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A-Okay #1
A-Okay
A-Okay by Jarad Greene is a vulnerable and heartfelt semi-autobiographical middle grade graphic novel about acne, identity, and finding your place.
When Jay starts eighth grade with a few pimples he doesn’t think much of it at first...except to wonder if the embarrassing acne will disappear as quickly as it arrived. But when his acne goes from bad to worse, Jay’s prescribed a powerful medication that comes with some serious side effects. Regardless, he’s convinced it’ll all be worth it if clear skin is on the horizon!
Meanwhile, school isn’t going exactly as planned. All of Jay’s friends are in different classes; he has no one to sit with at lunch; his best friend, Brace, is avoiding him; and—to top it off—Jay doesn’t understand why he doesn’t share the same feelings two of his fellow classmates, a boy named Mark and a girl named Amy, have for him.
Eighth grade can be tough, but Jay has to believe everything’s going to be a-okay...right
240 pages, Hardcover
First published September 7, 2021
About the author
Jarad Greene
3 books30 followersHi there! My name is Jarad Greene and I’m a cartoonist and illustrator originally from Lutz, FL. I graduated from the University of South Carolina, with a BA in Criminology & Criminal Justice, and minors in Theatre, and Public Relations. My comics and cartoons have appeared in publications throughout the Southeast and Vermont. I spent eight years in Columbia, SC before moving to White River Junction, VT where I received my MFA at The Center for Cartoon Studies; I currently work for CCS as their Administrative and Development Coordinator.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 198 reviews
Shelved as 'to-read-graphic-novels'
March 19, 2021ACE GRAPHIC NOVEL, ACE GRAPHIC NOVEL, ACE GRAPHIC NOVEL, ACE GRAPHIC NOVEL!
November 6, 2021
ace graphic novel ace graphic novel ace graphic novel!!!!
We have been blessed with this ADORABLE middle grade graphic novel that features Jay, a kid with some pretty severe acne who is going though his 8th grade just trying to come out the other side. The side effects of his acne prescription have him all out of sorts and in addition his friends are making different friends and he's trying to figure out why he doesn't have the same crushes as them, or crushes at all.
This is a wholesome book. The artwork really lends to it stylistically as a middle grade and the plot encompasses what life is like as a middle schooler where everything seems extra dramatic and confusing. Your body is changing and it's harder when you don't have the same experience as your peers.
The asexuality is a secondary part of this book, but it's there, on page and wonderful. The main plot of this one is his acne and the importance we place on physical appearance.
This is a great and valuable graphic novel and I recommend it for a quick wholesome read!
Thanks to @harperkids and @jaradgreene for a finished copy in exchange for my review! We love seeing aces supporting aces!
We have been blessed with this ADORABLE middle grade graphic novel that features Jay, a kid with some pretty severe acne who is going though his 8th grade just trying to come out the other side. The side effects of his acne prescription have him all out of sorts and in addition his friends are making different friends and he's trying to figure out why he doesn't have the same crushes as them, or crushes at all.
This is a wholesome book. The artwork really lends to it stylistically as a middle grade and the plot encompasses what life is like as a middle schooler where everything seems extra dramatic and confusing. Your body is changing and it's harder when you don't have the same experience as your peers.
The asexuality is a secondary part of this book, but it's there, on page and wonderful. The main plot of this one is his acne and the importance we place on physical appearance.
This is a great and valuable graphic novel and I recommend it for a quick wholesome read!
Thanks to @harperkids and @jaradgreene for a finished copy in exchange for my review! We love seeing aces supporting aces!
July 31, 2021
A semi-autobiographical middlegrade graphic novel, about Jay, who is starting 8th grade. He suffers from quite agressive acne, and starts seeing a skin specialist.
Besides this, we see how he is coping with his last year in middlegrade, how friendships wax and wane, how he discovers asexuality and how he might be asexual himself.
