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Call Me Iggy
Ignacio "Iggy" Garcia is an Ohio-born Colombian American teen living his best life. After bumping into Marisol (and her coffee) at school, Iggy's world is spun around. But Marisol as too much going on to be bothered with the likes of Iggy. She has school, work, family, and the uphill battle of getting her legal papers. As Iggy stresses over how to get Marisol to like him, his grandfather comes to the rescue. The thing is, not only is his abuelito dead, but he also gives terrible love advice. The worst. And so, with his ghost abuelito's meddling, Iggy's life begins to unravel as he sets off on a journey of self-discovery.
Call me Iggy tells the story of Iggy searching for his place in his family, his school, his community, and ultimately—as the political climate in America changes during the 2016 election— his country. Focusing on familial ties and budding love, Call me Iggy challenges our assumptions about Latino-American identity while reaffirming our belief in the hope that all young people represent. Perfect for lovers of multigenerational stories like Displacement and The Magic Fish.
Call me Iggy tells the story of Iggy searching for his place in his family, his school, his community, and ultimately—as the political climate in America changes during the 2016 election— his country. Focusing on familial ties and budding love, Call me Iggy challenges our assumptions about Latino-American identity while reaffirming our belief in the hope that all young people represent. Perfect for lovers of multigenerational stories like Displacement and The Magic Fish.
256 pages, Hardcover
First published January 1, 2023
10 people are currently reading
679 people want to read
About the author
Jorge Aguirre
12 books122 followersJorge A. Aguirre is an East Coast-based writer born and raised in Columbus, Ohio. He wrote the graphic novel, GIANTS BEWARE (First Second Books/Macmillan), which the New York Times called, a "rollicking fun story." He also wrote its sequel, DRAGONS BEWARE (May 2015). He has already written the third book of the CHRONICLES OF CLAUDETTE. Besides books, Jorge also produces and writes TV for kids. He's worked for Disney, Junior, Nick, Jr., and PBS.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 154 reviews
November 21, 2023
If you've seen one dictator, you've seen em all.
First of all thanks eternally to Jorge Aguirre and Rafael Rosado and First Second books, And finally NetGalley for the opportunity to read this beautiful Graphic Novel.
I Delayed this because i was a little tired of reading ARCs, i still am, and will probably not ask for any for the rest of the year, So Nothing wrong with the Graphic Novel, i actually read it quite fast for someone who is supposedly in a slump!
if you are Latino this is for you, if you think your ancestors watch over you this is for you it has many beautiful ancestry scenes, if you are interested to see how Trump America hit Latino families who were scared of getting deported this is for you, and more much more, it's a beautiful story i loved it!
Regarding the first sentence Abuelito was awesome, and it doesn't seem that he was bad at giving love advice either, he was way more preceptive than Iggy, and i think it's really important to be preceptive in your relationship, or entering one, preceptive of will the relationship even have a chance to work, preceptive of who might be interested in you and you both can make a way better couple, i honestly think (and this is probably an unpopular opinion) that if it's too much work probably it's not a good idea, if you are going above and beyond just to make someone even notice you or be interested in you, it's probably not a good idea, i love my relationships more when the interest is mutual, our minds align, and i don't care at all if our activities align because i think that would be asking for way too much lol
i saw many of my Egyptian friends saying "we need to marry someone who reads" no you don't, people change, you need way more than sharing a recreational activity with the person you love, because something could happen that make them not even think about it anymore, and not only love honestly friendship too, while it's way easier to make friends with people who do the same activities that you do, friends who shared life with you are way more probable to survive the years, and the winds of change.
And Yeah believe it or not, the above paragraph is coming from reading this Novel, and more actually much more.
- Ugh, wish i was old enough, to vote against that idiot.
- Don't worry, Iggy, Trump will never, ever win.
Famous last words, I don't live in America, i wasn't really interested in American Politics at the time, i am actually still not, but i am watching specially the American/Chinese/Russian situation because it's world ending situation, and more recently, The American/Israeli situation as well because it's close to home and how it's being handled is quite literally catastrophic, There is Suffering in our collective futures for letting this situation go as long as this, and reach a new low after a new low, I Just hope the innocents lost on both sides are in peace right now, or in a better place if there is one.
And i got a little far, because i don't live in America, i didn't see how Trump winning really affected the people he was racist and obnoxious towards, Trump is quiet literally a demagogue, he uses hate to surround himself with ordinary people by catering to their prejudices and desires, Kind of like The Prophet of Islam Muhammad (I am really sorry i can't pass an opportunity without busting that guy's nuts, he lead us all into deep shit, that we can't get out of to this day)
Trump will live a happy life surrounded by his supporters, people who are attracted to his success and so on, What Trump and demagogues like him don't get to see is their effect on people they are verbally harming, and lighting the fires of hate in people's hearts against them, he doesn't get to see it, he doesn't get to see Latino Kids being bullied in school by kids who bought into his bullshit, he doesn't see the genuine fear these people had of getting deported losing their jobs and the lives they made, he doesn't see all the effects the hatred he is sowing is going to have on this country for years, just to be a president, and i am honestly not sure if this guy is just smart and knows what buttons to click to get what he wants, or if he is really that horrible.
But Guess what Trump America is most probably going to happen again, the way Biden is dealing with all this Israeli aggression he lost support of The Muslim community in two states who tipped the scales in his favor in the first place (divine comedy) But here is the Thing, i don't think Trump is even anti-isreal he is just a smart guy who saw a situation to shit on his adversary by taking the opposite side and he took it, and if he does get elected again he will give even more leeway to Israel to kill however many people it wants, America is in the palm of AIPAC, and Israel is in the palm of the far right party, and we are in for a lot of ugliness as long as this continues sadly.
