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North of Tomboy
For fans of Kacen Callender, Lin Thompson, and Kyle Lukoff, comes a middle grade novel set in 1973 about a child who feels more boy than girl and is frustrated that people act blind to that when—aside for her stupid hair and clothes—it should be obvious!
Shy fourth grader Jess Jezowski turns the tables on her mom when she’s given yet another girly baby doll for Christmas. This time, instead of ignoring or destroying it, she transforms it into the boy she’s always wanted to be—a brave, funny little guy named Mickey. Making him talk, Jess finally lets the boy in her express himself.
But when Mickey evolves to become something more like an alter ego whose voice drowns out her own and the secret of him escapes the safety of her family, Jess realizes Mickey’s too limited and doesn’t allow the boy part of her a big enough presence in the world. She must find a way to blend him into her—so she can be that side of herself anywhere, around anyone.
Jess tries to wean herself from the crutch of Mickey’s loud, comical persona, and to get her family to forget about him, but she struggles to do both. What will it take for her to stop hiding behind Mickey and get people to see her for who she truly is? Based on the author’s experience growing up on Michigan’s rural Leelanau Peninsula in the ’70s, North of Tomboyincludes artwork throughout.
Shy fourth grader Jess Jezowski turns the tables on her mom when she’s given yet another girly baby doll for Christmas. This time, instead of ignoring or destroying it, she transforms it into the boy she’s always wanted to be—a brave, funny little guy named Mickey. Making him talk, Jess finally lets the boy in her express himself.
But when Mickey evolves to become something more like an alter ego whose voice drowns out her own and the secret of him escapes the safety of her family, Jess realizes Mickey’s too limited and doesn’t allow the boy part of her a big enough presence in the world. She must find a way to blend him into her—so she can be that side of herself anywhere, around anyone.
Jess tries to wean herself from the crutch of Mickey’s loud, comical persona, and to get her family to forget about him, but she struggles to do both. What will it take for her to stop hiding behind Mickey and get people to see her for who she truly is? Based on the author’s experience growing up on Michigan’s rural Leelanau Peninsula in the ’70s, North of Tomboyincludes artwork throughout.
376 pages, Paperback
First published September 2, 2025
4 people are currently reading
2559 people want to read
About the author
Julie A. Swanson
2 books16 followersJulie Swanson grew up on Michigan's "Little Finger", the Leelanau Peninsula, where many of her stories are set, but has lived in Wisconsin, Iowa, Vermont, New Hampshire, California, and Virginia. For the past twenty-five years she's lived in Charlottesville, VA. Julie writes middle grade and young adult novels and enjoys sports, the outdoors, "making things" (almost any type of art or craft, woodworking), reading, writing, eating, planting trees, and spending time with family. She suddenly has 6 grandchildren! Good thing she loves kids...
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 34 reviews
August 25, 2025
This story had an interesting premise. It took place in the early 1970s, a few years before I was even born. Things were different back then in terms of gender expectations, which weighed into the main issue of the novel...that Jess felt she was really a boy and no one understood what she was going through.
I liked a lot of things about this story, including how frustrated I felt on Jess's behalf. She did not want to wear dresses or skirts, have long hair, or play with stereotypical girl toys. Yet no one asked her what she actually wanted and basically told her what was expected of her because she was born female. She didn't even like hanging out with other girls who only wanted to talk about clothes and makeup. So when she gets yet another baby doll for Christmas, she decides to make it into the boy she isn't allowed to be and even gives him a personality and a voice to go along with it. I would have loved to hear her actually talk in that voice! She let Mickey (the doll) say all the things she couldn't say as Jess. Eventually, she started to take on Mickey's personality even when she wasn't carrying him around. I was cheering her on every time she took a stand, even if no one else approved of what she was doing.
This book is meant for middle grade readers. However, it is over 345 pages long. I don't know that middle grade readers will have the attention span, especially when there was a lot of minutiae or adult dialogue. Jess's dad yelled a lot at his wife and kids, which may also be upsetting for a middle grade reader. There was also a lot of political discussion focused on that time period. As a side note, I found it funny that hors d'oeuvres were mentioned a lot. If I had read this in middle grade, I would have pronounced it the way I saw it (hores dee ovERs) vs. as "orderves". Until I was in college, I didn't know that they were pronounced that way.
Overall, this is an interesting story and worth sharing with readers who are questioning their own gender, or really anyone because then they can actually be more sensitive to kids who are going through this. Sadly, with the way things are in this day and age, it doesn't feel like such a large stretch between 1973 and now when it comes to sensitivity toward gender identities.
(Additional trigger warnings below.)
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TW: Mean girl behavior. Main character gets injured a few times (of her own doing).
I liked a lot of things about this story, including how frustrated I felt on Jess's behalf. She did not want to wear dresses or skirts, have long hair, or play with stereotypical girl toys. Yet no one asked her what she actually wanted and basically told her what was expected of her because she was born female. She didn't even like hanging out with other girls who only wanted to talk about clothes and makeup. So when she gets yet another baby doll for Christmas, she decides to make it into the boy she isn't allowed to be and even gives him a personality and a voice to go along with it. I would have loved to hear her actually talk in that voice! She let Mickey (the doll) say all the things she couldn't say as Jess. Eventually, she started to take on Mickey's personality even when she wasn't carrying him around. I was cheering her on every time she took a stand, even if no one else approved of what she was doing.
This book is meant for middle grade readers. However, it is over 345 pages long. I don't know that middle grade readers will have the attention span, especially when there was a lot of minutiae or adult dialogue. Jess's dad yelled a lot at his wife and kids, which may also be upsetting for a middle grade reader. There was also a lot of political discussion focused on that time period. As a side note, I found it funny that hors d'oeuvres were mentioned a lot. If I had read this in middle grade, I would have pronounced it the way I saw it (hores dee ovERs) vs. as "orderves". Until I was in college, I didn't know that they were pronounced that way.
Overall, this is an interesting story and worth sharing with readers who are questioning their own gender, or really anyone because then they can actually be more sensitive to kids who are going through this. Sadly, with the way things are in this day and age, it doesn't feel like such a large stretch between 1973 and now when it comes to sensitivity toward gender identities.
(Additional trigger warnings below.)
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TW: Mean girl behavior. Main character gets injured a few times (of her own doing).
June 11, 2025
(rounded up from 4.5)
Thank you, NetGalley, for an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.
I always appreciate when books are targeted towards younger audiences, in this case, middle graders, but the quality of writing remains high enough not to talk down to them or be unengaging for older audiences. I also appreciate the trickiness of addressing the subject matter: kids who are simply "tomboys", i.e. girls but a bit more masculine than the usual feminine presentation, and kids who simply do not feel like girls at all but lack the language or concepts to be able to articulate the feeling, much less actually override their parents' views of who they should be and what they should look like.
I wasn't initially a fan of this being set in the seventies but by the end, I'm convinced that this time period as a setting actually works better than a modern day context because we have a family that is semi-isolated from major cities and other people in the community but are still big churchgoers and have a very small school where 300 kids from Kindergarten to High School go together to study. This setting works really well as a means for kids who are living in non-metropolitan areas or are part of religious families in modern day to understand the idea of guilt about disobeying parents, but also being forced to tell little white lies to appease adults in their lives.
I particularly enjoyed the repurposing of yet another doll for Jess, who absolutely does not want any more dolls to play with, as a boy, after changing "his" appearance and giving him a name and voice. "Mickey" flourishes after the most basic social gender affirming care (a haircut and more masculine clothes) and gives Jess a mouthpiece to be funny and convincing enough to advocate for herself with her parents and siblings. Jess using Mickey's affectations and comedic style to express herself more convincingly and advocate for herself was delightful to watch, as was her slowly realising that she needed to take those aspects of herself and channel them through her own voice rather than a doll's.
I also enjoyed (by the end) the way that families are depicted as realistically flawed. Older brothers do not want younger sisters tagging along with them for "boy activities", and Jess wants to make friends with the boys in her class because she relates more to their activities and interests, but is forced to befriend girls because spending too much time with boys at this age results in teasing for the girl about liking the boy. Parents are doing their best to heal from their own trauma growing up and are still deeply flawed, but are learning slowly but surely how to be better. There are no clear-cut villains or heroes, just complex people interacting with each other and growing over the course of this book, and I love that we are modelling how it's okay to advocate for yourself and your loved ones, even within family, when the dynamics are hurtful to you and others.
All in all, aside from one censored "ass" from an adult who is annoyed, this book would be an excellent example for growing minds in middle-school about gender and how someone feels if they are not quite what they are presented to be and how it literally makes them feel isolated, shameful, and uncomfortable to be constantly put in that box.
