Book Review: The Tryout: A Graphic Novel
As a book blogger and a forever-fan of middle-grade stories, I was instantly drawn to The Tryout: A Graphic Novel by Christina Soontornvat. The premise of two best friends battling their nerves during cheerleading tryouts—and under the spotlight of their peers—prompted me to reminisce about my own awkward, cringe-worthy school moments. You know that feeling of excitement mixed with sheer terror? Soontornvat captures it perfectly!
At the heart of The Tryout is Christina and her best friend, Megan, who decide to dive into the world of cheerleading because it represents acceptance and belonging in their middle school. As two of the few kids of color in their class, the cheer squad symbolizes not just popularity but the comfort of fitting in. Watching these characters navigate the choppy waters of friendship and competition is both relatable and heartwarming.
Soontornvat deftly explores themes like friendship, identity, and resilience, all served up with a healthy dose of humor and warmth. The dialogue feels genuine—like overhearing an animated conversation among friends. You can easily picture the cringes and giggles that pepper their exchanges, and it brings back the nostalgia of my own middle school days. One line really resonated with me: “Stand tall. Be loud. Game face on.” It’s a powerful mantra for anyone—no matter their age—who’s ever felt out of place.
The pacing of the graphic novel flows effortlessly, a testament to Soontornvat’s ability to blend humor and heartfelt moments without missing a beat. The playful yet evocative illustrations elevate the emotional stakes, making the tryout experience feel vivid and almost tangible. It’s one of those stories where the visuals enhance the core narrative, giving depth to every laughter-filled frame and tense moment alike.
A recurring sentiment highlighted in reviews—“cringe-worthy in the best possible way”—is spot-on. I found myself both laughing out loud and feeling deeply for Christina and Megan. Their journey resonates with anyone who has ever felt nervous about being judged or competing against friends. It’s this authenticity that makes The Tryout a middle-grade gem; it reflects the nuanced emotions of growing up, a quality that echoes in the words of School Library Journal who stated it “captures every nuanced emotion.”
This graphic novel isn’t just for cheerleading enthusiasts; it speaks to anyone who has ever struggled to find their footing in a world that sometimes feels overwhelmingly judgmental. It’s perfect for young readers navigating school dynamics, but it also carries weight for adults who enjoy think pieces wrapped in delightful illustrations.
In conclusion, The Tryout: A Graphic Novel is a heartfelt exploration of friendship, belonging, and the courage to face your fears. It left me feeling nostalgic yet hopeful, reminding me that our experiences—no matter how mundane—can be the backdrop for something extraordinary. Trust me—you’ll want to read this, perhaps even with a younger sibling or mentee by your side! If you’re looking for a story that’s both engaging and insightful, look no further.