The Tryout: A Graphic Novel - Christina Soontornvat

The Tryout: A Graphic Novel by Christina Soontornvat

Bibliography: 

Soontornvat, C. (2022). The tryout: A graphic novel. Graphix. 

Plot Summary: 

As one of the only Asian Americans in her school, Christina confronts both well-meaning ignorance and cruel racism, but in middle school fitting in is important, which is why she and her best friend Megan are both excited and nervous to try out for the popular cheerleading squad.

Critical Analysis:

The Tryout is a fantastic graphic memoir that will appeal to fans of sports stories and books about life as a minority and child of immigrants. The author does an excellent job of balancing hard moments with funny moments of levity throughout the story. Filled with beautiful full-color illustrations and centering a biracial Asian-American protagonist, I’m sure lots of kids will see themselves in Christina’s story.

Review Excerpt: 

New York Times Book Review

The plot alone is enough to keep young readers flipping the pages. (I held my breath when the final roster of cheerleaders was announced.) But like all good books about growing pains, this captivating middle-grade gem contains many moments that will resonate with young and old alike.

Kirkus (starred review)

This superlative graphic memoir is a funny, relatable, and genuine story of friendship and belonging. . . . The jokes, daydreams, and quips are delightful without overshadowing or diminishing the impact of [Christina’s] experiences with racism and exclusion. The attractive, expressive illustrations feature clean lines and bright colors. A funny, painfully honest look at a middle schooler finding her way.

School Library Journal (starred review) 

Soontornvat’s lived and emotional experiences come through loud and clear….Cacao’s manga-inspired artwork captures every nuanced emotion. . . . Readers of this empowering graphic memoir will want to invite Christina to sit at their table to share food, stories, and the secrets to self-confidence.

Connections:

Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month - May - (Iranian American)

A Genre Unit over Graphic Novels

A SEL Lesson over Life, Friendship, Racism.