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jelkebooks's review
funny
hopeful
inspiring
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? Yes
3.0
I received a galley of this book through Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
I did like this graphic novel. I liked its themes of reconnecting with your heritage. The romance was also quite cute, and I liked our main character. However, I do think that it is a bit too surface level with its messaging at times, and the focus on the 2016 election within this makes it feel extremely outdated already.
I did like this graphic novel. I liked its themes of reconnecting with your heritage. The romance was also quite cute, and I liked our main character. However, I do think that it is a bit too surface level with its messaging at times, and the focus on the 2016 election within this makes it feel extremely outdated already.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Racism
Minor: Grief
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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