4.0
medium-paced
Strong character development: No
Diverse cast of characters: Yes

What happens when a bunch of teenagers go to a weight loss camp for the summer? Of course, someone dies! 

DEAD WEIGHT: MURDER AT CAMP BLOOM is an entertaining YA sleuth graphic novel. It has a collection of diverse characters and a fairly fast-moving plot. About halfway through their summer camp, one of the adult camp counselors is murdered. When two of the teenagers witness it happen, they - along with two of their camp-mates - start investigating. 

I liked that, even though Jesse wasn't too happy to be at "fat camp" in the beginning, she wasn't this angry teen throughout the entire book. She opened up to a few of the other campers and I enjoyed her character. 

The illustrations are very well-done, with expressive faces and a creepy atmosphere as they're investigating the murder. This might be a little bit spooky for young teenagers but most of it is entertaining and mystery-ish. The full camp map on the inside front and back covers was a nice addition, along with a behind-the-scenes after the story.