"You're doing great with projecting your voice,
Christina, but can I tell you something?
Oh, sure. What?
It's your face. You're wearing
this stinky look. You need to smile.
It's hard to fake a smile when I'm so
nervous about messing up.
Don't think of it as faking.
It's your GAME FACE."
Anyone who has been there knows how hard middle school can be. Christina is concerned with feeling as if she belongs. To that end, she decides to try out for the cheerleading team. Her story encourages readers to be sympathetic and cognizant of Christina's need for acceptance. There are humorous moments, as well as many experiences that force her to grow and prosper on her own, apart from her best friend Megan.
Turns out it isn't just being popular with other students that keeps Christina going; she comes to admire how confident the older cheerleaders are and to recognize their commitment to being better as members of the team. She allows readers to see that she is impressed with what being a cheerleader means in their school. She also manages to deal with the problems that come her way. There is the work, and there is the worry about her changing relationship with Megan.
When the two discover that the tryout is a popularity contest, they are disillusioned. Rightfully so. Fitting in in their small town isn't easy when your parents are biracial. Both experience disappointment firsthand. Being an outsider is a tough lesson to learn.
This is an outstanding graphic memoir by a very talented author. Illustrations are bright, expressive, and relatable for middle grade readers. It's hard to find your identity as a middle grader; harder still when you don't fit the expected mold.
An author's note is enlightening.
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