Yaqui Delgado Wants to Kick Your Ass: The Graphic Novel by Meg Medina, Mel Valentine Vargas
Published by Candlewick Press on September 5, 2023
ISBN: 1536234737
Pages: 288
Genres: Mental Health, Realistic Fiction
Format: Graphic Novel
Goodreads

It’s hard enough to move away from your best friend and start a new high school, but Piddy Sanchez also has to deal with an invisible bully who allegedly hates her guts and would like to physically harm her. Piddy has no idea why; she doesn’t even know who Yaqui Delgado is. As the bullying inflicted by Delgado and her group escalates, Piddy withdraws emotionally which distresses her mother and others who love her.

This book is a graphic novel adaptation by Mel Valentine Vargas of Meg Medina’s 2013 novel and it belongs in every school library. Those who have been bullied or who have loved ones who have been bullied will recognize the despair and helplessness that it causes in teens and their families. It’s an honest look at the ripple effect of trauma that bullying causes and refuses to shy away from the frustration that can be felt when dealing with seemingly uncooperative school administrations. But it also highlights the support and love of family and friends; Piddy has some strong, consistent support even when she is unable to see it. Vargas’ illustrations are done in blue and grey tones which work well to carry the story’s emotions.

Reviewed by Sarah Maciejewski, Patten Free Library, Bath