Review of 'Rick' on 'Goodreads'
5 stars
Rick is a truly phenomenal follow up to the inspiring novel George.
We have already encountered Rick when he was in school with George - who is now known as Melissa. But two years have gone by and Rick is a far different boy than the one who hung around with resident bully and general jerk, Jake.
Rick's tale is one that I can relate too having known friends to struggle with the same problems this quiet boy does. Whilst others are talking about which girls and/or boys they fancy? Rick feels nothing - he doesn't even really think he likes many people and is quite isolated from others.
The reader is blessed to witness the evolution of the main character from Gino's story of emotional growth. Rick has always gone along with what Jake does but he's always known what this antagonist does is wrong - Rick just hasn't …
Rick is a truly phenomenal follow up to the inspiring novel George.
We have already encountered Rick when he was in school with George - who is now known as Melissa. But two years have gone by and Rick is a far different boy than the one who hung around with resident bully and general jerk, Jake.
Rick's tale is one that I can relate too having known friends to struggle with the same problems this quiet boy does. Whilst others are talking about which girls and/or boys they fancy? Rick feels nothing - he doesn't even really think he likes many people and is quite isolated from others.
The reader is blessed to witness the evolution of the main character from Gino's story of emotional growth. Rick has always gone along with what Jake does but he's always known what this antagonist does is wrong - Rick just hasn't had the courage to say to stop. But as Rick gets to know other children who are part of the LGBTQIAP+ community of his school, his eyes are open and the questions he has are both answered and in turn, empowering.
To see a main character be identified as asexual and aromantic in a novel designed for children (though still fantastic for adults I assure you) is momentous. Once again, Alex Gino brings their magic to the page and gives the reader moments of laughter, sadness and thoughtfulness. I strongly believe that if you have read George, you need to go read Rick too.
There are surprising moments in the book that had me crying happy tears just after sad ones have fallen. Grief is dealt with in an extremely touching manner that children will be able to relate to and you witness not only Rick's 'rebirth' as the story progresses but also a surprising character. (Not telling you any more but get your tissues on standby)
I hope there will be more books from this world as Alex Gino truly has the magic of creating a safe world for children to discover they are not alone.
Thank you again to an author who understands that the generation reading their books are truly the future when it comes to acceptance and understanding.