All of these stories spiral through and around eachother, and are handled with a light, humorous touch, while also being taken seriously - many a moment is very moving.
The art has a childish touch to it, which fits the story being told.
I'd think most kids would identify with Jay and his worries, and find strength from reading this book.
(Thanks to HarperAlley for providing me with an ARC through Edelweiss)
Read
November 8, 2022Aunque la adolescencia es un periodo infinitamente retratado en todo tipo de literaturas, creo que los efectos físicos de la pubertad (y su repercusiones emocionales y psicológicas sobre el individuo) no suelen ser un tema del que se hable tanto, especialmente en el caso de los varones.
Por ello, este cómic me parece un documento interesante que hará que muchas personas con problemas de acné vean por fin narrada su historia. Por supuesto, el tema del acné es solo uno de los asuntos tratados en este cómic juvenil: en él encontramos otras historias propios de este subgénero (la amistad, la vocación, el desarrollo de la personalidad, la búsqueda de un lugar en el que encajar…) pero es en el tratamiento de ese tema físico tan tabú en lo que este cómic realmente destaca.
Por ello, este cómic me parece un documento interesante que hará que muchas personas con problemas de acné vean por fin narrada su historia. Por supuesto, el tema del acné es solo uno de los asuntos tratados en este cómic juvenil: en él encontramos otras historias propios de este subgénero (la amistad, la vocación, el desarrollo de la personalidad, la búsqueda de un lugar en el que encajar…) pero es en el tratamiento de ese tema físico tan tabú en lo que este cómic realmente destaca.
March 8, 2022
Another nearly decent middle school graphic novel ruined by forcing the story to adhere to a full school year schedule. The pacing drags as a bunch of extraneous storylines are crammed in to fill out the calendar and the month-by-month chapters.
And it's too bad, because the main focus on a kid coping with acne and the various treatments for it is interesting. Even the secondary LGBTQ+ elements have value. But by the time we get to the tertiary stuff about friendship groups and the quaternary and more stuff about the value of art and the location of various schools in the Tampa school district I was falling asleep -- and I was reading this book while walking!
And it's too bad, because the main focus on a kid coping with acne and the various treatments for it is interesting. Even the secondary LGBTQ+ elements have value. But by the time we get to the tertiary stuff about friendship groups and the quaternary and more stuff about the value of art and the location of various schools in the Tampa school district I was falling asleep -- and I was reading this book while walking!
June 28, 2023
*libby app*
August 2, 2023
This graphic novel is undeniably adorable and features beautiful illustrations, telling the story of a boy who grapples with acne, his sexual orientation, and friendships.
While I did enjoy reading this graphic novel, it didn't quite strike a deep chord with me. The plot seemed to have a lot going on, yet it also felt like there was a lack of depth in the exploration of the themes. Even the protagonist's struggles with acne were depicted at a surface level, and they became repetitive, making it a bit predictable.
I had expected the novel to focus more on the character's asexuality, but it was only briefly touched upon a few times and not fully explored. It left me wishing for more depth and development in that aspect.
Overall, I'd give this book 3 stars. It certainly wasn't bad, but it also didn't leave a lasting impact. It's a decent read but falls short of greatness.
While I did enjoy reading this graphic novel, it didn't quite strike a deep chord with me. The plot seemed to have a lot going on, yet it also felt like there was a lack of depth in the exploration of the themes. Even the protagonist's struggles with acne were depicted at a surface level, and they became repetitive, making it a bit predictable.
I had expected the novel to focus more on the character's asexuality, but it was only briefly touched upon a few times and not fully explored. It left me wishing for more depth and development in that aspect.
Overall, I'd give this book 3 stars. It certainly wasn't bad, but it also didn't leave a lasting impact. It's a decent read but falls short of greatness.
February 5, 2024
Trigger warnings: bullying, mental health
Well, this was delightful. The art is fantastic, it felt very authentically 8th grade in terms of the dramas Jay goes through, and I really enjoyed the way it both normalises acne AND looks at the internal destruction of self worth and body image that acne can cause.