Thank you, NetGalley, for an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.
I always appreciate when books are targeted towards younger audiences, in this case, middle graders, but the quality of writing remains high enough not to talk down to them or be unengaging for older audiences. I also appreciate the trickiness of addressing the subject matter: kids who are simply "tomboys", i.e. girls but a bit more masculine than the usual feminine presentation, and kids who simply do not feel like girls at all but lack the language or concepts to be able to articulate the feeling, much less actually override their parents' views of who they should be and what they should look like.
I wasn't initially a fan of this being set in the seventies but by the end, I'm convinced that this time period as a setting actually works better than a modern day context because we have a family that is semi-isolated from major cities and other people in the community but are still big churchgoers and have a very small school where 300 kids from Kindergarten to High School go together to study. This setting works really well as a means for kids who are living in non-metropolitan areas or are part of religious families in modern day to understand the idea of guilt about disobeying parents, but also being forced to tell little white lies to appease adults in their lives.
I particularly enjoyed the repurposing of yet another doll for Jess, who absolutely does not want any more dolls to play with, as a boy, after changing "his" appearance and giving him a name and voice. "Mickey" flourishes after the most basic social gender affirming care (a haircut and more masculine clothes) and gives Jess a mouthpiece to be funny and convincing enough to advocate for herself with her parents and siblings. Jess using Mickey's affectations and comedic style to express herself more convincingly and advocate for herself was delightful to watch, as was her slowly realising that she needed to take those aspects of herself and channel them through her own voice rather than a doll's.
I also enjoyed (by the end) the way that families are depicted as realistically flawed. Older brothers do not want younger sisters tagging along with them for "boy activities", and Jess wants to make friends with the boys in her class because she relates more to their activities and interests, but is forced to befriend girls because spending too much time with boys at this age results in teasing for the girl about liking the boy. Parents are doing their best to heal from their own trauma growing up and are still deeply flawed, but are learning slowly but surely how to be better. There are no clear-cut villains or heroes, just complex people interacting with each other and growing over the course of this book, and I love that we are modelling how it's okay to advocate for yourself and your loved ones, even within family, when the dynamics are hurtful to you and others.
All in all, aside from one censored "ass" from an adult who is annoyed, this book would be an excellent example for growing minds in middle-school about gender and how someone feels if they are not quite what they are presented to be and how it literally makes them feel isolated, shameful, and uncomfortable to be constantly put in that box.
June 28, 2025
Julie Swanson's North of Tomboy provides an intimate look at a young girl's discomfort with the traditional and stereotypical concepts of "femininity" and her frustration at not being able to express that discomfort so she can fully be who she wants to be. Jess is much more in tune with the activities and personality associated with being a boy: sports, outdoor adventures, pants and tee shirts, being allowed to do things that girls are often not allowed to. Although today such traditional gender non-comformity is more accepted, in the early 1970s rural setting of the story, Jess's discomfort with being a "girl" (especially in a Catholic family) would not only not be understood, but would also be considered scandalous. There are, of course, still places and cultural groups across the country (and world) where strict gender and sex-based divisions are enforced and imposed, so the novel provides a relevant window to modern Middle Grade readers in spite of its historic setting.
It is a good history lesson in other ways, as the early 1970s were a watershed moment for social change: Watergate, the still raging Vietnam War, a change in how US citizens regarded their government, the rise of 2nd Wave feminism that eventually led to the passage of Title IX that made it easier for kids like Jess to take full advantage of the opportunities for education and athletic activities usually reserved for boys. Middle Grade readers of today will have a glimpse of what that landscape was like before those social changes, and perhaps understand that they must not let those advantages be lost.
I found it both sad and interesting that Jess could only start to find her voice and eventual confidence to be fully herself through Mickey, the traditional "baby doll" that she transformed into a male doll, so that he became her alter ego. Although most of her family kept trying to keep her in her "girly" place (her brothers and mother especially), I did like that her father seemed the most aware and even accepting of her non-girly attributes, although it's not clear how accepting he would have been if Jess had told him she really felt like a a boy inside.
One thing that stood out to me is that it isn't fully clear throughout the story what Jess really wants: to not have to be "girly" or to actually want to be a boy. Given she is still only 10 by book's end, it is perhaps reasonable to assume that Jess herself isn't fully clear about this either. While some/many Middle Grade readers struggling with the social "definitions" of gender identity (even today when that gender spectrum is much wider and diverse) may find this aspect a bit frustrating because this is no "definitive" certainty about what Jess wants, it is actually much more realistic, isn't it? This may provide Middle Grade readers with a sense of comfort that it is perfectly okay NOT to have all this figured out. For Jess to not have it figured out echoes the rather chaotic social/political climate in which the story is set. And, frankly, ambiguity and uncertainty are par for the course for Middle Graders!
I thank Julie Swanson and Book Sirens for the opportunity to read this advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
It is a good history lesson in other ways, as the early 1970s were a watershed moment for social change: Watergate, the still raging Vietnam War, a change in how US citizens regarded their government, the rise of 2nd Wave feminism that eventually led to the passage of Title IX that made it easier for kids like Jess to take full advantage of the opportunities for education and athletic activities usually reserved for boys. Middle Grade readers of today will have a glimpse of what that landscape was like before those social changes, and perhaps understand that they must not let those advantages be lost.
I found it both sad and interesting that Jess could only start to find her voice and eventual confidence to be fully herself through Mickey, the traditional "baby doll" that she transformed into a male doll, so that he became her alter ego. Although most of her family kept trying to keep her in her "girly" place (her brothers and mother especially), I did like that her father seemed the most aware and even accepting of her non-girly attributes, although it's not clear how accepting he would have been if Jess had told him she really felt like a a boy inside.
One thing that stood out to me is that it isn't fully clear throughout the story what Jess really wants: to not have to be "girly" or to actually want to be a boy. Given she is still only 10 by book's end, it is perhaps reasonable to assume that Jess herself isn't fully clear about this either. While some/many Middle Grade readers struggling with the social "definitions" of gender identity (even today when that gender spectrum is much wider and diverse) may find this aspect a bit frustrating because this is no "definitive" certainty about what Jess wants, it is actually much more realistic, isn't it? This may provide Middle Grade readers with a sense of comfort that it is perfectly okay NOT to have all this figured out. For Jess to not have it figured out echoes the rather chaotic social/political climate in which the story is set. And, frankly, ambiguity and uncertainty are par for the course for Middle Graders!
I thank Julie Swanson and Book Sirens for the opportunity to read this advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
September 5, 2025
Thank you to BookSparks for my free copy and the opportunity to read and review this middle grade novel. All opinions are my own.
Our main character, Jess, is 9 years old when we meet her. It's 1972 (then '73). She lives with her family next to a lake on Michigan's Leelanau Peninsula, which itself juts out into northern Lake Michigan. The third of four children with two older brothers, Jess doesn't fit the mold of what society - and more immediately, her parents - expect of her as a girl. Jess knows who she is, but she's not allowed to be her authentic self because of these outside expectations. She physically and metaphorically itches when forced to wear a dress. She wants to tag along with her brothers. She wants to play a sport. But instead she's pushed back into the box of what a girl is supposed to be.
One Christmas, everything changes when Jess receives yet another doll as a gift. She cuts the doll's hair, decides that he's a boy, and before she knows it "Mickey" has taken on a life of his own. To be clear, this is not magical realism. Mickey is perfectly real to Jess but as an adult reader looking on I could see that he was her outlet - her alter ego. Mickey gives Jess a louder voice to say who she is and what she wants, and we get to follow her journey of self-discovery in this book.
This is a wonderful middle grade novel for all kids, especially those who might not fit traditional categories or expectations. Thankfully a lot has changed in terms of societal gender roles in the past 50 years, but sadly not nearly enough has. Indeed, it often feels like we're regressing. This book and Jess's journey are a valuable contribution to the world because they encourage us all to own who we are and to accept our loved ones - especially our children - for who they are. My personal connections to this book aren't fully mine to share publicly on the internet, so I'll just say I loved how much I could relate to this book, and to this family. Thank you to author Julie A. Swanson for putting this out into the world, and congratulations on its publication!
Our main character, Jess, is 9 years old when we meet her. It's 1972 (then '73). She lives with her family next to a lake on Michigan's Leelanau Peninsula, which itself juts out into northern Lake Michigan. The third of four children with two older brothers, Jess doesn't fit the mold of what society - and more immediately, her parents - expect of her as a girl. Jess knows who she is, but she's not allowed to be her authentic self because of these outside expectations. She physically and metaphorically itches when forced to wear a dress. She wants to tag along with her brothers. She wants to play a sport. But instead she's pushed back into the box of what a girl is supposed to be.
