A review by betweentheshelves
A-Okay by Jarad Greene

lighthearted reflective medium-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? A mix
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? No
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

4.0

This graphic novel so accurately captures what it feels like to be in middle school. Changing friend groups, changing interests, the struggle trying to figure out where you fit. As someone who also struggled with severe acne (even if it was in high school), I found Jay's struggles so relatable. Especially when nothing you do works, even when it feels like it's working for everyone else.

The focus on figuring out sexuality is also a major component of this book, specifically Jay realizing that he probably identifies somewhere on the asexual spectrum. I don't think I can think of any graphic novels that actually portray this, so it's amazing. I didn't even learn about asexuality until I was in college, so let's make it mainstream please!! The whole sequence about middle school crushes really struck a chord with me.

The art style was pretty good for a middle grade graphic novel, too. It fit the story, and made it easy to read. Definitely glad this story exists!
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