I do wish there had been slightly more made of the asexuality plotline, if only because it's so rare to see asexuality represented anywhere, let alone in a middle grade/YA graphic novel. But hopefully the forthcoming sequel will focus more on that side of things!
Well, this was delightful. The art is fantastic, it felt very authentically 8th grade in terms of the dramas Jay goes through, and I really enjoyed the way it both normalises acne AND looks at the internal destruction of self worth and body image that acne can cause.
I do wish there had been slightly more made of the asexuality plotline, if only because it's so rare to see asexuality represented anywhere, let alone in a middle grade/YA graphic novel. But hopefully the forthcoming sequel will focus more on that side of things!
May 29, 2022
Jay is having a hard time in eighth grade. His best friend has joined a band and no longer seems to have time for him; getting the art class he wants give him a challenging and lonely schedule; and he's developed a very intense and painful case of acne, far beyond what any of his peers seems to be struggling with. He also doesn't understand the crushes and romantic feels his classmates seem to all be developing for each other. Jay sets out of a long series of dermatology appointments, a medication with uncomfortable side effects including mood swings, hot flashes, cracked and peeling lips, and rashes. He does his best to make his way through the rough last year of junior high with as much creativity and joy as he can find. This is a simple yet important story of feeling self-conscious and alone in the very years it's most painful to feel like an outsider. But Jay stays true to himself and I think many young readers will feel seen by this book.
December 18, 2021
rounding this up to 3/5!!! AND YES!!!! FINALLY a male main character that focuses on his insecurities. too much times where i would read a lot of female characters who are the "problematic" ones or having insecurities so i was really intrigued with the fact that we 👏 have 👏 a 👏 male 👏 protagonist 👏
we have jay who struggles with acne and his identity - this was quite enjoyable to read and so relatable when it comes to his acne problems because i grew up feeling insecure with how i look especially during my acne breakout. i did too, took some pills to make it all better and i can understand how jay feels.
but i do feel that the story is a lil bit lacking and some parts were a bit off. but overall, the intention is there and i like the colours and art in the graphic novel.
we have jay who struggles with acne and his identity - this was quite enjoyable to read and so relatable when it comes to his acne problems because i grew up feeling insecure with how i look especially during my acne breakout. i did too, took some pills to make it all better and i can understand how jay feels.
but i do feel that the story is a lil bit lacking and some parts were a bit off. but overall, the intention is there and i like the colours and art in the graphic novel.
July 24, 2022
casual representation makes me so, so happy
August 18, 2022
Cute. Ending was nice and had some asexual representation.
March 28, 2022
I love that recently there have been more MG/YA books with asexual characters! They pretty much all feature the characters being shook to learn that this concept exists and that there's nothing wrong with them, which I think is about right for this narrative at this point in time. Fingers crossed that within a few years asexuality/aromanticism will have more mainstream cultural saturation to the point where we won't need as many books like this, but for now I think it's so important!!
Anyway that aside I also really appreciated how honestly this dealt with acne and the side effects of accutane. I've been #blessed with pretty good skin so I never had to go through that and it sounds so intense! I can imagine that for kids who do have to take accutane they will appreciate seeing it represented (and I know the author has said both the acne and asexual narratives were based on his own experience so I assume they're pretty on-point, though of course everyone's individual experiences vary).
Big Issues aside it's also just a great slice-of-life coming of age kinda story, great for the hordes of fans of Raina Telgemeier.
Anyway that aside I also really appreciated how honestly this dealt with acne and the side effects of accutane. I've been #blessed with pretty good skin so I never had to go through that and it sounds so intense! I can imagine that for kids who do have to take accutane they will appreciate seeing it represented (and I know the author has said both the acne and asexual narratives were based on his own experience so I assume they're pretty on-point, though of course everyone's individual experiences vary).