One Christmas, everything changes when Jess receives yet another doll as a gift. She cuts the doll's hair, decides that he's a boy, and before she knows it "Mickey" has taken on a life of his own. To be clear, this is not magical realism. Mickey is perfectly real to Jess but as an adult reader looking on I could see that he was her outlet - her alter ego. Mickey gives Jess a louder voice to say who she is and what she wants, and we get to follow her journey of self-discovery in this book.
This is a wonderful middle grade novel for all kids, especially those who might not fit traditional categories or expectations. Thankfully a lot has changed in terms of societal gender roles in the past 50 years, but sadly not nearly enough has. Indeed, it often feels like we're regressing. This book and Jess's journey are a valuable contribution to the world because they encourage us all to own who we are and to accept our loved ones - especially our children - for who they are. My personal connections to this book aren't fully mine to share publicly on the internet, so I'll just say I loved how much I could relate to this book, and to this family. Thank you to author Julie A. Swanson for putting this out into the world, and congratulations on its publication!
September 5, 2025
Thank you to @jules9swanson and @booksparks for the gifted book as part of #fallpopup. All opinions are my own.
NORTH OF TOMBOY introduces us to Fourth-Grader Jess Jezowski as she tries to figure out who she is amid the expectations of her family and society. Jess loves being outdoors. She loves sports and wearing pants. She doesn’t like dolls, playing house, or wearing dresses. But it’s 1973 and gender nonconformity is not understood and generally frowned upon.
When Jess receives a doll for Christmas, she does with it what she cannot do with herself. She gives it a haircut, names it Mickey, and uses it to voice what she’s feeling. Through Mickey, Jess finds her courage and her voice.
Given that Jess’s character is 10-years-old, I found it entirely realistic that what she wants is never fully defined. There’s nothing heavy handed here, no agenda; simply a child trying to find her way and a family unsure of how to deal with her feelings.
This is marketed as a middle grade book and readers that age may find the pacing a bit slow. They will, however, respond favorably to the authenticity of Jess’s voice through this story. The chapter names and illustrations add a charming and appealing touch. Middle grade readers and adults alike will enjoy the setting and time period.
NORTH OF TOMBOY introduces us to Fourth-Grader Jess Jezowski as she tries to figure out who she is amid the expectations of her family and society. Jess loves being outdoors. She loves sports and wearing pants. She doesn’t like dolls, playing house, or wearing dresses. But it’s 1973 and gender nonconformity is not understood and generally frowned upon.
When Jess receives a doll for Christmas, she does with it what she cannot do with herself. She gives it a haircut, names it Mickey, and uses it to voice what she’s feeling. Through Mickey, Jess finds her courage and her voice.
Given that Jess’s character is 10-years-old, I found it entirely realistic that what she wants is never fully defined. There’s nothing heavy handed here, no agenda; simply a child trying to find her way and a family unsure of how to deal with her feelings.
This is marketed as a middle grade book and readers that age may find the pacing a bit slow. They will, however, respond favorably to the authenticity of Jess’s voice through this story. The chapter names and illustrations add a charming and appealing touch. Middle grade readers and adults alike will enjoy the setting and time period.
April 24, 2025
“North of Tomboy, a vivid and heartfelt story set in the 70s, explores themes that, unfortunately, are still relevant today. Lake Michigan settings are beautifully depicted as a refuge for nine-year-old Jess as she struggles to claim what she believes is rightfully hers—the freedom to do everything boys are allowed to do—even as her beloved parents try hard to understand, but often fall short. Like most girls her age, Jess has run-ins with friends and siblings. But she also possesses an endearing self-reflective nature beyond her years, allowing her to creatively approach her problems and ultimately express “the truth of who I am.” Jess shows us the many facets of courage, perseverance, and love, and how the road to embracing them is not linear, but one that each individual must create for themselves.”
-Kimberly Behre Kenna, author of Artemis Sparke and the Sound Seekers Brigade and Jett Jamison and the Secret Storm
-Kimberly Behre Kenna, author of Artemis Sparke and the Sound Seekers Brigade and Jett Jamison and the Secret Storm
August 31, 2025
I don’t normally read middle grade, but when I came across the premise for North of Tomboy by Julie A. Swanson, I knew I had to pick it up. While written for a middle grade audience, the lyrical, introspective, and immersive prose makes it equally powerful for older readers.
At its heart, this is a story about gender identity in conflict with societal & familial expectations, finding your voice, and self-love. The story takes place in the 1970s, a time when those expectations were even more rigid, which makes the themes all the more impactful. The protagonist, Jess, is a 4th grader who relates more to stereotypical “boy” activities than “girly” ones, and her emotions are captured with honesty and tenderness that feel both authentic and deeply relatable. Swanson also portrays the parents’ struggle with their child’s gender nonconformity in a nuanced and compassionate way. Together, these threads create an unforgettable portrait of what it means to grow up outside the boxes the world tries to put you in.
North of Tomboy is a book I’m so glad I read, and one I cannot wait to share with my kids when they are older. Its message is just as timely and relevant today as it would have been in the 1970s, reminding us that stories about identity, self-acceptance, and challenging societal expectations never lose their importance.
✨ Tropes & Themes You’ll Find:
• Coming of age
• Gender identity and self-discovery
• Childhood nostalgia
• Strict parents and generational expectations
• Found courage and finding your voice
• Slice of life in the 1970s
• “Not like other girls” examined thoughtfully
Big thanks to the author and BookSparks for the gifted copy!
At its heart, this is a story about gender identity in conflict with societal & familial expectations, finding your voice, and self-love. The story takes place in the 1970s, a time when those expectations were even more rigid, which makes the themes all the more impactful. The protagonist, Jess, is a 4th grader who relates more to stereotypical “boy” activities than “girly” ones, and her emotions are captured with honesty and tenderness that feel both authentic and deeply relatable. Swanson also portrays the parents’ struggle with their child’s gender nonconformity in a nuanced and compassionate way. Together, these threads create an unforgettable portrait of what it means to grow up outside the boxes the world tries to put you in.
North of Tomboy is a book I’m so glad I read, and one I cannot wait to share with my kids when they are older. Its message is just as timely and relevant today as it would have been in the 1970s, reminding us that stories about identity, self-acceptance, and challenging societal expectations never lose their importance.
✨ Tropes & Themes You’ll Find:
• Coming of age
• Gender identity and self-discovery
• Childhood nostalgia
• Strict parents and generational expectations
• Found courage and finding your voice
• Slice of life in the 1970s
• “Not like other girls” examined thoughtfully
Big thanks to the author and BookSparks for the gifted copy!
September 8, 2025
Jess Jezowski is a nine-year-old girl from a large family growing up in rural Michigan. She hates everything about being a girl and consistently rebels against it in her own, quiet way. Then, she receives a doll for Christmas, and she cuts off its hair, names and Mickey, and develops a strong, witty voice for him. Through Mickey, she’s able to say the things that she’s always wanted to say, and as a result, she begins to come into her own and let those around her know what it’s really like to be a tomboy growing up in a very oppressed family, town, and time period.
North of Tomboy is a wonderfully told story about girlhood, family dynamics, and finding your voice, even if it is through an inanimate object. Each chapter teaches us more about Jess and her family and exhibits expert storytelling, characterization, and a clear message from its author.
You can read my full review and interview with the author here: https://laurasbooksandblogs.com/north...
North of Tomboy is a wonderfully told story about girlhood, family dynamics, and finding your voice, even if it is through an inanimate object. Each chapter teaches us more about Jess and her family and exhibits expert storytelling, characterization, and a clear message from its author.
You can read my full review and interview with the author here: https://laurasbooksandblogs.com/north...
September 16, 2025
Thank you to Booksparks for the gifted copy to read and enjoy.
I was initially drawn to this book because I’m always searching for more queer reads and I like that it was a middle grade coming of age about our main character trying to figure out their gender and feelings. I know more are becoming available but I like that those younger kids are able to have this book to read and possibly related to it. I enjoyed our main character Jess and her figuring out that she did feel more tomboy than girly girl. I liked that she made her own way to show what she felt by making Mickey the baby doll into a boy and using him to say things she didn’t feel like she could as Jess the girl. I did feel bad for her that her family didn’t really listen to her and did what they wanted, I mean I those times I think it was more ignored and people were just made to confirm to gender norms. I don’t get why her mom pushed so hard honestly. If my kid doesn’t want to wear dresses I don’t make her. I do feel like the story is very realistic for the topics we are reading about. Only thing that is was a bit off is the length and that this is a middle grade story, I think it’s a bit too long but that’s okay.
