Garvey in the Dark by Nikki Grimes explores identity, family, and resilience during the COVID-19 pandemic. The story follows Garvey, a thoughtful, music-loving boy navigating life during the COVID-19 lockdown. As he struggles with isolation, fear for his loved ones, and growing tensions at home, Garvey learns to cope through music, friendship, and new ways of connecting.
Written for middle-grade students, readers can easily identify with Garvey. He’s a relatable character: introverted, food-and-music-loving, thoughtful, and sensitive. Readers can see his strengths in his emotional intelligence and growing self-awareness, and his weaknesses in his self-doubt and struggles with his father's expectations. The story is set during a time middle-grade students can remember well: the height of the pandemic. The plot moves logically with dates and events, but also with Garvey facing challenges, like isolation and fear for his family. The setting is mostly at Garvey’s home and immediate surroundings during lockdown. It is believable, recognizable, and accurately reflects the lived experiences of many during that time. The story transcends the pandemic; it's about family, loneliness, and self-discovery.
The themes of isolation, connection, and growth emerge naturally from the story. For younger readers, Garvey’s internal struggles, finding confidence, communicating with family, and dealing with worry, will resonate meaningfully. The story validates their feelings during that time. Grimes’s language is thoughtful, accessible yet rich with meaning. She uses figurative language, imagery, and a strong voice. The dialogue, when used, is natural and purposeful. The first-person point of view fits perfectly, bringing readers into Garvey’s world. The tone shifts from uncertain and pensive to hopeful and grounded. Chapters are short, cleverly titled.
The book does a good job with cultural representation. Garvey is a Black boy whose interests defy stereotypes; he loves music, books, and astronomy, not sports, which pushes back on tokenism and typecasting. His family shows both generational tension and deep love. The story avoids ethnocentrism; Garvey’s experience is not filtered through a white lens, and his voice is authentic. Mental and emotional struggles, like anxiety and loneliness, are handled with empathy, offering a positive representation of mental health experiences, which is important and validating for readers.
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The Moon Within by Aida Salazar is a novel about 11-year-old Celi as she navigates the emotional changes of puberty, first crushes, and cultural identity. When her mother wants to celebrate her first period with a traditional Mexica moon ceremony, Celi must decide how to honor her roots while asserting her own voice. Alongside her best friend Marco, who is exploring his gender identity, Celi learns the importance of self-acceptance, tradition, and standing up for those she loves.
The protagonist, Celi Rivera, is an Afro-Puerto Rican and Mexican girl navigating the complexities of adolescence. Her experiences with puberty, cultural identity, and friendship are portrayed with depth and authenticity, making her highly relatable to readers. Celi's best friend, Marco, is exploring his gender identity as genderfluid, adding a layered perspective on gender and friendship dynamics. Both characters are depicted with strengths and vulnerabilities, allowing readers to connect with their journeys.
Set in present-day Oakland, California, the novel follows Celi as she grapples with her mother's desire to celebrate the changes in her body. Simultaneously, she navigates her feelings for a boy named Iván. The narrative unfolds logically, with each event influencing the next, culminating in a conclusion that feels both surprising and inevitable. The setting provides a vibrant backdrop that reflects the diversity of the community. The setting influences the characters' experiences, particularly in how cultural traditions are preserved and celebrated.
Themes of cultural heritage, gender identity, and the transition from childhood to adolescence emerge organically through the characters' experiences. The novel encourages readers to embrace their identities and challenges societal norms, offering meaningful insights for young readers. Written in verse, Salazar employs poetic language rich in imagery and emotion. The first-person narrative provides an intimate glimpse into Celi's thoughts and feelings. The balance between narration and dialogue feels natural, and the tone shifts appropriately to reflect the protagonist's evolving emotional landscape. The novel challenges traditional gender roles through Marco's character, presenting a thoughtful exploration of gender fluidity. Cultural representation is handled with care, avoiding stereotypes and offering a multidimensional portrayal of Latinx heritage. The inclusion of the moon ceremony highlights indigenous practices, presented respectfully and integrally to the narrative.
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