TL;DR
New Kid by Jerry Craft is a graphic novel about a seventh grader, Jordan Banks, who struggles to fit into a prestigious private school as one of the few kids of color while navigating the challenges of staying true to himself.
What is New Kid about
New Kid is a graphic novel by Jerry Craft that tells the story of Jordan Banks, a seventh grader whose passion for drawing cartoons is overshadowed by his parents' decision to enroll him in a prestigious private school. The novel explores themes of diversity, racial identity, and the struggle to fit in. Set against the backdrop of Jordan's daily commute from Washington Heights to the upscale Riverdale Academy Day School, the book delves into the conflict of balancing two worlds while not fully belonging to either. This story is both timely and honest, depicting the nuanced challenges faced by students of color in predominantly white institutions.
New Kid 6 Key Takeaways
Jordan's Enrollment
Jordan Banks is enrolled in Riverdale Academy Day School by his parents, despite his desire to attend an art school. He is one of the few kids of color in his grade, setting the stage for the story's exploration of diversity and acceptance.
Daily Commute
Jordan navigates his daily commute from Washington Heights to Riverdale Academy, highlighting the stark contrast between his home life and school environment.
Struggles with Identity
Jordan feels torn between his neighborhood friends and his new school peers, struggling to fit into both worlds. This inner conflict is a central theme of the novel.
Conflict in the Cafeteria
The climax occurs when a disagreement between Andy and Drew escalates, resulting in Ms. Rawle unfairly blaming Drew. This moment brings to the surface the racial tensions and frustrations experienced by Jordan and his friends.
Jordan's Realization
Jordan begins to understand the importance of staying true to himself and using his art to express his experiences, rather than trying to fit into predefined molds.
Resolution and Growth
By the end of the novel, Jordan finds a way to navigate his dual worlds, gaining confidence in his identity and his artistic talent.
Top New Kid Quotes
- "It's not easy being the new kid."
- "Sometimes, it feels like I'm living in two different worlds."
- "Drawing is my way of making sense of things."
Who should read New Kid?
New Kid is ideal for middle-grade readers, especially those aged 8-12. It is perfect for readers who enjoy graphic novels and stories that tackle important themes such as diversity, racial identity, and self-acceptance. It's also a great pick for educators and parents looking to introduce discussions about race and inclusion.
New Kid Best Reviews
- Kirkus Reviews: "A deeply relatable and necessary story for young readers, New Kid is both heartwarming and eye-opening. Jerry Craft masterfully tackles themes of race, identity, and belonging with humor and sensitivity."
- The New York Times: "Craft’s vibrant artwork and engaging storytelling make New Kid a standout graphic novel. It’s a must-read for anyone who has ever felt like an outsider."
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New Kid FAQs
What age is the New Kid book appropriate for?
New Kid is suitable for readers aged 8 and up. While it addresses complex themes like racism and bullying, it does so in a way that is accessible and thought-provoking for young readers.
What is the conflict in New Kid?
The main conflict revolves around Jordan's struggle to fit into a prestigious private school where he is one of the few kids of color, while also maintaining his relationships with friends from his neighborhood.
What's the climax of New Kid?
The climax occurs when a conflict between Andy and Drew in the cafeteria escalates, leading to an unfair accusation against Drew and bringing underlying racial tensions to the forefront.