Okay i gave you love advice, i spoke my opinion on current political scene, i ll just say Rafael Rosado did an amazing job in illustrating this Graphic novel, artists are more often than not forgotten from our praise sadly, and on to the last quote and the last rant lol
There aren't any Colombians in Columbus Ohio, they named it wrong.
The Latino culture is present and vibrant in this Graphic novel, there was a lot of Spanish i learned gringo amigo novio? i mean i always knew amigo so let's just i learned two new words that i ll forget in 3 days working time!
Spanish is the language of love, Abuelito kept repeating this a few times, and i really love that, i love when a language is synonymous with a certain beautiful thing, the language of art, the language of music, the language of love and so on.
We explored our deep connection to our culture, how going far from it could effect you and your children who might be more interested to going back to their roots, which is the opposite actually of what happened in the Graphic Novel Carole: What We Leave Behind where the grandparents stayed true to their roots, and it benefited their grand children when they wanted to explore their culture better.
Overall amazing experience, glad this was my last ARC, and adios from Tawfek de ARC, or was it ARCade Master? ARCtic storm? ARChitect? i had so many goofy names ready for you all, it's really sad i stopped changing my name all the time 😭
June 1, 2024
I’ve had this checked out for a while and I FINALLY got the chance to sit down and read it.
Call Me Iggy has a little bit of everything in it: culture, identity, politics, romance, familial dynamics, and more. I wasn’t sure what to expect diving into it but it did not disappoint. Iggy was an interesting character who had trouble figuring out his identity. His parents came from Colombia but as someone who was born and raised in the US, he had no ties to his cultural background. As he goes through his Spanish class and meets other students like Maria, he brings to learn more about himself and his family. I really enjoyed the idea that his abuelo was leading him through most of this book. There aren’t enough YA centric books that talk about the cultural importance of ancestors to some communities especially communities of color. While his grandfather wasn’t always right, it prompted him to do some further introspection and help heal some old wounds that his father had. There is a background conversation about the implication of Trumps election which is even more relevant today as we find ourselves in an election year. The illustrations were vibrant and rich. And I appreciate that Spanish was so freely incorporated into the text. Overall, this was a great read and I definitely recommend checking it out.
Call Me Iggy has a little bit of everything in it: culture, identity, politics, romance, familial dynamics, and more. I wasn’t sure what to expect diving into it but it did not disappoint. Iggy was an interesting character who had trouble figuring out his identity. His parents came from Colombia but as someone who was born and raised in the US, he had no ties to his cultural background. As he goes through his Spanish class and meets other students like Maria, he brings to learn more about himself and his family. I really enjoyed the idea that his abuelo was leading him through most of this book. There aren’t enough YA centric books that talk about the cultural importance of ancestors to some communities especially communities of color. While his grandfather wasn’t always right, it prompted him to do some further introspection and help heal some old wounds that his father had. There is a background conversation about the implication of Trumps election which is even more relevant today as we find ourselves in an election year. The illustrations were vibrant and rich. And I appreciate that Spanish was so freely incorporated into the text. Overall, this was a great read and I definitely recommend checking it out.
October 9, 2023
3.75 ⭐
a beautiful story! I loved the message that was presented. It's set in 2016 when the elections where just about to happen and we see the impact it had.
I really loved Iggy as a character he goes through tremendous character growth, learning to love and embrace his Colombian heritage.
it wasn't always an easy read there are some sensitive topics such as trump supporters, racism and a few others.
would recommend!
thank you Netgalley, Jorge Aguirre and First second for an arc in exchange for an honest review!
a beautiful story! I loved the message that was presented. It's set in 2016 when the elections where just about to happen and we see the impact it had.
I really loved Iggy as a character he goes through tremendous character growth, learning to love and embrace his Colombian heritage.
it wasn't always an easy read there are some sensitive topics such as trump supporters, racism and a few others.
would recommend!
thank you Netgalley, Jorge Aguirre and First second for an arc in exchange for an honest review!
January 25, 2024
"America wastes its resources taking care of the rest of the world"
Call Me Iggy tells the story of an Ohio-born Colombian American teen struggling to reconcile his cultural heritage while trying to fit in. Full of first crushes, family drama, ghostly ancestors, and a biting social commentary, this novel is perfect for any first generation American or those of mixed heritage who are exploring their own identity and why family history and culture are important. It opens conversation on how politics affects those of any age and how we can be more cognizant of our impact. I will admit this took a while to get into but I very much enjoyed the story and the messages presented in this beautifully illustrated graphic novel.
Call Me Iggy tells the story of an Ohio-born Colombian American teen struggling to reconcile his cultural heritage while trying to fit in. Full of first crushes, family drama, ghostly ancestors, and a biting social commentary, this novel is perfect for any first generation American or those of mixed heritage who are exploring their own identity and why family history and culture are important. It opens conversation on how politics affects those of any age and how we can be more cognizant of our impact. I will admit this took a while to get into but I very much enjoyed the story and the messages presented in this beautifully illustrated graphic novel.
February 15, 2024
This is a very fun and whimsical trail of intergenerational advice, as well as the complications of real life stuff. I really enjoyed this!
October 23, 2023
Ignacio (Iggy) Garcia is an Ohio-born Columbian teen. He decides that he wants to know more about his culture. Although he is clueless at first, he gradually starts to learn more about his heritage.
Iggy has a rough first day of high school, his older brother Billy wants nothing to do with him, he bumps into a girl, Marisol and spills coffee over her papers, and he finds himself in Spanish class instead of French. But even though he hasn't learned Spanish from his Colombian parents and would rather learn French, he sticks with Spanish in order to impress another girl, Kristi.
