Back in the spring, I got a Netgalley email with some potential new summer reads. A couple of them caught my eye, so I figured I would give them a go. I don't read a lot of middle grade or YA anymore, now that I'm not teaching that level, but both of my picks were from those categories.
My Thoughts:
Adopted as an elementary schooler, Brett is struggling with many aspects of his life--his adoptive mom's cancer, having to live with his best friend and father instead, his weight, and relationships. The only thing tethering him is the comic series he has created, Kid Condor. When his journal chronicling his eating disorder and other feelings spreads around his school, Brett must come to terms with mental health and the real world.
The Great Cool Ranch Dorito in the Sky is definitely an interesting read, as books discussing eating disorders in males are definitely in short supply. Brett is sympathetic character and the reader definitely roots for him. I can see where young readers would also enjoy the comic book style parts. I admit, I had trouble following the comic story parts versus Brett's story, but I suppose that is because I am not generally a fan of those. While not one of my most favorite reads, I feel like this would be a great addition to a classroom library.
About The Great Cool Ranch Dorito in the Sky:
Ever since cancer invaded his adoptive mother’s life, Brett feels like he’s losing everything, most of all control. To cope, Brett fuels all of his anxieties into epic fantasies, including his intergalactic Kid Condor comic book series, which features food constellations and characters not unlike those in his own life.
But lately Brett’s grip on reality has started to lose its hold. The fictions he’s been telling himself – about his unattractive body, the feeling that he’s a burden to his best friend, that he’s too messed up to be loved – has consumed him completely, and Brett will do anything to forget about the cosmic-sized hole in his chest, even if it's unhealthy.
But when Brett’s journal and deepest insecurities are posted online for the whole school to see, Brett realizes he can no longer avoid the painful truths of his real-life narrative. As his eating disorder escalates, Brett must be honest with the people closest to him, including his new and fierce friend Mallory who seems to know more about Brett’s issues than he does. With their support, he just might find the courage to face the toughest reality of all.
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