I would recommend this to other readers trying to broaden their knowledge and horizons.
I was initially drawn to this book because I’m always searching for more queer reads and I like that it was a middle grade coming of age about our main character trying to figure out their gender and feelings. I know more are becoming available but I like that those younger kids are able to have this book to read and possibly related to it. I enjoyed our main character Jess and her figuring out that she did feel more tomboy than girly girl. I liked that she made her own way to show what she felt by making Mickey the baby doll into a boy and using him to say things she didn’t feel like she could as Jess the girl. I did feel bad for her that her family didn’t really listen to her and did what they wanted, I mean I those times I think it was more ignored and people were just made to confirm to gender norms. I don’t get why her mom pushed so hard honestly. If my kid doesn’t want to wear dresses I don’t make her. I do feel like the story is very realistic for the topics we are reading about. Only thing that is was a bit off is the length and that this is a middle grade story, I think it’s a bit too long but that’s okay.
I would recommend this to other readers trying to broaden their knowledge and horizons.
August 27, 2025
#NorthofTomboy (9/2/2025)
Quick Synopsis: Set in 1973, North of Tomboy follows shy fourth grader Jess Jezowski, who feels more like a boy than a girl and channels that identity through a transformed Christmas doll named Mickey. But when Mickey’s loud, comical persona threatens to overshadow Jess’s true self, she must find the courage to blend her inner boy into her everyday life and show the world who she really is.
💭📖💭📖💭📖💭📖💭📖💭
My Thoughts: North of Tomboy is a moving and poetic middle grade novel set in 1973 that follows nine-year-old Jess Jezowski, a shy fourth grader who feels more boy than girl but struggles to make others see that truth. After transforming a Christmas doll into “Mickey,” the boy she longs to be, Jess begins to explore identity, faith, family, and history in a voice that is heartfelt, symbolic, and deeply authentic.
The writing is lyrical and layered, with chapter titles and accompanying illustrations that make the story immersive. Jess’s reflections on how God made her out of clay, using colors to symbolize different parts of her, and comparing the boy inside her to a vampire, are some of the most memorable passages I’ve read in a middle grade book. The mix of personal symbolism, religion, sports, and cultural context of the early 1970s (including Watergate and Nixon) creates a rich and unique backdrop. As someone who went to college in Michigan and has visited Mackinac Island, I especially connected to the sense of place. Jess is a likable and relatable character, while her parents, especially her frustrated father, are written with such subtlety that makes them feel both real and complicated.
✔️ Who might enjoy this book:
* Readers who appreciate poetic, introspective middle grade fiction
* Fans of authors like Kacen Callender, Kyle Lukoff, or Lin Thompson
* Parents looking for thoughtful books to read with their children that spark discussion about identity, family, and faith
* Mature middle readers who enjoy books with historical settings, sports references, and layered symbolism
* Readers who connect with stories about religion, self-expression, and resilience
This is not necessarily a book for reluctant readers because the pacing and length may be challenging. It’s a perfect fit for open-minded families, mature middle graders, or classrooms and book clubs that want to dive into identity and history together. I love that this publisher continues to bring forward voices we all can learn from, and Jess’s story is one I’m glad to have read. I definitely recommend it.
Goodreads Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🥰 Thank you to @booksparks for providing the physical book for review consideration and the digital copy via @NetGalley. All opinions are my own.
Quick Synopsis: Set in 1973, North of Tomboy follows shy fourth grader Jess Jezowski, who feels more like a boy than a girl and channels that identity through a transformed Christmas doll named Mickey. But when Mickey’s loud, comical persona threatens to overshadow Jess’s true self, she must find the courage to blend her inner boy into her everyday life and show the world who she really is.
💭📖💭📖💭📖💭📖💭📖💭
My Thoughts: North of Tomboy is a moving and poetic middle grade novel set in 1973 that follows nine-year-old Jess Jezowski, a shy fourth grader who feels more boy than girl but struggles to make others see that truth. After transforming a Christmas doll into “Mickey,” the boy she longs to be, Jess begins to explore identity, faith, family, and history in a voice that is heartfelt, symbolic, and deeply authentic.
The writing is lyrical and layered, with chapter titles and accompanying illustrations that make the story immersive. Jess’s reflections on how God made her out of clay, using colors to symbolize different parts of her, and comparing the boy inside her to a vampire, are some of the most memorable passages I’ve read in a middle grade book. The mix of personal symbolism, religion, sports, and cultural context of the early 1970s (including Watergate and Nixon) creates a rich and unique backdrop. As someone who went to college in Michigan and has visited Mackinac Island, I especially connected to the sense of place. Jess is a likable and relatable character, while her parents, especially her frustrated father, are written with such subtlety that makes them feel both real and complicated.
✔️ Who might enjoy this book:
* Readers who appreciate poetic, introspective middle grade fiction
* Fans of authors like Kacen Callender, Kyle Lukoff, or Lin Thompson
* Parents looking for thoughtful books to read with their children that spark discussion about identity, family, and faith
* Mature middle readers who enjoy books with historical settings, sports references, and layered symbolism
* Readers who connect with stories about religion, self-expression, and resilience
This is not necessarily a book for reluctant readers because the pacing and length may be challenging. It’s a perfect fit for open-minded families, mature middle graders, or classrooms and book clubs that want to dive into identity and history together. I love that this publisher continues to bring forward voices we all can learn from, and Jess’s story is one I’m glad to have read. I definitely recommend it.
Goodreads Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🥰 Thank you to @booksparks for providing the physical book for review consideration and the digital copy via @NetGalley. All opinions are my own.
August 28, 2025
North of Tomboy is inspired by the author's personal experiences of growing up in the rural Leelanau Peninsula in Michigan, during the 1970s. At the start of the story, Jess uses the metaphor of blue and red clay in place of gender to relate how she feels like she is a "mishmash" of the two. Jess identifies as a tomboy, and more as a boy than as a girl. She experiments being more like a boy by trying on her brother's clothes and wants to cut her hair shorter. Then for Christmas, Jess receives yet another baby doll, which angers and frustrates her. Jess views this as yet another sign that her parents haven't been listening to her. Determined to voice her thoughts finally, Jess alters the doll to resemble the boy she envisions herself to be, naming it Mickey. She even starts speaking and acting as if she has embraced the persona of Mickey. Gradually, Jess starts to realize that Mickey's voice cannot substitute her own. She understands that she needs to find a way to express herself that doesn't rely on Mickey to voice the important, and challenging things that she wants to say.
At first, I felt conflicted about Jess speaking through Mickey. It seemed like she was putting on a ventriloquist act for her family instead of sharing her genuine thoughts. However, it also served as a humorous way for her to break the ice. As the story progressed and Jess relied on Mickey less and less, I came to understand why she initially needed this support.
Mickey's voice is sassy and often pushes back on what Jess's family is saying. While Jess gets tight feelings in her chest and is riddled by anxiety from bottling things up. The entire family walks on eggshells from their dad, who clearly has anger issues. Jess tries to conform to her catholic family's beliefs and views on proper manners for young ladies but is frustrated by how her brothers get to do the things that she would like to do. She has to wear dresses to school at least part of the week and can't wear the comfortable clothing that they wear, and her hair is always getting in the way. Jess's mom also constantly meddles in her life, trying to encourage her to have sleepovers and wanting her to get closer to Candy and Tricia from her class. Even though Jess doesn't feel she has anything in common with these girls and has repeatedly told her that she doesn't want to go.
Reading about Jess's experiences in the 1970's was fascinating, with moments like the family gathering to watch TV, playing games together, and hearing the news about Watergate and Bille Jean King's pioneering gender equality with her participation in the Battle of the Sexes. The story has a charming small-town vibe, focusing on family, school, church and work. Religion and catechism lessons have an important role in the family and Jess works hard to avoid committing a sin. There's an interesting moment between Jess and her mom where her mother tells a white lie, prompting Jess to reflect on how politeness or sparing someone's feelings can sometimes win over honesty. Jess's family is genuinely caring yet undeniably flawed. Her parents are dealing with their own struggles and imperfections, while Jess works to find her place in the family and her voice. By the end of the book, she succeeds in getting her mother to understand her better and the family dynamics begin to shift positively for her. At nine, soon to be ten, it's not entirely clear what Jess fully desires by the end of the book, but this ambiguity feels authentic given her age and the era.
At first, I felt conflicted about Jess speaking through Mickey. It seemed like she was putting on a ventriloquist act for her family instead of sharing her genuine thoughts. However, it also served as a humorous way for her to break the ice. As the story progressed and Jess relied on Mickey less and less, I came to understand why she initially needed this support.