Big Issues aside it's also just a great slice-of-life coming of age kinda story, great for the hordes of fans of Raina Telgemeier.
Shelved as 'featured'
October 25, 2021
October 8, 2022
3.5 stars.
Happy to see ace rep in a junior-level graphic novel, even if it isn't featured as a main part of the story.
Happy to see ace rep in a junior-level graphic novel, even if it isn't featured as a main part of the story.
January 6, 2023
13 year old Jay is just trying to survive 8th grade, but life keeps throwing curve balls at him no matter what he tries.
This book discusses self image, friendship, personal growth, and self discovery with every page. It is very self reflexive, with the protagonist offering insight into his mindset, and provoking thought through his inner monologue.
I find this relatable to every age-group, from elementary school to adult, as self image and self perception has a role throughout everyone's life.
This is a book I wish I had available growing up, especially with the Ace representation being combined with body image discussion.
This book discusses self image, friendship, personal growth, and self discovery with every page. It is very self reflexive, with the protagonist offering insight into his mindset, and provoking thought through his inner monologue.
I find this relatable to every age-group, from elementary school to adult, as self image and self perception has a role throughout everyone's life.
This is a book I wish I had available growing up, especially with the Ace representation being combined with body image discussion.
October 14, 2021
A-Okay is a graphic novel written and illustrated by Jarad Greene. It depicts the pains of middle school for Jay, an art-loving, acne-plagued eighth grader who doesn't understand why his old friends are hanging out without him, or why he's not developing any infatuations – at all.
Jay is a seemingly middle-class kid who gets good grades and passes for a cool kid, at least some of the time. He embarks on a cycle of acne medication and weathers its many side effects with resilience, while becoming more confident, literally and figuratively, in his skin. He builds a new friend group, develops his personal fashion style, and with encouragement from his friend Mark, who is gay, learns more about asexuality – in particular his.
A-Okay is written and constructed rather well. Though the novel takes place near Tampa, Greene's newspaper-comics-style illustrations have a sort of anyplace quality. Jay's arc, on the other hand, is distinct and refreshing, and the story's emphasis on friendships and body image issues is likely to resonate with any reader who is uncomfortable in their skin.
All in all, A-Okay is a delightful story about friendship and finding one true self.
Jay is a seemingly middle-class kid who gets good grades and passes for a cool kid, at least some of the time. He embarks on a cycle of acne medication and weathers its many side effects with resilience, while becoming more confident, literally and figuratively, in his skin. He builds a new friend group, develops his personal fashion style, and with encouragement from his friend Mark, who is gay, learns more about asexuality – in particular his.
A-Okay is written and constructed rather well. Though the novel takes place near Tampa, Greene's newspaper-comics-style illustrations have a sort of anyplace quality. Jay's arc, on the other hand, is distinct and refreshing, and the story's emphasis on friendships and body image issues is likely to resonate with any reader who is uncomfortable in their skin.
All in all, A-Okay is a delightful story about friendship and finding one true self.
Read
March 28, 2022Meet Jay. He's about to start eighth grade. Among his challenges are keeping up his grades, dealing with his parents and friends, figuring out if he likes girls the way his friends do, and pimples.
Pimples began to appear in a modest amount, but now they have appeared A LOT! A trip to the doctor ends with some strong medication and, evidently, the need for a lot of patience. This could take a while.
In the meantime, in order for Jay to get an art class in his schedule, he ends up with none of his friends in his classes or his lunch period. Making new friends when you have a face full of pimples just adds more stress to the situation. Can Jay find a way to get people not to notice his face? Can he figure out why he doesn't seem to be attracted to either girls or boys? Eighth grade is definitely going to be a challenge.
Author and artist Jarad Greene has crafted a graphic novel perfect for the emotional and physical chaos that is middle school. Any current eighth grader, eighth grader to be, or any former eighth grader will be able to relate to Jay's stressful life.
