Mixed Feelings (Mixed Feelings #1)

In her debut graphic novel memoir, a series launch, Iranian and Colombian American actor Amini recalls her experience growing up as a “mixed kid” in 1999 Texas. As her family settles into a new home closer to her immigrant parents’ electronics shop, sixth grader Amini prepares to enter middle school. Though the tween’s internal monologue—playfully portrayed as that of a confident news reporter—suggests that Amini feels optimistic for the day ahead, reality quickly sets in as she navigates first-day-of-school pitfalls. Amini doesn’t share any classes with her BFF Monica. Worse, Monica seems to have replaced Amini with classmate Aneliese, with whom Monica grew closer at summer dance camp. As tensions rise between Monica and Amini, the protagonist also struggles with not feeling like she belongs in local Latinx and Persian communities. Upon signing up for the school’s drama club, though, Amini leans into her passion for performing, which helps the youth build self-confidence. Crisp, saturated cartooning by Amin (Shiny Misfits) centers character expression and imparts a lighthearted tone across this slice-of-life offering. Abundant pop culture references pave an accessible path along which Amini tackles issues surrounding immigration, racism, xenophobia, and puberty, culminating in a nostalgic and heartwarming trip down memory lane. A Spanish and Farsi glossary conclude. Ages 8–12. Illustrator’s agent: Jennifer Azantian, Azantian Literary. (Apr.)