Hey Kiddo

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Jarrett J. Krosoczka's book "Hey kiddo is a graphic novel about a boy and his life with his grandparents. He grows up throughout the book dealing with many real-life challenges and facing the significant issues in life that aren't always talked about. I really was interested when he starts talking about where is mom actually is and why she is not a part of his life. He had never been close to her, and his grandparents finally told him where she was. She was a drug addict. She had stolen and lied to her friends and family, anything she could do to get money for drugs. This is an all too real reality for kids. He was told by his grandfather that she had stayed clean while she was pregnant with Ja, and that was something I found very strong of her. For a person struggling with addiction, it shows that she thought more of her son than of her addiction to drugs. This act by her showed that she genuinely loves and cares about her son. I have really enjoyed following Ja throughout the book and I am very interested to see how it finishes up!
Image result for hey kiddoI understand how much addiction can tear apart a family and can destroy everything in its path. I have seen friends and family through everything away for drugs. This is a very strong book, and it covers many issues that a troubling for students. I want to teach in a 4-6 classroom, and I'm not sure I would include this in my classroom library. I like the message and the raw feeling in the book, but I'm not sure it's appropriate at the time for the students to read. I think that the book would fair better in an order kids hand. I feel that is a very mature book at times, and maybe it would fit well within a 6th-grade classroom or above. I am really interested in the book and will be finishing it soon. I would suggest it to anyone but maybe not all younger readers.

Comments

  1. AnonymousOctober 31, 2019 at 10:26 AM

    This is a book that I am required to read for one of my book clubs and from what I have seen I cannot wait! I also agree that hearing how the mother chose to stay clean while pregnant really shows how much she cares for her child. However, why isn't he enough for her to stay clean? Having a daughter myself I find it very confusing when parents choose drugs over their own children. However, I have never been addicted to something and I truly don't realize what they go through.
    You are completely correct though. This is the reality for many children now days and it is very unfortunate. I have also seen this take over a family friend and we now have no contact because of the person she has become. It is truly sad and I can't wait to read this book!

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  2. AnonymousNovember 1, 2019 at 6:58 AM

    I have also read this book, it was such a great read! I definitely agree with you saying this book is for a more mature audience. I think junior high/high school age would be the best age for you to get the most out of this book. I think Jarrett would be a good a role model though, for a child who is going through this same sort of situation. He really handled everything in a very mature manner.

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