Welcome to Litsy!

As a teacher, I believe Pedro‘s interests as an adolescent can be used to understand our students. He loves reading comics, but often describes a disdain for school. For kids who express similar interests and dislikes, graphic novels, like comics, can be a great way for them to approach literature in a different way. Today, there are so many adaptations of classic texts we can use to better reach our students in English Ed classrooms.

With Cart‘s chapter on YA Literature, Mexikid demonstrates the awkwardness of adolescence. Pedro, the protagonist, is attempting to earn the respect of a man, while still learning from boyish mistakes. Throughout the story, Pedro wants to be included with his older siblings, but is still hesitant to step out of his comfort zone. From learning to drive, to being there for his family, to saving the deer, he learns that growing up isn't always easy.

Something that always impresses me about graphic novels is the author/illustrator‘s ability to develop characterization with so few words in a story. I loved Martin‘s introduction to the Martin family at the beginning, and how his description of each member was reinforced throughout the book. Even in brief interactions, readers can understand Pedro's relationship with different people in as little as a single sentence.

“Comics Belong in the Classroom“ - video
The first time I used a graphic novel in a class was my 2nd year of college. Even then, I was doubtful about its legitimacy as a piece of literature. However, my mind was completely changed after that course, and it continues to evolve as I read more graphic novels. It seems to become more common that students dislike English class, and they need an accessible avenue to literature, which comics/GN provide.

This page represents a moment where the art adds and transcends the written word. The separation of Pedro from the rest of his family in this scene illustrates the themes of otherness and isolation seen throughout the book. Many other moments reflect similar themes through the art itself, and make the book both more insightful and more relatable to students. Seeing themselves in art AND words open doors for belonging among literature.

In connection with Cart's From Romance to Realism, Mexikid depicts the liminality found within young adulthood. The Martín family's journey is funny, heartwarming, and inspiring. Pedro illustrates the joy, confusion, embarrassment, and hilarity of transitioning from childhood to young adulthood. While still interested in “infantile“ games and toys, he understands real-world, “adult“ concepts, which is a beautiful and scary thing for young adults.

Mexikid would be a fun and unique mentor text to introduce students to the world of creative writing. Literature takes so many forms outside of plain words on a page. If I used Mexikid as a mentor text in my classroom, I would encourage students to share their life story with me in words and images like Martín does. This activity would be a great way to introduce students to using mentor texts and get a glimpse into my students' lives!

I admire how Mexikid tackles relevant issues surrounding Mexican-Americans in an age-appropriate way and a truly funny manner. The stylistic choice of a graphic memoir style subverts the humdrum of prose that many students so dread reading while conveying meaningful messages. While the Mexican-American experience is not one-size-fits-all, I feel my students will feel seen and validated in their experiences through Pedro “Peter“ Martín.

There is something so compelling about graphic novels, and this one was so so good! I loved the ways that the art corresponded to the words on the page to create such an interesting and immersive story. Like I mentioned for “Flying Lessons“, using texts such as this that explore new mediums with our students can make such a huge difference in their journey as an English student. Pedro Martin is an amazing storyteller and I loved every second.