Backstagers Vol. One, The

When Jory moves to a new all-boys school, he wants to be part of the school play, but the two intimidating lead actors ensure he ends up as part of the crew – the “backstagers”. But, that’s actually not so bad as Jory learns of the magical world behind the curtain with its strange creatures, changing hallways, and a decades-old mystery of the disappearance of the 1987 backstagers. This light-hearted adventure/fantasy graphic novel deals with fitting in, positive gender identity, what it means to be male, and sexual orientation. Suitable for grades 6-9 and a good choice for struggling or reluctant readers.