Rick

I’ve been reading about Melissa and Rick on so many book lists that I’ve had Alex Gino’s books on my (endless) TBR forever. I finally read Rick, and I realise why it pops up so often. It’s such an important middle-grade book, one that I would have loved to read when I was twelve or thirteen.

Everyone around Rick seems to be talking about crushes. His parents, being broad-minded, make it a point to ask whether there’s a girl or a boy whom he likes. But Rick has never felt the way his classmates say they feel. He doesn’t know what it means to have a crush, and he has no idea why.

It doesn’t help that his best friend is a homophobe, one who is always up for mischief if he isn’t going to get caught. All at once, Rick feels like he is navigating too many new things – new experiences, an uncomfortable friend, and the big question of who he is.

Sensitively told, Rick is a relatable story that made me long for this sort of kindness in the schools I visit. Not every school has the kind of support system that Rick’s does, but that does not mean it is impossible. Rick makes you believe that we can create a world that is open and accepting, kind and honest. Every issue Rick deals with rings true. Each is a difficult, life-changing one that many of us encounter. How does one break up with a friend? How can Rick do something that he knows will get him teased? And can he deal with being cast adrift if he refuses to associate with his best friend Jeff?

I loved how Rick addressed so many ideas with kindness. It makes you believe that you can find yourself, and if it takes time, that’s okay. It’s a lovely, uplifting read about making the world a better, more inclusive place.