Iggy has a rough first day of high school, his older brother Billy wants nothing to do with him, he bumps into a girl, Marisol and spills coffee over her papers, and he finds himself in Spanish class instead of French. But even though he hasn't learned Spanish from his Colombian parents and would rather learn French, he sticks with Spanish in order to impress another girl, Kristi.
November 1, 2023
Welcome Back!
I have been a busy audiobook reader this week. I have finished two audiobooks so far and I am a decent way into my third one! However, I have not read nearly as many manga or graphic novels yet this week. So I decided it was time to pick up a graphic novel E-ARC I had on Netgalley. I picked up the E-ARC of Call Me Iggy (thank you so much to the publisher for an E-ARC copy in exchange for my honest opinions). So without further ado, let’s jump into Call Me Iggy.
SPOILERS AHEAD
Iggy lives in Ohio with his older brother, mom, and dad. Iggy does not really know a ton about his heritage but he knows his dad was born in Columbia and left to go to school in America and never visited again. All of this changes when Iggy decides to take Spanish in school this year instead of a different language. He begins to learn more about Columbia, his dad, and even his grandfather (who has passed). But what if he learns things that make his relationship with his family complicated? On top of that, Iggy slowly becomes friends with another student who is an illegal immigrant. She is helping him study his Spanish but with the election looming, things may become very complicated for her.
I absolutely loved Iggy’s story. We got to see Iggy transform and learn so much in a short span of his life. We also got to see Iggy endure something many of us went through (the election in America in 2016). Even if you were not in America it was a stressful time for all. We see a special perspective with Iggy and his new friend, and how the election directly impacted their day-to-day lives. Outside of the story I loved the art style. The colors used really highlighted certain elements of the story nicely. Call My Iggy hits shelves in paperback on February 13th, 2024, I highly recommend picking up a copy!
Goodreads Rating: 5 Stars
***Thank you so much to the publisher for the E-ARC in exchange for my honest opinions.
I have been a busy audiobook reader this week. I have finished two audiobooks so far and I am a decent way into my third one! However, I have not read nearly as many manga or graphic novels yet this week. So I decided it was time to pick up a graphic novel E-ARC I had on Netgalley. I picked up the E-ARC of Call Me Iggy (thank you so much to the publisher for an E-ARC copy in exchange for my honest opinions). So without further ado, let’s jump into Call Me Iggy.
SPOILERS AHEAD
Iggy lives in Ohio with his older brother, mom, and dad. Iggy does not really know a ton about his heritage but he knows his dad was born in Columbia and left to go to school in America and never visited again. All of this changes when Iggy decides to take Spanish in school this year instead of a different language. He begins to learn more about Columbia, his dad, and even his grandfather (who has passed). But what if he learns things that make his relationship with his family complicated? On top of that, Iggy slowly becomes friends with another student who is an illegal immigrant. She is helping him study his Spanish but with the election looming, things may become very complicated for her.
I absolutely loved Iggy’s story. We got to see Iggy transform and learn so much in a short span of his life. We also got to see Iggy endure something many of us went through (the election in America in 2016). Even if you were not in America it was a stressful time for all. We see a special perspective with Iggy and his new friend, and how the election directly impacted their day-to-day lives. Outside of the story I loved the art style. The colors used really highlighted certain elements of the story nicely. Call My Iggy hits shelves in paperback on February 13th, 2024, I highly recommend picking up a copy!
Goodreads Rating: 5 Stars
***Thank you so much to the publisher for the E-ARC in exchange for my honest opinions.
April 5, 2024
Enjoyable graphic novel about a 2nd generation immigrant teen finding his path by reconnecting with his family ties to Columbia and his relationships with those around him, in particular his love interest.
The story moves well. Iggy learns some valuable lessons. And overall, I didn't mind Iggy as a character despite him being a bit short sighted at times and disrespectful. All in all, he is a good person and the story works to reveal that. I do think that there were some aspects of the story that didn't quite tie together like the ICE and Trump election aspects, but maybe that's to come in a future book or not truly necessary. Just felt, to me, like there was a full circle moment of sorts that never happened.
The artwork is nice. Iggy's reconnecting with his grandfather works. And his ability to bring his father back to his roots is a lovely touch, especially since it seems to be triggered by a swear word.
The story moves well. Iggy learns some valuable lessons. And overall, I didn't mind Iggy as a character despite him being a bit short sighted at times and disrespectful. All in all, he is a good person and the story works to reveal that. I do think that there were some aspects of the story that didn't quite tie together like the ICE and Trump election aspects, but maybe that's to come in a future book or not truly necessary. Just felt, to me, like there was a full circle moment of sorts that never happened.
The artwork is nice. Iggy's reconnecting with his grandfather works. And his ability to bring his father back to his roots is a lovely touch, especially since it seems to be triggered by a swear word.
April 13, 2024
An excellent coming of age story that also looks at connecting with your past/cultural background. I loved seeing Iggy grow as a character, learning Spanish and discovering what he personally values. The background of MAGA protestors and the 2016 election was disturbing, but also realistic. Marisol’s DACA status and her families worries add a personal touch to that time and Iggy’s development of personal beliefs. Abuelito as a mentor was delightful and his presence, while vital, was not overused.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 15, 2025
if you’ve seen one dictator, you’ve seen 'em all.
a nuanced, timely portrayal of second generation immigrant life within the modern day US and how it intertwines with assimilation and the culture loss that can sometimes come with that. I really appreciated how multifaceted the narrative was. there's identity discovery, reconnection with your heritage and ancestors, microaggressions, complex political dynamics within families--what works best is how seamlessly these facets work together. gorgeous artwork to top it all off!
a nuanced, timely portrayal of second generation immigrant life within the modern day US and how it intertwines with assimilation and the culture loss that can sometimes come with that. I really appreciated how multifaceted the narrative was. there's identity discovery, reconnection with your heritage and ancestors, microaggressions, complex political dynamics within families--what works best is how seamlessly these facets work together. gorgeous artwork to top it all off!
