Jarrett J. Krosoczka
Author of Hey, Kiddo
About the Author
Jarrett J. Krosoczka is a New York Times best-selling author/ illustrator. Two-time winner of the Children's Choice Book Awards Third to Fourth Grade Book of the Year. (Bowker Author Biography)
Image credit: Author Jarrett J. Krosoczka at the 2018 Texas Book Festival in Austin, Texas, United States. By Larry D. Moore, CC BY-SA 4.0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=74264766
Series
Works by Jarrett J. Krosoczka
The First Helping (Lunch Lady Books 1 & 2): The Cyborg Substitute and the League of Librarians (Lunch Lady: 2-for-1 Special) (2022) 37 copies, 3 reviews
The Second Helping (Lunch Lady Books 3 & 4): The Author Visit Vendetta and the Summer Camp Shakedown (Lunch Lady: 2-for-1 Special) (2022) 13 copies
Punk farm 1 copy
LUNCH LADY 1 copy
Associated Works
From a Certain Point of View: 40 Stories Celebrating 40 Years of Return of the Jedi (2023) — Contributor — 213 copies, 6 reviews
The Creativity Project: An Awesometastic Story Collection (2018) — Contributor — 114 copies, 3 reviews
Our Story Begins: Your Favorite Authors and Illustrators Share Fun, Inspiring, and Occasionally Ridiculous Things They Wrote and Drew as Kids (2017) — Contributor — 105 copies, 2 reviews
Tagged
Common Knowledge
- Birthdate
- 1977-12-22
- Gender
- male
- Education
- Rhode Island School of Design (BFA | Illustration)
- Agent
- Rebecca Sherman (Writers House)
- Short biography
- Jarrett J. Krosoczka used to be a goofy kid that liked to draw. Now, he is an award-winning published author/illustrator with many books to his credit. Six months after graduating RISD, Jarrett carried his portfolio into New York City and landed a contract for his first book. He immediately ran to a pay phone to share the good news with his grandparents. Good Night, Monkey Boy was published on June 12, 2001, and Jarrett has since been busy producing many more books. His work has been short listed by Newsweek, USA Today, The Boston Globe, The Wall Street Journal and The New York Times. Jarrett's book Punk Farm, which is about a group of raucous farm animals who form an underground rock band, is currently in development as a feature film.
- Nationality
- USA
- Birthplace
- Worcester, Massachusetts, USA
- Places of residence
- Northampton, Massachusetts, USA
Worcester, Massachusetts, USA (childhood)
Boston, Massachusetts, USA - Associated Place (for map)
- Massachusetts, USA
Members
Reviews
Jarrett J. Krosoczka’s graphic memoir, "Hey, Kiddo," is a poignant and deeply moving exploration of family, addiction, and the search for identity. Through a blend of powerful storytelling and evocative illustrations, Krosoczka opens up about his tumultuous upbringing with a raw honesty that resonates long after the final page.
"Hey, Kiddo" follows Jarrett's journey from childhood to adolescence, growing up with his grandparents after his mother’s struggles with heroin addiction make it show more impossible for her to care for him. This memoir doesn't shy away from the harsh realities of addiction, instead presenting them with a candidness that is both refreshing and heartbreaking. Krosoczka's narrative is unflinchingly honest, capturing the pain, confusion, and longing that defined his early years, as well as the resilience and love that ultimately helped him find his way.
The artwork in "Hey, Kiddo" is a crucial part of its storytelling. Krosoczka’s illustrations are expressive and emotive, using a limited color palette that enhances the memoir’s emotional depth. The sepia tones and sketch-like quality of the drawings evoke a sense of nostalgia, while the occasional bursts of color highlight moments of significance and emotional intensity. This artistic choice effectively mirrors the highs and lows of Jarrett’s life, drawing readers deeper into his personal experiences.
One of the most striking aspects of "Hey, Kiddo" is its portrayal of family dynamics. Krosoczka's grandparents are vividly brought to life, depicted with both their flaws and their fierce love for Jarrett. His complex relationship with his mother is handled with great sensitivity, showing not just the pain of her absence, but also the enduring hope and desire for connection. These relationships are the heart of the memoir, illustrating the profound impact of family—both biological and chosen—on Jarrett’s development and sense of self.
