Kirkus
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Rex and his friends are back for the start of seventh grade in this sequel to Four Eyes (2023). After learning to navigate a new school environment, rebuild his confidence, and accept himself for who he is, Rex is still not ready for what seventh grade has to throw at him. When he wakes up on the first day of school with what looks like an angry volcano in the middle of his forehead, he realizes that the new year may be even worse than he thought. Rex becomes hyperaware of his signs of puberty (and lack thereof). Although new zits seem to pop up every day, and his body odor is suddenly very noticeable, he still has a high-pitched voice and has yet to hit a growth spurt (and the bullies at school won’t let him forget it). Rex struggles to manage his mood swings, lashing out at his mother, teacher, and friends. Rex fails to realize that he’s not the only one struggling with puberty, however. As seventh grade goes on, Rex learns to come to terms with who he is and who he’s becoming alongside his friends. Readers will be able to find themselves in the characters’ struggles. The artwork is colorful and creative, showing a skillful use of the graphic novel format. The supporting characters are well developed and racially diverse, including Rex’s Mexican immigrant abuela. A relatable, engaging sequel about surviving puberty and middle school. (Graphic memoir. 9-13) Copyright © Kirkus Reviews, used with permission.