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Weirdo
From rising star Tony Weaver, Jr. comes a middle-grade graphic novel memoir about an awkward preteen who loves all things geeky but struggles with mental health issues and self-doubt, perfect for fans of Jerry Craft's New Kid.
Eleven-year-old Tony Weaver, Jr. loves comic books, anime, and video games, and idolizes the heroic, larger-than-life characters he finds there. But his new classmates all think he’s a weirdo. Bullied by his peers, Tony struggles with the hurt of not being accepted and tries to conform to other people's expectations. After a traumatic event shakes him to his core, he embarks on a journey of self love that will require him to become the hero of his own story.
Weirdo is a triumphant, witty, and comedic story for any kid who's ever felt awkward, left out, or like they don't belong. An adolescence survival guide that will give every reader the confidence to make it to the other side.
Eleven-year-old Tony Weaver, Jr. loves comic books, anime, and video games, and idolizes the heroic, larger-than-life characters he finds there. But his new classmates all think he’s a weirdo. Bullied by his peers, Tony struggles with the hurt of not being accepted and tries to conform to other people's expectations. After a traumatic event shakes him to his core, he embarks on a journey of self love that will require him to become the hero of his own story.
Weirdo is a triumphant, witty, and comedic story for any kid who's ever felt awkward, left out, or like they don't belong. An adolescence survival guide that will give every reader the confidence to make it to the other side.
320 pages, Paperback
First published September 17, 2024
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 66 reviews
September 18, 2024
4.5 stars
i love middle grade literature but they tend to be more didactic and this is full of messages to kids on self-love and being with people who actually care about them. it’s hard to emphasize just how important tony weaver jr’s story is. weirdo is about a journey where a nerdy black kid tries to show the world who he is, doesn't find acceptance, and nurtures his own space. young people going through similar things, no matter who they identify as, will feel less isolated in their loneliness reading this book. i did feel like the "jock bullying the nerds" trope was repeated unnecessarily but i understand why it was done. weirdo made me laugh, cry, and proud to be nerdy and any library would be lucky to have this wonderful story in their collection.
trigger warnings: suicide ideation (on-page), suicide attempt (off-page, fade to black), bullying (peers & 1 teacher), racism (implied)
i love middle grade literature but they tend to be more didactic and this is full of messages to kids on self-love and being with people who actually care about them. it’s hard to emphasize just how important tony weaver jr’s story is. weirdo is about a journey where a nerdy black kid tries to show the world who he is, doesn't find acceptance, and nurtures his own space. young people going through similar things, no matter who they identify as, will feel less isolated in their loneliness reading this book. i did feel like the "jock bullying the nerds" trope was repeated unnecessarily but i understand why it was done. weirdo made me laugh, cry, and proud to be nerdy and any library would be lucky to have this wonderful story in their collection.
trigger warnings: suicide ideation (on-page), suicide attempt (off-page, fade to black), bullying (peers & 1 teacher), racism (implied)
October 16, 2024
I'm guessing a lot of people have read this because they follow Tony on TikTok, I know that's why I read it, and to be honest, I'm not sure what I was expecting. I know it was going to be autobiographical and a graphic novel, but that was about it. What I didn't know is how inspiring this was and how courageous it was for him to make and how very needed this book is. It's not just that Weaver reinforces the idea that diversity and being "weird" is not just acceptable, it's that he points out emphatically that being "weird" isn't always easy and sometimes you need help to see how amazing your weird is. This is an extremely important message, especially the part where reaching out to those who care about you *before* you reach that dark place. This was truly uplifting and inspiring, and I'm so glad he shared his journey with us.
Overall, I absolutely recommend this, especially for those middle grade readers who will see themselves and their experiences from someone who has been through it.
You can check out all of my reviews at my Blog! Kelly's Book Nook
Overall, I absolutely recommend this, especially for those middle grade readers who will see themselves and their experiences from someone who has been through it.
You can check out all of my reviews at my Blog! Kelly's Book Nook
October 31, 2024
✨ "I know I said there was light on the other side, but the truth is, there's always light. The darkness doesn't take the light away, it stops us from seeing the love surrounding us."
3.5⭐️
I finished this graphic memoir in one sitting yesterday and remember enjoying it, yet I can't recall much of its contents anymore, so what does that mean?
The book doesn't shy away from difficult and heavy topics, with the author being very open about his struggles and experiences. I enjoyed following Tony's journey, especially how he eventually finds his voice (and people) and stands up to bullies.
