Just a Bunch of Weirdos, Reading Weirdo

Review by La’Niyah Streater, Daniel Shuler, Juan Bonilla-Rrodrigues, Julian Avent and Tynel Codwell-Cowan. Photo by Julian Avent.

The name of the graphic novel we're reviewing today is called Weirdo, by Tony Weaver Jr. This book was published on September 17, 2024, and is based on Weaver’s own childhood experiences and his outlook of the world around him. FNN Collegiate bureau members read the book. See their thoughts and reviews below: 

Weirdo by Tony Weaver, Jr. is based on the author’s experience trying to find his identity and pushing through the hard moments that come from it. It is a story about how the power of love and community can be transformative and lifesaving for young people, and can help build confidence for children. Many young people are self-harming because they don’t feel loved, wanted, or needed. This book is something you can give to kids to read to let them know that they are not alone, and that there are people outside of their family who care about them. Tony Weaver, Jr. puts himself in struggling kids' shoes to convey a beautiful message throughout Weirdo. He also made the book accessible to young children, not just preteens and up. He has to be one of my favorite authors because he commits to sharing his personal experience. The best thing about this book is that it isn’t just talking about regular students in school, but students who might have an IEP or are in special education. 

La’Niyah Streater, Freshman

The book was excellent. I enjoyed the story and the characters. Every time a new character was introduced, I found myself feeling differently about each one, as they each brought their own unique vibe based on their personalities. I also appreciated the difference between how the characters behaved and how they were perceived by others. However, one aspect I didn't like was that the book felt a little rushed. While the ending was satisfying, I wished it could have continued on a bit longer. I highly suggest this book. It’s a great read and overall, a pretty inspiring story.

Daniel Shuler, Freshman

In the book Weirdo, one thing that I didn't quite like was the fact that I experienced a lack of emotional engagement.There are also some pacing issues. The story either dragged on or moved too quickly. However, it did have a unique perspective and humor. The story provided an interesting take on adolescence and individuality. What I wished the author would have done in the book would have been to introduce more new friends or characters, and take more time to tell his story. Lastly, I wish the story would have included more details about childhood, and the similarities and differences between the white school and the black school.

Juan Bonilla Rodriguez, Freshman

I genuinely like how the story is written by an adult, covering the struggles of being a younger person. Most stories attempt this perspective and end with a happy ending. It's always the same copy and paste experience of, “you'll get over it," or, "life is hard, and what about it?" This story shows the emotionally distressing, ugly, and frustrating bits of being young, especially when going through the American education system and trying to be yourself while doing so. That's what I enjoy most about the book, especially the video game references, and how every new character is introduced in a gaming style. The little references from Naruto and other pop culture make it a good read.

Tynel Codwell Cowan, Sophomore

Weirdo is a good book. The book talks about how it is to be Black and nerdy, and how it feels to be the new kid who likes anime. It shows life in a new school and how scary it could be. So far, the book is in my top ten books you should read. It is also extremely relatable to those who are struggling, as it talks about self-harm and how to deal with it. Overall, it is a good book and you should read it.

Julian Avent, Sophomore

This book is really good and helpful for some who find themselves struggling with their mental health. We give it a 9.5/10.

LaNiyah Streater, Daniel Shuler, and Juan Bonilla Rodriguez are freshmen at Friendship Collegiate Academy. Tynel Codwell Cowan and Julian Avent are sophomores at Friendship Collegiate Academy.