New Kid
New Kid by Jerry Craft is a critically acclaimed graphic novel that follows the experiences of Jordan Banks, a seventh-grader from Washington Heights who is enrolled by his parents in a prestigious, predominantly white private school. Despite his passion for art school, Jordan must navigate the challenges of being one of the few students of color, confronting daily microaggressions and struggling to find his place between two different worlds: his diverse neighborhood and his new affluent school. The narrative skillfully blends humor with poignant observations on race, class, identity, and friendship, making it a powerful and relatable story for its target audience. The book is generally considered appropriate for middle-grade readers, offering valuable opportunities for discussion on social dynamics and empathy.
Concerns
Scary & Intense Content
MediumThe book presents intense social situations, particularly concerning racial microaggressions and bullying, which can be emotionally challenging. However, the overall tone often balances these moments with humor and positive resolutions, avoiding genuinely scary or horror elements.
1. Jordan and other students of color frequently experience microaggressions, such as teachers mistakenly calling Black students by the wrong name or directing them only to African-American literature, which can be emotionally intense and frustrating. 2. A tense situation arises when Ms. Rawle, a teacher, falsely accuses Drew of pushing Andy during a cafeteria incident, creating significant stress for Drew before other students intervene to clarify the situation.
Disrespect & Rebellion
MediumThe book depicts instances of mild disrespect and rebellion primarily as characters, especially Jordan and his friends, stand up against microaggressions and unfair treatment from peers and adults. This is portrayed as a positive act of self-advocacy rather than malicious defiance.
1. Jordan and Drew actively challenge and call out microaggressions from classmates and teachers, such as when a librarian directs them only to specific literature, demonstrating a respectful but firm defiance of implicit biases. 2. Jordan, Liam, and other classmates stand up for Drew when Ms. Rawle unjustly accuses him of pushing Andy, implicitly challenging the teacher's premature judgment and biased assumptions.
LGBTQ & Gender Identity
LowExtensive searches for LGBTQ+ or gender identity content within "New Kid" and its direct sequels, as well as author statements, yielded no evidence of explicit LGBTQ+ characters, themes, or representation. The narrative focuses primarily on racial identity and socioeconomic differences.
1. There are no characters identified as lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, or queer within the storyline of "New Kid." 2. The book does not feature any plotlines or discussions related to sexual orientation or gender identity.
Violence
LowThe book contains no depicted graphic violence. There are brief mentions of potential violence in external contexts and a comedic-tension moment involving a fall.
1. In one scene, Jordan's friend from his old neighborhood mentions a boy bringing a gun to school for protection, though this event is not depicted within the story itself and is a brief verbal reference. 2. During an argument in the cafeteria, character Andy slips on an apple and falls, leading to a misunderstanding where Ms. Rawle falsely accuses Drew of pushing him, rather than any actual physical altercation.
Romance and Sexual Content
LowThe graphic novel contains no explicit sexual content or significant romantic storylines. The focus remains on friendships and social navigation typical of middle schoolers.
1. There are no depicted romantic scenes, such as kissing or dating, between any characters. 2. The narrative does not include any suggestive language, implied sexual activity, or references to sexual relationships.
Profanity
LowThe book is noted for its clean language, containing no instances of strong profanity or offensive curse words.
1. Reviews consistently state that the book contains no profanity, maintaining a family-friendly tone suitable for its middle-grade audience. 2. Character dialogues are free from explicit or strong language, focusing on everyday conversations and expressions appropriate for school settings.
Witchcraft & Occult
LowThere is no content related to witchcraft, sorcery, occult practices, magic rituals, demons, spells, or supernatural elements within the story.
1. The book is a work of realistic fiction set in contemporary middle school life, without any fantasy or supernatural components. 2. There are no mentions or depictions of any alternative religious or spiritual belief systems that involve occult practices.
Substance Use
LowThe narrative does not feature any instances or references to substance use, including alcohol, drugs, or smoking.
1. No characters are depicted consuming alcohol or engaging in drug use. 2. There are no mentions of smoking or addiction issues within the storyline.
Anti-Christian Themes
LowThe book does not contain any anti-Christian themes, mockery of Christian beliefs, or sacrilegious acts. Religious themes are largely absent from the narrative.
1. There are no explicit mentions or discussions of Christianity, nor any content that could be interpreted as critical or disrespectful towards Christian faith or practices. 2. The story focuses on secular issues of identity, race, and social dynamics in a school setting, without engaging with religious viewpoints in a negative way.
Other Notes
Target Demographic
The book is generally recommended for readers aged 8-9 and up, or grades 4-7, primarily due to its accessible graphic novel format and themes that resonate with middle school experiences, such as fitting in, friendship, and navigating social challenges. While it addresses mature topics like racial microaggressions, it does so in an age-appropriate manner, making it suitable for children ready to engage with these discussions.
Additional Notes
Jerry Craft's "New Kid" is a significant work in children's literature, lauded for its honest portrayal of racial identity and microaggressions faced by students of color in predominantly white institutions. While the themes are serious, the graphic novel format and humorous elements make it accessible and engaging for its target audience. Parents should be aware that discussions about racism and social injustice are central to the plot, providing an excellent opportunity for family dialogue on these important topics. The sequel, "Class Act," continues to explore similar themes, suggesting a consistent approach to content across the series.
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