Terry’s Crew

Embark on a heartwarming and hilarious journey with young Terry Crews in *Terry's Crew*, a vibrant middle-grade graphic novel that bursts with the energy and spirit of finding your place in the world. Written by the celebrated actor, athlete, and author Terry Crews, alongside Cory Thomas, this debut installment of a new series draws inspiration from Crews' own childhood in Flint, Michigan, offering a relatable and inspiring story for kids and adults alike. *Terry's Crew* isn't just another coming-of-age tale; it's a powerful narrative about embracing individuality, the importance of friendship, and the courage to pursue your dreams, even when faced with adversity. Young Terry, a dreamer with a "Big Dream Plan," aspires to be a multi-hyphenate an artist, a football player, a musician, and maybe even a NASA scientist! His ambition leads him to Rock City Academy, a prestigious school where he hopes to showcase his talents at the school's talent show. At Rock City Academy, Terry quickly finds kindred spirits in Rani, a brilliant and passionate engineer, and Xander, a shy but incredibly knowledgeable classmate. Together, they form a crew, a support system that helps Terry navigate the challenges of a new school, demanding parents, and the ever-present pressure to fit in. But Terry's path to talent show stardom isn't without its obstacles. His grades begin to slip, threatening his parents' approval, and Rick, the school's star football player, actively tries to sabotage Terry's performance, determined to eliminate the competition. It is revealed early on that Rick, born from a wealthy family, always gets what he wants, creating a formidable adversary for Terry. He uses Terry's new status, being the "new kid," to his advantage, often times getting other students to ridicule him, making Terry rethink his dreams. *Terry's Crew* is more than just a story of childhood dreams; it's a testament to the power of resilience, creativity, and the unwavering support of true friends. Crews and Thomas masterfully weave together humor, heartwarming moments, and insightful observations about the challenges of growing up, making this graphic novel a must-read for middle-grade readers. The book is masterfully illustrated to capture every emotion of Terry and his Crew, making it easy for kids to relate to and understand the themes. The vibrant artwork, full of expressive characters and dynamic panels, truly brings Terry's world to life, while the relatable themes of self-discovery, friendship, and perseverance will resonate with readers of all ages. This is a story about finding your voice, celebrating your unique talents, and realizing that with the right crew by your side, anything is possible. Beyond its engaging plot and captivating visuals, *Terry's Crew* carries a powerful message of inclusivity and acceptance. It encourages young readers to embrace their individuality, celebrate their differences, and stand up for what they believe in. It also highlights the importance of mentorship and the positive impact that adults can have on young people's lives. This book has received rave reviews, with Angie Thomas, author of *The Hate U Give*, praising it as "a true delight from beginning to end" that provides a "much-needed mirror and sliding glass door for countless kids." Sharon M. Draper, author of *Out of My Mind*, calls it "a delightful, powerful, readable retelling of Terry Crews's adolescence" that will captivate readers of all ages. Pablo Cartaya, author of *The Epic Fail of Arturo Zamora*, declares it "a must-read for all those kids who allow themselves to dream in a variety of big ways." Join Terry and his crew as they navigate the ups and downs of middle school, discover their passions, and learn the true meaning of friendship. *Terry's Crew* is a triumphant debut that will leave you feeling inspired, empowered, and ready to embrace your own Big Dream Plan. Perfect for fans of Raina Telgemeier, Jerry Craft, and Shannon Hale, this graphic novel is sure to become a favorite among middle-grade readers.