is an author, illustrator, and designer based in Queens.
“Bright and bittersweet, Ready or Not absolutely captures summer in New York City—and that right-out-of-high-school feeling of the world shifting beneath your feet.”
– Rainbow Rowell, #1 New York Times bestselling author of Fangirl
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Written and illustrated by Andi Porretta
Flat Color by Matt Atych Taylor
Edited by Feather Flores & Alex Borbolla
Art Directed and Designed by Karyn Lee
Published by Atheneum Books for Young Readers, an Imprint of Simon & Schuster
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Publisher: Atheneum Books for Young Readers (July 2, 2024)
Length: 336 pages
ISBN13: 9781665907026
Grades: 9 and up
Ages: 14 - 99
Trigger Warnings: Anxiety, Underage Drinking, Mild Violence, Death in the Family
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★ “Andi Porretta’s debut graphic novel, Ready or Not, dances on the edge between youth and adulthood. Its characters are vibrant and fun, but they’re also facing a lot of change—which lets the story explore the joy, pain and chaos of growing up. Porretta’s expressive, colorful art style lends itself well to the emotional ups and downs of this charming story. . . . It’s a great life lesson for all ages: Just because you’re growing up doesn’t mean you can’t have fun.”
– BookPage, STARRED REVIEW
★ "Each character’s vivid, varied personality is represented via bold-hued backgrounds and text bubbles that overlay the already colorful metropolitan setting . . . Breezy and earnest, Porretta’s debut graphic novel makes a unique commencement gift for the contemporary high school graduate."
– Publishers Weekly, STARRED REVIEW
“A coming-of-age story with relevant themes ofgrowing up, figuring out how to balance responsibility with fun, and learning how to hold on to the most important people in your life.”
– Booklist
"Teens moving past their high schools will recognize Cassie and her group’s struggle as they decide how to maintain their friendships as they all set off on their next big adventures."
– The Bulletin of the Center for Children's Books
“Porretta’s debut . . . captures Generation Z in all their exuberance and acceptance as well as anxiety. . . .The attractive, jewel-toned art dynamically conveys the urban setting. Light and refreshing fare.”
– Kirkus Reviews
“Andi Porretta’s immersive illustrations and smart storytelling showcase the grit and beauty of New York, as well as the pulsating heartbeat of friendship and coming of age. A masterful debut!”
– Laura Taylor Namey, New York Times bestselling author of A Cuban Girl’s Guide to Tea and Tomorrow
“Andi Poretta’s dynamic inks and colors ooze with the drama and fun of Cassie and her friends’ last summer together. These teens feel real, and will resonate with anyone who has experienced the awkwardness of trying to hold onto friends as the world changes around you.”
– Sas Milledge, Lambda Award-winning creator of Mamo
Cassie Donato
is fiercely loyal to her friends, but her anxiety sometimes gets in her way.
Aaron King
is highly competitive and loves a good game, especially when he knows he’ll win.
Marcy Lee
is fluent in fashion, art, and sarcasm, but don’t expect her to teach it to you.
Nico Hernandez
is usually lost in the chords of his guitar, but he might get distracted by a flirty smile or two.
Download and print to start your own game of Risky Slips.
