Graphic Memoir Engages YA Readers in Personal Side of Opioid Epidemic

Authors on a mission to tackle topics that ail humankind—addiction, depression, poverty, loss, trauma, the search for one’s purpose—isn’t a revelation in the literary world. Writers are some of the finest translators in discussing the woes of everyday life.

It often seems adult fiction and nonfiction storylines are overflowing with protagonists having to defeat and overcome some misfortune, but the same can’t always be said for children’s and young adult literature.

The question isn’t necessarily whether children and teens can handle the material covered in adult books, but rather what is the proper and most compelling way to relay a story regarding drug addiction, especially one that is plaguing our country today?

If you’ve tuned into any news outlets in the last several years (hopefully you have), then you’ve probably heard about the opioid epidemic causing everlasting sorrow and tragedy in communities across the country.

Politicians, the government, healthcare facilities and medical professionals can’t seem to come to a full agreement on how to exactly handle this prominent and wide-reaching issue.

On a weekly basis, newspaper editorials and opinion sections are publishing conflicting advice on how to address and handle those dishing out drugs, those consuming them and those caught in the crossfire and their aftermath.

Here at The Writing Barn, we believe literature can transport a reader — regardless of age, race, demographic, geographic location or gender — to another world, a world full of truth, laughter, bewilderment and realization.

We also believe involving readers—regardless of the qualities listed above—emotionally, educationally and creatively is a crucial and critical component in writing for all authors and publishers.

That’s why we decided to share a new coming-of-age, young adult book.

Titled “Hey Kiddo,” author-illustrator Jarrett J. Krosoczka’s (“Punk Farm,” “Lunch Lady”) graphic memoir details his personal story on being raised by his grandparents and dealing with the loss of a parent due to a heroin addiction.

“There are so many kids out there whose parents do terrible things. It’s important for kids to know that it doesn’t make them a bad person,” Krosoczka said in an article for The New York Times.

The beginning creation of “Hey, Kiddo” wasn’t perfectly smooth. Around the time when Mr. Krosoczka was 21, the author had a contract for his first picture book in order, but when he tried to focus on writing his personal story, he was reluctant.

“I would get caught up and wonder and worry what people would think,” Krosoczka told the Times.

One main concern was negative reactions from the family members discussed and his current fans who knew him for his gentler work.

Published by Graphix, a hallmark of the larger publishing company Scholastic, “Hey Kiddo” delves into the gray areas of life, especially as a young adult. Beneath the title, the book’s cover  states, “How I Lost My Mother, Found My Father, and Dealt with Family Addiction,” signifying to readers the intimate topics Krosoczka will address in his graphic
autobiography.

 

 

Although the book might sound like intense reading for young adults, the resonating effect of Krosoczka’s story couldn’t be more relevant, and the book is also on the 2018 National Book Awards Longlist for young adult literature.

Anytime an author takes a leap of faith to tell a story that has the possibility of being perceived as dark and troublesome, this author’s—and others before and after him—should be commended for sharing such an empowering story.

Was writing and using the written word as an artistic platform Krosoczka’s saving grace during his struggles? There’s only one way to find out. Get your hands on a copy Oct. 9 when it’s set to arrive in stores.

Post by WB Intern Sadie Lipe.

Sadie Lipe is a recent graduate from Loyola University Chicago with a Bachelor’s of Arts in Journalism and a minor in Marketing. Hailing from the windy city, Sadie recently moved to Austin and is loving  soaking up the southwestern sunshine every minute she can. When she’s not copy editing or brainstorming content creation, you can find her writing poetry or reading fiction novels at her favorite local ATX coffee shops. Her many passions include stocking her cabinets full of superfoods, whisking up some delicious matcha, discussing holistic nutrition, reading classic fictional literature and consuming the greatest cups of coffee she can find.