nbrickman's review against another edition
challenging
emotional
funny
informative
inspiring
reflective
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? No
5.0
nglofile's review against another edition
5.0
A rare combination of warm relatabilty and incisive commentary. Marvelous.
Author/illustrator Craft successfully tells an everyman story of navigating a different school, but sharpens the narrative with demonstrations of code switching and microaggressions. The fact both teachers and students are on both sides of the offenses shows nuance even as it underscores the prevalence.
There's wit to be enjoyed, both in the dialogue and in the cultural references that make up each chapter's introductory splash pages. The art is bright and exaggerated, and the characters' expressions - even in background - are real gems. The insets of Jordan's own comics, providing contrast in simple black/white sketches, are both amusing and poignant. "Jordan's Tips for Taking the Bus," which shows how he subtly alters his appearance as he passes through different neighborhoods, is a standout.
Though the messaging is strong, don't assume all is heavy. There is humor and lightness, and it's truly rewarding. The grace note of how the 'New Kid' realizes he's become a new kid by the end of the story merits special applause, and it does so without falling into any 'very special episode' cheesiness.
Author/illustrator Craft successfully tells an everyman story of navigating a different school, but sharpens the narrative with demonstrations of code switching and microaggressions. The fact both teachers and students are on both sides of the offenses shows nuance even as it underscores the prevalence.
There's wit to be enjoyed, both in the dialogue and in the cultural references that make up each chapter's introductory splash pages. The art is bright and exaggerated, and the characters' expressions - even in background - are real gems. The insets of Jordan's own comics, providing contrast in simple black/white sketches, are both amusing and poignant. "Jordan's Tips for Taking the Bus," which shows how he subtly alters his appearance as he passes through different neighborhoods, is a standout.
Though the messaging is strong, don't assume all is heavy. There is humor and lightness, and it's truly rewarding. The grace note of how the 'New Kid' realizes he's become a new kid by the end of the story merits special applause, and it does so without falling into any 'very special episode' cheesiness.
peachykeenebooks's review against another edition
funny
lighthearted
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? No
5.0
jlem's review against another edition
emotional
funny
hopeful
informative
reflective
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
4.25
mckellstar's review against another edition
4.0
4/5
Definitely a must-read for children!! I think it would be great for teachers to read this with their class and discuss how Jordan, Drew, Ramon, Maury, and Ruby are treated differently than their classmates because they’re minorities in a predominantly white, upper-middle class school. Lots of valuable lessons *and* FUN in this book! It was a nice change to read a book that covers racism and micro-aggressions but is still at heart a goofy middle schooler’s adventure.
Definitely a must-read for children!! I think it would be great for teachers to read this with their class and discuss how Jordan, Drew, Ramon, Maury, and Ruby are treated differently than their classmates because they’re minorities in a predominantly white, upper-middle class school. Lots of valuable lessons *and* FUN in this book! It was a nice change to read a book that covers racism and micro-aggressions but is still at heart a goofy middle schooler’s adventure.
anna_reads_too_much's review against another edition
funny
hopeful
lighthearted
relaxing
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? No
3.0
I got this through the Libby app to read through the library digitally. I'm not sure what I was expecting. I knew it was a graphic novel - which is NOT my thing, usually - but in my quest to read all the Newberry winners, I picked this up.
This was a super cute, quick read. I can see how reluctant readers can enjoy graphic novels. There was more of a story here than I was expecting. The illustrations are wonderfully done. I enjoyed this more than I thought I would!
This was a super cute, quick read. I can see how reluctant readers can enjoy graphic novels. There was more of a story here than I was expecting. The illustrations are wonderfully done. I enjoyed this more than I thought I would!
stellarkestrel's review against another edition
emotional
funny
hopeful
lighthearted
reflective
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated
5.0
lanica's review against another edition
5.0
A graphic novel about what it's like to go to a new school. In this case the boy is from an inner city neighborhood, travelling to a very rich and privileged private school. My favorite part was when the boy gets on the bus, looking like any other neighborhood kid, but stop by stop he changes his look to fit in with the other passengers. Lose the hoodie, open his book, close his book, make eye contact, drop your eyes...and he is so honest about what he is doing and why.
Many discussions of racism can be started from many different angles. There are teachers who represent different types of racism, students who break stereotypes and moments that are intentionally confusing as to who is in the wrong. The illustrations are perfect for the story and the subject matter.
I highly recommend this to any school library for readers grades 3-12.
Many discussions of racism can be started from many different angles. There are teachers who represent different types of racism, students who break stereotypes and moments that are intentionally confusing as to who is in the wrong. The illustrations are perfect for the story and the subject matter.
I highly recommend this to any school library for readers grades 3-12.
tfaye's review against another edition
lighthearted
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? N/A
4.0