New Kid by Jerry Craft

 Title: New Kid

Genre: Realistic-fiction

Author/Illustrator: Jerry Craft

Major awards: Newberry Award & Coretta Scott King Award

Age group: 3rd-7th

Summary: 

This is a graphic novel that tells the story of Jordan Banks, a new student at a prestigous academy. The comic strip like layout, brings Jordan's middle school experience to life. Jordan's life shifts when he begins school in a different side of town. He is exposed to an entirely new environment, with little diversity. As an African-American student, Jordan discovers the misrepresentation of his race. 

Stereotypes, social status, and appearances are common misconceptions that Jordan's peers make. Jordan's school and real life help shape him. In the end, his relationships and middle-school experiences, mold him into a new individual. 

Why would I use this book in the classroom: 

As a future educator, I'd use this book in my classroom 

to relate to my students and their experiences in school. Much is discussed in this graphic novel through illustrations and dialogue. The book does a terrific job of highlight current issues regarding racial stereotypes. Being the new kid is tough, but at some point, we were all new at something. This book is perfect for a classroom.

Appropriate grade level:

I think an appropriate grade level for this book is upper elementary levels. Older students, especially middle school students, will be able to comprehend certain context in this book. At times, the dialogue is a bit tricky to follow. I think this age group will be able to follow the text. They also will be able to relate to Jordan's experiences in an upper grade level.

Ideas for unit of study to include the book in and how you might use the book in the classroom:

• Language Arts/Art: I would use this book to have students complete an activity where they create their own comic strips. After reading this book I want students to create their comics based off a school experience they have had, that has effected them.