The Tryout

Reach for this book when your child is facing the intense social pressure of middle school, particularly if they are struggling to balance their desire to fit in with their own unique cultural identity. This graphic memoir follows Christina, a Thai American girl in a small Texas town, as she and her best friend navigate the high stakes world of cheerleading tryouts. It is a perfect choice for parents who want to validate their child's feelings of social anxiety and embarrassment while providing a hopeful roadmap for resilience. The story handles complex emotions like the fear of rejection and the sting of microaggressions with humor and deep empathy. It is ideally suited for children ages 8 to 12 who are starting to notice social hierarchies and are looking for a story that proves they can be brave even when they feel like they don't quite belong.