The Many Masks of Andy Zhou

Cheng succeeds in capturing the nuances of shifting relationship dynamics during the vulnerable early years of adolescence, including mental health struggles. . . . The story has a sincere heart that will resonate with tweens as they recognize themselves and their friends in the pages. A perceptive coming-of-age tale that captures the joys and complex anxieties of middle school.

[A] realistic, character-driven middle-grade story that explores multiple issues. . . . Compelling.

In Detroit, an artistic sixth grader facing changes at home and school seeks his identity in this contemplative novel from Cheng (See You in the Cosmos). Chinese American Andy Zhou prepares for his grandparents' arrival from Shanghai, working to help his family however he can. He also tries to be there for best friend and neighbor Cindy Shen, whose schemes involve bleaching their hair and auditioning for the school's dance club. But the bleach job results in bullying, dancing isn't really his thing, and Cindy soon starts spending time with new friends. As Andy encounters racist microaggressions at school and new worries at home, he joins the school's student-run production crew and--through art, anime, and a pet bearded dragon--finds common ground with his Chaldean American lab partner Jameel Zebari, who once bullied him. The changes nevertheless add up, impacting Andy's mental health and leaving him wondering who he really is. Cheng draws on personal experience, detailed in an author's note, to pen this novel of internal and interpersonal tensions that touches on mental health, disordered eating, and trichotillomania. Though some plot points feel abrupt, the message of becoming one's authentic self comes through loud and clear. Ages 10-up. (June)

Copyright 2023 Publishers Weekly, LLC Used with permission.

Gr 5 Up--Andy Zhou is entering sixth grade with a lot on his plate. His best friend, Cindy, has decided they're both dyeing their hair blond and joining the after-school dance program Movement (without telling their parents). His grandparents are visiting from China for an unknown length of time. And, his irreverent classmate Jameel picks on him at every opportunity. Andy gets to know Jameel, and the two strike up a friendship while he feels Cindy growing more distant and changing physically. He copes with this and the declining health of his grandfather, Ah Dia, by sketching, pulling out his hair, and working on crew for Movement's production of Lord of the Flies. This is a gentle tale of juggling shifting friendships, tough secrets, and the weight of trying to make everyone happy. Andy's first-person narration is eminently readable; Cheng's comedic timing and poignant use of metaphor make it easy to picture Andy's anxiety and self-consciousness as he braves middle school. Rich descriptions abound of Andy's Chinese and Jameel's Chaldean cultures, including food, performance, and family dynamics. The plot has an open conclusion: nothing complex is fully "fixed," but Andy is on the road to making amends with those he loves and establishing his own identity. The novel opens with a content note for bullying, racism, trichotillomania, parental death, and anorexia, and Cheng's author's note includes a number of relevant support resources. VERDICT A beautiful, contemplative novel that will stay with readers. Recommended for fans of Erin Entrada Kelly and Nicole Melleby.--Ashleigh Williams

Copyright 2023 School Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.

This book sings with beautiful writing and rich detail. Seeing Andy come into his own is a joy and a journey. —Tae Keller, Newbery Award-winning author of When You Trap a Tiger

There's an aching poignancy [here]. This moving novel about self-discovery will resonate with kids navigating the shifting waters of middle school. —BCCB 

Readers will find a friend in Andy—a kind-hearted kid trying to find his footing while caring for those around him. Andy contains multitudes, like all of us. Another beautiful book by Jack Cheng. —Erin Entrada Kelly, Newbery Award-winning author of Hello, Universe

Andy's quiet courage and budding artistry have readers cheering him on as he searches to define himself and learns there are no boundaries to who we are—and who we can become. With honesty and gentle humor, Jack Cheng explores the joys and heartaches of growing up. —Paula Yoo, National Book Award longlisted-author of From a Whisper to a Rallying Cry