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manha10's review against another edition
4.0
I really enjoyed this graphic novel, and related to it quite a few times. I liked how it tackled racism in a way that was digestible for younger readers but it wasn’t sugarcoated. I liked how it brought up the challenges that minorities and low income kids face in primary white and private institutions (something I can relate to) and which groups have privilege and which don’t. I’m not sure if this graphic novel was geared towards young adults or younger audiences (the artwork suggests this but I am not sure) but either way, it had some important lessons such as learning to stick up for yourself and embracing you differences while also acknowledging that they may put you at a disadvantage. Also, I related to how the main character said that they were tired of bring different when the teacher told him that being different is what makes you unique. It also alluded to the fact that just because someone is the same race as you doesn’t mean you can always relate to them as they might be in a different social position as you due to their family’s income. This graphic novel packed in a lot and I liked the artwork and colors and that is took place in NYC! Recommended for kids and adults alike!
dblue236's review against another edition
adventurous
emotional
funny
hopeful
lighthearted
reflective
relaxing
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? It's complicated
3.0
While this didn't necessarily have a cohesive story that ran from start to finish throughout the book, I did enjoy the themes of it and most of the characters. It felt more like reading a recap of an entire school year, and some of the topics were uncomfortable, but important. Being that I'm not the target audience I didn't completely love it, but I look forward to passing it on to someone who might.
Content Warnings
Moderate: Bullying, Racism, and Injury/Injury detail
wombat_88's review against another edition
adventurous
funny
hopeful
lighthearted
reflective
relaxing
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? It's complicated
3.0
avalete's review against another edition
3.0
I haven’t read a graphic novel since middle school and got transported back to how awful of an experience middle school was. A universal experience, as this book makes evident. The actual novel itself is fine, the illustrations are simple but help carry the actual story.
jenmangler's review against another edition
4.0
It feels weird to say I'm proud of a fictional character, but I'm proud of Jordan. He stood up for his friend, at some risk to himself, and he confronted Ms. Rawle in such a powerful way that I wanted to stand up and cheer. Craft deftly deals with racism and privilege of all kinds in this very engaging graphic novel. I thoroughly enjoyed it.
aswafford17's review against another edition
5.0
I really enjoyed this! It was punny and the storyline was well written! I can’t wait to share with my middle school students!
ava_a07's review against another edition
funny
lighthearted
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? It's complicated
4.0
A cute coming of age story that faces real world problems. It was a quick read and kept me hooked.
bhnmt61's review
5.0
A graphic novel about Jordan Banks who starts seventh grade at a school for gifted kids and can’t figure out how he’s going to fit in. Heartwarming read- restores your faith in humanity.
strawberry_lemonadee's review against another edition
funny
lighthearted
reflective
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? No
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? No
4.0
A good graphic novel for middle schoolers (might be good for late elementary schoolers too, but I feel like quite a few parts would fly right over their head). The art style is a little off-putting, as the faces look a bit strange and the coloring for a lot of the people makes them look sick, but I got used to it. Overall a funny, interesting book.