Hey, Kiddo

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 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 show more 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 undo what you do." (Holly to Jarrett, 173)

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 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 show more 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 read Hey, Kiddo for a book discussion group I'm co-facilitating at a unique and incredible school that serves children impacted by homelessness. If I think too hard about their situations, it can be overwhelming, but if I focus on them as children/young people, it's just a lot of fun, much like this book. I appreciate the message in this memoir: that even people who make bad choices or who have rough edges can love us deeply, and vice versa. It's a message of grace and forgiveness that I think we have too little of these days.

This complex graphic memoir tells the story of Krosoczka’s childhood, up to his high school graduation. The author was raised mostly by his grandparents, due to his mother’s heroin addiction. He doesn’t flinch away from the darker details, but paints a courageous picture of both the difficulties and the warmth of the family surrounding him. Recommended for teens and adults, but not for Krosoczka’s younger fans!

So powerful and engaging, I read it twice. Jarrett ("Ja" to his family) was raised by his grandparents when his mother's addiction put his well-being in danger. Ja's salty and colorful grandparents provided love and structure while his older cousins gave advice and guidance. His mother flits in and out of the picture and Ja feels her absence keenly, especially at key moments in his life. The illustrations include Jarrett's original drawings as he developed his interest in becoming a cartoonist. This book is a huge revelation, for those who've experienced addiction in their family and for those who have not. It is also a message of hope, that one isn't defined by other's faults and that it is possible to rise above a painful situation. show more Readers who appreciated "Sunny Side Up" when they were younger will gain even more from this nuanced work for older teens.

4/5/20 Listened to this on audiobook after it won the Odyssey Award. It's an evocative production with lively characterizations, and casting that is very personal to the author. If you did not already know it is originally a graphic novel you would never have guessed. Outstanding listening! show less

I have not been read anything by Jarrett Krosoczka before. Kids love "Lunch Lady" comics, but I know nothing about them. However, because he was a featured speaker at YALSA (and because graphic novel memoirs are apparently becoming a regular occurrence for me) I thought I would read "Hey, Kiddo."

Wow. Did I love this book? It's gritty and rough and beautiful all in one. It's Jarrett's story--and about the grandparents who raised him. About the mother who was in and out of rehab for heroin addiction. About the father he never knew. About his struggles in school since he wasn't one of the jocks and instead he had his art. It is such a compelling story.

There are many facets to family. Yes, blood plays a role. But Mom and Dad doesn't have to show more mean those who created your DNA. And friends--they are your family too. It is amazing to see the friendship between Jarrett and Pat and how it still stands today.

I did not love the illustrations. But there were personal reasons behind some of the decisions that I can appreciate. The burnt orange color is a homage to his grandfather's pocket squares. The pineapples all throughout are because they are his grandmother's favorite fruit. You can see just how much his grandparents meant to Jarrett.

Addiction is a vicious disease. You see that in the ending of this story. It isn't a happy ending; things are wrapped up nicely in a bow. But everything in "Hey, Kiddo" needs to be told. There are others that have home lives like Jarrett Krosoczka. As for me? This book moved to the top 5 of my 2018 list. show less