Melissa (previously published as GEORGE)

by Alex Gino Narrated by Jamie Clayton

Overview

BE WHO YOU ARE.

When people look at George, they think they see a boy. But she knows she's not a boy. She knows she's a girl.

George thinks she'll have to keep this a secret forever. Then her teacher announces that their class play is going to be Charlotte's Web. George really, really, REALLY wants to play Charlotte. But the teacher says she can't even try out for the part...because she's a boy.

With the help of her best friend, Kelly, George comes up with a plan. Not just so she can be Charlotte--but so everyone can know who she is, once and for all.

Editorial Reviews

SEPTEMBER 2015 - AudioFile

Everyone else thinks she’s a boy named George, but 10-year-old Melissa knows she’s a girl. When her fourth-grade class puts on a play of CHARLOTTE’S WEB, what Melissa wants more than anything is to play Charlotte. Narrator Jamie Clayton's voice is distinctive, though not necessarily young, but she infuses her delivery with a childlike enthusiasm that fits this middle-grade story. The fact that Clayton (from Netflix’s “Sense8”) is a trans woman adds authenticity as Melissa struggles with the choice to keep, or share, her secret. Occasional clunky writing doesn't detract from the importance of this book, which is sure to spark discussion, recognition, and understanding. Maybe most important of all, the book has plenty of heart, and listeners of all ages will be rooting for Melissa the whole time. J.M.D. © AudioFile 2015, Portland, Maine

From the Publisher

Praise for Melissa:

Winner of the Stonewall Award

Winner of the Lambda Literary Award

A Children's Choice Book Award

"Profound, moving, and — as Charlotte would say — radiant, this book will stay with anyone lucky enough to find it." — Publishers Weekly, starred review

"Warm, funny, and inspiring." — Kirkus Reviews, starred review

Praise for You Don't Know Everything, Jilly P!:

"Gino's sophomore effort is every bit as affecting and important as their first." — School Library Journal, starred review

"Necessary and rewarding." — Kirkus Reviews, starred review

Praise for Rick:

"An important, innovative, well-plotted book that invites a large readership." — Booklist, starred review

"Enlightening and important." — School Library Journal, starred review

SEPTEMBER 2015 - AudioFile

Everyone else thinks she’s a boy named George, but 10-year-old Melissa knows she’s a girl. When her fourth-grade class puts on a play of CHARLOTTE’S WEB, what Melissa wants more than anything is to play Charlotte. Narrator Jamie Clayton's voice is distinctive, though not necessarily young, but she infuses her delivery with a childlike enthusiasm that fits this middle-grade story. The fact that Clayton (from Netflix’s “Sense8”) is a trans woman adds authenticity as Melissa struggles with the choice to keep, or share, her secret. Occasional clunky writing doesn't detract from the importance of this book, which is sure to spark discussion, recognition, and understanding. Maybe most important of all, the book has plenty of heart, and listeners of all ages will be rooting for Melissa the whole time. J.M.D. © AudioFile 2015, Portland, Maine

Product Details

BN ID:	2940171262327
Publisher:	Scholastic, Inc.
Publication date:	08/25/2015
Edition description:	Unabridged
Age Range:	8 - 11 Years

Read an Excerpt

From Melissa

George reached the end of Charlottes' monologue and was ready for the dialogue with Wilbur that followed. But George didn't hear her cue. She opened her eyes. Ms. Udell was frowning, and a thick crease had formed across her forehead.

"George, what was that?" she asked.

"I . . ." started George, but there were no words to finish the sentence. "I . . ."

"Was that supposed to be some kind of joke? Because it wasn't very funny."

"It wasn’t a joke. I want to be Charlotte." George's voice sounded much smaller now that she was speaking her own words.

"You know I can't very well cast you as Charlotte. I have too many girls who want the part. Besides, imagine how confused people would be. Now, if you're interested in being Wilbur, that's a possibility. Or maybe Templeton — he's a funny guy."

"No, thanks. I just . . . I wanted . . ."

Videos