Mickey's voice is sassy and often pushes back on what Jess's family is saying. While Jess gets tight feelings in her chest and is riddled by anxiety from bottling things up. The entire family walks on eggshells from their dad, who clearly has anger issues. Jess tries to conform to her catholic family's beliefs and views on proper manners for young ladies but is frustrated by how her brothers get to do the things that she would like to do. She has to wear dresses to school at least part of the week and can't wear the comfortable clothing that they wear, and her hair is always getting in the way. Jess's mom also constantly meddles in her life, trying to encourage her to have sleepovers and wanting her to get closer to Candy and Tricia from her class. Even though Jess doesn't feel she has anything in common with these girls and has repeatedly told her that she doesn't want to go.
Reading about Jess's experiences in the 1970's was fascinating, with moments like the family gathering to watch TV, playing games together, and hearing the news about Watergate and Bille Jean King's pioneering gender equality with her participation in the Battle of the Sexes. The story has a charming small-town vibe, focusing on family, school, church and work. Religion and catechism lessons have an important role in the family and Jess works hard to avoid committing a sin. There's an interesting moment between Jess and her mom where her mother tells a white lie, prompting Jess to reflect on how politeness or sparing someone's feelings can sometimes win over honesty. Jess's family is genuinely caring yet undeniably flawed. Her parents are dealing with their own struggles and imperfections, while Jess works to find her place in the family and her voice. By the end of the book, she succeeds in getting her mother to understand her better and the family dynamics begin to shift positively for her. At nine, soon to be ten, it's not entirely clear what Jess fully desires by the end of the book, but this ambiguity feels authentic given her age and the era.
September 2, 2025
Okay so I really really enjoyed this book. The struggles with Jess and not being able to be who she wants to be on the outside. Finding her voice within Mickey. The struggles of her mom wanting to maintain her daughter’s female appearance and a marriage that tests her internally at times. The incorporation of how her dad seemed like he just had really struggled with his anger and what not that is a clear reflection of his childhood, and how he truly was trying to be the best dad and husband he could- it was raw and heartfelt and I just adored this story from start to finish.
August 29, 2025
Thank you Booksparks and author Julie Swason for the gifted #fallpopup book North of Tomboy which is out this Tuesday, Sept. 2.
Set in the 1970s, this middle grade novel is the story of 4th grader Jess who’s more comfortable in jeans than dresses and who’d rather play baseball with the boys than play dolls with the girls. When Jess gets yet another baby doll for Christmas, she turns it into the boy she wants to be. Jess names him Mickey and he becomes her alter ego.
This is an emotional story of how Jess learns to express herself and allow the boy part of herself out into the world. This book really hit home for me because I grew up during the time period of the book and I was a tomboy. I could really relate to Jess wanting to wear pants to school instead of a dress or a skirt and I loved playing and watching sports.
At first Jess uses Mickey as a stand in to voice her opinions and argue her case for wanting short hair or to not wear a dress. But she eventually realizes that she can’t hide behind Mickey forever. She learns to stand up for herself and to be able to show others who she truly is. After all, isn’t that what we all want? To be seen for who we are.
Set in the 1970s, this middle grade novel is the story of 4th grader Jess who’s more comfortable in jeans than dresses and who’d rather play baseball with the boys than play dolls with the girls. When Jess gets yet another baby doll for Christmas, she turns it into the boy she wants to be. Jess names him Mickey and he becomes her alter ego.
This is an emotional story of how Jess learns to express herself and allow the boy part of herself out into the world. This book really hit home for me because I grew up during the time period of the book and I was a tomboy. I could really relate to Jess wanting to wear pants to school instead of a dress or a skirt and I loved playing and watching sports.
At first Jess uses Mickey as a stand in to voice her opinions and argue her case for wanting short hair or to not wear a dress. But she eventually realizes that she can’t hide behind Mickey forever. She learns to stand up for herself and to be able to show others who she truly is. After all, isn’t that what we all want? To be seen for who we are.
August 28, 2025
I went into this book completely blind. It was honestly such a refreshing and nice read. I think it really captured the idea of a child struggling with their own identity so incredibly well. The book takes place in the 70s which I think is reflected incredibly well in the story. It really plays into how the main character is feeling and dealing with stereotypical, gender roles. I would definitely recommend giving this book a try.
July 20, 2025
Content Guide: No sexual content or foul language.
Some adult alcohol use, one instance of smoking tobacco, one accidental injury. Themes of gender stereotyping.
In this book, North of Tomboy, the main character, Jess, doesn’t fit with female gender stereotypes. She likes to play outside, climb trees, and play sports. She wants to be allowed to always wear pants, and cut her hair short, but is frustrated by her parents gender expectations. At first, she doesn’t know how to speak up for herself, but throughout the book she learns how to communicate her needs and be more true to herself.
I liked reading about how the world was in the 70s, and some of the historical events. I could clearly picture the settings and characters in the story. The story felt very realistic and down-to-Earth. I enjoyed learning more about why it’s important to have freedom to dress and present ourselves in an authentic way. This was an interesting book that I would recommend to kids ages 10 to 14.
Thank you to NetGalley and SparkPress for the e-arc in exchange for my honest review.
-Laurel, 12 years old.
Some adult alcohol use, one instance of smoking tobacco, one accidental injury. Themes of gender stereotyping.
In this book, North of Tomboy, the main character, Jess, doesn’t fit with female gender stereotypes. She likes to play outside, climb trees, and play sports. She wants to be allowed to always wear pants, and cut her hair short, but is frustrated by her parents gender expectations. At first, she doesn’t know how to speak up for herself, but throughout the book she learns how to communicate her needs and be more true to herself.
I liked reading about how the world was in the 70s, and some of the historical events. I could clearly picture the settings and characters in the story. The story felt very realistic and down-to-Earth. I enjoyed learning more about why it’s important to have freedom to dress and present ourselves in an authentic way. This was an interesting book that I would recommend to kids ages 10 to 14.
Thank you to NetGalley and SparkPress for the e-arc in exchange for my honest review.
-Laurel, 12 years old.
December 29, 2025
Full review at: https://readingourshelves.wordpress.c...
The setting of this one was the 1970s, Michigan. The main character, Jess, is nine years old when the story starts. She lives with her mom and dad, two older brothers, and one younger sister. Her uncle and cousins live within walking distance, and they all live near a lake. This book chronicles about 10 months of their lives, from Jess’ point of view.
We learn early on that Jess doesn’t like girly things, even though her mom keeps trying to force them on her. Things like tights, dresses, or hair barrettes. Her family is Catholic, and early on in our story, Jess has to be an angel in a Christmas pageant. This is where we first find out about her dislike of such things.
She also gets a doll for Christmas, which she transforms into a boy doll. This doesn’t frazzle her mom as much as she thought it would, as her mom is just happy Jess is interacting with the doll at all. In fact, making it boy clothes gives Mom and opportunity to teach Jess how to sew! So everyone makes out ok on that deal.
Over the months, Jess uses the doll to speak up and say things she’s never brave enough to say on her own. Things like calling her dad out on his bad behavior. But she’s also nervous about people outside her own family finding out about him. Isn’t she too old to be playing with dolls, anyway? So, after school starts back up the following fall, she chooses to wean herself away from using him as a shield. She’ll have to learn to stand up for herself – as herself.
During the warmer months, we also see that Jess wants to do anything her older brothers want to do. Sports, riding bikes, climbing trees, etc. Her desire to be rid of skirts and long hair seem to stem from them getting in the way of these sorts of activities.
At several points, she brings up how uncomfortable she feels in her own body. It seems like it’s mostly other people’s expectations of her that make her angry and ultimately uncomfortable. She doesn’t want to be treated like a girl, or expected to act like what other people think a girl should act like. And she wants girls to be equal to boys anyway, as is brought up by her family watching the “Battle of the Sexes” tennis match.
Ultimately, her “wins” stack up: she gets her mom to let her (mostly) wear pants to school daily, and she cuts off her hair.
This story was charming, overall. I felt like it was too long for a middle grade novel, though – do kids read 350-some pages with no dragons or wizards within them? I guess if it fell into the hands of a kid who was struggling with their own identity, they might invest that kind of time. But it may be a lot for the average younger reader otherwise.
The setting of this one was the 1970s, Michigan. The main character, Jess, is nine years old when the story starts. She lives with her mom and dad, two older brothers, and one younger sister. Her uncle and cousins live within walking distance, and they all live near a lake. This book chronicles about 10 months of their lives, from Jess’ point of view.