In addition to its emotional depth, "Hey, Kiddo" is also a story of artistic discovery and personal growth. Krosoczka’s journey towards becoming an artist is woven throughout the narrative, showing how art provided him with an outlet for his emotions and a means of making sense of his world. This aspect of the memoir is inspiring, highlighting the transformative power of creativity and the importance of pursuing one’s passions.
"Hey, Kiddo" is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit. It’s a story about overcoming adversity, finding strength in unexpected places, and the enduring power of love and support. Krosoczka's ability to convey complex emotions and experiences with such clarity and compassion makes this memoir a truly exceptional work.
In conclusion, "Hey, Kiddo" is a beautifully crafted memoir that offers a compelling and deeply personal look at the challenges of growing up in the shadow of addiction. Jarrett J. Krosoczka’s skillful blend of art and narrative creates a powerful and unforgettable reading experience. This is a book that will resonate with readers of all ages, offering both solace and inspiration. A must-read for anyone who has faced adversity or is seeking to understand the complexities of family and personal resilience. show less
"Hey, Kiddo" follows Jarrett's journey from childhood to adolescence, growing up with his grandparents after his mother’s struggles with heroin addiction make it show more impossible for her to care for him. This memoir doesn't shy away from the harsh realities of addiction, instead presenting them with a candidness that is both refreshing and heartbreaking. Krosoczka's narrative is unflinchingly honest, capturing the pain, confusion, and longing that defined his early years, as well as the resilience and love that ultimately helped him find his way.
The artwork in "Hey, Kiddo" is a crucial part of its storytelling. Krosoczka’s illustrations are expressive and emotive, using a limited color palette that enhances the memoir’s emotional depth. The sepia tones and sketch-like quality of the drawings evoke a sense of nostalgia, while the occasional bursts of color highlight moments of significance and emotional intensity. This artistic choice effectively mirrors the highs and lows of Jarrett’s life, drawing readers deeper into his personal experiences.
One of the most striking aspects of "Hey, Kiddo" is its portrayal of family dynamics. Krosoczka's grandparents are vividly brought to life, depicted with both their flaws and their fierce love for Jarrett. His complex relationship with his mother is handled with great sensitivity, showing not just the pain of her absence, but also the enduring hope and desire for connection. These relationships are the heart of the memoir, illustrating the profound impact of family—both biological and chosen—on Jarrett’s development and sense of self.
In addition to its emotional depth, "Hey, Kiddo" is also a story of artistic discovery and personal growth. Krosoczka’s journey towards becoming an artist is woven throughout the narrative, showing how art provided him with an outlet for his emotions and a means of making sense of his world. This aspect of the memoir is inspiring, highlighting the transformative power of creativity and the importance of pursuing one’s passions.
"Hey, Kiddo" is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit. It’s a story about overcoming adversity, finding strength in unexpected places, and the enduring power of love and support. Krosoczka's ability to convey complex emotions and experiences with such clarity and compassion makes this memoir a truly exceptional work.
In conclusion, "Hey, Kiddo" is a beautifully crafted memoir that offers a compelling and deeply personal look at the challenges of growing up in the shadow of addiction. Jarrett J. Krosoczka’s skillful blend of art and narrative creates a powerful and unforgettable reading experience. This is a book that will resonate with readers of all ages, offering both solace and inspiration. A must-read for anyone who has faced adversity or is seeking to understand the complexities of family and personal resilience. show less
This graphic memoir of Jarrett Krosoczka's childhood is deeply moving. It reminded me a lot of Stitches by David Small, in that important information was kept from the child/author; in this case, that Jarrett's mother was a heroin addict and was often in jail or a halfway house, unable to care for him. He was raised by her parents, and also had his aunts and uncles and cousins nearby. As a teenager, he connected with his father and two half-siblings.
"You can apologize, but you can't always show more undo what you do." (Holly to Jarrett, 173) show less
"You can apologize, but you can't always show more undo what you do." (Holly to Jarrett, 173) show less
I could just write and say that I'll always buy what Jarrett Krosoczka is selling.
But I'm not going to leave it there.
