school.
BCCB
"Cheng s comedic timing and poignant use of metaphor make it easy to picture Andy s anxiety and self-consciousness, [and] rich descriptions abound of Andy s Chinese and Jameel s Chaldean cultures . . . A beautiful, contemplative novel that will stay with readers. Recommended for fans of Erin Entrada Kelly and Nicole Melleby."
School Library JournalThis thoughtful novel beautifully and naturally depicts Chinese American family life and the first year of middle school. [It] explores necessary topics and productively packages them in a great story about friendship, forgiveness, and family. Common Sense Media
Readers will find a friend in Andy a kind-hearted kid trying to find his footing while caring for those around him. Andy contains multitudes, like all of us. Another beautiful book by Jack Cheng. Erin Entrada Kelly, Newbery Award-winning author of
Hello, Universe"Beautifully written and contemplative, [full of] complexity and nuance." Book Riot
Andy s quiet courage and budding artistry have readers cheering him on as he searches to define himself and learns there are no boundaries to who we are and who we can become. With honesty and gentle humor, Jack Cheng explores the joys and heartaches of growing up. Paula Yoo, National Book Award longlisted-author of
From a Whisper to a Rallying CryCheng draws on personal experience, detailed in an author s note, to pen this novel of internal and interpersonal tensions that touches on mental health . . . The message of becoming one s authentic self comes through loud and clear.
Publishers WeeklyCheng succeeds in capturing the nuances of shifting relationship dynamics during the vulnerable early years of adolescence, including mental health struggles. . . . The story has a sincere heart that will resonate with tweens as they recognize themselves and their friends in the pages. A perceptive coming-of-age tale that captures the joys and complex anxieties of middle school.
Kirkus