We learn early on that Jess doesn’t like girly things, even though her mom keeps trying to force them on her. Things like tights, dresses, or hair barrettes. Her family is Catholic, and early on in our story, Jess has to be an angel in a Christmas pageant. This is where we first find out about her dislike of such things.
She also gets a doll for Christmas, which she transforms into a boy doll. This doesn’t frazzle her mom as much as she thought it would, as her mom is just happy Jess is interacting with the doll at all. In fact, making it boy clothes gives Mom and opportunity to teach Jess how to sew! So everyone makes out ok on that deal.
Over the months, Jess uses the doll to speak up and say things she’s never brave enough to say on her own. Things like calling her dad out on his bad behavior. But she’s also nervous about people outside her own family finding out about him. Isn’t she too old to be playing with dolls, anyway? So, after school starts back up the following fall, she chooses to wean herself away from using him as a shield. She’ll have to learn to stand up for herself – as herself.
During the warmer months, we also see that Jess wants to do anything her older brothers want to do. Sports, riding bikes, climbing trees, etc. Her desire to be rid of skirts and long hair seem to stem from them getting in the way of these sorts of activities.
At several points, she brings up how uncomfortable she feels in her own body. It seems like it’s mostly other people’s expectations of her that make her angry and ultimately uncomfortable. She doesn’t want to be treated like a girl, or expected to act like what other people think a girl should act like. And she wants girls to be equal to boys anyway, as is brought up by her family watching the “Battle of the Sexes” tennis match.
Ultimately, her “wins” stack up: she gets her mom to let her (mostly) wear pants to school daily, and she cuts off her hair.
This story was charming, overall. I felt like it was too long for a middle grade novel, though – do kids read 350-some pages with no dragons or wizards within them? I guess if it fell into the hands of a kid who was struggling with their own identity, they might invest that kind of time. But it may be a lot for the average younger reader otherwise.
July 25, 2025
Disclaimer: this review reflects my own opinions and not the opinions of the author or publisher. I was given a free copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
North of Tomboy is an inviting novel that takes you on the journey of a young girl struggling to find her identity in an era where women aren’t seen as members of the public but members of the household only. Jess is stuck in a household that won’t accept her for who she is and in a society that is trying to force her to become girly. Girly is seen as someone who wears dresses, plays with dolls, and has friends who are girls. In the 1970s, it was common for women to be forced into stereotypical heteronormative roles and men the same. The mom is a housewife and a school teacher by day, and the dad works in construction. Jess just wants to be herself, and she wants everyone in her life to accept her for who she is without trying to force her into a role she does not want to be in. Will the people in Jess’s life finally accept her for who she is, or will she be met with more pushback?
Julie Swanson does a phenomenal job with the writing of this book by diving into the typical heteronormative roles displayed in the 1970s households. The typical mom who works part-time as a teacher to try to make ends meet, and the dad who is upset with the lack of money he is making. Throughout the novel, we get to see each character start to develop and learn to step outside of their comfort zone in an era where that isn’t normal. Everyone struggles, especially Jess, with the roles she is being forced into. Jess just wants to play with the boys, wear pants, and cut her hair short. The author does a great job of diving into Jess’s head and explaining the feelings and emotions that she is struggling with. We also get to see her relationship with her parents and siblings change in a way that is conducive to the growth of her mental health. Her parents must either learn to accept Jess for who she is or lose her entirely.
North of Tomboy is an inviting novel that takes you on the journey of a young girl struggling to find her identity in an era where women aren’t seen as members of the public but members of the household only. Jess is stuck in a household that won’t accept her for who she is and in a society that is trying to force her to become girly. Girly is seen as someone who wears dresses, plays with dolls, and has friends who are girls. In the 1970s, it was common for women to be forced into stereotypical heteronormative roles and men the same. The mom is a housewife and a school teacher by day, and the dad works in construction. Jess just wants to be herself, and she wants everyone in her life to accept her for who she is without trying to force her into a role she does not want to be in. Will the people in Jess’s life finally accept her for who she is, or will she be met with more pushback?
Julie Swanson does a phenomenal job with the writing of this book by diving into the typical heteronormative roles displayed in the 1970s households. The typical mom who works part-time as a teacher to try to make ends meet, and the dad who is upset with the lack of money he is making. Throughout the novel, we get to see each character start to develop and learn to step outside of their comfort zone in an era where that isn’t normal. Everyone struggles, especially Jess, with the roles she is being forced into. Jess just wants to play with the boys, wear pants, and cut her hair short. The author does a great job of diving into Jess’s head and explaining the feelings and emotions that she is struggling with. We also get to see her relationship with her parents and siblings change in a way that is conducive to the growth of her mental health. Her parents must either learn to accept Jess for who she is or lose her entirely.
August 18, 2025
I received this book as an ARC through Netgalley. This was a sweet and hopeful story about a child's struggle with being "mostly boy" (in the character's own words) while the world treats him as a girl. The main character, Jess, who expresses himself through a doll named Mickey through most of plot, uses this doll not only to share his gender identity subtly to his family in a conservative area in the 1970s, but also to find his voice after years of repressing his thoughts and feelings to avoid "sin." There are a lot of important themes addressed in this book in addition to Jess's own trans/genderqueer identity (it's never quite identified which, which I think is realistic for the age of the character and the time period), such as Jess's struggle with religious guilt and religion being at odds with his own feelings, Jess's father's verbal and emotional abuse of the family, the second wave feminist movement in the 1970s, and attitudes about gender in the 1970s which still persist to this day,
The plot felt a bit meandering at times, and the slow pace and long page count ultimately hurt the book more than helped. The themes were not always explored as deeply as I would have liked and felt disjointed from each other throughout the book. The book's resolution felt short and unsatisfying and didn't quite knit all these themes together cohesively, either. However, there was a lot to love about the book. The trans/genderqueer representation in a historical title was wonderful to see, and the book's writing style felt like it reflected the 1970's well without coming across as dated. The characters were engaging and likeable, the humor fun, and the themes and plotline compelling. Ultimately, I would recommend this book as is though it feels like it needs more editing. Additionally, the illustrations are a bit rough-- some of them look uncanny due to an overuse of the blend tool.
The plot felt a bit meandering at times, and the slow pace and long page count ultimately hurt the book more than helped. The themes were not always explored as deeply as I would have liked and felt disjointed from each other throughout the book. The book's resolution felt short and unsatisfying and didn't quite knit all these themes together cohesively, either. However, there was a lot to love about the book. The trans/genderqueer representation in a historical title was wonderful to see, and the book's writing style felt like it reflected the 1970's well without coming across as dated. The characters were engaging and likeable, the humor fun, and the themes and plotline compelling. Ultimately, I would recommend this book as is though it feels like it needs more editing. Additionally, the illustrations are a bit rough-- some of them look uncanny due to an overuse of the blend tool.
September 13, 2025
--Thoughtful, authentic, suited to guided discussion--
"For all those kids out there struggling as I did."
With this dedication, author Julie Swanson signals that the character-driven story ahead will be woven from bits of her youth, heartfelt and authentic. "North of Tomboy" captures the ache and confusion of growing up a fabulous tomboy in the early 1970s—except that no one else sees just how fabulous Jess Jezowski is. That is, until Mickey comes along, wise-cracking, insightful, bold, but only a doll. And as with most solutions to life's problems, another problem is born. Who is Jess without Mickey?
Written in the first-person, "North of Tomboy" takes readers into an imperfect, chaotic home and an imperfect, knotted-up heart as external expectations clash with Jess's internal desire to be heard. Especially lovely are the descriptions of the Michigan lake setting, where the author spent her childhood, and readers will nod in recognition at the noisy family banter, the overly inquisitive neighbor, and the catty classmates. As an adventurous summer on the lake spools itself into autumn, it's Ms. Taylor, Jess's fifth grade teacher, with her easy confidence and knowing compassion, who confirms Jess's own realization: it's more than okay to be "north of tomboy."
That said, this is not a fast-paced middle-grade story. The length and slower rhythm make it a better fit for parents reading alongside children—where there’s room for conversation. Despite its LGBTQ+ categorization, there is no agenda in the story. It's less a story about identity labels and more about wrestling with roles, family expectations, and the longing simply to be oneself.
A sincere, reflective novel tackling tough issues, "North of Tomboy" may best suited for older middle grade, offering opportunity for discussion and reflection.
"For all those kids out there struggling as I did."