September 11, 2024
3.5 stars rounded up. I read this for a student and I’m really glad I did. While I can’t speak to the authenticity of being part Colombian living in Ohio, it was a cute story with some light teenage romance heavy on the embracing cultural identity. I’m really glad I found this randomly and that there’s this specific representation for the Columbus Colombian community written by one of their own!
The end did make me choke up a little, nothing less than an “awwwww”.
Definitely recommend!
The end did make me choke up a little, nothing less than an “awwwww”.
Definitely recommend!
Want to read
June 18, 2024Please NetGalley!! I want this one! It looks so good!
October 8, 2024
Actual rating: 3.75
January 29, 2025
Set in Columbus Ohio right before the 2016 election. Thoughtful and healthfully drawn and funny a definitely read. Some politics but makes sense. High school and up.
December 7, 2024
SUPER fun graphic novel - Abuelo is the best and I loved the exploration of culture and language and family heritage that this book explores!
October 23, 2023
It was a nice, quick read. There was a lot going on all at once but it wasn't too much. I really liked watching Iggy's growth, his understanding of his heritage and how his Abuelito led him towards this understanding. It was beautiful. It also made me really want to learn Spanish!
I received a digital review copy of this book from the publisher through NetGalley.
I received a digital review copy of this book from the publisher through NetGalley.
October 26, 2023
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for an eARC in exchange for an honest review!
This was a fun graphic novel to read, despite some heavier elements. I laughed and smiled several times which is rare when I’m reading. Normally I find something funny but keep moving along and I actually stopped to reread certain parts that made me laugh. It was very much needed!
Iggy has grown up in Columbus, Ohio though his family is from Colombia. It rooted that history in the foundation of the story, with him being disconnected from it until he stumbles upon his abuelito’s urn in the basement. We see him learning spanish, learn traditional dances, and how to cook, among other things with his abuelito’s guidance.
I loved Iggy as a character, and I loved seeing him as a pair with his abuelito. They are really dynamic, and I’m personally a fan of grandparent/grandchild relationships in books so this was exciting for me anyway, but their chemistry was amazing. They bounce off eachother really well and they grow a lot together. Abuelito is also a funny character, with his teasing and good humor.
Marisol is another character in focus and I think she’s another great representation of culture, and a great pairing to Iggy in terms of connectivity. She is beyond her culture/home country as well but she’s connected. And still, she’s a bit out of place in a way that Iggy both is and isn’t.
All of this is in the midst of the 2016 election, not at all shying away from commentary on Trump and MAGA, and mirroring real opinions people had in favor of him during the election. The foundation of the country is shifting amongst Iggy’s reconnecting journey and Marisol’s determined efforts to gain citizenship while being a DACA recipient.
There is so much to this story like heritage, connectivity, impacts of assimilation, political changes, and guidance from your ancestors. It’s a beautiful novel and I will be recommending it highly.
Rep: Colombian (Wayuu) MC, plus size SC, Mexican DACA SC.
This was a fun graphic novel to read, despite some heavier elements. I laughed and smiled several times which is rare when I’m reading. Normally I find something funny but keep moving along and I actually stopped to reread certain parts that made me laugh. It was very much needed!
Iggy has grown up in Columbus, Ohio though his family is from Colombia. It rooted that history in the foundation of the story, with him being disconnected from it until he stumbles upon his abuelito’s urn in the basement. We see him learning spanish, learn traditional dances, and how to cook, among other things with his abuelito’s guidance.
I loved Iggy as a character, and I loved seeing him as a pair with his abuelito. They are really dynamic, and I’m personally a fan of grandparent/grandchild relationships in books so this was exciting for me anyway, but their chemistry was amazing. They bounce off eachother really well and they grow a lot together. Abuelito is also a funny character, with his teasing and good humor.
Marisol is another character in focus and I think she’s another great representation of culture, and a great pairing to Iggy in terms of connectivity. She is beyond her culture/home country as well but she’s connected. And still, she’s a bit out of place in a way that Iggy both is and isn’t.
All of this is in the midst of the 2016 election, not at all shying away from commentary on Trump and MAGA, and mirroring real opinions people had in favor of him during the election. The foundation of the country is shifting amongst Iggy’s reconnecting journey and Marisol’s determined efforts to gain citizenship while being a DACA recipient.
There is so much to this story like heritage, connectivity, impacts of assimilation, political changes, and guidance from your ancestors. It’s a beautiful novel and I will be recommending it highly.
Rep: Colombian (Wayuu) MC, plus size SC, Mexican DACA SC.
November 22, 2023
First off, I want to thank NetGalley and First Second Books for sending me an e-arc of this book in exchange for an honest review!
This book was very fast-paced and easy to read while still covering important topics. I read it all in one sitting.
Iggy was born in Ohio and is not in touch with his Colombian heritage, and when the ghost of his abuelito appears after knocking over his ashes, he gets the chance to learn not only more about his heritage, but about his father as well.
It was fun to read about how Iggy would learn from his abuelito and the small mishaps that would sometimes occur. There were also the typical high school things that occurred, like Iggy wanting to impress a girl he liked and his older brother thinking he was “too cool” to be seen with him. But we also saw the way the outcome of the 2016 elections affected the Latine community. Iggy saw how Marisol and her family feared what would happen if Trump became president due to them being undocumented. We also saw how there were different views on Trump even within the Latine community, like with the more neutral stance Iggy’s father had and the way that his brother thought. I think it had a great balance between showing the great things about culture and the Latine community while also showing the issues we have and how we could be more united.
