The Insiders by Mark Oshiro
Published by HarperCollins on September 21, 2021
ISBN: 0063008106
Pages: 384
Genres: Fantasy, Realistic Fiction
Format: Chapter Book Fiction
Goodreads

Héctor Muñoz has just moved from the San Francisco area to Orangevale, CA, and it is a far cry from the only home he knew before now. Back home, being gay wasn’t a big deal; at Orangevale Middle School, however, things are not so simple. Héctor is bullied from the first day for how he dresses and acts. Despite making some new, accepting friends, he still feels alone. When trying to escape the bullies one day, Héctor finds himself in what he thought was the janitor’s closet. The room, however, transforms into something much better. This seemingly magical room provides whatever Héctor needs in the moment—even two new friends from other parts of the country. Héctor and his friends use the room to overcome obstacles and in the process find their voices and comfort in being themselves. Award winning author, Mark Oshiro, makes their middle grade debut with this book, and they’ve really hit the mark. The characters are relatable, and their struggles are real and contemporary. The story is engaging, well-paced, and fun to read. This is a great book for fans of realistic fiction as well as fantasy fans. The magic of the room won’t put-off those who don’t like fantasy.

Recommended for readers 4th grade and up and for Cream of the Crop. Reviewed by Jessie Trafton, Skidompha Library, Damariscotta, ME