A KID LIKE ME

Adolescence is hard, humans are complicated, and despite best intentions, everyone has biases.

Ethan and Ricky, friends since kindergarten, live in a trailer park with their financially struggling single moms. The white-presenting boys are worrying about navigating middle school, from finding their classes to being around “super snobby” rich kids from other towns in the district who they’ve heard will judge them for not being able to afford name brands. Ethan is embarrassed by his old-school flip phone. Ricky’s strategy is to assemble a crew of like-minded kids “who haven’t been spoiled their entire lives” to hang out with, and he quickly befriends Dillon, an edgy tough guy. Meanwhile, after some initial social setbacks, Ethan joins an afterschool club for the retro card game Bio Battle, where he meets a kind boy named Aiden. The club attracts a welcoming and racially diverse group, and Ethan is able to let his guard down. Of course, middle school isn’t easy, and this book doesn’t sugarcoat the challenges. Both Ethan and Ricky are hurt by others’ prejudicial attitudes toward their neighborhood. Feuti presents a complex and age-appropriate glimpse into social issues that will resonate with many readers. His heartfelt author’s note describes the personal experiences that inform the story. Clean, straightforward panels allow the nuances of the story and the relatable and sympathetic characters’ emotions to shine.

An honest and authentic portrayal of navigating an underprivileged childhood.