About This Book
Reach for this book when your middle schooler is starting to feel the heavy weight of social expectations and the fluttery, often confusing, first signs of a romantic crush. This story follows Jorge, a gentle giant who values his close-knit group of friends but finds his world tilted when he realizes he has feelings for a girl named Jasmine. It perfectly captures the moment when childhood play turns into adolescent posturing and the pressure to 'act cool' begins to strain long-term friendships. Through its vibrant graphic novel format, the book explores themes of loyalty, self-confidence, and the bravery required to be your authentic self even when peers are acting differently. It is highly appropriate for ages 10 to 14, offering a healthy and realistic model of how to navigate social dynamics without losing one's integrity. Parents will appreciate the way it validates a boy's emotional complexity and reinforces that kindness is a strength, not a weakness.
