Book Review: The Tryout

Posted September 6, 2022 by geograph in contemporary, graphic novel, middle grade, review / 0 Comments

I received this book for free from Booksweet in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.

Book Review: The TryoutThe Tryout: A Graphic Novel by Christina Soontornvat
Published by Scholastic Inc. on September 6, 2022
Genres: Juvenile Nonfiction / Comics & Graphic Novels / General, Juvenile Nonfiction / Social Topics / Friendship, Juvenile Nonfiction / Social Topics / Prejudice & Racism, Juvenile Nonfiction / Sports & Recreation / Cheerleading
Pages: 272
Format: ARC, Paperback
Source: Booksweet

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!

TRYOUT is great for readers just entering 7th grade, anyone who has ever tried out for a sports team, and those who appreciate the universal language of food even when everything else seems to be falling apart. Readalikes: JUST ROLL WITH IT, the Linda Lindas song RACIST SEXIST BOY, and PRINCE OF TENNIS. Five stars. Booksweet link. Storygraph link. Goodreads link.

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