The Real Riley Mayes

by Brian Selznick

The Real Riley Mayes by Rachel Elliott

About this series: Although no longer on staff, Jules (they/he) is still excited to tell us about the LGBTQ+ kids books they read! Last month featured a book that, although told largely through pictures, wasn’t a graphic novel, so for the disappointed graphic novel fans, this month’s book is one! It’s also a sweet story of navigating friendship and discovering yourself.

Age range: 4th through 6th grade

Synopsis: Fifth grade isn’t Riley’s vibe: her best friend moved away, she’s always getting in trouble in school, and the art teacher was laid off. The other girls all have crushes on the members of the boy band Eleventy-One, but Riley always has view tube comedienne Joy Powers on the brain. Still, there’s a new boy in class who might be cool, and maybe some of the other girls have interests besides Eleveny-One after all...

What I love about this book: This book does a great job of showing how accidental mistakes can mess up a friendship, and how a person can make amends — a great lesson for kids as they’re learning to navigate their own interpersonal relationships! Also, I love that, although Riley’s parents get upset when she gets in trouble at school, they aren’t upset or phased when they find out she has a queer crush.

What kids will love about this book: This book is such a great depiction of the awkwardness of late elementary/early middle school. The difficulties Riley experiences (mean kids, boring worksheets, confusing crushes) are so, so common. Kids will find it very easy to Riley’s experiences! And the art style of the book is very cute and the comics Riley draws are great!

Where to get the book: Amazon | Barnes & Noble | IndieBound | Minuteman Libraries