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4.3 AVERAGE
4.3 AVERAGE
I was totally riveted by this graphic memoir, which discusses identity and belonging amongst many other important themes. It also takes us through the world of cheerleading and I think the author highlighted some good points about the sport as a whole e.g. the public humiliation of having to perform tryouts in front of the whole school, who then end up voting for the popular kids anyway.
Reading about Christina's experiences was illuminating. The scenes where people are unable to pronounce her name and yet make no effort to do so really got to me because RELATABLE. We also get to learn more about Thai culture and traditions, which was eye-opening.
Also of note is how Christina contemplates sometimes we don't get what we want despite trying our hardest and that every ending is a new beginning.
I particularly loved the author's note in which she talks about her complicated feelings for her hometown of Texas and the importance of sharing our stories to make change. She was also open about the regrets that still gnaw at her, such as her cruel behaviour and failure to stand up for others. Makes me happy to know that Megan and Leanne remain her best friends.
A greatly enjoyable read!
✨ "Maybe my own personal story was small, but the conversation about race and belonging in America is a big one."
Reading about Christina's experiences was illuminating. The scenes where people are unable to pronounce her name and yet make no effort to do so really got to me because RELATABLE. We also get to learn more about Thai culture and traditions, which was eye-opening.
Also of note is how Christina contemplates sometimes we don't get what we want despite trying our hardest and that every ending is a new beginning.
I particularly loved the author's note in which she talks about her complicated feelings for her hometown of Texas and the importance of sharing our stories to make change. She was also open about the regrets that still gnaw at her, such as her cruel behaviour and failure to stand up for others. Makes me happy to know that Megan and Leanne remain her best friends.
A greatly enjoyable read!
✨ "Maybe my own personal story was small, but the conversation about race and belonging in America is a big one."
emotional
funny
hopeful
inspiring
lighthearted
reflective
sad
medium-paced
Christina Soontornvat writes a graphic memoir of her childhood and her want to join the cheer team.
This is a fun one that addresses racism and friendships changing
Themes: friendships, high school, tailand
This is a fun one that addresses racism and friendships changing
Themes: friendships, high school, tailand
adventurous
emotional
funny
hopeful
inspiring
lighthearted
reflective
relaxing
medium-paced
Content Warnings
Moderate: Bullying, Racism
This was a great graphic memoir about a Thai middle schooler dealing with all things middle school, while growing up in a small, less than diverse rural town.
funny
hopeful
reflective
hopeful
fast-paced
A student told me this was her favorite book. I asked her to borrow it. I was concerned that it was all about cheerleading but it wasn’t. Lots of great themes!
I don’t usually document books that I read for work on my Goodreads account- however, occasionally I love to include a 5-star read! Being an elementary librarian I read a lot of children’s literature, and this newer graphic novel came across my desk. It originally called to me bc I was a high school cheerleader, but this book has so much substance!!! For one- she doesn’t make the team this first tryout! The resilience the main character displays is a great model for youth. This book also touches on acceptance and compassion for those who may be different from you. And that is such a KEY thing for everyone to learn!!
hopeful
inspiring
reflective
fast-paced