Pimples began to appear in a modest amount, but now they have appeared A LOT! A trip to the doctor ends with some strong medication and, evidently, the need for a lot of patience. This could take a while.
In the meantime, in order for Jay to get an art class in his schedule, he ends up with none of his friends in his classes or his lunch period. Making new friends when you have a face full of pimples just adds more stress to the situation. Can Jay find a way to get people not to notice his face? Can he figure out why he doesn't seem to be attracted to either girls or boys? Eighth grade is definitely going to be a challenge.
Author and artist Jarad Greene has crafted a graphic novel perfect for the emotional and physical chaos that is middle school. Any current eighth grader, eighth grader to be, or any former eighth grader will be able to relate to Jay's stressful life.
December 30, 2021
This graphic novel so accurately captures what it feels like to be in middle school. Changing friend groups, changing interests, the struggle trying to figure out where you fit. As someone who also struggled with severe acne (even if it was in high school), I found Jay's struggles so relatable. Especially when nothing you do works, even when it feels like it's working for everyone else.
The focus on figuring out sexuality is also a major component of this book, specifically Jay realizing that he probably identifies somewhere on the asexual spectrum. I don't think I can think of any graphic novels that actually portray this, so it's amazing. I didn't even learn about asexuality until I was in college, so let's make it mainstream please!! The whole sequence about middle school crushes really struck a chord with me.
The art style was pretty good for a middle grade graphic novel, too. It fit the story, and made it easy to read. Definitely glad this story exists!
The focus on figuring out sexuality is also a major component of this book, specifically Jay realizing that he probably identifies somewhere on the asexual spectrum. I don't think I can think of any graphic novels that actually portray this, so it's amazing. I didn't even learn about asexuality until I was in college, so let's make it mainstream please!! The whole sequence about middle school crushes really struck a chord with me.
The art style was pretty good for a middle grade graphic novel, too. It fit the story, and made it easy to read. Definitely glad this story exists!
November 1, 2021
YAAAAAAAAS. This book was amazing for me - an ace woman nearing 30 - and middle grade readers alike. Jay is coming to terms with his acne and sexuality, not to mention the trauma that is 8th grade. It really took me back to my middle school days where the teasing was non-stop and friends began drifting apart. It perfectly captured that apocalyptic vibe where it feels like the world is ending because Brace gets busy with band or Aaron messes up your hair, but maintains a sweet tone throughout. I'd love to follow Jay on his journey through 9th grade, but this book also feels self-contained. Sequel please?
*Thank you to HarperAlley for the gifted copy*
*Thank you to HarperAlley for the gifted copy*
April 7, 2022
There was a lot going on in this book and I think it hurt it a bit. There was the acne, the sexuality (Jay is asexual), the changing friendships, etc. I guess other coming of age stories have a lot of that too but for some reason, it just felt disjointed in this book. The flow was just a bit off. There were several times where I turned back to see if I missed a page because the transition just wasn't there. The book is semi-autobiographical but when you read the author's note at the end, all the the stuff he included from his life took place much later so it felt kind of weird for me that he would make the book take place during middle school instead of high school.
June 1, 2022
Once you get past the overly long acne story line, this is mainly about finding your place in the world of middle school. Not really a book I will remember for too long.
Other reviews mention the character discovering his asexuality. It touches on this very briefly. This graphic novel is 75% acne, 20% issues with friends, and maybe 5% ace. However, I am not the intended audience for this book, so middle schoolers will probably relate to this much more than I do.
Other reviews mention the character discovering his asexuality. It touches on this very briefly. This graphic novel is 75% acne, 20% issues with friends, and maybe 5% ace. However, I am not the intended audience for this book, so middle schoolers will probably relate to this much more than I do.
August 23, 2023
It was OKAY.......
