STAND UP!

Uncertain stars find their spotlights one step at a time.

Clay and Kyle are used to operating behind the scenes in their middle school’s drama club. Their creative ambitions snowball from a comedic spring musical audition to performing improv at a local open mic to co-hosting their own podcast. Having the support of their moms and Lettie, the manager of the cafe and local venue above which they live, is a major help. Joking with one another about their neurodivergence is another (Kyle is autistic; Clay has ADHD). During the course of these entertaining antics, Clay crosses paths with musically talented classmate and instant crush, Dania. The anxieties and triumphs of live performance give each of them room to stress as well as shine. Clay’s romantic and aspirational self-doubts become great lessons in self-kindness. Clay is as bold and expressive as her blond mohawk, even if she gets distracted sometimes, while Kyle’s lavender curtain of hair betrays his calmer but just as creative personality. Combined with Dania’s talent for audio production, these eighth graders can take over streaming and bring down any house. Their authentic banter and earnest enthusiasm will turn readers into would-be subscribers to their show. The fluid, animated illustrations emphasize the characters’ facial expressions, and the pastel color palette is fresh and engaging. Clay, Kyle, and their moms read white; Dania and Lettie present Black.

A messy, funny, neurodivergent ode to finding your voice and owning your differences.