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delz's review against another edition
hopeful
reflective
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
4.0
Cecil is shy and now he’s also the new kid in middle school. He’s an artist and his art is getting him noticed, but it’s not in the way he would like. Also his dad is not sold on the idea of his son being a comic book artist. Cecil is dealing with all of that and being black in Boston in the 80’s. There’s a lot going on, but this story is inspiring and Jonathan Todd’s message is a positive one that kids will get and enjoy.
everyday_dewey's review
hopeful
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? No
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated
3.5
romafo's review
hopeful
inspiring
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? Yes
3.0
destdest's review
lighthearted
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? It's complicated
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.0
This was mostly charming. I thought the cartoony art style worked well.
Timid touches on the question: “Why don’t they have Black friends?”
The story tries to present the scenario where overthinking and shyness prevent a Black person from connecting to their community/peers rather than anti-blackness or being stuck-up. In addition, the character still has to deal with racial microaggressions from others. It would’ve been nice if Cecil took a more active role instead of having an incident “the wake-up call” with his white friends being the catalyst of reaching out to Sean, but it happens.
also, what was that last line? It was awkward. "I did have something in common with Sean. Something more than just being Black."
Things like this are a very nuanced subject. It can fall into “the Black kids never liked me because I’m different, and they’re all the same” or won’t acknowledge “some people have a narrow view of how they expect you to act or what your interests can be and purposely alienate you.”
Fortunately, the story acknowledges you can certainly find your brand of people who get you in your race (if you’re alternative or “don’t fit the norm”) and in other races. Ultimately, anyone can jump to conclusions or have preconceived notions, but kids (we) should zero in on their actions, character, and behavior. Is this person exhibiting the qualities of a true friend? Are they treating me well?
Cecil the main character is also an artist, and while his family is supportive his dad has well-meaning but different expectations for him concerning his future career and masculinity. From an adult’s eyes, you can see his dad wants him to stand up for himself, be financially stable, and have better opportunities than he had.
And the “Happy Birthday May the Dear Lord Bless You” song? I was today years old that this is an actual song and not something one of my older relatives created.
Timid touches on the question: “Why don’t they have Black friends?”
The story tries to present the scenario where overthinking and shyness prevent a Black person from connecting to their community/peers rather than anti-blackness or being stuck-up. In addition, the character still has to deal with racial microaggressions from others.
also, what was that last line? It was awkward. "I did have something in common with Sean. Something more than just being Black."
Things like this are a very nuanced subject. It can fall into “the Black kids never liked me because I’m different, and they’re all the same” or won’t acknowledge “some people have a narrow view of how they expect you to act or what your interests can be and purposely alienate you.”
Fortunately, the story acknowledges you can certainly find your brand of people who get you in your race (if you’re alternative or “don’t fit the norm”) and in other races. Ultimately, anyone can jump to conclusions or have preconceived notions, but kids (we) should zero in on their actions, character, and behavior. Is this person exhibiting the qualities of a true friend? Are they treating me well?
Cecil the main character is also an artist, and while his family is supportive his dad has well-meaning but different expectations for him concerning his future career and masculinity. From an adult’s eyes, you can see his dad wants him to stand up for himself, be financially stable, and have better opportunities than he had.
And the “Happy Birthday May the Dear Lord Bless You” song? I was today years old that this is an actual song and not something one of my older relatives created.
anxiouslybooked's review
hopeful
inspiring
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? No
4.0
Description: Cecil and his family just made a big move from Florida to Massachusetts. As with any big move this comes with big feelings for Cecil. Feelings about fitting in, finding friends, and change. His sister suggests making friends with the other Black kids at school, but when he gets to his new school, he isn’t quite sure that he fits in with them. Cecil tries to make friends while showcasing his artistic talents, but when a caricature that he made gets used in an inappropriate way, Cecil is forced to learn how to stand up for himself.
Thoughts: I really enjoyed this graphic novel. It is great for upper elementary and middle level readers and I immediately added my copy to my library! This novel was written and illustrated in a relatable and authentic way and the way that racism was depicted was done in a thoughtful manner. Overall, highly recommended for any student grades 3 and up!
Realistic Fiction, Graphic Novel
Tags: Microaggressions, Coming of Age, First Crush, Moving
tuma's review
inspiring
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
3.25
Great middle grade read! Shy 7th grader Cecil Hall moves to Boston from Florida is struggling to fit in. Everyone around him is telling him how he SHOULD be but it's not comfortable. Eventually he finds his own way to stand up for himself and makes real friends. Super sweet and loverable characters and story. Art was okay, didn't wow me. But it suits story about a cartoonist. And I think representation of timid, Black boys is an important one. Would recommend for all middle school classrooms.
kindredbooks's review
3.5
I received a copy of Timid by Jonathan Todd from Scholastic Canada in exchange for an honest review.
In this semiautobiographical middle grade graphic novel, Timid tells the story of a young boy who is trying to fit in, find his voice, and also find friends who are true and genuine. When Cecil and his family move to a new city, he worries about making new friends and fitting in. He struggles to find his friends and wants to be able to find others who share his hobbies and interests. But the attention he gets for his art takes a turn when he finds others taking advantage of him. Cecil finds that he needs to look closer at the people around him to find true friends.
In this semiautobiographical middle grade graphic novel, Timid tells the story of a young boy who is trying to fit in, find his voice, and also find friends who are true and genuine. When Cecil and his family move to a new city, he worries about making new friends and fitting in. He struggles to find his friends and wants to be able to find others who share his hobbies and interests. But the attention he gets for his art takes a turn when he finds others taking advantage of him. Cecil finds that he needs to look closer at the people around him to find true friends.