Invisible The (sort of) true story of me and my hidden disease

A tween struggles to adapt to his chronic illness as well as the arrival of a fantastical and unwelcome new roommate in Soren's lively debut, which the author notes was inspired by his experience growing up with an invisible disability. When white-cued eight-year-old J.J. Sugar is diagnosed with Crohn's disease, a seven-foot-tall creature ("my disease") suddenly manifests at the other end of the once-empty exam table. The leather jacket--wearing monster, seemingly visible only to J.J., introduces himself as Norm, "as in Normal... better get used to me 'cause I'm the new Norm." As J.J. learns to manage his Crohn's and contends with Norm's unpredictable, disruptive presence, he keeps his diagnosis secret from his friends, fearing it might change how they perceive and treat him. Meanwhile, J.J. practices his art skills, hoping to one day move to California to make animated movies. At once heartfelt and humorous first-person narration follows J.J. as he develops an understanding not just of his own illness, but of those living with other invisible diseases. Realistic interpretations of the protagonist's experiences provide readers with potential insight into their peers' challenges while acting as a show of communal support. Soren's energetic caricature-style b&w artwork gives life to both human and imaginary characters. Ages 8--12. (Oct.)

In this work that draws upon the author's life, a young Canadian cartoonist dealing with chronic illness comes into his own. J.J. Sugar has a strange companion: Norm, the monstrous personification of his Crohn's disease. A raucous biker who seems determined to make J.J.'s life a nightmare, he's a lot to handle on top of symptoms, medications, and navigating the transition from elementary to middle school. J.J. has strong family support, including a mom who shares his illness, a quirky best friend, and an intense passion for drawing. But hiding his invisible disability brings a lot of pressure. He realizes that "the whole concept of 'normal' is a GIGANTIC PROBLEM and desperately needs to be fixed." Soren repeatedly emphasizes that disclosing personal challenges can lead to camaraderie and support and that most people have something they're self-conscious about. While some readers will be inspired by J.J.'s personal arc, others may wish that the book mentioned privacy as a valid choice separate from shame or embarrassment. The story is strongest when its spry humor and J.J.'s passion for comics and cartoons shine through. He's confident in his talent and observant of the foibles of those around him as well as his own. The black-and-white spot illustrations throughout are dynamic and humorous. Unfortunately, much of the narrative is taken up with overdone metaphorical disability monsters, and there's a questionable story about a Punjabi snake charmer. The main cast appears white. Lively and well intentioned.(Fiction. 8-12) Copyright (c) Kirkus Reviews, used with permission.