In this middle-grade novel about a boy's worst-case scenario--on practically every level--author Rob Harrell (Life of Zarf) deftly tells a cancer story that is authentic, wry, even hilarious and comes with a side of rock and roll.
Like most seventh graders, Ross doesn't want extra attention from his peers. So suddenly showing up at school with an eye patch or a big cowboy hat for sun protection (even inside) or having to use ointment that makes him look like "a scaly, oozing goo-monster" isn't ideal. But shortly before school started, Ross was diagnosed with a rare form of cancer in an eye gland, and these horrifying indignities become realities. Not only does he have to deal with sci-fi-like proton radiotherapy treatments, he's also facing bullying at school and ghosting by one of his best friends. Luckily, he still has his other best friend, Abby, who will joke with him about cancer and his art: the goofy Batpig comics he creates are a fun escape. And then, unexpectedly, Ross finds another outlet for his anger, sadness and fear. His charismatic radiation tech, Frank, appalled by Ross's insipid music choices during treatment, introduces him to "music that doesn't suck." Ross is smitten and begins learning guitar himself.
Based on Harrell's own experiences with cancer, Wink cannily captures the lows and highs of middle school. Ross's self-conscious, self-deprecating first-person voice pulls readers in close; we feel his humiliation, his awkwardness, his joy. Harrell's writing has a spark and a flow that makes the juxtaposition of cancer, middle-school drama and head-banging guitar solos the most natural thing in the world. Spot art and comic panels add a sweet, funny bonus to an already spectacular book. --Emilie Coulter, freelance writer and editor