The graphic novel also showed how complicated family can be with how Iggy’s father and grandfather viewed their relationship. There are things that went unsaid between them that neither of them knew, and they have different ways of looking at what the other did wrong, as well as the importance of passing on their tradition and culture onto Iggy and his brother. But we see how assimilation plays a big role in Iggy’s upbringing. Many Latines who immigrate to America choose to assimilate as a way of surviving, and this can affect how they raise their children. However, what we see is that it is never too late to learn more and reconnect with your culture.
Overall, it was a great, quick read. I give it 4.5/5 stars!
This book was very fast-paced and easy to read while still covering important topics. I read it all in one sitting.
Iggy was born in Ohio and is not in touch with his Colombian heritage, and when the ghost of his abuelito appears after knocking over his ashes, he gets the chance to learn not only more about his heritage, but about his father as well.
It was fun to read about how Iggy would learn from his abuelito and the small mishaps that would sometimes occur. There were also the typical high school things that occurred, like Iggy wanting to impress a girl he liked and his older brother thinking he was “too cool” to be seen with him. But we also saw the way the outcome of the 2016 elections affected the Latine community. Iggy saw how Marisol and her family feared what would happen if Trump became president due to them being undocumented. We also saw how there were different views on Trump even within the Latine community, like with the more neutral stance Iggy’s father had and the way that his brother thought. I think it had a great balance between showing the great things about culture and the Latine community while also showing the issues we have and how we could be more united.
The graphic novel also showed how complicated family can be with how Iggy’s father and grandfather viewed their relationship. There are things that went unsaid between them that neither of them knew, and they have different ways of looking at what the other did wrong, as well as the importance of passing on their tradition and culture onto Iggy and his brother. But we see how assimilation plays a big role in Iggy’s upbringing. Many Latines who immigrate to America choose to assimilate as a way of surviving, and this can affect how they raise their children. However, what we see is that it is never too late to learn more and reconnect with your culture.
Overall, it was a great, quick read. I give it 4.5/5 stars!
August 4, 2024
It's Ignacio's (Iggy) first day of High School and his popular big brother gives him some advice, which boils down to - don't embarrass him.
From the very first day, things don't go to plan. He has been entered into Spanish class instead of French class. He tries to object but soon realises there might be a good reason to stay in Spanish class. That reason is a girl called Kristi.
At home with his family, his dad asks him to fetch something from the basement for him. Iggy comes across an urn and quickly realises it's his grandfather's (Abuelito) ashes.
Creeped out he fumbles and the urn smashes - with horrifying results. His abuelito is now with him constantly. Not only with free Spanish lessons advice, but advice about impressing Kristi. Most of it, it turns out...is terrible.
Iggy turns to someone else who might be able to help with Spanish. Marisol is someone he bumped into (literally) on is first day. As he gets to know her, he learns that she works hard - at her studies, and after work in a cleaning job with her parents. She does not have legal papers for their country of USA.
This becomes much more stressful as the 2016 US election looms and Trump slanders families like Marisol's.
Division occurs both in school and home as the election looms, and Iggy learns even more about Marisol.
This full colour graphic novel is the perfect window into a divisive and stressful time for many during the 2016 US Election. Many issues were thrown about as electoral promises and lies, and Call Me Iggy shows the human toll of it, even in high school.
It's essentially a story about belonging, identity, and being proud of it. Iggy prefers this nick name to his full Ignacio which his Columbian parents named him - but through a ghostly connection with his grandfather, begins to dig deeper into his roots.
Although set in America around the historic 2016 elections, Iggy's identity journey is the same around the world.
From the very first day, things don't go to plan. He has been entered into Spanish class instead of French class. He tries to object but soon realises there might be a good reason to stay in Spanish class. That reason is a girl called Kristi.
At home with his family, his dad asks him to fetch something from the basement for him. Iggy comes across an urn and quickly realises it's his grandfather's (Abuelito) ashes.
Creeped out he fumbles and the urn smashes - with horrifying results. His abuelito is now with him constantly. Not only with free Spanish lessons advice, but advice about impressing Kristi. Most of it, it turns out...is terrible.
Iggy turns to someone else who might be able to help with Spanish. Marisol is someone he bumped into (literally) on is first day. As he gets to know her, he learns that she works hard - at her studies, and after work in a cleaning job with her parents. She does not have legal papers for their country of USA.
This becomes much more stressful as the 2016 US election looms and Trump slanders families like Marisol's.
Division occurs both in school and home as the election looms, and Iggy learns even more about Marisol.
This full colour graphic novel is the perfect window into a divisive and stressful time for many during the 2016 US Election. Many issues were thrown about as electoral promises and lies, and Call Me Iggy shows the human toll of it, even in high school.
It's essentially a story about belonging, identity, and being proud of it. Iggy prefers this nick name to his full Ignacio which his Columbian parents named him - but through a ghostly connection with his grandfather, begins to dig deeper into his roots.
Although set in America around the historic 2016 elections, Iggy's identity journey is the same around the world.
January 18, 2025
For two days, I’ve been searching for the right words to describe how magnificent, touching, and powerful this book is, but nothing feels enough. No matter how the year turns out, Call Me Iggy will remain in my heart and soul.
I relate deeply to Iggy’s story, and I know many Latinos will too. Born in the Dominican Republic, I moved to the U.S. at five, with little connection to my culture beyond knowing I was Hispanic and my flag was red, white, and blue. My journey of rediscovery began when my family returned to the Dominican Republic in eighth grade. I had to immerse myself in the music, food, language, and history I’d barely known, starting from scratch—a journey mirrored in Iggy’s experience.