With this dedication, author Julie Swanson signals that the character-driven story ahead will be woven from bits of her youth, heartfelt and authentic. "North of Tomboy" captures the ache and confusion of growing up a fabulous tomboy in the early 1970s—except that no one else sees just how fabulous Jess Jezowski is. That is, until Mickey comes along, wise-cracking, insightful, bold, but only a doll. And as with most solutions to life's problems, another problem is born. Who is Jess without Mickey?
Written in the first-person, "North of Tomboy" takes readers into an imperfect, chaotic home and an imperfect, knotted-up heart as external expectations clash with Jess's internal desire to be heard. Especially lovely are the descriptions of the Michigan lake setting, where the author spent her childhood, and readers will nod in recognition at the noisy family banter, the overly inquisitive neighbor, and the catty classmates. As an adventurous summer on the lake spools itself into autumn, it's Ms. Taylor, Jess's fifth grade teacher, with her easy confidence and knowing compassion, who confirms Jess's own realization: it's more than okay to be "north of tomboy."
That said, this is not a fast-paced middle-grade story. The length and slower rhythm make it a better fit for parents reading alongside children—where there’s room for conversation. Despite its LGBTQ+ categorization, there is no agenda in the story. It's less a story about identity labels and more about wrestling with roles, family expectations, and the longing simply to be oneself.
A sincere, reflective novel tackling tough issues, "North of Tomboy" may best suited for older middle grade, offering opportunity for discussion and reflection.
August 31, 2025
North of Tomboy is set in the early 1970s in rural Michigan and follows Jess, a shy fourth grader from a large Catholic family who feels more like a boy than a girl. She has a mother who is hung up on gender stereotypes and forces her to wear dresses and skirts and keep her hair long. Jess wants to spend her days exploring outside, being active and playing sports. She is not interested in having female friends, but having male friends results in being teased. When her mother gives her yet another baby doll for Christmas, Jess cuts the dolls hair, gives it masculine clothes and a boy's personality and voice. The doll, Mickey, becomes the boy Jess wants to be, and she uses him to express her own opinions and needs. Jess realizes that she needs to use her own voice rather than being reliant on Mickey to push back against the gender stereotypes and express the important things that she wants to say to her family.
I liked the historical setting and felt that it was portrayed accurately. The sexism and devaluation of women and girls is evident. The amount of time children spent outside and unsupervised reflected the reality of the time.
Jess's family members are complex realistic characters. Her father has an anger management problem, resulting from his own trauma, and behaves in a way that would clearly be considered abusive today. Fortunately, his character grows during the novel as well. Jess might be transgender but, at her age and in her time, and place, would not have had the language to identify herself as such.
North of Tomboy is a well-written, thought-provoking middle grade novel which is also suitable for teens and adults. North of Tomboy is long and introspective, thus probably not suitable for reluctant readers.
Thank you to BookSparks and the author for a gifted copy for review.
@BookSparks @Jules9Swanson #NorthOfTomboy #FallPopUp.
I liked the historical setting and felt that it was portrayed accurately. The sexism and devaluation of women and girls is evident. The amount of time children spent outside and unsupervised reflected the reality of the time.
Jess's family members are complex realistic characters. Her father has an anger management problem, resulting from his own trauma, and behaves in a way that would clearly be considered abusive today. Fortunately, his character grows during the novel as well. Jess might be transgender but, at her age and in her time, and place, would not have had the language to identify herself as such.
North of Tomboy is a well-written, thought-provoking middle grade novel which is also suitable for teens and adults. North of Tomboy is long and introspective, thus probably not suitable for reluctant readers.
Thank you to BookSparks and the author for a gifted copy for review.
@BookSparks @Jules9Swanson #NorthOfTomboy #FallPopUp.
July 4, 2025
In our current time — fraught with judgment, divisive gender politics, and a dearth of civility — Julie Swanson’s North of Tomboy brings a breath of fresh northern air to the story of a girl who feels more like a boy. Set in the early 1970s in northern Michigan, Swanson’s middle-grade novel uses a famous tennis match and the dramatic last days of an impeached president to frame the cultural context, but that larger world remains at a distance.
The real drama is the slow-moving, quiet, yet deeply felt awakening of ten-year-old Jess’s understanding that what she feels, what she wants to do, and how she wants to be seen by others conflicts with the gender expectations of her family, her Catholic faith, her school, and her friends. She finds allies where she can and, when others fail to understand her, creates a spokesperson in the form of a doll that she transforms from female to male, endowing it with a poignant, wisecracking voice that becomes her alter ego. This brilliant literary device gives readers a front-row seat to Jess’s inner world, including her liveliness and humor.
The conflicts within her mostly sympathetic, hardworking family — their denial, resistance, and eventual compromise between what they expect and dream for Jess, and what she is finally able to insist upon for herself — are tenderly revealed. With vivid descriptions of the rural Michigan lakeside beauty where the story unfolds, and a gifted portrayal of a ten-year-old’s inner life, Swanson has crafted a beautiful, resonant novel.
The real drama is the slow-moving, quiet, yet deeply felt awakening of ten-year-old Jess’s understanding that what she feels, what she wants to do, and how she wants to be seen by others conflicts with the gender expectations of her family, her Catholic faith, her school, and her friends. She finds allies where she can and, when others fail to understand her, creates a spokesperson in the form of a doll that she transforms from female to male, endowing it with a poignant, wisecracking voice that becomes her alter ego. This brilliant literary device gives readers a front-row seat to Jess’s inner world, including her liveliness and humor.
The conflicts within her mostly sympathetic, hardworking family — their denial, resistance, and eventual compromise between what they expect and dream for Jess, and what she is finally able to insist upon for herself — are tenderly revealed. With vivid descriptions of the rural Michigan lakeside beauty where the story unfolds, and a gifted portrayal of a ten-year-old’s inner life, Swanson has crafted a beautiful, resonant novel.
August 16, 2025
Thank you to Netgalley for the free arc!
The author does a good job of creating a slice of life narrative. It contains many well-drawn scenes that happen to the main character throughout a year of her life in 1973 when she is nine years old. These scenes are vivid and easy to imagine. Jess would rather be a boy than a girl-- enjoying playing out outside, boys' clothes and activities-- more than the girls' actvities and clothes everyone expects of her. When she is given yet another doll as a present, Jess cuts the doll's hair and creates clothes to create a boy persona for the doll. Pretty soon, Jess gives the doll a persona, a voice, and through this doll can express things to her family that she is afraid to on. her own. Spunky and sassy with a quick sense of humor, this persona of Mick brings a lot of humor and fun to the family. After awhile, Jess realizes that she wishes that she could use her own voice and be as bold as Mick. The rest of the book explores how she goes about doing this. Set in the backdrop of the 1970s, there is much about gender roles in her family that is explored as well as in culture such as the Billy Jean King and Bobby Riggs tennis match (The Battle of the Sexes).
It is really hard to believe that this is being marketed as. a a middle grade book. I don't think that kids are going to stay with this book as it is slow paced and set in a time period they are probably not too familiar with, For adults it is a slow read so I don't think kids will gravitate towards it.
The author does a good job of creating a slice of life narrative. It contains many well-drawn scenes that happen to the main character throughout a year of her life in 1973 when she is nine years old. These scenes are vivid and easy to imagine. Jess would rather be a boy than a girl-- enjoying playing out outside, boys' clothes and activities-- more than the girls' actvities and clothes everyone expects of her. When she is given yet another doll as a present, Jess cuts the doll's hair and creates clothes to create a boy persona for the doll. Pretty soon, Jess gives the doll a persona, a voice, and through this doll can express things to her family that she is afraid to on. her own. Spunky and sassy with a quick sense of humor, this persona of Mick brings a lot of humor and fun to the family. After awhile, Jess realizes that she wishes that she could use her own voice and be as bold as Mick. The rest of the book explores how she goes about doing this. Set in the backdrop of the 1970s, there is much about gender roles in her family that is explored as well as in culture such as the Billy Jean King and Bobby Riggs tennis match (The Battle of the Sexes).
It is really hard to believe that this is being marketed as. a a middle grade book. I don't think that kids are going to stay with this book as it is slow paced and set in a time period they are probably not too familiar with, For adults it is a slow read so I don't think kids will gravitate towards it.
September 3, 2025
North of Tomboy is set in the 1970s and follows Jess, a fourth grader who feels more like a boy than a girl. Jess doesn’t know how to explain her feelings until she gets a baby doll for Christmas. Instead of playing with it like others expect, she changes the doll into a boy and names him Mickey. Through Mickey, Jess finds a way to express herself and show who she really is inside.
The book does a really good job showing what it’s like to grow up feeling different and trying to figure out where you fit. It’s about identity, family expectations, faith, and learning to use your voice. Jess’s struggles with her dad and the pressure she feels from her family were written in a very real way. Even though it’s set in the 70s, the themes still matter today and can spark some great conversations.
