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teeclecticreads's review
challenging
emotional
funny
informative
reflective
sad
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
5.0
I first have to say that I love the graphic design style used in this. The story is also pretty interesting and while it's full of humour, it tackles important issues as well. Abuelito's ghost is helping Iggy to learn Spanish to impress a white girl he likes named Kristi, as his father seems to prefer French and never taught his sons how to. It goes hilariously wrong though and Marisol agrees to help in exchange for him cleaning with her. As an undocumented immigrant, she lives in fear of deportation like her brother was, especially since Trump is elected president. Very touching.
Content Warnings
Moderate: Bullying
betweentheshelves's review
emotional
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? Yes
4.5
Iggy is a Ohio-born Columbian American content with his life. At least, until he runs into Marisol at school and gets turned into a meme. Now, he’s trying to get back into her good graces–with the help of the ghost of his grandfather. The only problem? His grandfather isn’t the best at giving advice.
As Iggy starts listening to his abuelito, his life starts to unravel. And as the 2016 presidential election starts to get heated, Iggy struggles to figure out his place in the world. Just maybe, reconnecting to his family’s roots will help him to feel more balanced.
Thanks to NetGalley and First Second for an advanced copy of Call Me Iggy by Jorge Aguirre to review! The winter months are going to be great months for graphic novels, if my most recent reading is any indication. This book included!
I liked that this was set during the 2016 presidential election because it shows the anxiety surrounding it, especially for the Latinx community. Iggy’s parents immigrated from Columbia before he was born, distancing themselves from the culture in order to fit in. Connecting with his grandfather’s ghost makes Iggy want to learn more about his background, which includes learning Spanish.
Marisol’s family is such a contrast to his; celebrating their heritage, focusing on a togetherness that Iggy and his family don’t have. I loved the way Iggy and Marisol’s friendship evolved throughout this book, with Iggy on his journey of discovering. The overall story arc works really well.
The art is also fantastic. Rafael Rosado brings Aguirre’s words to life, and there are some truly stunning panels in this book. I was fully immersed in this world.
All in all, if you’re looking for a graphic novel about identity, family, and finding your place in the world, definitely check this book out when it comes out in February!
Content Warnings
Graphic: Racism and Bullying
Moderate: Xenophobia and Death of parent
readingwithkaitlyn's review
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
Content Warnings
Graphic: Racism and Bullying
Moderate: Xenophobia and Death of parent
Minor: Rape, Animal death, Death, Gun violence, Ableism, Drug use, and Hate crime
MAGA, Trump, heart attack.
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