Ignacio "Iggy" Garcia, an Ohio-born Colombian, knows little of his heritage and even insists on being called “Iggy” to assimilate. A visit from the ghost of his abuelo changes everything. Through stories, language, music, dance, and food—including lessons on Colombian vs. Venezuelan arepas—Iggy begins to embrace his culture. With guidance from his abuelo and support from Marisol, a DACA recipient, Iggy transforms, reconnecting with his roots and identity.
The duality of the Latino experience is vividly portrayed. At school, Iggy is misidentified as Puerto Rican by classmates eager to claim West Side Story as "his culture." At home, during the 2016 election, his brother’s support for Trump starkly contrasts their parents’ immigrant reality. These dynamics feel deeply familiar and highlight the complexities of assimilation and belonging.
The ending—marking Iggy’s journey from “Iggy” to “Ignacio”—is profoundly moving. By the last page, I was filled with joy and ache, reflecting on how culture shapes us. Jorge Aguirre has crafted a timeless story for all children of immigrants, reminding us that culture is not just inherited—it’s something we must nurture for future generations.
Thank you, Jorge Aguirre, for this unforgettable work.
I relate deeply to Iggy’s story, and I know many Latinos will too. Born in the Dominican Republic, I moved to the U.S. at five, with little connection to my culture beyond knowing I was Hispanic and my flag was red, white, and blue. My journey of rediscovery began when my family returned to the Dominican Republic in eighth grade. I had to immerse myself in the music, food, language, and history I’d barely known, starting from scratch—a journey mirrored in Iggy’s experience.
Ignacio "Iggy" Garcia, an Ohio-born Colombian, knows little of his heritage and even insists on being called “Iggy” to assimilate. A visit from the ghost of his abuelo changes everything. Through stories, language, music, dance, and food—including lessons on Colombian vs. Venezuelan arepas—Iggy begins to embrace his culture. With guidance from his abuelo and support from Marisol, a DACA recipient, Iggy transforms, reconnecting with his roots and identity.
The duality of the Latino experience is vividly portrayed. At school, Iggy is misidentified as Puerto Rican by classmates eager to claim West Side Story as "his culture." At home, during the 2016 election, his brother’s support for Trump starkly contrasts their parents’ immigrant reality. These dynamics feel deeply familiar and highlight the complexities of assimilation and belonging.
The ending—marking Iggy’s journey from “Iggy” to “Ignacio”—is profoundly moving. By the last page, I was filled with joy and ache, reflecting on how culture shapes us. Jorge Aguirre has crafted a timeless story for all children of immigrants, reminding us that culture is not just inherited—it’s something we must nurture for future generations.
Thank you, Jorge Aguirre, for this unforgettable work.
January 20, 2024
A graphic novel on family, new beginnings, and understanding of immigrations. Iggy initially started taking Spanish class for a girl he had a crush on, but he ended up finding a part of himself he never knew he had. Discovering his abuelito’s ashes, he was able to connect to his abuelito’s ghost and learned Spanish through him. Not only did Iggy learn a new language, he learned what grudge his abuelito had on his father, which resulted in him finding out that all he ever wanted was his father to return to Columbia and spread his ashes on the orchard gardens, to return to his first home. Even though Iggy was raised Americanized with hardly any knowledge of Spanish or his heritage, he still connected with his ancestors and grown to love that part of himself.
I find this book quite beautiful because honestly being the next generation in America, it’s hard to teach children where they came from when you start living in a country different from your ethnicity for a long time. You start to assimilate into the new country’s way of living and you grow used to that lifestyle. It’s not that you abandon your heritage, but it is just a different way of life that naturally happens.
What I don’t like about this book though is the fact that they brought Donald Trump into the book. I don’t think bringing politics to books should be presented the way the author did because it projects only a biased opinion and to growing children, they will always believe everything they see/read. I know that the author intended to mention Donald Trump in order to bring a point about how a president was against illegal immigrants and all that, but I think not naming anyone would have benefitted the author more. It can really lead to bad press and a lot of mess with this book.
Thank you to NetGallery for providing me an advanced digital copy for review.
I find this book quite beautiful because honestly being the next generation in America, it’s hard to teach children where they came from when you start living in a country different from your ethnicity for a long time. You start to assimilate into the new country’s way of living and you grow used to that lifestyle. It’s not that you abandon your heritage, but it is just a different way of life that naturally happens.
What I don’t like about this book though is the fact that they brought Donald Trump into the book. I don’t think bringing politics to books should be presented the way the author did because it projects only a biased opinion and to growing children, they will always believe everything they see/read. I know that the author intended to mention Donald Trump in order to bring a point about how a president was against illegal immigrants and all that, but I think not naming anyone would have benefitted the author more. It can really lead to bad press and a lot of mess with this book.
Thank you to NetGallery for providing me an advanced digital copy for review.
March 27, 2024
Reader’s Notes:
– this is told from Iggy’s point of view
– this occurs during the 2016 election/beginning of the school year (so there is some talk of politics – specifically about Donald Trump & Hillary Clinton, as well as how the resulting vote affected/would affect the Latino community)
– there is one Spanish curse word used a few times (maybe 5 uses?)
Review:
I had kinda thought that this would be mainly focusing on Iggy’s developing romance, and while it is a big part of the storyline, I was actually happily surprised that something else was a bigger part of this story. I loved learning more about Iggy’s heritage through his abuelito, as well as the struggles some Latinos in America face/have faced. I really enjoyed abuelito’s commentary on the things others would say or do around Iggy. Some of the things he said made me laugh. I really liked that this was a quick and enjoyable read!