June 2, 2022
I really enjoyed this and appreciate that I feel it is serving up to middle grade boys what I think Raina Telgemeier gives to middle grade girls through Smile and Guts. Though what's even better is that I think middle grade girls will relate to this just as much too (as I hope middle grade boys relate to Raina's stories as well). I'm in my late 20s (very soon to be entering my 30s!) and I really related to Jay's struggles with acne. I may not have the worst case, but I have been through years of fighting with my skin and wondering if it will ever be clear or if this is just what I have to live with. Not to mention the mystery of trying to find the right skin care regimen or treatment.
I really like how he used his struggle with acne as a frame for the story of becoming comfortable with himself in general throughout his middle school years. That line at the end about finally seeing himself clearly was great - a bit cheesy maybe, but spot on nonetheless.
He also covers the middle school experience of losing touch with friends who are starting to find their own interests apart from you, having a hard time figuring out how to fit in and what others are really thinking - while at the same time occasionally being oblivious to the ways you are not thinking about others yourself. And I was really pleasantly surprised by the natural inclusion of Jay discovering his asexuality. Not only how cool Jay was about his friend asking him out and having to politely decline, and even allowing that to open a new door for their friendship to grow instead of becoming an awkward barrier, but also just because it didn't have to be a defining characteristic of his story to be an important part of it. Just like his acne doesn't define him - neither does his sexuality. There are so many other parts of him that are rich and vibrant and worthwhile. There is not just one thing that has to define him, and I think that's a great takeaway for any middle schooler reading this book.
I really like how he used his struggle with acne as a frame for the story of becoming comfortable with himself in general throughout his middle school years. That line at the end about finally seeing himself clearly was great - a bit cheesy maybe, but spot on nonetheless.
He also covers the middle school experience of losing touch with friends who are starting to find their own interests apart from you, having a hard time figuring out how to fit in and what others are really thinking - while at the same time occasionally being oblivious to the ways you are not thinking about others yourself. And I was really pleasantly surprised by the natural inclusion of Jay discovering his asexuality. Not only how cool Jay was about his friend asking him out and having to politely decline, and even allowing that to open a new door for their friendship to grow instead of becoming an awkward barrier, but also just because it didn't have to be a defining characteristic of his story to be an important part of it. Just like his acne doesn't define him - neither does his sexuality. There are so many other parts of him that are rich and vibrant and worthwhile. There is not just one thing that has to define him, and I think that's a great takeaway for any middle schooler reading this book.
January 1, 2024
I didn't realize how much I needed to see cystic acne/Accutane representation in a book until I read this one! I was one of those poor unfortunate souls whose acne came back and I had to do round two. This would have been so important for teenage me! I hope school libraries stock copies, especially since it's very quietly queer.
TW: body dysphoria, bullying
Middle grade is so underrated, and this book is a perfect example. There is self-discovery that everyone experiences, the character is just in eighth grade. Figuring out his sexuality, struggling with his appearance, friendships waxing and waning, and the inevitable unknowns of what the next chapter of life brings (in this case, which high school everyone is attending) are all experiences we've shared. Probably well into adulthood too!
I think Greene successfully turned this semi-autobiographical story into one that will bring comfort to many people. The art is also fun and engaging.
Rep: asexual main character, gay side character
TW: body dysphoria, bullying
Middle grade is so underrated, and this book is a perfect example. There is self-discovery that everyone experiences, the character is just in eighth grade. Figuring out his sexuality, struggling with his appearance, friendships waxing and waning, and the inevitable unknowns of what the next chapter of life brings (in this case, which high school everyone is attending) are all experiences we've shared. Probably well into adulthood too!
I think Greene successfully turned this semi-autobiographical story into one that will bring comfort to many people. The art is also fun and engaging.
Rep: asexual main character, gay side character
June 26, 2024
Acne shouldn't be Jay's defining characteristic, but as he starts eighth grade, he's totally self-conscious. Amid the drama of trying to get into the art class he craves and fit in with old friends and new, he does what he can to change himself, hoping that one day his reflection will feel real.