Loved the themes of found family and it was exceptionally heartwarming how the community banded together for a common goal. The book also highlights the importance of having a robust support system and how incredibly healing it can be, which I deeply appreciate.
✨ "It's not your responsibility to fix broken people that bring you harm."
3.5⭐️
I finished this graphic memoir in one sitting yesterday and remember enjoying it, yet I can't recall much of its contents anymore, so what does that mean?
The book doesn't shy away from difficult and heavy topics, with the author being very open about his struggles and experiences. I enjoyed following Tony's journey, especially how he eventually finds his voice (and people) and stands up to bullies.
Loved the themes of found family and it was exceptionally heartwarming how the community banded together for a common goal. The book also highlights the importance of having a robust support system and how incredibly healing it can be, which I deeply appreciate.
✨ "It's not your responsibility to fix broken people that bring you harm."
October 16, 2024
Very well done middle-grade memoir. Wonderful use of colour and tone to reflect emotion. Deals sensitively with suicidal thoughts and bullying and highly recommended for kids struggling with that kind of thing.
November 17, 2024
This book reminded me of so many of my students. I appreciate the vulnerability and relatability of the characters. Awesome illustrations and overall message. Not one of my usual genres, but still enjoyable.
September 16, 2024
I like this one quite a bit. It deals with heavy topics in a way that is honest, yet perfect for the age group. It also treats the age group with a ton of respect to handle what is being presented. The to- neat ending kind of betrays the generally mature, but not heavy handed, work of a writer to watch.
September 1, 2024
A MG graphic memoir by @tonyweaverjr perfect for fans of New Kid and The Dark Matter of Mona Starr.
🦸🏾
Preteen Tony is sent to a new school for gifted students and while he ends up finding a love for writing there, he also spends most of his time hiding his love of comics and games so he’s not bullied. Despite hiding who he is, Tony still becomes the target of many students and sinks to a very low place, needing help of his family, best friend and a new therapist. When his parents move him to a new school again, this time Tony finds his people. Literature Club becomes Tony’s haven, but when the school’s occupancy and enrollment drops and there’s talk of closing his new school, Tony puts a plan into motion to save it.
🦸🏾
I don’t think I could love a graphic novel more. This was such an honest portrayal of Tony’s experiences, but also so relatable to our students today. Many are struggling with their own mental health issues and bullying. I loved the social media comments from authors of today and just the overall message of this book The artwork by @jesncin was fantastic! Thank you @01firstsecond for sending me a copy. This title releases September 17!
CW: suicide ideation, bullying, violence, self-harm, grief
🦸🏾
Preteen Tony is sent to a new school for gifted students and while he ends up finding a love for writing there, he also spends most of his time hiding his love of comics and games so he’s not bullied. Despite hiding who he is, Tony still becomes the target of many students and sinks to a very low place, needing help of his family, best friend and a new therapist. When his parents move him to a new school again, this time Tony finds his people. Literature Club becomes Tony’s haven, but when the school’s occupancy and enrollment drops and there’s talk of closing his new school, Tony puts a plan into motion to save it.
🦸🏾
I don’t think I could love a graphic novel more. This was such an honest portrayal of Tony’s experiences, but also so relatable to our students today. Many are struggling with their own mental health issues and bullying. I loved the social media comments from authors of today and just the overall message of this book The artwork by @jesncin was fantastic! Thank you @01firstsecond for sending me a copy. This title releases September 17!
CW: suicide ideation, bullying, violence, self-harm, grief
October 29, 2024
I went to college with Tony, so I was definitely eager to read this one. My initial thought was that it would make a great pick for the Reina Telgemeier set, but I definitely see second graders reading her books, and this is solidly in the middle school range. I think I would talk about this with kids in a similar way to how I talk about Counting by 7s: it starts very sad, but it ends hopeful, so if you can handle the initial sad, you'll be rewarded handsomely.
I think this book does an excellent job addressing some really hard mental health topics, including perhaps the hardest topic of all: suicide. Our protagonist here makes an attempt, and it's clear from the story that that's what happens, but there's no real detail, and the emphasis is on what led to having those feelings in the first place and how Tony can heal afterward. I think the depiction of a Black boy in therapy in a middle grade book alone is remarkable.
Tony talks in some of his social media videos about how everybody tells kids to be themselves but never tells them how. I think this book is absolutely an answer to the question of how. Specificity breeds universality, and Tony's individual story of learning how an anime-loving aspiring writer could make friends and learn to stand up for himself will serve as inspiration to many tweens in similar situations.
