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About The Book

Perfect for fans of Victoria Jamieson and Raina Telgemeier, this heartwarming middle grade graphic novel follows two nonbinary kids who navigate anxiety and identity while having fun and forming friendships at their summer orchestra camp.

After attending an incredible concert, Tate Seong is inspired to become a professional violist. There’s just one problem: they’re the worst musician at their school.

Tate doesn’t even have enough confidence to assert themself with their friends or come out as nonbinary to their family, let alone attempt a solo anytime soon. Things start to look up when Tate attends a summer orchestra camp—Camp Prodigy—and runs into Eli, the remarkable violist who inspired Tate to play in the first place.

But Eli has been hiding their skills ever since their time in the spotlight gave them a nervous breakdown. Together, can they figure out how to turn Tate into a star and have Eli overcome their performance anxieties? Or will the pressure take them both down?

About The Author

Image (c) Caroline Palmer

Caroline Palmer is a nonbinary comic creator who tells action-packed stories with heart. Visit them at CarolinePalmerComics.Weebly.com.

About The Illustrator

Image (c) Caroline Palmer

Caroline Palmer is a nonbinary comic creator who tells action-packed stories with heart. Visit them at CarolinePalmerComics.Weebly.com.

Product Details

  • Publisher: Atheneum Books for Young Readers (June 11, 2024)
  • Length: 256 pages
  • ISBN13: 9781665930390
  • Grades: 3 - 7
  • Ages: 8 - 12

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Raves and Reviews

“Tate’s journey of gender discovery is delicately wrought and joyfully celebrated without major conflict. Bold, jewel-toned, manga-style illustrations propel the story forward with movement and expression...An immersive and affirming story that hits the right notes.”

– Kirkus Reviews, 4/15/24

"Palmer employs cartoon-style illustrations alongside lessons surrounding individuality and teamwork to craft an effervescent and affirming debut graphic novel about contending with expectations and anxiety while cultivating an authentic sense of self."

– Publishers Weekly, 3/11/2024

"Through thoughtful character development and a vibrant palette, Palmer crafts a narrative that resonates with the struggles and triumphs of finding oneself. This is a testament to embracing one's true self, reminding readers that acceptance knows no bounds. Relatable themes and captivating storytelling invite readers to join Tate and their friends on a journey of authenticity and belonging."

– Booklist, 6/1/24

"The story speaks to many of the pressures that come with figuring out who you are and what you’re capable of. Palmer’s digital illustrations are packed with energy, frequently jumping back and forth between more detailed depictions of characters and simple comic-style doodles. Rich blends of reds, purples, and blues fill the backgrounds of each panel and page — a strong visual addition to this musical tale."

– The Horn Book Magazine, July/August 2024

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