"Sunshine" is truly a wonderful follow up to "Hey, Kiddo" (which is one of my absolute favorite reads; I own a copy; and I always recommend it when needing a memoir.) This book needs to be read. It is a BEAUTIFUL story of how one week can change the entire trajectory of your life. How meeting those with whom death is imminent makes you value your life all the more.
I loved show more reading about Jarrett's time at Camp Sunshine and how the people he met impacted him. From his camper Diego to the family he played with, readers come alongside Jarrett in the exploration of life and death. It's a book that doesn't seek to find answers to why pediatric cancer is a thing. Because let's admit it, there's not a good answer. Instead, it is a read that finds joy and happiness in the midst of pain. It's a story of recovery and hope; it's a story about grief and loss.
As you might expect, the young boy Jarrett loved ends up relapsing and passing away. Oof. It hit me and I shed a few tears. . Readers need to be aware that this book is heavy. It is sad and yet, that is okay. It's a book for those who are battling cancer themselves; it's a book for loved ones who have been affected by cancer.
You wouldn't think that Jarrett had such a heavy life if you went solely off of his comedic Lunch Lady graphic novels. But that is what I LOVE about him. I LOVE his raw authenticity. And frankly, while this book is categorized as teen (largely due to Jarrett's age at the time of the story), I would also say it is one older middle grade readers should read too. Because it is that important; it is that relatable.
Go read it. Actually read Hey Kiddo first and then this one. I need more Krosoczka memoirs personally. I think you will say the same. show less
But I'm not going to leave it there.
"Sunshine" is truly a wonderful follow up to "Hey, Kiddo" (which is one of my absolute favorite reads; I own a copy; and I always recommend it when needing a memoir.) This book needs to be read. It is a BEAUTIFUL story of how one week can change the entire trajectory of your life. How meeting those with whom death is imminent makes you value your life all the more.
I loved show more reading about Jarrett's time at Camp Sunshine and how the people he met impacted him. From his camper Diego to the family he played with, readers come alongside Jarrett in the exploration of life and death. It's a book that doesn't seek to find answers to why pediatric cancer is a thing. Because let's admit it, there's not a good answer. Instead, it is a read that finds joy and happiness in the midst of pain. It's a story of recovery and hope; it's a story about grief and loss.
You wouldn't think that Jarrett had such a heavy life if you went solely off of his comedic Lunch Lady graphic novels. But that is what I LOVE about him. I LOVE his raw authenticity. And frankly, while this book is categorized as teen (largely due to Jarrett's age at the time of the story), I would also say it is one older middle grade readers should read too. Because it is that important; it is that relatable.
Go read it. Actually read Hey Kiddo first and then this one. I need more Krosoczka memoirs personally. I think you will say the same.
Krosoczka writes and draws beautifully of his childhood, capturing the innocence as well as the shadow that loomed.
I love the way that love was depicted in all its complicated contradictions. The grandparents were no doubt the heroes of his upbringing, but the author also doesn't shy away from showing them as fully-realised people who can love so boundlessly but also capable of hurt.
Its portrayal of addiction was also tremendously well-done. It doesn't unanimously vilify but does reveal show more addiction's extensive reach beyond its main victim.
Krosoczka's art journey was heart-warming and it's particularly gratifying to follow it in the form of a graphic novel. The chapter dividers were peppered with actual mementos which was very effective in tugging at my heartstrings.
The book is classified as YA but it's definitely a case of So Well Written that it's suitable for YA and up. show less
I love the way that love was depicted in all its complicated contradictions. The grandparents were no doubt the heroes of his upbringing, but the author also doesn't shy away from showing them as fully-realised people who can love so boundlessly but also capable of hurt.
Its portrayal of addiction was also tremendously well-done. It doesn't unanimously vilify but does reveal show more addiction's extensive reach beyond its main victim.
Krosoczka's art journey was heart-warming and it's particularly gratifying to follow it in the form of a graphic novel. The chapter dividers were peppered with actual mementos which was very effective in tugging at my heartstrings.
The book is classified as YA but it's definitely a case of So Well Written that it's suitable for YA and up. show less
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Awards
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Statistics
- Works
- 56
- Also by
- 6
- Members
- 11,396
- Popularity
- #2,061
- Rating
- 3.9
- Reviews
- 294
- ISBNs
- 330
- Languages
- 4
- Favorited
- 7
