The Tryout by Christina Soontornvat, illustrated by Joanna Cacao, 268 pages. GRAPHIC NOVEL. Scholastic. 2022. $13
Language: G (0 swears); Mature Content G; Violence: G
BUYING ADVISORY: EL, MS - ESSENTIAL
AUDIENCE APPEAL: HIGH
Christina and her best friend, Megan, decide to try out for the 7th grade cheerleading squad. They are the only two kids of color in their middle school, and think that cheerleading would give them the popularity needed to be accepted by their peers. Tryouts are more difficult and terrifying than they thought and Christina becomes worried that her friendship with Megan may be on the line as they grow in different ways.
Soontornvat uses her real name in this story because it is highly biographical. She addresses issues of racism, identity, and community and the courage it takes to go to school and take risks. This story is so much more than just trying out for a cheer squad and captures the angst of middle school. Great read for anyone putting themselves out there to take on a difficult task.
Michelle in the Middle
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