Class Act
Jerry Craft's "Class Act" is a compelling graphic novel that serves as a companion to his Newbery Medal-winning book, "New Kid." Published in 2020, this middle-grade book primarily follows eighth-grader Drew Ellis as he navigates the challenges of being one of the few students of color at the prestigious Riverdale Academy Day School. The story delves into themes of race, class, identity, microaggressions, and the complexities of friendship, particularly as Drew grapples with socioeconomic differences compared to his more privileged classmates. Through its engaging graphic novel format, the book offers a humorous yet poignant exploration of finding one's place and accepting oneself in a diverse and sometimes challenging environment. It is generally considered appropriate for readers aged 8-13, with deeper themes resonating with older middle schoolers.
Concerns
Scary & Intense Content
MediumThe book contains emotionally intense situations related to social injustice and personal anxieties, rather than traditional scary or frightening elements. The intensity stems from realistic societal challenges faced by the characters.
Emotional intensity arises from scenarios like Jordan's father being pulled over by a police officer, a scene depicted as tense and charged due to racial implications. Drew also experiences significant internal and emotional intensity as he grapples with socioeconomic disparities and attempts to reconcile his background with his wealthier friends, leading to moments of withdrawal and self-doubt.
Disrespect & Rebellion
MediumCharacters display instances of subtle defiance and internal struggles against perceived injustices and societal expectations, reflecting common adolescent challenges rather than overt, harmful rebellion.
Drew exhibits a form of internal rebellion by withdrawing from his friendship with Liam, stemming from discomfort over their differing socioeconomic backgrounds and reluctance to share his home life. Additionally, the school administration's well-meaning but often clumsy attempts at anti-racism, such as Principal Roche's 'SOCK' (Students of Color Konnect) initiative, are depicted as microaggressions that students subtly push back against or critique internally.
LGBTQ & Gender Identity
LowComprehensive searches across various platforms, including specific LGBTQ-focused keywords, found no indication of LGBTQ+ characters, themes, or gender identity discussions within Jerry Craft's graphic novel, 'Class Act.'
The narrative focuses on themes of race, class, and friendship, with no explicit or implied references to LGBTQ+ individuals or gender identity. Mandatory keyword searches across multiple sources yielded zero relevant results for this book.
Violence
LowThe book contains minimal instances of implied or potential conflict, but no graphic or sustained physical violence. The 'violence' is primarily emotional or social rather than physical.
Drew nearly engages in a physical confrontation with neighborhood friends over name-calling, illustrating intense anger but not escalating to graphic violence. Another tense moment occurs when Jordan's dad is pulled over by a police officer, a scene charged with racial undertones but devoid of physical harm.
Romance and Sexual Content
LowRomantic and sexual content is very mild and age-appropriate for middle-grade readers, focusing on innocent crushes and the early stages of adolescent relationships without explicit details.
The story includes mentions of typical middle-school crushes and dating, such as Drew having a girlfriend. Additionally, Jordan experiences age-appropriate concerns related to puberty, including wondering about growing taller and needing to use deodorant.
Profanity
LowReviews and content descriptions do not indicate the presence of profanity or strong language in 'Class Act.' The language used is appropriate for its middle-grade target audience.
There are no documented instances or mentions in critical or parental reviews of profanity, swear words, or strong language used by characters or in the narration of the graphic novel.
Witchcraft & Occult
LowAs a work of realistic fiction addressing social and emotional themes, 'Class Act' does not include any elements of witchcraft, magic, occult practices, or supernatural occurrences.
The narrative is grounded in real-world experiences and interpersonal relationships within a school setting, completely devoid of any fantastical, magical, or occult content.
Substance Use
LowThere is no depiction or mention of alcohol, illegal drug use, smoking, or substance addiction within the content of 'Class Act.'
The book's focus on middle school life, friendships, and social challenges does not involve any themes or scenes related to substance use by its characters.
Anti-Christian Themes
Low'Class Act' does not contain any anti-Christian themes, mockery of religious beliefs, or sacrilegious content. The narrative focuses on secular social justice issues and personal growth.
The book's plot and character development are centered around experiences of race, class, and friendship in a school environment, without engaging with or critiquing Christian beliefs or any other religious doctrines.
Other Notes
Target Demographic
Ages 10-13, due to its exploration of complex social issues like race, class, and microaggressions, while also dealing with typical middle school experiences of friendship and identity. While publishers suggest 8-12, the depth of themes is better suited for the upper middle-grade audience.
Additional Notes
The book serves as a valuable resource for discussing themes of microaggressions, socioeconomic disparities, and racial identity with middle-grade children. It builds upon its predecessor, 'New Kid,' by further exploring these topics through the perspective of Drew, deepening the conversation around how systemic issues impact individual experiences. Educators and parents frequently recommend it for fostering empathy and understanding.
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