Chunky

BIPOC

In this full-color middle grade graphic memoir for fans of Raina Telgemeier and Jerry Craft, Yehudi Mercado draws inspiration from his childhood struggle with his weight while finding friendship with his imaginary mascot, Chunky, as he navigates growing up in a working class Mexican-Jewish family.

Hudi needs to lose weight, according to his doctors. Concerned about the serious medical issue Hudi had when he was younger, his parents push him to try out for sports. Hudi would rather do anything else, but then he meets Chunky, his imaginary friend and mascot. Together, they decide to give baseball a shot. 

As the only Mexican and Jewish kid in his neighborhood, Hudi has found the cheerleader he never had. Baseball doesn’t go well (unless getting hit by the ball counts), but the two friends have a great time drawing and making jokes. While Hudi’s parents keep trying to find the right sport for Hudi, Chunky encourages him to pursue his true love—comedy.

But when Hudi’s dad loses his job, it gets harder for Hudi to chart his own course, even with Chunky’s guidance. Can Chunky help Hudi stay true to himself or will this friendship strike out?

* A TLA Maverick Graphic Novel of the Year * Banks Street Best Children's Books of the Year * ALSC Graphic Novel Pick of the Year * 2022-2023 Virginia Reads Middle Grade Book Winner *

 
$15.99
 
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# of Pages: 208

Book Binding: Paperback

Year of Publication: 2021

Publisher: Katherine Tegen Books

Language: en

ISBN: 9780062972781

Yehudi Mercado is an American writer, illustrator, and animator. Born in New York City, he grew up in the Bronx and later moved to Miami where he attended the New World School of the Arts. After graduating, he began his career as a storyboard artist for animation studios such as Nickelodeon, DreamWorks, and Warner Bros. He has worked on popular shows such as The Fairly OddParents, Teen Titans Go!, and Uncle Grandpa. Mercado is also known for his graphic novels and comic books, including Chunky, which explores themes of body image and self-acceptance. He currently resides in Los Angeles, where he continues to create and tell stories through various mediums.