Title: Finding Home in New Places: A Review of New Kid by Jerry Craft
When I first picked up New Kid: A Graphic Novel by Jerry Craft, I was drawn in not just by its colorful cover and accolades—Newbery Medal, Coretta Scott King Author Award—but by the relatable premise of navigating the choppy waters of adolescence. Moving to a new school can feel daunting, especially for a seventh-grader like Jordan Banks, who quickly finds that the challenges of fitting in are far more complex than just learning a new schedule.
From the very first pages, Craft’s talent for merging humor with heartfelt moments is evident. Jordan is a loving, witty kid with a passion for drawing cartoons. His illustrations pop off the pages, bringing relatability to every awkward encounter he faces. As he transitions from his culturally rich neighborhood in Washington Heights to the predominantly white Riverdale Academy, the stark contrast between his home life and school environment is palpable, echoing the real-world experiences of many young readers today.
One of the central themes of New Kid is identity—how it shifts and bends under societal expectations. Jordan grapples with the clash between his desire to embrace his culture and the pressure to conform to a system that feels alien. The book beautifully captures that sense of being "in between," threaded with experiences that pull at the heartstrings. I found myself nodding along at scenes where Jordan tries to balance his old friends and his new peers, a struggle that resonated deeply with me.
Craft’s writing is breezy yet poignant, with pacing that keeps readers engaged without overwhelming them. The dialogue strikes a perfect balance between humor and seriousness; it’s interwoven with moments of reflection that prompt readers to think critically about issues like racism, privilege, and authenticity. For instance, Jordan’s internal dialogues often reveal the subtle weight of being one of the few students of color in his class, which can be both comedic and painful. One memorable quote that stuck with me was when Jordan remarks about his experiences in a very relatable way, summing up feelings that many young teens might share but struggle to articulate.
The art style itself deserves applause! The vibrant, vivid illustrations pulse with life, pulling readers into Jordan’s world while making heavy themes more digestible. Each panel feels like a carefully crafted window into his journey—a juxtaposition of laughter and heartache.
I believe New Kid is a must-read for anyone navigating life’s transitions, particularly for middle-grade readers looking to see themselves in stories. It’s a powerful reminder that we’re all "new kids" at various points in our lives, and that acceptance—of ourselves and others—is the real victory.
As I closed the book, I felt a warmth in my heart and a profound connection to Jordan’s journey. Jerry Craft has crafted not just a story, but an experience—one that speaks to the struggles of fitting in, the joy of finding your voice, and the importance of community. If you’re looking for a graphic novel that is both fun and deeply insightful, New Kid is your ticket. It serves as a reminder that true belonging is rooted in authenticity, and sometimes, home is where you find it, however and wherever that may be.
You can find New Kid: A Graphic Novel here >>