Review by Booklist Review
Once Tate heard Eli Violet practicing viola, there was a yearning inside them to follow the music. Tate's decision to pick up the viola midyear bewilders their family but is the start of an adventure of self-discovery. When Tate's parents suggest that they attend Camp Prodigy for the summer, Tate is overcome with excitement and nerves. What if they can't keep up with all of the talented string players? What if they can't make any friends? They've never been very good at opening up to people. As Tate's world transforms amidst humor and charm, illustrated with vivid caricatures, Eli's unwavering acceptance becomes a guiding light through the complexities of middle school uncertainty and queer identity. 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.
From Booklist, Copyright (c) American Library Association. Used with permission.
Review by Publisher's Weekly Review
Freckled, pale-skinned Tate Seong, a novice orchestral player, took up the viola after hearing Black-cued child prodigy Eli Violet practicing backstage at a concert. When Eli steps onstage, however, they freeze up. They attend camp undercover as Eli Vance, but Tate recognizes their playing immediately. After Tate expresses wanting to outdo Xin Liang-- a serious East Asian--cued camper who points out fellow members' mistakes and encourages them to work harder--Eli agrees to tutor them, so they'll have a better chance at winning the solo in the camp recital. Tate also seeks advice from Eli on how to come out as nonbinary to their friends and family. As Tate pushes through self-doubt and insecurity to accomplish their goals Eli, who's spent their entire life practicing, revels in lanyard-making and tie-dyeing. Yet, as the recital approaches, Tate feels as if they might crack under the pressure to perform, until fellow campers come to the rescue in a heartwarming turn of events. 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. Ages 8--12. (June)
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Review by School Library Journal Review
Gr 3--8--Tate decides they want to play the viola just like their hero, the musical child prodigy Eli. When Tate attends a concert where Eli loses confidence and runs away from playing their solo, Tate becomes more determined to master the instrument. The two middle school protagonists meet at Camp Prodigy the following summer and form a mutually supportive bond that includes refining musical technique, and for Eli, regaining self-confidence, and for Tate, becoming brave enough to come out to their family as nonbinary. A full cast of variously motivated tween campers, encouraging camp staff, and supportive families for both Tate and Eli creates a story that readily contains the twin arcs of gaining comfort with artistry and with gender identity. Colorful and overflowing with camp activities as well as musical performances, Tate and Eli's summer evolves with inspired and inspiring positivity. Tate is biracial white and South Asian, Eli is Black, and their peers are a range of ethnic backgrounds and body shapes. VERDICT A tween graphic novel that checks both aesthetic and message boxes with grace--this one belongs in all public and middle and elementary school libraries.--Francisca Goldsmith
(c) Copyright Library Journals LLC, a wholly owned subsidiary of Media Source, Inc. No redistribution permitted.
Review by Horn Book Review
In this graphic novel, Tate Seong wants nothing more than to be as skilled a violist as their idol, Eli Violet. Not only is Eli a musical prodigy, they're out to the world as nonbinary, while Tate's gender identity remains a secret. Tate is shocked to find upon arriving at a camp for musicians that Eli is attending incognito as regular kid Eli Vance. The two forge a pact: Eli will give Tate viola lessons, and Tate won't tell anyone about Eli's fame. With their new friend's support, Tate rises in the camp orchestra's ranks, earning themself a coveted solo spot in the final performance. Eli, on the other hand, eventually finds peace with not always being the best. 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. In addition to helping Tate with their music, Eli gives them the confidence to come out to their family. "This is your gift to them. They'd better appreciate it." Hill SaxtonJuly/August 2024 p.138 (c) Copyright The Horn Book, Inc., a wholly owned subsidiary of Media Source, Inc. No redistribution permitted.
(c) Copyright The Horn Book, Inc., a wholly owned subsidiary of Media Source, Inc. No redistribution permitted.
Review by Kirkus Book Review
Friendship, identity, and self-discovery take center stage in this musical summer camp graphic novel for tweens. Tate Seong can't get the hang of the viola but is excited to attend Camp Prodigy, a summer string orchestra camp for middle schoolers. There, Tate meets nonbinary fellow camper Eli Violet, a viola virtuoso with stage fright. With Eli's behind-the-scenes support, Tate's viola skills quickly improve, and the bond between the two grows even stronger when Eli supports Tate's realization that they're also nonbinary. Tate's skills rocket them all the way to first chair viola, but Eli becomes engrossed in other camp activities, enjoying themself for the first time all summer. This new friendship and increasing musical tenacity give Tate the confidence to come out to their close friends at camp--and ultimately, their parents. The story begins in a rush, but it hits its stride as Tate arrives at camp, compensating for some early pacing issues. 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. Tate reads biracial, with parents who are cued white and Korean American; Eli reads Black, and the campers represent a range of races and body types. An immersive and affirming story that hits the right notes. (concept art) (Graphic fiction. 8-12) Copyright (c) Kirkus Reviews, used with permission.
Copyright (c) Kirkus Reviews, used with permission.
