Buckle Up

Gr 4-6–Lindell’s middle grade debut deftly navigates the relationship between a father and son during car rides. Elementary-age Lonnie’s parents recently divorced, and his insecurities about it follow him as he waits to be picked up by his dad after school. Lonnie, a young artist, does not necessarily want to talk about the things on his mind, but over several rides, Lonnie and his father begin mending their relationship. Lonnie’s conversations with his dad feel natural, and topics such as divorce, sexuality, family, and friends are presented in a relatable way. The story does not shy away from challenging both Lonnie’s and his father’s viewpoints, while also providing space for both to learn. The artwork in its simplicity welcomingly invites readers into the car. Panels with a focus on character facial expressions and perspective create the movement of rapport and natural pauses; this works in tandem with Lonnie’s internal thoughts and feelings, drawn as outlines of himself in a variety of colors such as red, orange, blue, and yellow. Lonnie and his family are Black, and the book features a cast with a variety of skin tones. The humor and art style make this a perfect pick for fans of Jerry Craft’s New Kid or Jonathan Todd’s Timid.