MacLeod, Kathy. Continental Drifter. Kathy MacLeod, Illus. First Second, 04/2024. 230pp.
Graphic. Trade $22.99. 978-1-250-81373-2. Paper $14.99. 978-1-250-81374-9. GRADES 5–7. HIGH ADDITIONAL.
In Bangkok, eleven-year-old Kathy, half Thai, half American, is used to feeling alone. Even
when the family is together, her older sister and parents lead separate lives, not at all like the American sitcom families Kathy longs to emulate. A rare summer vacation to her white dad’s home state of Maine, complete with sleep away camp, offers the promise of finally fitting in. Lined paper chapter headings and faux stickers complement polished, childlike cartoon panels, immersing readers in a visceral re-imagining of Kathy’s childhood struggle to feel “normal” and belong. The depth of detail, truly helpful advice from a wise camp counselor, and Kathy’s evolving and mature introspection distinguish this story from the legion of other graphic memoirs. Readers who follow Kathy’s journey may come away with a shift in perspective that offers healing insight. Review based on an ARC.
Melissa McAvoy—Retired