This is a smart book with some keen observations. Acne is a nearly universal ailment, but despite our knowledge of chronic acne, many people still assume that it's something that only happens to lazy people who don't wash their faces. That's a rude assumption. Jay is also navigating middle school romance and friendships, learning that he might be asexual, and trying to manage his grades. All relatable stuff. I was a little disappointed this book isn't funnier, but I think it makes some good points and has some helpful representation for kids who are coming into themselves.
This is a smart book with some keen observations. Acne is a nearly universal ailment, but despite our knowledge of chronic acne, many people still assume that it's something that only happens to lazy people who don't wash their faces. That's a rude assumption. Jay is also navigating middle school romance and friendships, learning that he might be asexual, and trying to manage his grades. All relatable stuff. I was a little disappointed this book isn't funnier, but I think it makes some good points and has some helpful representation for kids who are coming into themselves.
March 4, 2022
Jarad Greene has written/drawn a graphic novel that is semi biographical. Middle school is tough for anyone, but adding in severe acne and questioning your sexuality makes for a really tough few years. Jay gets through 8th grade by finding a really good dermatologist who helps him with skin care and medicines, branching out with different friends, and asking great questions when he’s brave enough to do so. It’s a very relatable book that I read in 2 sittings. Don’t miss the author note at the end that details Jarad’s struggles that correlate with the story. As I am someone who suffered with acne in college and early adulthood , I know the struggle is real in learning that outward appearances do not define you.
July 11, 2023
5/5
ACE GRAPHIC NOVEL ACE GRAPHIC NOVEL ACE GRAPHIC NOVEL ACE GRAPHIC NOVEL
no but seriously i resonated A TON with this book. i mean, a semi-autobiographical middle grade graphic novel about a boy who struggles with acne and navigates his ace identity?? literally sign me up. as a person who has been an acne girlie all her life i felt so seen el oh el we love the casual ace representation too and also seeing the main character learn how to be more comfortable in his own skin (get it because skin and acne?? a ha ha i’m so funny please laugh)
ACE GRAPHIC NOVEL ACE GRAPHIC NOVEL ACE GRAPHIC NOVEL ACE GRAPHIC NOVEL
no but seriously i resonated A TON with this book. i mean, a semi-autobiographical middle grade graphic novel about a boy who struggles with acne and navigates his ace identity?? literally sign me up. as a person who has been an acne girlie all her life i felt so seen el oh el we love the casual ace representation too and also seeing the main character learn how to be more comfortable in his own skin (get it because skin and acne?? a ha ha i’m so funny please laugh)
August 25, 2024
Tween Jay suddenly has terrible acne, and this story documents his journey with Accutane. He also discovers he may be asexual.
I wish I’d had this book when I was a teen! The only reason I didn’t do Accutane was because I was told if I became pregnant while on it, the baby would have deformities. I wasn’t afraid of getting pregnant (this book resonates with more than just my acne), but I was afraid of the long-term effects. I’m happy that graphic novels are covering all sorts of teen subjects nowadays ❤️
I wish I’d had this book when I was a teen! The only reason I didn’t do Accutane was because I was told if I became pregnant while on it, the baby would have deformities. I wasn’t afraid of getting pregnant (this book resonates with more than just my acne), but I was afraid of the long-term effects. I’m happy that graphic novels are covering all sorts of teen subjects nowadays ❤️
November 8, 2021
This graphic novel is such a treat. This book is a semi-autobiographical exploration of youth with all of its complexities. It is about learning to be A-Okay with all that you are during a time period in all of our lives when that seems like an impossible feat. The author does an amazing job of conveying the weird factor of middle school just as I remember it. This book will make you laugh, cry, and be like omg yes I couldn't stop listening to Linkin Park either.
Thanks for this one Jarad.
Thanks for this one Jarad.
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