In short: great book, but a little too intense for anyone under 12.
I think this book does an excellent job addressing some really hard mental health topics, including perhaps the hardest topic of all: suicide. Our protagonist here makes an attempt, and it's clear from the story that that's what happens, but there's no real detail, and the emphasis is on what led to having those feelings in the first place and how Tony can heal afterward. I think the depiction of a Black boy in therapy in a middle grade book alone is remarkable.
Tony talks in some of his social media videos about how everybody tells kids to be themselves but never tells them how. I think this book is absolutely an answer to the question of how. Specificity breeds universality, and Tony's individual story of learning how an anime-loving aspiring writer could make friends and learn to stand up for himself will serve as inspiration to many tweens in similar situations.
In short: great book, but a little too intense for anyone under 12.
November 12, 2024
Weirdo
Overall Rating: ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ (4/5) or 8.00/10 overall
Characters - 8
Atmosphere - 9
Writing - 8
Plot - 7
Intrigue - 8
Logic - 8
Enjoyment - 8
Overall Rating: ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ (4/5) or 8.00/10 overall
Characters - 8
Atmosphere - 9
Writing - 8
Plot - 7
Intrigue - 8
Logic - 8
Enjoyment - 8
November 15, 2024
Crying in the club (I'm at work)
November 19, 2024
This was such an inspirational story. I loved it
October 5, 2024
Read more graphic novel reviews at The Graphic Library.
Tony is constantly the new kid at school, having made many transfers, but this latest school is proving to be even more challenging with a more than fair share of bullies pointing out every eccentricity Tony has and posting much of it to social media. It becomes too much for Tony to handle - the bullies suck all of the joy and light from his days until he's ready to give up completely. His parents begin having him go to therapy, and he switches schools yet again to one where most students are more accepting and there are fewer bullies. Tony finds a home with the Literature Club and even finds his voice again as a champion for others with their own bullies and in their self-expression.
In this autobiographically inspired story, Weaver’s honest and sometimes heartbreaking journey with his mental health is inspiring and brutally honest in a way that will connect with victims of bullying but is also the story that bullies need to read to understand how damaging their actions can be. Some of it is a simple bystander effect or share on social media, all the way to the most hurtful of what Weaver went through, and this story scratches the surface of what some of our students experience today with online bullying. The trauma that Weaver experienced is explained delicately and compassionately so as not to pass along the trauma to the reader, but to invite empathy and understanding. This title deserves a place in every Anti-Bullying campaign, every Cyberbullying Awareness week, and a home amongst library shelves where patrons need a weird friend who will understand what they're going through.
Sara's Rating: 10/10
Suitability Level: Grades 5-7
Tony is constantly the new kid at school, having made many transfers, but this latest school is proving to be even more challenging with a more than fair share of bullies pointing out every eccentricity Tony has and posting much of it to social media. It becomes too much for Tony to handle - the bullies suck all of the joy and light from his days until he's ready to give up completely. His parents begin having him go to therapy, and he switches schools yet again to one where most students are more accepting and there are fewer bullies. Tony finds a home with the Literature Club and even finds his voice again as a champion for others with their own bullies and in their self-expression.
In this autobiographically inspired story, Weaver’s honest and sometimes heartbreaking journey with his mental health is inspiring and brutally honest in a way that will connect with victims of bullying but is also the story that bullies need to read to understand how damaging their actions can be. Some of it is a simple bystander effect or share on social media, all the way to the most hurtful of what Weaver went through, and this story scratches the surface of what some of our students experience today with online bullying. The trauma that Weaver experienced is explained delicately and compassionately so as not to pass along the trauma to the reader, but to invite empathy and understanding. This title deserves a place in every Anti-Bullying campaign, every Cyberbullying Awareness week, and a home amongst library shelves where patrons need a weird friend who will understand what they're going through.
Sara's Rating: 10/10
Suitability Level: Grades 5-7
August 25, 2024
It starts off with "to kids who spend most of their time at the library" so what's not to love by the illustrators but when Weaver Jr. endears us all with his plight as a weirdo/nerd and finding the balance of friendships and believing in yourself.
In Weaver Jr.'s case that meant moving schools somewhat frequently and then eventually after a suicide attempt that is explained, but not in detail, in the story to share what Weaver Jr. went through until he began attending a new school in which he found a literature club and worked through being different as all the kids in the club were different- be it that they liked drama and performance, manga/anime, or were just plain weird like Weaver Jr. who still enjoyed his vivid imagination of superheroes and imagined worlds which plays into the story at various intervals.
