This Dutch-translated coming-of-age story plunges readers into the unfiltered world of high schooler Jip through a series of unsent, intimate letters to a classmate.
The core drama? A seemingly simple spring break assignment: draw a self-portrait. Though Jip is a gifted artist whose original artwork opens every chapter, the assignment quickly becomes an existential challenge. This isn’t just about art; it’s a profound battle for Jip to understand and create a visual representation of Jip’s own identity.
Through journal-like entries, Jip shares memories, fantasies, and frustrations that capture the emotional landscape of adolescence and self-discovery. Readers are privy to Jip’s moving journey, fueled by the pressure of the canvas and shifting peer relationships.
More than just a teen drama, the book is thoughtful, insightful, and rich with fascinating tidbits about bugs and plants. With its beautiful illustrations and an authentic voice that feels like reading a found journal, this quick read, while not written in verse, will likely resonate with readers who enjoy a poetic storytelling style.
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