The Swag Is in the Socks

When Black seventh grader Xavier Moon's 12th birthday rolls around, his pianist great-uncle Frankie Bell sends a snazzy pair of polka-dot socks and a letter: "Far as I can see, you got nothin', other than the fact that you a wire-mouth, stutterin' boy with jailbird parents.... This is a challenge. An invitation to get your sad self together." Xavier Moon has long dreamed about following his grandfather, uncle, and father's shoes by becoming part of the Scepter League--a school club for those with "super swag" whose creed emphasizes social responsibility. When Xavier gets his chance to interview with the League, he makes it his mission to get inducted by any means necessary. Meanwhile, donning the socks, and other pairs that continue to arrive, offers him a route to confidence and swag of his own. In this inspirational novel told in Xavier's winning first-person narration, Baptist (Isaiah Dunn Is My Hero) delivers a warmly familiar, intergenerational look at getting to know oneself. Ages 8-12. Agent: Hannah Mann, Writers House. (Nov.)

Gr 3-7--Xavier Moon, a 12-year-old boy living with his older sister and his great-aunt Kat while his parents are incarcerated, has big plans for seventh grade: He's going to join the Scepter League, an elite leadership group for young men at his school. Just before the start of the school year, Xavier begins receiving strange mail from Frankie Bell, Kat's brother who is a touring musician. Each package includes a pair of outlandish socks and a cryptic letter with advice. When the Scepter League rejects Xavier's first bid to join, he does not give up; instead he leans on Frankie Bell's advice--and the socks--and discovers some unexpected talents and leadership skills. Told in the first person in a conversational tone, the narrative is engaging right from the beginning, and readers will enjoy being introduced to Xavier's family and friends. Although it deals with some tough topics--incarceration, severe illness, and managing a stutter--the story still has a lighthearted feel to it, owing mainly to Xavier's authentic and optimistic voice. Xavier and his family are Black; other characters are cued as coming from a variety of backgrounds. VERDICT Readers will enjoy this incredibly charming lead character, and they'll root for him as he navigates the challenges of school and family life.--Sarah Reid, Four County Lib. Syst., NY