Alterations

For fans of Gene Luen Yang'sAmerican Born Chineseand Svetlana Chmakova's Awkward,this funny yet poignant middle-grade coming-of-age story highlights the struggle of feeling invisible while yearning to be seen by all. Kevin Lee is having a really bad week. Although he lives in a crowded Toronto apartment above the family's alterations and dry-cleaning store, he mostly goes unnoticed. Dad has been MIA since the divorce. Mom works nonstop. He and his sister, Betty, just dont seem to get along anymore. Then theres PoPo (his grandma), who moved from China to look after them all. Shes full of wisdom but calls him Zhu Zhu (Little Pig) and is totally embarrassing. School isn't exactly an oasis either. There, Kevin is known as ';Egg Boy' and often finds himself at the mercy of school bully (and budding crush) Lilly. When Kevin's class plans a trip to Thrill Planet, a spectacular new theme park, will he finally have a chance to turn his life around, or will it just be another day for Kevin Lee? Fans ofmiddle school graphic novelsexploring identity and self-esteem will appreciate the poignant yet humorous journey of finding ones place in the world, and readers who are looking forAsian representation in books will connect with Kevins story ofracism,bullying, and theimmigrant experience. With its mix of family relationships, friendships, and a thrilling amusement park climax, this inspiring read is perfect for fans ofhumorous middle grade fictionwithdiverse charactersovercoming obstacles.