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Winner of the Newbery Medal, Coretta Scott King Author Award, and Kirkus Prize for Young Readers’ Literature! 

Perfect for fans of Raina Telgemeier and Gene Luen Yang, New Kid is a timely, honest graphic novel about starting over at a new school where diversity is low and the struggle to fit in is real, from award-winning author-illustrator Jerry Craft. 

Seventh grader Jordan Banks loves nothing more than drawing cartoons about his life. But instead of sending him to the art school of his dreams, his parents enroll him in a prestigious private school known for its academics, where Jordan is one of the few kids of color in his entire grade.

As he makes the daily trip from his Washington Heights apartment to the upscale Riverdale Academy Day School, Jordan soon finds himself torn between two worlds—and not really fitting into either one. Can Jordan learn to navigate his new school culture while keeping his neighborhood friends and staying true to himself?

This middle grade graphic novel is an excellent choice for tween readers, including for summer reading.

New Kid is a selection of the Schomburg Center's Black Liberation Reading List.

Plus don't miss Jerry Craft's Class Act!

New Kid by Jerry Craft: A Journey of Self-Discovery and Cultural Identity

In the vibrant and captivating graphic novel New Kid, Jerry Craft takes readers on an eye-opening journey of self-discovery and cultural identity through the eyes of Jordan Banks, an African-American middle school student navigating the challenges of a predominantly white private school.

Jordan's world is turned upside down when his parents decide to send him to Riverdale Academy, a prestigious private school with a student body that is vastly different from his own. As the only black student in his grade, Jordan finds himself grappling with feelings of isolation, insecurity, and a deep longing to fit in. However, he soon discovers that his differences are not a hindrance but a source of strength and pride.

Through a series of relatable and poignant vignettes, Craft explores the complexities of race, class, and identity in contemporary America. Jordan's experiences as a new kid in a strange and unfamiliar environment shed light on the subtle and not-so-subtle forms of racism and discrimination that persist in our society. He encounters microaggressions from both his peers and teachers, forcing him to confront his own biases and prejudices while navigating the complexities of adolescence.

Despite the challenges he faces, Jordan learns to embrace his uniqueness and finds solace in his love of art and storytelling. He discovers the power of his voice and uses it to advocate for change and understanding. Along the way, he forms unlikely friendships with Liam, a white student who is also struggling to find his place in the world, and Drew, a fellow African-American student who becomes a source of support and mentorship.

New Kid is a groundbreaking and critically acclaimed work that has earned numerous awards and accolades, including the Newbery Medal, Coretta Scott King Award, and Kirkus Prize. Its honest and insightful portrayal of the African-American experience makes it a must-read for readers of all ages.

Key Themes in New Kid:

• Identity and belonging
• Race and racism
• Class and privilege
• Friendship and community
• Self-acceptance and self-love
• The power of art and storytelling

Relevance to Today's World:

In the wake of recent events and ongoing conversations about race and social justice, New Kid offers a timely and thought-provoking perspective on the challenges faced by young people of color in America. It encourages readers to reflect on their own biases and prejudices and to work towards creating a more just and equitable society.

Why Read New Kid?

New Kid is not just a book; it's an experience that will stay with you long after you finish reading it. It's a story about embracing your identity, finding your voice, and making a difference in the world. With its stunning illustrations, relatable characters, and thought-provoking themes, New Kid is a must-read for anyone looking to gain a deeper understanding of the African-American experience and the challenges that young people face in today's society.