There's a bit of unevenness to the story though- at the beginning he relied heavily on metaphors like gardens/planting and others to share what he was feeling and how he was trying to cope which all kind of dissipated when the trajectory of the story changed and then there was the pacing at the end, it felt like it abruptly came to a head with saving the school- the end! The denouement didn't exist the way the seeming buildup did.
But that's a smaller detail compared to the outsized message of owning who you are and feeling supported and being kind to yourself.
In Weaver Jr.'s case that meant moving schools somewhat frequently and then eventually after a suicide attempt that is explained, but not in detail, in the story to share what Weaver Jr. went through until he began attending a new school in which he found a literature club and worked through being different as all the kids in the club were different- be it that they liked drama and performance, manga/anime, or were just plain weird like Weaver Jr. who still enjoyed his vivid imagination of superheroes and imagined worlds which plays into the story at various intervals.
There's a bit of unevenness to the story though- at the beginning he relied heavily on metaphors like gardens/planting and others to share what he was feeling and how he was trying to cope which all kind of dissipated when the trajectory of the story changed and then there was the pacing at the end, it felt like it abruptly came to a head with saving the school- the end! The denouement didn't exist the way the seeming buildup did.
But that's a smaller detail compared to the outsized message of owning who you are and feeling supported and being kind to yourself.
September 25, 2024
I figured that I would enjoy this book, but I didn't know how much I was going to LOVE it! I also didn't realize that this would be creative memoir, which made it even better. I've followed Tony on socials for a while and love his messages about respect within the nerd/blerd community, and this book is absolutely steeped in that love.
As someone who has grappled with chronic depression since middle school, I don't think I would have survived if I hadn't transferred to a different program, so that REALLY resonated for me personally. Enough of the characters have enough nuance and depth that I think a lot of young readers will be able to find encouraging parallels in their own lives. There's also a lot of unstated subtext specifically aimed at young blerds (Black nerds, if you're not familiar with the term). Bonus: sooooo many little Easter eggs sprinkled throughout these pages. It's cute AF, it tackles heavier topics in a thoughtful and nuanced way, and the messages are so empowering and hopeful. Love those character designs, and the use of color to express emotions, etc. is *chef's kiss*
Lastly, this book really drives home how devastating or life-saving teachers can be, which again hit me hard. I really enjoyed all the little storylines and side quests and moments of epiphany highlighted in here. Can't wait to see these creators do next.
As someone who has grappled with chronic depression since middle school, I don't think I would have survived if I hadn't transferred to a different program, so that REALLY resonated for me personally. Enough of the characters have enough nuance and depth that I think a lot of young readers will be able to find encouraging parallels in their own lives. There's also a lot of unstated subtext specifically aimed at young blerds (Black nerds, if you're not familiar with the term). Bonus: sooooo many little Easter eggs sprinkled throughout these pages. It's cute AF, it tackles heavier topics in a thoughtful and nuanced way, and the messages are so empowering and hopeful. Love those character designs, and the use of color to express emotions, etc. is *chef's kiss*
Lastly, this book really drives home how devastating or life-saving teachers can be, which again hit me hard. I really enjoyed all the little storylines and side quests and moments of epiphany highlighted in here. Can't wait to see these creators do next.
October 22, 2024
Anytime a book makes me cry, I know it is going to be a good story. And, oh, gosh, this one started making me cry early on. What is even harder, is that this is a graphic novel memoir, based on the authors life. It is painful and beautiful at the same time.
Tony is very bright. His parents are trying to find the best school for him. He has started at many new schools, and he thinks this time for sure. But unfortunately, the bullies start to get to him, and it gets so bad that he attempts suicide. (Not giving away too much, as this happens in the first few chapters.)
His parents don’t realize what is going on at first, but when they do, they try him at a different school. But he has been bitten so many times, that now he thinks it is just best to crawl into a shell and be “normal”.
The good news, at this new school, he doesn’t have to.
I love this story of finding a place for yourself in the world. We all need to find that, and the process is so painful to see, but so sweet when it works out, that I had to go back and reread the bad parts to appreciate the good parts again.
Great book, to show that we can all be our authentic self.
Tony is very bright. His parents are trying to find the best school for him. He has started at many new schools, and he thinks this time for sure. But unfortunately, the bullies start to get to him, and it gets so bad that he attempts suicide. (Not giving away too much, as this happens in the first few chapters.)
