Do your readers need more read alikes for Diary of a Wimpy Kid, Big Nate, Dork Diaries, and Smile? Behold the next big graphic novel, New Kid by Jerry Craft.
I know saying that this is the next big thing is something we hear a lot, but what makes this book special is its diversity. This is a diverse version of Diary of a Wimpy Kid and a boy version of Dork Diaries. Interested?
Let's chat with a quick overview of the book.
Here are all of the important things you need to know about this book.
New Kid
by Jerry Craft
Release Date : February 5, 2019
Audience : Tweens 8-12 years old
Pages : 256
The Story
Seventh-grader Jordan Banks loves nothing more than drawing cartoons about his life. But instead of sending him to the art school of his dreams, his parents enroll him in a prestigious private school known for its academics, where Jordan is one of the few kids of color in his entire grade.
As he makes the daily trip from his Washington Heights apartment to the upscale Riverdale Academy Day School, Jordan soon finds himself torn between two worlds—and not really fitting into either one. Can Jordan learn to navigate his new school culture while keeping his neighborhood friends and staying true to himself?
As he makes the daily trip from his Washington Heights apartment to the upscale Riverdale Academy Day School, Jordan soon finds himself torn between two worlds—and not really fitting into either one. Can Jordan learn to navigate his new school culture while keeping his neighborhood friends and staying true to himself?
Verdict
My library got this book a few weeks ago and my manager told everyone in the department that this book will be the new Raina Telgemeier. As librarians, we often hear publishers pushing books by calling it the next big thing, and if you are like me, it lost its significance.
Despite my feelings, I saw this book available on Overdrive and decided to skim through it. After reading just a few pages, I busted out laughing and knew that this book was a winner. The characters were well developed and authentic.
Not only does this book tackle everyday middle school worries and woes, but it takes it to a deeper level by tackling issues like black identity and racism that open the door for further discussion.
It a necessary addition to children's literature that we have needed for a long time.
With that in mind, I am happily awarding this book the five-star rating!
Run to your nearest library or book store and grab a copy.
Enjoy it for yourself and then gift it to a classroom or tween in your life.
Have you read it? What did you think?
Best,
Pamela
No comments