  | Fruitcake (Four Eyes) Author: Ogle, Rex | |
| Price: $20.48 | ||
Summary:
Lately, Rex has been feeling lost, but as he explores his interests, hangs with new neighbors, strays from old friends and makes new ones, he is forced to confront the underlying issues that have been plaguing him since he was young. In graphic novel format.
| Illustrator: | Valeza, Dave |
| Szymanik, Ash |
Reviews:
Kirkus Reviews (+) (02/15/26)
School Library Journal (+) (02/01/26)
Booklist (03/01/26)
The Bulletin of the Center for Children's Books (00/02/26)
Full Text Reviews:
Booklist - 03/01/2026 Award-winning Ogle concludes his resonating middle-grade graphic memoir series (Four Eyes, Pizza Face) with illustrator Valeza, who gloriously renders the returning cast in full color. Two weeks before eighth grade begins, Rex’s pool-time fun with buddy Drew hints at unexpected new feelings: “Why is my heart racing?” On his first day back, he’s surprised to notice, “Ummm . . . when did everyone pair off? Even my friends are all coupled up.” What he also observes is homophobic bullying—and only new girl Charlotte challenges the abusers. “I like her,” Rex thinks, eventually working up the courage to ask her to the homecoming dance. But his emotions are conflicted by his complicated relationship with Drew, his stepfather’s warnings about being a “fruitcake,” “the sin of homosexuality” sermons at church, and the prospect of disappointing his religious grandmother. “No way am I gay,” he repeatedly insists. Amid his unraveling denials, he worries about not sharing his truth with his friends while also fearing rejection. Once again, Ogle and Valeza empathically capture Rex’s coming-of-age; their ending author’s and artist’s notes add inviting, intimate poignancy. - Copyright 2026 Booklist.