His parents don’t realize what is going on at first, but when they do, they try him at a different school. But he has been bitten so many times, that now he thinks it is just best to crawl into a shell and be “normal”.
The good news, at this new school, he doesn’t have to.
I love this story of finding a place for yourself in the world. We all need to find that, and the process is so painful to see, but so sweet when it works out, that I had to go back and reread the bad parts to appreciate the good parts again.
Great book, to show that we can all be our authentic self.
April 5, 2024
Thanks to NetGalley for the ARC! I was a little apprehensive about the book when it briefly touched on the main character’s attempt to take his life - especially for a middle grade book. However, I think it was handled really well and did a really nice job reminding the reader that there is always light on the other side. I love the story of the small band of eclectic students who get together and complement each other in so many ways. The story was inspiring, and I wish it were longer! It was heartbreaking to watch the bullying from students and even staff at the beginning of the book, and it was tough to see the initial lack of support during that time from his parents (not from lack of love but possibly not fully understanding the situation), but it was wonderful to watch his story make a beautiful turn where he found confidence in himself and a core group of people around him that built him up. Such an uplifting story that didn’t shy away from the hard things. But note that it does have brief discussion of self harm, so that might be triggering for some.
September 20, 2024
An imperfect but really, really lovely story of making space for your special weirdness in the world. While I definitely see the overarching narrative here, this could have easily been two books: the first concerning Tony finding the light in dark times, and the second concerning his blooming socially and saving his new school. I also found that the first-person narration pulled me out of young Tony's experience on the page. It sounded like the author was delivering a biographical talk to his readers, when I really just wanted to engage with the story happening on the page in real-time. Luckily, that does peter off somewhat after the first half, though it swoops back in to wrap things up.
I know a lot of kids will connect with Tony's experiences of being in the pits of depression and isolation, and with the innate joy of finding one's place at last. Both the author and the art team pulled off those emotions in spades--I was so moved by both the abyss of Tony's journey and when he finally found acceptance and kinship. A necessary and beautiful work!
I know a lot of kids will connect with Tony's experiences of being in the pits of depression and isolation, and with the innate joy of finding one's place at last. Both the author and the art team pulled off those emotions in spades--I was so moved by both the abyss of Tony's journey and when he finally found acceptance and kinship. A necessary and beautiful work!
October 12, 2024
This graphic novel / memoir tackles some very heavy topics: self-loathing, bullying, and suicide. This would be a book to recommend to kids (and their families) struggling with mental health issues. Especially important for Black children to read a black author who coped with these issues himself - to see children of color in a book that discusses youth mental health in imperative.
In an interview in SLJ Weaver says this:
"Everybody says that representation is important, but I don’t think it can be said enough, because it truly is. And for a graphic novel where we’re talking about mental health, specifically from the perspective of a young black boy, we get to do this cool thing where black readers get the opportunity to see a character that looks like them and kids who might not go to school around black kids, or have a lot of black kids in their community, develop the muscle to empathize with a black character and identify the similarities because this kid is dealing with the same struggles that they’re dealing with."
In an interview in SLJ Weaver says this:
"Everybody says that representation is important, but I don’t think it can be said enough, because it truly is. And for a graphic novel where we’re talking about mental health, specifically from the perspective of a young black boy, we get to do this cool thing where black readers get the opportunity to see a character that looks like them and kids who might not go to school around black kids, or have a lot of black kids in their community, develop the muscle to empathize with a black character and identify the similarities because this kid is dealing with the same struggles that they’re dealing with."
September 17, 2024
Tony Weaver Jr. explores the painful experience of bullying and ostracism in Weirdo. This heartfelt and heartbreaking graphic novel celebrates differences and confirms that there’s a place for all of us.
Weirdo honors all the little quirks that make us who we are, and the joy that comes when we find “our people.”
Weaver’s story is deeply personal, and some parts — attempted self-harm — are difficult to read about. That’s not to say Weaver goes into great detail. In fact, this section of his book is incredibly emotional due, in part, to all the elements he leaves out. It is not graphic, but given the suggested reading age, parents should be aware and ready to have conversations.
On its face, Weirdo sounds like an unhappy story. And part of it is. But the bigger part is one of survival and self-acceptance. It will especially appeal to readers who find themselves on the “fringes” of the social hierarchy.
Weirdo honors all the little quirks that make us who we are, and the joy that comes when we find “our people.”
