzy. An overprotective mom. Then, once Max gets to camp -- there is a new set of people with their own challenges. One who doesn't like change; one who struggles with anger management; another who wants revenge. And Major, the giant tortoise.
Max's perseverance to figure out a way to escape from camp and get to Gamerville is commendable. And the way that he overcomes is fear of being in enclosed places. And... the lessons he learns along the way.
There's a LOT going on.
There is a competition for his favorite game and he has made semi-finals and is hoping to make finals. So has his arch-nemesis - Wilder. Two kids at school in the Video Game Club with Max - Rosa and Armand - offer to help coach him so he can beat Wilder. They work hard and Max makes finals for Gamerville! Even though he refuses to use the underground cave network in the video game because it scares him.
But unbeknownst to Max, his mom has enrolled him in Camp Reset - a month long camp that starts immediately. And has no video games. Or any electronics.
Can Max escape from Camp Reset and make it to Gamerville in time?
And make a few friends along the way? And learn that you can hydrate and eat healthy food and still be a video game champ?
Maybe!
There are a lot of themes running throughout the book -- and it might be a tiny bit didactic in places. We have Max's video game playing vs. being out in nature. Eating junk food and not hydrating which causes him to be dizzy. An overprotective mom. Then, once Max gets to camp -- there is a new set of people with their own challenges. One who doesn't like change; one who struggles with anger management; another who wants revenge. And Major, the giant tortoise.
Max's perseverance to figure out a way to escape from camp and get to Gamerville is commendable. And the way that he overcomes is fear of being in enclosed places. And... the lessons he learns along the way.
There's a LOT going on.
September 19, 2024
After thoroughly enjoying Swim Team by Johnnie Christmas, I absolutely had to read Gamerville. I knew it was meant to be when I was reminded of its release during some reading/productivity sprints I hosted this past weekend. My good friend, Keyuiana said she had picked it up for her son, so I followed suit and immediately borrowed Gamerville from my local library.
Gamerville is a story that illustrates the importance of balance and embracing change. I personally have experienced a big shift in my family dynamics. Having two boys who’d rather be in front of a screen for hours on end is very relatable. I was just as concerned about Max Lightning’s screen time as his parents were (laughs).
What’s most interesting about this graphic novel is that you visually see the character development and subtle changes that occur over time. Pay close attention to the eyes. The expressions and overall appearance of characters was palpable. This is an element of artistry that I’m always on the lookout for when reading a graphic novel and as expected, Johnnie Christmas nailed it.
I don’t want to spoil the story, but I will say, this is the perfect book to read with your children to spur conversation about screen time, the importance of self-care as a chronic electronic device user, the need to log off, honoring traditions while embracing change, and so much more. You know I’m good for a list, so I will stop myself there. Go ahead and read this book!
Note: I didn’t rate this 5 stars simply because I don’t see myself rereading it and that all boils down to me not really being a gamer. If I were a gamer, I’m sure it would be a 5.
🙂
Cheers!
Gamerville is a story that illustrates the importance of balance and embracing change. I personally have experienced a big shift in my family dynamics. Having two boys who’d rather be in front of a screen for hours on end is very relatable. I was just as concerned about Max Lightning’s screen time as his parents were (laughs).
What’s most interesting about this graphic novel is that you visually see the character development and subtle changes that occur over time. Pay close attention to the eyes. The expressions and overall appearance of characters was palpable. This is an element of artistry that I’m always on the lookout for when reading a graphic novel and as expected, Johnnie Christmas nailed it.
I don’t want to spoil the story, but I will say, this is the perfect book to read with your children to spur conversation about screen time, the importance of self-care as a chronic electronic device user, the need to log off, honoring traditions while embracing change, and so much more. You know I’m good for a list, so I will stop myself there. Go ahead and read this book!
Note: I didn’t rate this 5 stars simply because I don’t see myself rereading it and that all boils down to me not really being a gamer. If I were a gamer, I’m sure it would be a 5.
🙂
Cheers!
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