Frasier seamlessly integrates the backstories of Annie, a chubby, white, sarcastic brainiac, and Beatrice (known as Bebe), a Latinx-cued teen who rose to school popularity as the state’s first trans cheerleader and who worries about putting people out. is disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.This sharply observed graphic novel overturns high school archetypes to present a nuanced portrait of queer cheerleaders.

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No fee was paid by the publisher for this review. The publisher of this book provided free copies of the book to have their book reviewed by a professional reviewer. Showing that everyone has more to learn, and that embracing others is often the best way to do it, Cheer Up is a wonderful graphic novel.ĭisclosure: This article is not an endorsement, but a review. These include the digital marquee in front of the high school that sets the time of year for the story with its display of “Welcome back, students!” Elsewhere, a newspaper clipping about the state’s “1st Transgender Cheerleader” is mounted on Beatrice’s wall its placement in her room, and the roughness of the article’s torn edges contrasted with the otherwise careful presentation, reveals much about the delicate combination of pride and uncertainty that she inhabits. The artwork captures myriad emotions through the teenagers’ facial expressions, while its convincing settings and details enhance the storytelling, too. The squad defends Beatrice, but sometimes treats her like a publicity tool Beatrice’s parents are still adapting to her gender identity. The book is appealing in its complexity, showing a variety of relationships with nuance.

As each becomes more confident and well rounded, a budding mutual attraction leads them to attend the homecoming dance as each other’s dates. Annie’s history of confrontation precedes her, but Beatrice stands up for her at tryouts.īeatrice helps Annie with cheerleading and makeup, while Annie helps Beatrice advocate for herself and study history. Beatrice is a transgender member of the cheerleading squad who feels pressure to succeed and an unwanted amount of attention.

To present colleges with a more balanced high school transcript, her mother suggests that she give cheerleading a try. In Cheer Up, two friends on different tracks reconnect and explore their romantic feelings.Īnnie is smart but antisocial.

Cheer Up by Crystal Frasier