Bound To Stay Bound

Booklist - 07/01/2022 - Copyright 2022 Booklist.

Booklist - 07/01/2022 *Starred Review* Debut author Misty Wilson’s Play like a Girl is an excellent addition to the growing group of books targeted toward middle-school readers that tackle the powerful and problematic impact that traditional gender stereotypes have on the lives of tweens. As the only girl on her school’s football team in seventh grade, Misty is initially disrespected and ridiculed by several teammates who disapprove of her presence on the team, and her best friend critiques her competitive nature. Throughout the memoir, Misty also shares the struggles that she faced off the football field trying to fit in, find supportive friends, and get comfortable with not conforming to traditional gender roles. Readers will admire how Misty maneuvers through all the challenges she faces to become a champion off and on the football field, appreciate the message of accepting and believing in yourself despite what others say, and be heartened by Misty’s powerful transformation. Supported by David Wilson’s expressive and detailed artwork (especially in his well-choreographed scenes of football plays), Misty’s Play like a Girl will be a welcome choice for readers looking for graphic novels that defy and challenge traditional gender stereotypes. An excellent addition to collections that already include graphic memoirs like Liz Prince’s Tomboy (2014). - Copyright 2022 Booklist.