Weaver’s story is deeply personal, and some parts — attempted self-harm — are difficult to read about. That’s not to say Weaver goes into great detail. In fact, this section of his book is incredibly emotional due, in part, to all the elements he leaves out. It is not graphic, but given the suggested reading age, parents should be aware and ready to have conversations.
On its face, Weirdo sounds like an unhappy story. And part of it is. But the bigger part is one of survival and self-acceptance. It will especially appeal to readers who find themselves on the “fringes” of the social hierarchy.
September 22, 2024
Thank you so much Mac Kids Books, Tony Weaver Jr., Jes & Cin Wibowo, & Storygram Tours for sending me a copy for tour! 🥰🫶
.
I didn’t realize when I picked this up that I was going love it as much as I did! I was just expecting another cute middle grade graphic novel (which I read a lot of 😅), but wow I was blown away by Weirdo! Basically I’m saying this is a new all-time favorite graphic novel! 😍 This graphic memoir has such a beautiful message about being true to oneself and doesn’t shy away from showing the harshness of the real world. I think a lot of us “weirdos” can relate to this story. I even recommended it to my IRL bestie (doesn’t read much), who identifies as a nerdy weirdo, and I just know she’s going to love it as well! ☺️
.
In addition to the story, I adore the illustrations by Jes & Cin! I've read their previous book, Lunar Boy, and just knew this one would be just as gorgeous! 🥰 I also love seeing all the references to animes, manga, and comics! One of my favorites was the written and visual reference to Check, Please! 😊
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Weirdo, written by Tony Weaver Jr. and illustrated by Jes & Cin Wibowo is out NOW! Please go check this one out! 🩵
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⚠️ CW: bullying, suicidal ideation (on page), suicide attempt (off page), death of a grandparent (prior to book)
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I didn’t realize when I picked this up that I was going love it as much as I did! I was just expecting another cute middle grade graphic novel (which I read a lot of 😅), but wow I was blown away by Weirdo! Basically I’m saying this is a new all-time favorite graphic novel! 😍 This graphic memoir has such a beautiful message about being true to oneself and doesn’t shy away from showing the harshness of the real world. I think a lot of us “weirdos” can relate to this story. I even recommended it to my IRL bestie (doesn’t read much), who identifies as a nerdy weirdo, and I just know she’s going to love it as well! ☺️
.
In addition to the story, I adore the illustrations by Jes & Cin! I've read their previous book, Lunar Boy, and just knew this one would be just as gorgeous! 🥰 I also love seeing all the references to animes, manga, and comics! One of my favorites was the written and visual reference to Check, Please! 😊
.
Weirdo, written by Tony Weaver Jr. and illustrated by Jes & Cin Wibowo is out NOW! Please go check this one out! 🩵
.
⚠️ CW: bullying, suicidal ideation (on page), suicide attempt (off page), death of a grandparent (prior to book)
September 24, 2024
This was a great and fun read. I really enjoyed all the little references in the book, and it was just as much fun trying to figure out what they were. I'm also glad that characters came off as *real* people. Majority of the children's comics these days follow a lot of the same pattern: Something goes bad, they yell out loud what's wrong, and then they go have an anime cry with their knees up to their chest. (Oh boy, it happens A LOT)
Now, granted this comic has that too, but it's in the first act, and it's more serious (tw: suicide) and we spend the rest of the book following the result of it. The bullies in this comic felt *dangerous* and were actual threats, so you understand more why the character did what he did better. No Disney, PG bullies here! I also like how the characters "lose" in the third act to show that real life isn't so easy, really honing in on that "Even if you do everything right, you can still lose" lesson.
Really great comic
Now, granted this comic has that too, but it's in the first act, and it's more serious (tw: suicide) and we spend the rest of the book following the result of it. The bullies in this comic felt *dangerous* and were actual threats, so you understand more why the character did what he did better. No Disney, PG bullies here! I also like how the characters "lose" in the third act to show that real life isn't so easy, really honing in on that "Even if you do everything right, you can still lose" lesson.
Really great comic
October 14, 2024
The minute people can't categorize you, they think you're a problem.
Tony is a weirdo—but isn't everyone? As he enters seventh grade, like many middle schoolers, he tries to find his people. But that doesn't come easy for him. With a series of ups and downs—probably more downs—Tony eventually needs to change schools. At his new school, he joins the Literature Club and finds his type of weirdos, simply kids who embrace each and every bit of him.