Summary:
Iggy is starting his freshman year of high school, but is off to a rough start. Between being placed in Spanish instead of French, accidentally running into a girl causing coffee to spill on both of them, and dealing with his older brother things aren’t the best. But with the issues comes opportunities. By being placed in Spanish, Iggy has a chance to talk to his crush and have conversations with her, but with his limited knowledge of his ancestor’s language he doesn’t have a great time keeping her interest. Until one day, Iggy accidentally finds his grandfather’s ashes and meets his ghost. His abuelito wants to learn about his grandson’s life in America and help him with his daily struggles. Only, Iggy will find that his abuelito isn’t as all knowing as he seemed, and maybe there’s more to life than Iggy once thought…
– this is told from Iggy’s point of view
– this occurs during the 2016 election/beginning of the school year (so there is some talk of politics – specifically about Donald Trump & Hillary Clinton, as well as how the resulting vote affected/would affect the Latino community)
– there is one Spanish curse word used a few times (maybe 5 uses?)
Review:
I had kinda thought that this would be mainly focusing on Iggy’s developing romance, and while it is a big part of the storyline, I was actually happily surprised that something else was a bigger part of this story. I loved learning more about Iggy’s heritage through his abuelito, as well as the struggles some Latinos in America face/have faced. I really enjoyed abuelito’s commentary on the things others would say or do around Iggy. Some of the things he said made me laugh. I really liked that this was a quick and enjoyable read!
Summary:
Iggy is starting his freshman year of high school, but is off to a rough start. Between being placed in Spanish instead of French, accidentally running into a girl causing coffee to spill on both of them, and dealing with his older brother things aren’t the best. But with the issues comes opportunities. By being placed in Spanish, Iggy has a chance to talk to his crush and have conversations with her, but with his limited knowledge of his ancestor’s language he doesn’t have a great time keeping her interest. Until one day, Iggy accidentally finds his grandfather’s ashes and meets his ghost. His abuelito wants to learn about his grandson’s life in America and help him with his daily struggles. Only, Iggy will find that his abuelito isn’t as all knowing as he seemed, and maybe there’s more to life than Iggy once thought…
October 1, 2023
Ignacio (Iggy) Garcia has a rough first day of high school: his older brother Billy wants nothing to do with him, he bumps into a girl (Marisol) and spills coffee over her papers, and he finds himself in Spanish class instead of French. But even though he hasn't learned Spanish from his Colombian parents and would rather learn French, he sticks with Spanish in order to impress another girl, Kristi. A mishap in cleaning at home leads Iggy to discovering his dead abuelito's ashes -- and speaking with his ghost -- and soon his abuelito's advice has Iggy succeeding in class and in impressing the girl. Until the advice turns sour, that is, and Iggy must turn to Marisol to plead for her tutoring in Spanish. And along the way, Iggy might just learn a little more about himself and his heritage.
Set in 2016, this graphic novel not only captures the daily drama of high school, it also provides a look at how the political atmosphere affected communities in different ways. Iggy's brother and father seem inclined to support Trump, while Iggy's distaste for the future president becomes a deeper concern as he learns more about Marisol's situation as an undocumented person (one of the DACA Dreamers). The story explores the different struggles of different immigrants and reveals that their lives are much more multifaceted than political soundbites can portray. A poignant story, beautifully illustrated. 4 stars.
Thank you, First Second Books and NetGalley, for providing an eARC of this book. Opinions expressed here are solely my own.
Set in 2016, this graphic novel not only captures the daily drama of high school, it also provides a look at how the political atmosphere affected communities in different ways. Iggy's brother and father seem inclined to support Trump, while Iggy's distaste for the future president becomes a deeper concern as he learns more about Marisol's situation as an undocumented person (one of the DACA Dreamers). The story explores the different struggles of different immigrants and reveals that their lives are much more multifaceted than political soundbites can portray. A poignant story, beautifully illustrated. 4 stars.
Thank you, First Second Books and NetGalley, for providing an eARC of this book. Opinions expressed here are solely my own.
February 11, 2024
This graphic novel is so touching, funny, and truly a story I think everyone can enjoy and should read. It follows the life of a teenage boy, Iggy, who is just starting high school. Iggy is first generation Columbian-American and his parents immigrated from Columbia in the 80s. Iggy starts school and ends up placed in Spanish class instead of French. Who better to tutor him than his abuelito? Except his abuelito is dead so I guess his abuelito's ghost? And his abuelito might not be the best tutor or love advice expert, which leads to Iggy making an agreement with a girl, Marisol, to tutor him in Spanish in exchange for helping her with her work.
This story pulls at your heart strings and also makes you laugh. It both covers typical high school teenager issues while also going into important and more serious topics like immigration and the impact of intolerance and harmful stereotypes, such as those that were loudly shouted during the 2016 Trump campaign, and how they can impact the Latine American community, especially those undocumented. The story was beautiful and let's the reader in on this family's feelings across generations from abuelito, to father, to son. Iggy's abuelito is hilarious and provides so much life to the story, which is ironic given he's a ghost. I truly enjoyed the graphic novel from beginning to end, from the characters to the plot to the overall message.
I'm so thankful to have received an earc of this graphic novel and cannot recommend this graphic novel enough. It will not disappoint!
This story pulls at your heart strings and also makes you laugh. It both covers typical high school teenager issues while also going into important and more serious topics like immigration and the impact of intolerance and harmful stereotypes, such as those that were loudly shouted during the 2016 Trump campaign, and how they can impact the Latine American community, especially those undocumented. The story was beautiful and let's the reader in on this family's feelings across generations from abuelito, to father, to son. Iggy's abuelito is hilarious and provides so much life to the story, which is ironic given he's a ghost. I truly enjoyed the graphic novel from beginning to end, from the characters to the plot to the overall message.
