Stepping Up - by Kiara Valdez (Paperback)

Book Synopsis

"A balm to my soul."--Jen Wang, New York Times bestselling author of The Prince and the Dressmaker

A timely and vibrant teen graphic novel memoir about community, friendship, and self-discovery told through the eyes of a high school freshman Kiara, one of the few Black students at her predominantly white boarding school--perfect for fans of Almost American Girl and Brownstone!

Kiara is a long way from Washington Heights. She's at Phillips Academy Andover--the prestigious school of her dreams. But her bulky financial aid laptop in a room full of brand-new Macs, her classmates' endless chatter about overseas vacations, and everyone's pristine North Face jackets have her feeling like she'll never fit in.

Then she discovers the all-star step team, SLAM. Kiara will gladly endure long practices, sore muscles, and chafed palms to finally find her place on campus. That is, until tragedy strikes and those closest to her are hurt, and she realizes exactly what it means to be an Andover student.

Because at a school where her wealthy white classmates can get away with almost anything and students like her are made to feel lucky to even be at the academy to begin with, is belonging really what Kiara wants? And is she brave enough to step up--for herself and her friends?

Review Quotes

"A balm to my soul." - Jen Wang, New York Times bestselling author of The Prince and the Dressmaker

"Irresistibly fun and charming! Stepping Up got me out of my shoes and stomping along." - Laura Gao, award-winning author of Messy Roots

"A raw glimpse into a teen's journey toward feeling seen and understood." - Publishers Weekly

"Valdez's graphic novel debut provides thoughtful glimpses into her attempts to settle into a new environment that wasn't designed with her in mind. Readers will identify with the outsider perspective explored throughout the narrative." - Kirkus Reviews

"In this accessible and engaging graphic memoir, Valdez maintains a breezy tone even while illuminating the insidious microaggressions and stratification of wealth she experiences. A cute art style and bright colors fit Kiara's sweet and spunky personality, and lots of movement and action scenes make for quite a fun read." - Booklist

"This story covers one school year, with all its ups and downs. The main character raises important issues like classism and racism. The narrative feels emotionally authentic, and the teenage angst will resonate." - School Library Journal