Extra Large

Gr 4-8–Set in the late 1980s, the book follows Tyler, a middle school youth grappling with body image. He is larger than many of his peers and begins to suffer bullying because of it. In addition, his father is on a health food kick and insists that his entire family participate in his diet while dropping cruel digs against his wife and two sons about their weight. Though Tyler’s feelings are hurt, and he is embarrassed on several occasions, he also engages in teasing other classmates about their perceived flaws. A shift away from childhood friendships to new and kinder friends makes him slowly realize that he has hurt others as much as he has been hurt himself. The art is colorful and cartoony and will appeal to young readers, although some 1980s references might not land. The graphic novel’s tone is very message-heavy, as issues like physical appearance, toxic masculinity, and bullying are depicted. Tyler and his family are white.