I'm so thankful to have received an earc of this graphic novel and cannot recommend this graphic novel enough. It will not disappoint!
April 1, 2024
Interesting, perhaps surprisingly deep and rich, middle-school graphic novel about Latin youth in Ohio. Our lead is not going to rush to Spanish class, even if he's of that heritage, but when it leads to spending time with a hot girl it's going to be of interest. And lo and behold, he even gets help with his verb endings when he disturbs the ghost of his abuelito. But not even spectral help will make everything smooth, as his first terms in high school begin to show him the real adult world, especially the one lived by Hispanic teenagers in 2016 America, as MAGA stops indicating a magician, and comes to mean someone else very different indeed.
The end result is a love triangle kind of thing, as our dude unwittingly plays two girls, as well as a look at the Trump victory. It shows Spanish heritage people wanting Trump to win – there is too much immigration for their liking, for one – and what it might mean for others of that descent. And of course, people across the country have held onto that heritage with completely different levels of strength, just as, it seems, they did memory of their ancestors. This could have been a wordy, preachy diatribe about that, but instead is an open, welcoming kind of treat – an easy read with a lot to say, that you can just see as a teenaged romance if you need to. But its insight into the characters' world is worth exploring more deeply than that, for all the intervening years showed a lot of their fears to be not completely founded.
The end result is a love triangle kind of thing, as our dude unwittingly plays two girls, as well as a look at the Trump victory. It shows Spanish heritage people wanting Trump to win – there is too much immigration for their liking, for one – and what it might mean for others of that descent. And of course, people across the country have held onto that heritage with completely different levels of strength, just as, it seems, they did memory of their ancestors. This could have been a wordy, preachy diatribe about that, but instead is an open, welcoming kind of treat – an easy read with a lot to say, that you can just see as a teenaged romance if you need to. But its insight into the characters' world is worth exploring more deeply than that, for all the intervening years showed a lot of their fears to be not completely founded.
February 11, 2024
In Call Me Iggy, Iggy's father immigrated from Colombia in the 80's, but has let all his family traditions die off because he no longer wanted to be associated with that life. Iggy does not know spanish, but ends up taking the class in high school to be close to a girl he likes. When down in the basement he accidentally knocks over the urn containing ashes from his abuelito, causing the man's ghost to appear. As abuelito initially helps him with his spanish class, Iggy begins to learn about his lost family history and what should really be important in life. The majority of this book takes place in 2016, so you are looking at issues with the election, immigration, and DACA as part of the story.
I liked that this book took a look at the importance of family and traditions. That Iggy's grandfather not only gave him a large missing piece of his family history, but that it also made his family take a look at the way that they were living. The interactions between the characters, as well as the emotions, felt real. I also thought it was very interesting to see the viewpoint on Trump's policies as told through the perspective of Iggy's family.
I did feel like the story did jump around a bit, with some parts not really vibing as well with the rest of the book, but they were generally small injections into the story. Overall I liked this and I think that a lot of kids will, too.
I liked that this book took a look at the importance of family and traditions. That Iggy's grandfather not only gave him a large missing piece of his family history, but that it also made his family take a look at the way that they were living. The interactions between the characters, as well as the emotions, felt real. I also thought it was very interesting to see the viewpoint on Trump's policies as told through the perspective of Iggy's family.
I did feel like the story did jump around a bit, with some parts not really vibing as well with the rest of the book, but they were generally small injections into the story. Overall I liked this and I think that a lot of kids will, too.
April 18, 2024
Had this been marketed to a younger audience, I think I might have scored it a bit higher, but even so I was quite let down by what seemed like a promising premise.
Iggy's dad (and I assume mom?) moved to the US from Columbia in the 80s and never looked back. When Iggy stumbles upon his Abuelo's ashes in the basement, he accidentally releases his ghost who helps him learn Spanish and woo the girl he's crushing on. But Iggy struggles with his identity as a Columbian American and the way that people perceive him - not white enough, not Latino enough - while also living in the shadow of his super popular older brother. He's also getting help learning Spanish from a Mexican girl named Marisol, who helps him in exchange for him helping her and her family clean an office building after school. Also Trump is running for president, which scares Marisol with fears of deportation, and Iggy's dad and brother seem to be Trump fans.
There's just way, way too much going on in one short graphic novel, and everything feels very surface level. Also, so much of it is SO very in-your-face and it feels like it's bopping you over the head with the message(s). Also Iggy's Abuelo goes from very helpful to detrimental for no reason? Very confusing. If it had been a more consistent and solid story geared toward early middle grade I think this could have worked. But as it is, the only thing saving it is the illustrations.
Iggy's dad (and I assume mom?) moved to the US from Columbia in the 80s and never looked back. When Iggy stumbles upon his Abuelo's ashes in the basement, he accidentally releases his ghost who helps him learn Spanish and woo the girl he's crushing on. But Iggy struggles with his identity as a Columbian American and the way that people perceive him - not white enough, not Latino enough - while also living in the shadow of his super popular older brother. He's also getting help learning Spanish from a Mexican girl named Marisol, who helps him in exchange for him helping her and her family clean an office building after school. Also Trump is running for president, which scares Marisol with fears of deportation, and Iggy's dad and brother seem to be Trump fans.
There's just way, way too much going on in one short graphic novel, and everything feels very surface level. Also, so much of it is SO very in-your-face and it feels like it's bopping you over the head with the message(s). Also Iggy's Abuelo goes from very helpful to detrimental for no reason? Very confusing. If it had been a more consistent and solid story geared toward early middle grade I think this could have worked. But as it is, the only thing saving it is the illustrations.
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