The Lucky Poor

Debut creator Lovie depicts class differences and the role of nonprofit contributions via an age-appropriate narrative in this upbeat graphic memoir. Middle schooler Lovie—who lives with her single mother and her autistic younger brother—dreams of having a “Cinderella” story, where something “good, big, and life-changing” happens to her. Her wish comes true in the form of a house built for her family by Habitat for Humanity Canada. Though the family pays a mortgage and help to build the house, some people in their community see the home as an undeserved handout, leaving Lovie to wonder, “Why us?” instead of their neighbor, who lives in an overcrowded home. After moving in to their new abode, her mother begins an on-and-off relationship with a man Lovie doesn’t like very much, prompting worries that “our fairytale was suddenly going backwards.” Pacing quickly moves through Lovie’s primary school years, her coming out as gay, and her getting accepted into art school. All the while, the subject questions the expectation that poor people should be satisfied with whatever comes their way: “We hope for a better future.... Why should I be expected to be happy things aren’t worse?” The creator’s simplistic, boldly outlined character designs add playfulness to this fresh take on topics surrounding financial precarity and socioeconomic status. Ages 6–8. (Mar.)