Chunky

Chunky by Yehudi Mercado is a full-color middle grade graphic memoir published by HarperCollins Publishers in 2021. This edition spans 208 pages and is presented in English. The narrative draws from Mercado’s childhood experiences, focusing on his struggles with weight and the friendship he develops with his imaginary mascot, Chunky, as he navigates the complexities of growing up in a working-class Mexican-Jewish family.
Readers will find a blend of humor and heartfelt moments as Hudi grapples with the pressures of sports and his parents’ expectations while discovering his passion for comedy. The story highlights the challenges of fitting in, particularly as Hudi is the only Mexican and Jewish child in his neighborhood. Through his adventures with Chunky, Hudi learns to embrace his identity and pursue what truly makes him happy, even as external circumstances complicate his journey. This graphic memoir offers insights into friendship, self-acceptance, and the pursuit of personal dreams.
Official synopsis Publisher
In this full-color middle grade graphic memoir for fans of Raina Telgemeier and Jerry Craft, Yehudi Mercado draws inspiration from his childhood struggle with his weight while finding friendship with his imaginary mascot, Chunky, as he navigates growing up in a working class Mexican-Jewish family.
Hudi needs to lose weight, according to his doctors. Concerned about the serious medical issue Hudi had when he was younger, his parents push him to try out for sports. Hudi would rather do anything else, but then he meets Chunky, his imaginary friend and mascot. Together, they decide to give baseball a shot.
As the only Mexican and Jewish kid in his neighborhood, Hudi has found the cheerleader he never had. Baseball doesn’t go well (unless getting hit by the ball counts), but the two friends have a great time drawing and making jokes. While Hudi’s parents keep trying to find the right sport for Hudi, Chunky encourages him to pursue his true love–comedy.
But when Hudi’s dad loses his job, it gets harder for Hudi to chart his own course, even with Chunky’s guidance. Can Chunky help Hudi stay true to himself or will this friendship strike out?
* A TLA Maverick Graphic Novel of the Year *
Author
Publisher
Topics
FAQ
What is “Chunky” about?
Who is the author of “Chunky”?
When was “Chunky” published?
What is the ISBN for “Chunky”?
What are the book details (language, pages, edition)?
