Whimsy & Wisdom: Review of Check, Please! by Ngozi Ukazu
Book Title: Check, Please! by Ngozi Ukazu
Genre/Category: Young Adult Graphic Novel and Banned Book (Reese, 2022)
Target Age Group: 14-18 years (Amazon)
Plot Summary:
Check, Please! by Ngozi Ukazu is a charming coming-of-age story that follows Eric "Bitty" Bittle, a former figure skater, vlogger, and pie-baking enthusiast who joins the Samwell University hockey team. Through his vlogs, Bitty narrates his experiences adjusting to college life, navigating friendships, and coming to terms with his identity and his burgeoning feelings for his teammate, Jack.
Justification for Title Selection:
I chose Check, Please! because it is listed as a Collection Development Removal in Prosper ISD (Reese, 2022), my daughter's school district. The controversy surrounding its removal highlights the importance of discussing its content and merits. This graphic novel blends humor, sports, and heartfelt moments, making it an engaging read for young adults. Its exploration of identity, friendship, and personal growth aligns well with the themes we explore on Whimsy & Wisdom.
Format Note:
I read Check, Please! as a physical copy purchased from Barnes & Noble. Having the hard copy enhanced the reading experience significantly, as the vibrant visuals were beautifully rendered and fully appreciated in print. The colorful illustrations and detailed layouts brought the story to life, which might be less impactful in a digital format.
Critical Evaluation:
1. Setting:
The setting of Check, Please! primarily takes place at Samwell University, a fictional college that provides a dynamic backdrop for Bitty's journey. The author and illustrator, Ngozi Ukazu, effectively captures the essence of college life, from the hockey rink to dorm rooms, creating a believable and immersive environment. The setting serves to highlight the contrast between Bitty's past as a figure skater and his present as a hockey player, emphasizing his personal growth and the new challenges he faces. Samwell University becomes a character in its own right, influencing Bitty's experiences and interactions.
2. Tone:
Ukazu's tone in Check, Please! is warm, humorous, and heartfelt, which resonates well with the young adult audience. The conversational style of Bitty's vlogs adds a layer of intimacy and immediacy, making readers feel like they are part of his journey. The tone skillfully balances light-hearted moments with more serious themes, such as identity and acceptance, ensuring that the story is both entertaining and thought-provoking. Ukazu respects her audience by addressing complex issues with sensitivity and authenticity, avoiding any patronizing or didactic undertones.
3. Design and Layout:
The design and layout of Check, Please! are integral to its appeal and readability. The vibrant colors, expressive character designs, and dynamic panel arrangements draw readers into Bitty's world. The clear, engaging artwork enhances the storytelling, conveying emotions and actions effectively. The margins, spacing, and font choices are well-considered, ensuring that the text is easy to read and complements the illustrations. The visual appeal of the book is a significant factor in its success, making it an inviting and enjoyable read for young adults. The placement of vlogs and social media elements within the panels adds a modern touch, reflecting contemporary communication styles and making the narrative more relatable. Owning the physical copy from Barnes & Noble allowed for full appreciation of these design elements, which might be less impactful in a digital format.
APA Citation:
Amazon.com. (n.d.). Check, Please! Book 1: #Hockey by Ngozi Ukazu. Retrieved from https://www.amazon.com/Check-Please-Hockey-Ngozi-Ukazu/dp/1250177960.
Reese, M. (2022, April 7). District removes 22 books from library collections. Eagle Nation Online. Retrieved from https://eaglenationonline.com/39290/news/district-removes-22-books-from-library-collections/.
Ukazu, N. (2018). Check, Please!. New York, NY: First Second.
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