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49 pages 1 hour read

Gracefully Grayson

Fiction | Novel | Middle Grade | Published in 2014

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Book Brief

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Ami Polonsky

Gracefully Grayson

Fiction | Novel | Middle Grade | Published in 2014
Book Details
Pages

256

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Chicago, Illinois • Contemporary

Publication Year

2014

Audience

Middle grade

Recommended Reading Age

10-14 years

Lexile Level

720L

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Super Short Summary

In Gracefully Grayson, a young transgender girl named Grayson Sender navigates her identity while living with her aunt, uncle, and cousins in Chicago. Grayson uncovers her true self amidst school relationships and auditions for the school play. Supported by her favorite teacher and some new friends, she faces challenges that test her courage and reveal her inner strength. This book includes themes related to the death of a loved one.

Contemplative

Emotional

Inspirational

Heartwarming

Challenging

Reviews & Readership

4.3

7,956 ratings

79%

Loved it

17%

Mixed feelings

4%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

Gracefully Grayson by Ami Polonsky has been praised for its empathetic and poignant portrayal of a transgender preteen's journey of self-discovery. Reviewers commend the accessible and heartfelt narrative. However, some criticize the supporting characters as underdeveloped and the plot as predictable. Overall, it’s appreciated for its emotional depth and sincere exploration of identity.

Who should read this

Who Should Read Gracefully Grayson?

A reader who enjoys Gracefully Grayson by Ami Polonsky is typically interested in heartfelt, coming-of-age stories focusing on identity and self-discovery. Fans of R.J. Palacio's Wonder and Alex Gino's George will appreciate the emotional depth and courage depicted in this novel about a transgender middle schooler.

4.3

7,956 ratings

79%

Loved it

17%

Mixed feelings

4%

Not a fan

Character List

Grayson Sender

A sixth-grade student who is the protagonist and narrator, attending a fictional school in Chicago and embracing her transgender identity. She navigates challenges from peers and family while participating in the school play.

Grayson's father’s brother with whom she lives, he experiences a gradual understanding of his niece’s identity and shows his support. He has a complicated relationship with Grayson’s aunt and his own past with his brother.

Grayson’s aunt who struggles to understand and accept Grayson's identity, often making decisions that create tension. She is married to Evan and acts protectively but sometimes harmfully towards Grayson.

Grayson's kind humanities teacher and the director of the school play, he encourages her participation and defends her at school. His decisions regarding Grayson sometimes bring him into conflict with school authorities.

An eighth-grader who befriends Grayson during the school play and supports her through their growing friendship. Known for her unique fashion sense, she plays an important role in Grayson's journey.

Initially a classmate who follows Grayson's bullies, he experiences a change of heart and begins to show empathy. His actions highlight themes of bravery and support.

A group of Grayson's classmates who eventually become her friends and allies, helping to create a sense of belonging. They demonstrate acceptance and friendship throughout the school play.

Book Details
Pages

256

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Chicago, Illinois • Contemporary

Publication Year

2014

Audience

Middle grade

Recommended Reading Age

10-14 years

Lexile Level

720L

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