The Effects of Pickled Herring - by Alex Schumacher (Paperback)

About the Book

"This coming-of-age tale offers a poignant reflection on growing up, sibling relationships, and the enduring bonds of family, making it an essential read for young adults ages 8-12. Embark on a journey of self-discovery and acceptance. The Effects of Pickled Herring by Alex Schumacher is a poignant coming-of-age graphic novel. As 12-year-old Micah Gadsky and his spirited sister Alana prepare for their dual bar and bat mitzvah, they grapple with a family secret that unravels their understanding of faith and identity. Micah's introspective nature and Alana's outgoing spirit collide, leading them to confront the complexities of growing up, and ultimately, the enduring power of familial bonds." --

Book Synopsis

Discover Life Lessons in Faith and Family in This Graphic Novel for Grades 4-8

This coming-of-age tale offers a poignant reflection on growing up, sibling relationships, and the enduring bonds of family, making it an essential read for kids ages 8-12.

Embark on a journey of self-discovery and acceptance. The Effects of Pickled Herring by Alex Schumacher is a poignant coming-of-age graphic novel. As 12-year-old Micah Gadsky and his spirited sister Alana prepare for their dual bar and bat mitzvah, they grapple with a family secret that unravels their understanding of faith and identity. Micah's introspective nature and Alana's outgoing spirit collide, leading them to confront the complexities of growing up, and ultimately, the enduring power of familial bonds.

A vividly illustrated graphic novel. The author's mix of humor and heart in The Effects of Pickled Herring makes this coming of age book relatable for all young adult readers. If you are looking for books about family dynamics, brother and sister relationships, books about growing up, or one's introspection on faith, pick up a copy of The Effects of Pickled Herring!

Inside find:

• A compelling exploration of self-worth, identity, and anti-Semitism
• A heartrending portrayal of the effects of Alzheimer's on a family unit
• Engaging illustrations that vividly bring the narrative to life
• Relatable themes for readers navigating the challenges of growing up

Looking for the best graphic novels for ages 8-12? This is for you! If you liked Calling My Name or A First Time for Everything, you will love The Effects of Pickled Herring.

Review Quotes

"A warm and funny coming-of age story, but one that also packs an emotional wallop. The Effects of Pickled Herring is a wonderful tale about the gnawing self-doubt and daily humiliations we all suffer at age thirteen. An insightful and provocative read!"

--Derf Backderf, Eisner Award-winning author of Kent State: Four Dead in Ohio

"A wonderful story of all the directions we are pulled in our adolescence, and a reminder of the one thing that can ground us--the ones we love."

--Jonathan Hill, author of Tales of a Seventh-Grade Lizard Boy

"You'll immediately recognize Micah Gadsky as yourself, your friend, or that slightly awkward Jewish kid in your class. The Effects of Pickled Herring is filled with humor and heart and some heartbreak too, but ultimately it's about family and friendship and how these relationships help us navigate change. This is a must-read coming of age graphic novel and I hope not the last we'll see of Micah. The bar mitzvah was one thing, how is he going to make it through high school?"

--Erica Lyons, National Jewish Book Awards Finalist

"The Effects of Pickled Herring is a heart-warming hoot that is full of laughs, heart and not the least bit fishy."

--Judd Winick, author of the bestselling Hilo series

"Alex Schumacher has crafted a wonderful coming of age story (like literally: it hinges on a Bar and Bat Mitzvah). It's a poignant tale about the importance of family and faith in a person's life, both young and old. And even though you might need to keep a box of tissues handy for the especially emotional passages, it's also leavened with Alex's trademark sense of humor. A funny, moving story that I highly recommend!"

--Mark Reznicek, drummer of Toadies

"Micah's realistic travails and eventual triumphs will interest readers who are experiencing their own awkward stages. Focusing on family, friendship, and faith, this work provides insights into adolescent difficulties."

--Kirkus Reviews

"As a coming-of-age story, Schumacher draws you in with clean and expressive art and a touching story. Many teenagers will find it relatable, while its unique, slice-of-life focus sets it apart from the pack."

--AIPT

"Rings heartbreakingly true for this age, but mostly it's very funny with appealing artwork."

--Boing Boing

"In the realm of storytelling, few works manage to intertwine the complexities of culture, the innocence of youth, and the universal challenges of cognitive decline as poignantly as The Effects of Pickled Herring."

--Geek Freaks

"One of the most heartfelt and charming graphic novels I've read in a long time."

--Rabbitt Stew Podcast

"Recalls all the pitfalls and perils of childhood with cartooning that is both heart-warming and hilarious! Highly recommend!"

--Raúl the Third, New York Times best children's book award winner for the ¡Vamos! series