There are so many aspects of this book that I love: the layered characters, the anime/comic tie-in, the authenticity of school—there are not always simple journeys and happy endings. However, I wonder if there is a level of intensity that is too much for some middle schoolers to process? To be transparent, suicide does surface, and although it is done in a very gentle way, I was left wondering, "Would my grade seven students be able to independently unpack this?" The answer is probably yes and that I need to "get with it." Yet, it did make me pause. Recommended for GR 8 and up.
Tony is a weirdo—but isn't everyone? As he enters seventh grade, like many middle schoolers, he tries to find his people. But that doesn't come easy for him. With a series of ups and downs—probably more downs—Tony eventually needs to change schools. At his new school, he joins the Literature Club and finds his type of weirdos, simply kids who embrace each and every bit of him.
There are so many aspects of this book that I love: the layered characters, the anime/comic tie-in, the authenticity of school—there are not always simple journeys and happy endings. However, I wonder if there is a level of intensity that is too much for some middle schoolers to process? To be transparent, suicide does surface, and although it is done in a very gentle way, I was left wondering, "Would my grade seven students be able to independently unpack this?" The answer is probably yes and that I need to "get with it." Yet, it did make me pause. Recommended for GR 8 and up.
July 6, 2024
I received this book from First Second through NetGalley.
Having just finished Lunar Boy by Jes and Cin Wibowo, I was excited to pick up Weirdo. What an amazing story about middle school and its trials and tribulations. Tony has trouble fitting in at his school where he's part of the high achievers. The torment he endures puts him in a very dark place that he has to learn how to handle, while also attending a different school where he hopes to find his people. Tony ends up learning a lot about himself, his classmates, and even different interests. A story of finding your people, learning to love yourself, and being who you are, Weirdo is written so you feel the emotions of Tony, and the artwork matches the story perfectly. This is a great memoir that highlights what it's like to be in middle school today.
Having just finished Lunar Boy by Jes and Cin Wibowo, I was excited to pick up Weirdo. What an amazing story about middle school and its trials and tribulations. Tony has trouble fitting in at his school where he's part of the high achievers. The torment he endures puts him in a very dark place that he has to learn how to handle, while also attending a different school where he hopes to find his people. Tony ends up learning a lot about himself, his classmates, and even different interests. A story of finding your people, learning to love yourself, and being who you are, Weirdo is written so you feel the emotions of Tony, and the artwork matches the story perfectly. This is a great memoir that highlights what it's like to be in middle school today.
July 22, 2024
Graphic Novel
I received an electronic ARC from First Second Books through NetGalley.
Powerful story from Weaver's childhood. The author offers hope for all those in their early teen years. He shows the struggle he had and offers a look at the mental health help he received. Sadly, too many young people will relate to the bullying and feeling like they don't fit in. A tender tone underlies all of the action and reactions as Tony learns to like himself and figure out who he is. This is told from his memories so readers see how he remembered his parents adding to the pressures until they all sought help. Every story shared helps encourage others to seek help too.
The artwork is cleverly drawn and each character has a distinct style. Readers will see themselves in both the text and the art.
I received an electronic ARC from First Second Books through NetGalley.
Powerful story from Weaver's childhood. The author offers hope for all those in their early teen years. He shows the struggle he had and offers a look at the mental health help he received. Sadly, too many young people will relate to the bullying and feeling like they don't fit in. A tender tone underlies all of the action and reactions as Tony learns to like himself and figure out who he is. This is told from his memories so readers see how he remembered his parents adding to the pressures until they all sought help. Every story shared helps encourage others to seek help too.
The artwork is cleverly drawn and each character has a distinct style. Readers will see themselves in both the text and the art.
October 9, 2024
Both uplifting and pretty heavy, this graphic novel, which is based on author's real-life experience, was way better than I expected from the cover. Black 11-year-old Tony struggles to fit in at his new school. He has switched schools several times before, but this time things are different and after relentless bullying from classmates he attempts suicide. The book specifically does not depict the suicide attempt, and focuses mostly on how Tony heals following the suicide attempt -- attending therapy, switching to a more supportive (and mostly Black) school, finding an understanding group of friends, and learning to challenge his intrusive thoughts. Kids who have experienced their own mental health challenges will find a lot of strength in this story of healing and belonging. Kids who haven't will find an important lesson in empathy.
