The Tryout: A Graphic Novel
About this book
From two-time Newbery Honoree and Kirkus Prize winner Christina Soontornvat, and stellar new talent, Joanna Cacao, comes a high stakes, highly relatable graphic novel about courage and competition, friendship and belonging, and learning to feel comfortable in your own skin. Perfect for fans of New Kid, Rollergirl, and Real Friends.
Trying out for middle school cheerleader means: performing in the giant school gym, with the whole school watching, and risking total humiliation. If Christina can make it through this, she can make it through anything. As one of the only Asian American kids in her small Texas town, Christina just wants to fit in. Luckily, her best friend, Megan, who is Iranian American, can totally relate. The two girls have always been inseparable and relish creating elaborate fantasy worlds together. But middle school is a reality-check, and suddenly popularity is way more important than playing pretend. When cheerleading tryouts are announced, Christina and Megan literally jump at the chance to join the squad. But does fitting in actually equal belonging? Will they survive the terrifying tryouts? And most importantly, will their friendship withstand the pressures of heated competition and rivalry? Hilarious and heartfelt, The Tryout is Christina Soontornvat's personal story, sure to make you laugh, cry, and cheer!
Reviews
"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." - The New York Times Book 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." - Kirkus Reviews, 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." - School Library Journal, starred review
★ "Soontornvat's denouement is genuinely nail-biting, and the girls' earnest love for cheerleading is infectious, despite their experiences with outward prejudice. Via emotive close-ups, Cacao confidently conveys the girls' persistence, fluidly injecting their athletic pursuits with lively energy using bright color palettes and varied character design." - Publishers Weekly, starred review
★ "Soontornvat's memoir is cringe-worthy in the best possible way. . . . brought to life with gorgeous illustration from self-taught comic artist Joanna Cacao. . . . The Tryout is an inspiring and insightful graphic memoir for anyone who simply wants to fit in." - Shelf Awareness, starred review
"The art is delightfully expressive, and the characters' personalities shine in each panel. A standout addition to any graphic autobiography collection." - Booklist
"The Tryout beautifully captures the struggles and pressures of wanting to fit in. As a fellow Thai-American, Christina brought a tear to my eye." - Dan Santat, New York Times bestselling creator of The Aquanaut
