helterskelliter's review
4.0
So, I really enjoyed this story! I think is provided a nuanced perspective on several important issues around race and class. And, this story explores the complexity of these issues in a simple, straightforward manner that never comes across as patronizing. It really feels like this book answers questions and picks up discussions on topics that young people probably already wonder about. That approach really makes discussing complicated issues more easy and comfortable.
heatherbermingham's review
5.0
One of the things that always amazes me about middle grade authors is the ability to tackle big issues - in this case, microagressions, code-switching, and even education inequity, just to name a few - in completely age-appropriate ways. Really, really good.
carriebell85's review
4.0
This was an excellent sequel to New Kid. It's thought-provoking and makes you think of your preconceived notions of how people live. Like Atticus Finch said, To really understand someone, you need to walk around in their skin. This is an excellent graphic novel! Would be a great classroom read.
kaloughl's review
4.0
This was a fun follow up to the hugely successful New Kid. With more detailed illustrations, new characters, and more frustration at school, Jerry Craft gives us what we all craved, more time in the heads of these kids. However, though Class Act made me smile in the same way, it was missing a compelling overarching plot and by switching perspectives between Jordan and Drew, muddied it's intentions. I liked that we got to see more of Drew's inner workings and life and I wish Craft leaned into that a bit more and made the entire book from Drew's perspective (though Jordan's comics with criticisms on race and class are still spot on). I liked the confrontations between Drew, Liam, and Jordan about class and race and how having everything doesn't necessarily make you happy.
Overall, I enjoyed it though it felt more like a comic book-like volume updating us on what's going on rather than a book in it's entirety (which New Kid was). Craft is an amazing artist and storyteller and I will continue to read anything he publishes!
Overall, I enjoyed it though it felt more like a comic book-like volume updating us on what's going on rather than a book in it's entirety (which New Kid was). Craft is an amazing artist and storyteller and I will continue to read anything he publishes!
someonesmom's review
5.0
Another wonderful book recommended by my son. Jerry Craft spins a wonderful and realistic tale of a black city teen in an upper crust private school. Drew feels like he doesn’t fit in because of his skin color and socio-economic status. This a good story for people of all ages to read.
sc104906's review
2.0
I received this through Edelweiss in exchange for an honest review.
This continuation of the world developed in New Kid stands on its own. While the focus shifts from Jordan to Drew and Liam. It addresses the racial divide that can be found in affluent schools. Instances where the white majority pushes microaggressions against minority students. If you loved the first book, you will be thrilled with the followup. The author has hidden Easter eggs and symbolism, which enhances the opportunities to give the text a detailed look and spend time discussing it.
Honestly, I wasn't a fan of the Easter eggs or symbolism, it felt obvious and corny. I thought that this book could have been more nuanced. I still struggle with the art, objects in the scenes felt like stickers added after the frame was finished. This is all personal preference, because the readers love New Kid and will enjoy this one as well.
This continuation of the world developed in New Kid stands on its own. While the focus shifts from Jordan to Drew and Liam. It addresses the racial divide that can be found in affluent schools. Instances where the white majority pushes microaggressions against minority students. If you loved the first book, you will be thrilled with the followup. The author has hidden Easter eggs and symbolism, which enhances the opportunities to give the text a detailed look and spend time discussing it.
Honestly, I wasn't a fan of the Easter eggs or symbolism, it felt obvious and corny. I thought that this book could have been more nuanced. I still struggle with the art, objects in the scenes felt like stickers added after the frame was finished. This is all personal preference, because the readers love New Kid and will enjoy this one as well.