I liked how the characters felt real and how the setting made you feel like you were actually in that time period. The story is honest, heartfelt, and really makes you think about what it means to accept yourself.
The pacing was a little slow at times, and it’s longer than what I’d expect for a middle grade book. I think it works best for strong readers or as a group read, where kids can talk about it together.
Overall, this was a thoughtful and moving story. I found myself caring about Jess and cheering for her to find her place in the world.
The book does a really good job showing what it’s like to grow up feeling different and trying to figure out where you fit. It’s about identity, family expectations, faith, and learning to use your voice. Jess’s struggles with her dad and the pressure she feels from her family were written in a very real way. Even though it’s set in the 70s, the themes still matter today and can spark some great conversations.
I liked how the characters felt real and how the setting made you feel like you were actually in that time period. The story is honest, heartfelt, and really makes you think about what it means to accept yourself.
The pacing was a little slow at times, and it’s longer than what I’d expect for a middle grade book. I think it works best for strong readers or as a group read, where kids can talk about it together.
Overall, this was a thoughtful and moving story. I found myself caring about Jess and cheering for her to find her place in the world.
September 2, 2025
ARC received through Netgalley: all thoughts and opinions are my own.
No words can truly describe how this book made me feel. Simply put I felt understood for the first time in a long time. The story follows 10-year-old Jess - a seemingly gender non-conforming child. Jess's feelings and experiences feel like home, both the good and the bad. Growing up as a a non-binary/trans AFAB individual in non-religious (but religious raised parents), I spent a long time grappling with my identity and who I was as a kid. And now at twenty, I have (maybe) finally figured it out. North of Tomboy has so much to offer to those who feel like they have an inner Mickey just like Jess, and to those that don't but maybe know someone who does.
Jess's experiences of being forced into the box of a little girl, when that is far from what she wants to be, is the reality for so many even when we think it might not be. Gender roles and stereotypes are so deeply ingrained into our societies that it often feels impossible to even consider you could be someone other than who you're told you have to be.
Queerness is a journey that never really ends but it has to start somewhere and having a guiding hand in that process is extremely important, and Swanson does just that with North of Tomboy.
No words can truly describe how this book made me feel. Simply put I felt understood for the first time in a long time. The story follows 10-year-old Jess - a seemingly gender non-conforming child. Jess's feelings and experiences feel like home, both the good and the bad. Growing up as a a non-binary/trans AFAB individual in non-religious (but religious raised parents), I spent a long time grappling with my identity and who I was as a kid. And now at twenty, I have (maybe) finally figured it out. North of Tomboy has so much to offer to those who feel like they have an inner Mickey just like Jess, and to those that don't but maybe know someone who does.
Jess's experiences of being forced into the box of a little girl, when that is far from what she wants to be, is the reality for so many even when we think it might not be. Gender roles and stereotypes are so deeply ingrained into our societies that it often feels impossible to even consider you could be someone other than who you're told you have to be.
Queerness is a journey that never really ends but it has to start somewhere and having a guiding hand in that process is extremely important, and Swanson does just that with North of Tomboy.
September 2, 2025
3.5⭐️ rounded down
North of Tomboy is set in 1973 and follows Jess, a fourth grader, who feels more like a boy than she does a girl. She doesn't know how to express her feelings until she gets a baby doll for Christmas that she transforms into a boy and names him Mickey. Through Mickey, she is able to talk about and express her true identity and feelings. This book is very religious based, and Jess talks about sin and praying, so her slate will be clean for the next day. It also shows the verbal and emotional abuse Jess and her family had to go through from her father. I found myself invested in Jess and her family's story. Each of the characters were very well written, and their story, their everyday life, and struggles are very realistic and revelant to the time period of the book. I did find the pacing of the book to be very slow at times, and it was very long, especially for a middle grade level book. I'm not really sure if marketing this to middle grade students is ideal due to this unless it's a very avid reader or used in a group read setting.
North of Tomboy is set in 1973 and follows Jess, a fourth grader, who feels more like a boy than she does a girl. She doesn't know how to express her feelings until she gets a baby doll for Christmas that she transforms into a boy and names him Mickey. Through Mickey, she is able to talk about and express her true identity and feelings. This book is very religious based, and Jess talks about sin and praying, so her slate will be clean for the next day. It also shows the verbal and emotional abuse Jess and her family had to go through from her father. I found myself invested in Jess and her family's story. Each of the characters were very well written, and their story, their everyday life, and struggles are very realistic and revelant to the time period of the book. I did find the pacing of the book to be very slow at times, and it was very long, especially for a middle grade level book. I'm not really sure if marketing this to middle grade students is ideal due to this unless it's a very avid reader or used in a group read setting.
December 21, 2025
North of Tomboy by Julie A. Swanson is a thoughtful and empowering middle grade novel set in 1973, exploring gender identity, self expression, and the challenges of being seen for who you truly are. Jess Jezowski, a shy fourth grader, creates Mickey, a boy persona, to express the side of herself that feels invisible. Through Jess’s journey, readers witness the struggles and triumphs of embracing one’s identity, learning to integrate different aspects of self, and finding courage in authenticity.
What makes North of Tomboy exceptional is its combination of historical context, relatable middle grade voice, and nuanced exploration of queer identity. Swanson skillfully portrays the complexities of family, friendship, and self discovery, while illustrations throughout the book enhance the emotional resonance and bring Jess’s world to life.
What makes North of Tomboy exceptional is its combination of historical context, relatable middle grade voice, and nuanced exploration of queer identity. Swanson skillfully portrays the complexities of family, friendship, and self discovery, while illustrations throughout the book enhance the emotional resonance and bring Jess’s world to life.
November 29, 2025
This is the first book I’ve read that addresses what it’s like to be a tomboy in the 70s. Julie does an amazing job in describing the inner and outer terrain of Jess, the protagonist, who wants to be one way while being forced to be another. Jess wants to play with boys and is drawn to activities deemed “for boys only.” And then she’s given yet another doll for Christmas. Jess hates dolls. Along with her internal rage, Jess takes the doll to the bathroom and cuts its hair. She names him Mickey and uses him as a way to communicate how she feels.
“North of Tomboy” invites the reader into the life of a family of six with a daughter who wants to be herself at a time when expectations for girls is limiting. A great read for adults and young adults as well.
“North of Tomboy” invites the reader into the life of a family of six with a daughter who wants to be herself at a time when expectations for girls is limiting. A great read for adults and young adults as well.
November 29, 2025
North of Tomboy gives the reader interesting and enlightening insight to the confusion experienced by most young people in their pre-teen and teen years. Trying to figure out their bodies, minds, and the hormones during that turbulent time isn't easy.
Jess sees herself differently from the way others around her perceive her. When she creates another persona in Mickey, she becomes very comfortable using his personality for a lot of the situations she finds herself in. Will she be able to move past this shield that she has created with Mickey to discover her own true self?
North of Tomboy is the perfect read for young people who might be struggling with their identity and may help them realize that they are not alone in their struggles.
Jess sees herself differently from the way others around her perceive her. When she creates another persona in Mickey, she becomes very comfortable using his personality for a lot of the situations she finds herself in. Will she be able to move past this shield that she has created with Mickey to discover her own true self?
North of Tomboy is the perfect read for young people who might be struggling with their identity and may help them realize that they are not alone in their struggles.
November 7, 2025
I read several books a year that qualify as a "5-star" read. Once in a while, an exceptional 5-star book comes along, a book that leaves an indelible mark on my soul, a book I will always remember.
North of Tomboy is the exceptional 5-star read. From beginning to end, the storyline had me hooked. This middle-grade book dips into gender, a topic more current than ever, and the author gently guides the reader along, not with an agenda, but with an authentic look at the limitations of what being a girl felt like in the 1970s. Time has changed—or has it? This book is more relevant than ever.
North of Tomboy is the exceptional 5-star read. From beginning to end, the storyline had me hooked. This middle-grade book dips into gender, a topic more current than ever, and the author gently guides the reader along, not with an agenda, but with an authentic look at the limitations of what being a girl felt like in the 1970s. Time has changed—or has it? This book is more relevant than ever.
June 5, 2025
This is one of those quiet but powerful middle grade reads that sticks with you. Jess’s struggle to be seen for who she truly is—while hiding behind the made-up confidence of a doll-turned-alter ego—is both heartbreaking and hopeful. Set in the 1970s but resonating with today’s readers, it captures the tension of identity, self-expression, and growing up in a world that doesn’t always get it. Honest, brave, and beautifully written.
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