Chasing Pacquiao

L.A. high schooler Bobby Agbayani keeps his romantic relationship with fellow comics enthusiast Bran secret from their closed-minded classmates. Despite Bobby’s attempts to remain invisible, however, resident bully Rex targets him when Bobby is outed via graffiti on his locker. After enduring a brutal beating from Rex, Bobby endeavors to emulate his childhood hero, boxer Manny Pacquiao, and learn to defend himself. He gets a job at Jab Gym, a local boxing center, and trains under the gym’s owner, Luke. Bobby meanwhile navigates grief over his father’s death, contends with relationship troubles with Bran due to their socioeconomic differences, and suffers more cruel run-ins with Rex. And a homophobic public comment from Pacquiao further shakes Bobby’s confidence in himself. Bobby’s sincere narration expertly highlights issues of intolerance, financial disparity, the complicated feelings brought about by one’s heroes having harmful values, and Bobby’s inner turmoil around wanting to protect himself and exit the violent cycle he feels trapped in. Debut author Pulido presents a bighearted portrait of one queer teen’s desire to feel safe and seen, boosted by a warm and compassionate cast. Major characters are Filipino; there is racial diversity throughout. Ages 12–up. Agent: Jim McCarthy, Dystel, Goderich & Bourret. (May)