A-Okay

Description

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

Jarad Greene's A-OKAY was inspired by Jarad's own experiences battling acne in his youth and his early understanding of being ace. The book is adapted from Jarad's mini-comic, "Memories of a Former Porcelain Doll", one of six works awarded a mini-grant in 2017 by the Massachusetts Independent Comics Expo. Jarad's debut graphic novel, SCULLION, was published by Oni Press/Lion Forge in 2020. Prior to that, he received his MFA at the Center for Cartoon Studies, where he currently works as the school's Administrative and Development Coordinator. In addition to his own comics, Jarad is a well-regarded coloring assistant and has worked on graphic novels by Raina Telgemeier, Tillie Walden, Gale Galligan, and Kristen Gudsnuk, among others. He currently lives in White River Junction, Vermont.

A compelling depiction of teenage uncertainty. - Kirkus Reviews Supported by expressive, well-drawn, and colorful illustrations, this compelling graphic novel will appeal to fans of middle-grade graphic memoirs. - Booklist Greene's use of color, line, and composition in his comic-panel layouts enhances the humor and angst of this particular slice of adolescent life. - The Horn Book Jay's arc is distinct and refreshing, and the story's emphasis on friendships and body image issues is likely to resonate with any reader who has wished to jump out of their skin. - Publishers Weekly A story about kids learning to feel good about themselves on their own terms is no small thing, and Jay is a low-key, lovely protagonist. Greene's simple, bubbly color illustrations are friendly and accessible, matching the content perfectly. An earnest exploration of adolescence, recognizable and relevant to middle schoolers coming into their own. - School Library Journal