Hey, Kiddo
Location: GRA KRO
Genre: Graphic Novel- Family stuff. Memoir
In kindergarten, Jarrett Krosoczka's teacher asks him to draw his family, with a mommy and a daddy. But Jarrett's family is much more complicated than that. His mom is an addict, in and out of rehab, and in and out of Jarrett's life. His father is a mystery -- Jarrett doesn't know where to find him, or even what his name is. Jarrett lives with his grandparents -- two very loud, very loving, very opinionated people who had thought they were through with raising children until Jarrett came along.
Jarrett goes through his childhood trying to make his non-normal life as normal as possible, finding a way to express himself through drawing even as so little is being said to him about what's going on. Only as a teenager can Jarrett begin to piece together the truth of his family, reckoning with his mother and tracking down his father.
Hey, Kiddo is a profoundly important memoir about growing up in a family grappling with addiction, and finding the art that helps you survive.
This was wonderful graphic novel memoir. Complex characterizations. Gorgeous art. Striking colors. All around a great package. The author's use of materials saved from though out his life added tremendously to the authenticity of the narrative. Even the use of his grandmother's wallpaper as background for the chapter headings helped evoke the feelings and sensations that were being evoked. I cannot praise this book enough. Beautiful. Touching. Powerful.
"It’s easy to get caught up in the sorrowful pieces of Krosoczka’s life, with addiction and family dynamics at the center. Throughout the story, I found hope and a sense of love and support, even when things were tough. Adults who encouraged young Jarrett. Friends who stuck around for the long term. Grandparents who provided stability. I loved the inclusion of real life drawings from young-Jarrett’s past.
Hey, Kiddo is a book that could open old wounds for those of us with family addiction in our past but I left feeling rekindled and reminded that through the bad, there is good. The message of hope and resilience is strong. I hope everyone finds room in their heart and libraries for this book!" Christy
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