New Kid

Justification

New Kid by Jerry Craft is a graphic novel that has won a Newbery Medal as well as the Coretta Scott King Award for Authors. New Kid is also a starred book on Kirkus reviews as well as on Booklist. This award winning book boasts a strong reputation for being humorous as well as addressing serious topics such as race and coming of age.

Evaluation

Craft uses a variety of techniques in his art. Size plays an important role in emphasis throughout the novel. This can be seen as Craft describes the mighty strength of a handshake with hands being drawn with exaggeration in their large size. It is a humorous display of hyperbole in art. Another technique used is color. At times pages are cast in blue or cool tones to signify mood, as when Jordan, the main character, is talking to who we think is his deceased grandfather (who we later learn only moved forty minutes away). Finally, the illustrations keep the graphic novel moving along in its plot and gives greater depth to characters.

As you move through the book, the characters seem to come to life on the pages. The main character’s thoughts are uniquely portrayed on the page using varying methods (artistic drawings or depictions of shoulder angels). Jordan, the main character is believable in his situation. He is one of very few students of color in his new school. His awkwardness can be felt along with his triumphs. Jordan is able to slowly make new friends and lasting relationships by the end of the book.

This book creates fantastic scenes and characters that are not only believable but even relatable for the youth who read it. The book shares common occurrences and emotions that arise for youth of color in and out of school. Many students will find this book to be a mirror of times in their own life they can relate to. Others will find this a unique window into the everyday happenings of life as a minority student.

Conclusion

This graphic novel is recommended for upper elementary and middle school students. New Kid is a great addition to any library serving middle age youth. Students who enjoy realistic fiction will enjoy the humor and daily life problems as shown through Jordan’s experiences. New Kid is a refreshing look on the life of students of color, coming of age, and relationship building.

Citation

Craft, J. (2019). New kid. Harper, an imprint of HarperCollinsPublishers.