Slouch

Gr 3-7–As if starting seventh grade isn’t horrible enough, Stevie Crumb is the tallest girl—possibly student—in her New York City middle school. She feels like she stands out in the worst possible way and has become the target of unwanted attention from family, friends, and strangers. Mom and Dad are caught up with money problems and hyper-focused on brother Ryan’s high school basketball career. Stevie’s best friend Arianna is obsessed with her jewelry business and getting the word out on social media, resulting in sketchy behavior. One afternoon, Stevie stumbles into a meeting of the debate club and is immediately drawn to the competitive activity. She joins the team, but she feels exposed and vulnerable. Meanwhile, whenever she rides the subway alone, she is approached by a different creepy older dude. How can Stevie learn to set up boundaries in her interactions with both strangers and those she loves? Much like Jawbreaker, the cover will attract an audience anticipating a graphic novel but they will stay for the compelling first-person narration. Themes such as safe social media practices, friendship, complicated crushes, self-confidence, and the plight of working families who can’t make ends meet offer levity to the story that is sure to resonate with  young readers. An author’s note with resources for finding help is included.