Parents' Guide to

Rick

Rick Poster Image

Common Sense Media Review

Mandie Caroll By Mandie Caroll , based on child development research. How do we rate?

age 9+

Sixth-grader faces bullying bestie in sweet, queer story.

Parents Need to Know

Why Age 9+?

Any Positive Content?

Parent and Kid Reviews

age 12+

Based on 2 parent reviews

age 9+

This is a great book for kids getting ready for middle school.
age 14+

Better for Young Adults

There are elements that support being inclusive to all, but was disappointed to see some of the sexual innuendo and verbiage that was present in the book. One of the characters mentions wanting to see another character, "without clothes on." As well as some other crass comments about females bodies. I feel that this may not be appropriate for the publisher's age range of 8-12. I'm also curious if the age range given would be mature enough to handle the language, topics covered, and slang being said. I worry they would take it out of context or use the words in real-life, incorrectly or inappropriately. I see this book being much appropriate and valuable to the age range of 14-16+ than 8-12.

Is It Any Good?

Our review:
Parents say (2 ):
Kids say (6 ):

This is a heartfelt story about a relatable sixth grader-facing questions of identity and friendship. Rick's main character has always been a follower, but when faced with his best friend's bullying of others, Rick knows he can't just stand by and do nothing. As in real life, it takes time for Rick to figure out how to confront Jeff, and the courage he gains from new peers in his school's LGBTQA club feels natural and authentic. Rick's attempts at talking with his immediate family about his problems and his questions about sexuality may fall flat, but he finds a safe confessor in Grandpa Ray, and their relationship is really wonderful to watch as it unfolds. Preteen readers may not notice how Gino naturally weaves in language to describe various genders and sexualities of the different characters, but this tender story can certainly serve as an introduction for younger readers to various gender and sexual identities. With mild violence, tame language, and no sexy stuff beyond hand-holding, this is a safe and wholesome book for tweens of all ages. Highly recommend.

Book Details

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