August 3, 2024
4.5/5
One of my favorite graphic novels of 2024, Weirdo is a fantastic ode to the all the kids who feel like they don't quite belong. Don't be fooled by the fun and bright cover; this one deals with some heavy topics and themes (CW: bullying, suicidal ideation, and off-page suicide attempt). In spite of this, the overall tone is still hopeful, and there's a lot of humor woven in throughout the pages. The scope of the story is surprisingly large, and the protagonist and his friends face several different challenges over the course of the book. I adored the illustrations. I appreciated the quick pace of the chapters. But above all else, I really loved the characters, and I was rooting for them the entire time.
Thank you to NetGalley and First Second for my advanced copy.
One of my favorite graphic novels of 2024, Weirdo is a fantastic ode to the all the kids who feel like they don't quite belong. Don't be fooled by the fun and bright cover; this one deals with some heavy topics and themes (CW: bullying, suicidal ideation, and off-page suicide attempt). In spite of this, the overall tone is still hopeful, and there's a lot of humor woven in throughout the pages. The scope of the story is surprisingly large, and the protagonist and his friends face several different challenges over the course of the book. I adored the illustrations. I appreciated the quick pace of the chapters. But above all else, I really loved the characters, and I was rooting for them the entire time.
Thank you to NetGalley and First Second for my advanced copy.
September 13, 2024
THIS BOOK! Amazing! Read this middle grade graphic novel - everything is SO well done. Kid feels like an outcast, bullied but can't seem to get help. Serious mental health crisis handled well with the age of the reader kept in mind but still showing how scary and hard it is for anyone to handle.
Therapy shown as work but also a path to success with tools to help in the future. Starting over in a new school, scary in itself, but also trying to make new friends and try new things while being aware of how badly things can turn out. And it just kept getting better.
I love this book and will be recommending it to anyone and everyone!
THANK YOU #NETGALLEY FOR THE ADVANCED READER COPY OF THIS BOOK.
Thank you. @TonyWeaverJr, @jesncin, @01firstsecond
Therapy shown as work but also a path to success with tools to help in the future. Starting over in a new school, scary in itself, but also trying to make new friends and try new things while being aware of how badly things can turn out. And it just kept getting better.
I love this book and will be recommending it to anyone and everyone!
THANK YOU #NETGALLEY FOR THE ADVANCED READER COPY OF THIS BOOK.
Thank you. @TonyWeaverJr, @jesncin, @01firstsecond
August 21, 2024
Weirdo is an ode to those who dare to be different. The ones who are passionate about their interests and don't care who knows it. It's about the greatness of being unique, the camaraderie that comes from finding your people, and the absolute joy you feel when embracing your true self.
It's also about the struggles you face along your journey and the hope that comes after the darkest times. This books hits some seriously difficult (but essential) topics: suicide, self harm, bullying. And it handles them with grace and compassion.
I LOVED Weirdo and highly recommend for middle and high school libraries!
It's also about the struggles you face along your journey and the hope that comes after the darkest times. This books hits some seriously difficult (but essential) topics: suicide, self harm, bullying. And it handles them with grace and compassion.
I LOVED Weirdo and highly recommend for middle and high school libraries!
September 30, 2024
Content Warnings: bullying, depression, self-harm, suicide
Tony loves comic books, anime, and creating stories. But when he starts a new school, he becomes a target of ruthless bullying. To cope, he decides to hide his interests, hoping he will be free from the cruelty. When things escalate, Tony must learn how to become a hero, just like those in his favorite comics.
Wow, was this an impactful story. As someone who has felt like they had to hide their interests to avoid ridicule, Tony's struggle hit close (though my experience was minor compared to what he faces). This is a beautiful story about embracing your inner weirdo!
Tony loves comic books, anime, and creating stories. But when he starts a new school, he becomes a target of ruthless bullying. To cope, he decides to hide his interests, hoping he will be free from the cruelty. When things escalate, Tony must learn how to become a hero, just like those in his favorite comics.
Wow, was this an impactful story. As someone who has felt like they had to hide their interests to avoid ridicule, Tony's struggle hit close (though my experience was minor compared to what he faces). This is a beautiful story about embracing your inner weirdo!
October 14, 2024
This was a very well thought out and executed book. It covers some universal experiences in a fun and simple way that is interesting to its target audience of younger readers. As an adult I also felt inspired by the lessons inside. I have been where the main character was but I did not learn what he did until I had reached an older age. I’m sure so many readers out there will be able to relate to this story and find themselves entertained and moved as I was. I also adore the art style! I’m a big fan of the way each character is introduced in particular. I got a chuckle every time we met someone new with a unique superpower. I wish this novel was longer but all in all a really nice read!
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