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Four Eyes #3
Fruitcake: A Graphic Novel
A pitch-perfect middle-grade audio memoir about crushes, coming out, and finding the courage to be yourself.
Eighth grade isn't off to a great start. Everyone but Rex seems to be coupling up, and he's starting to feel like an outsider... until he meets Charlotte. She's fearless, smart, pretty, and she likes him back. But as great as Charlotte is, there's someone else Rex can't stop thinking about.
Drew is Rex's childhood best friend, so when he kisses Rex, all kinds of new feelings begin to stir. Though at school, Drew acts like he doesn't even know Rex, making those feelings turn really confusing really fast. And with all the strong opinions Rex hears from friends and at church, he questions his own worth and what his affections actually mean. Rex wants to be more like his new friend, Nina, and not care what others think, but being himself seems impossible. When did middle school get so confusing?!
Eighth grade isn't off to a great start. Everyone but Rex seems to be coupling up, and he's starting to feel like an outsider... until he meets Charlotte. She's fearless, smart, pretty, and she likes him back. But as great as Charlotte is, there's someone else Rex can't stop thinking about.
Drew is Rex's childhood best friend, so when he kisses Rex, all kinds of new feelings begin to stir. Though at school, Drew acts like he doesn't even know Rex, making those feelings turn really confusing really fast. And with all the strong opinions Rex hears from friends and at church, he questions his own worth and what his affections actually mean. Rex wants to be more like his new friend, Nina, and not care what others think, but being himself seems impossible. When did middle school get so confusing?!
Audible Audio
Published April 7, 2026
About the author
Rex Ogle
69 books609 followersHoly moly! I am so humbled and honored for y'all to read my books. Big hugs to all of ya.
Also, check out graphic novels under my pen name REY TERCIERO.
Bio:
REX OGLE is an award-winning author and the writer of nearly a hundred children’s books, comics, graphic novels, and memoirs—most notably Free Lunch, which won the ALA/YALSA award for Excellence in Non-Fiction.
Born and raised (mostly) in Texas, he moved to New York City after college to intern at Marvel Comics before moving over to DC Comics, Scholastic, and Little Brown Young Readers. As an editor, he championed over a dozen NY Times Bestsellers and worked on (and often wrote) major brands such as X-Men, Justice League, Star Wars, LEGO, Power Rangers, Transformers, Minecraft, Assassin’s Creed, Buffy the Vampire Slayer, and Neil Patrick Harris’s Magic Misfits.
Rex has written under a lot of pen names, including Trey King, Honest Lee, and Rey Terciero (a nickname given by his Abuela, being Español for “third king”, which is apt since Rex is Latin for “king”, and he is the third “Rex” in his family).
Now, Rex lives in Los Angeles where he writes in his spare time—that is, when he’s not outdoors hiking with his dog Toby, playing MarioKart with friends, or reading.
Also, check out graphic novels under my pen name REY TERCIERO.
Bio:
REX OGLE is an award-winning author and the writer of nearly a hundred children’s books, comics, graphic novels, and memoirs—most notably Free Lunch, which won the ALA/YALSA award for Excellence in Non-Fiction.
Born and raised (mostly) in Texas, he moved to New York City after college to intern at Marvel Comics before moving over to DC Comics, Scholastic, and Little Brown Young Readers. As an editor, he championed over a dozen NY Times Bestsellers and worked on (and often wrote) major brands such as X-Men, Justice League, Star Wars, LEGO, Power Rangers, Transformers, Minecraft, Assassin’s Creed, Buffy the Vampire Slayer, and Neil Patrick Harris’s Magic Misfits.
Rex has written under a lot of pen names, including Trey King, Honest Lee, and Rey Terciero (a nickname given by his Abuela, being Español for “third king”, which is apt since Rex is Latin for “king”, and he is the third “Rex” in his family).
Now, Rex lives in Los Angeles where he writes in his spare time—that is, when he’s not outdoors hiking with his dog Toby, playing MarioKart with friends, or reading.
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Displaying 1 - 21 of 21 reviews
October 7, 2025
Everyone around Rex seems to be pairing off, and he's starting to feel left behind—until he meets Charlotte. She's bold, funny, smart, and—amazingly—she likes him too. Things should feel perfect... but they don’t.
Because Rex can't stop thinking about someone else: his childhood best friend, Drew. And when Drew suddenly kisses him, Rex is thrown into a whirlwind of feelings he doesn’t know how to name. At school, Drew acts like nothing happened. At home and church, Rex hears voices that make him doubt everything—his worth, his feelings, even who he's allowed to be.
Caught between expectations and a growing desire to just be himself, Rex finds an unlikely ally in Nina, a new friend who doesn’t seem to care what anyone thinks. But with so many questions and no easy answers, Rex wonders: when did everything get so complicated?
Another smash on his hands! Rex does not disappoint. This was the perfect edition to the series, nailing all the uncomfortable parts of middle school angst: girls v. guys, who do I date? Why do I feel so left out? Should I tell my parents/friends? Is something wrong with me?
I admire the fact that all three of the books are based upon Rex's life experiences...this one nailed it! I am going to add this one to my HS collection because I know there are students who will recognize themselves in Rex. Thanks friend!!
Because Rex can't stop thinking about someone else: his childhood best friend, Drew. And when Drew suddenly kisses him, Rex is thrown into a whirlwind of feelings he doesn’t know how to name. At school, Drew acts like nothing happened. At home and church, Rex hears voices that make him doubt everything—his worth, his feelings, even who he's allowed to be.
Caught between expectations and a growing desire to just be himself, Rex finds an unlikely ally in Nina, a new friend who doesn’t seem to care what anyone thinks. But with so many questions and no easy answers, Rex wonders: when did everything get so complicated?
Another smash on his hands! Rex does not disappoint. This was the perfect edition to the series, nailing all the uncomfortable parts of middle school angst: girls v. guys, who do I date? Why do I feel so left out? Should I tell my parents/friends? Is something wrong with me?
I admire the fact that all three of the books are based upon Rex's life experiences...this one nailed it! I am going to add this one to my HS collection because I know there are students who will recognize themselves in Rex. Thanks friend!!
Read
March 18, 2026Rex Ogle's graphic novels are always perfect for middle school and upper elementary readers! He is writing about his experiences that readers will be able to connect and relate to similar situation regardless if they are part of the LGBTQAI+ community or not. Middle school experiences are pretty much the same anywhere you go (fortunately and UNfortunately).
Rex is feeling like an outsider with his friends. Friend dynamics typically change as people grow and mature (and for those who don't grow and mature). Finding oneself takes time and honesty with your friends and family (when you're ready) and most importantly with yourself.
A must-have addition to all library graphic novels collections, and especially if you already have rex Ogle books.
#RexOgle #FruitcakeGraphicNovel #FourEyes3 #SchoolLibrary #SchoolLibrarians #PublicLibraries #PublicLibrarians #ReadABook #ReadThisBook #Books #Read #MGReads #MGBooks #MGLit #KidLit #ElementaryBooks #ElemReads #Edelweiss #Goodreads
Rex is feeling like an outsider with his friends. Friend dynamics typically change as people grow and mature (and for those who don't grow and mature). Finding oneself takes time and honesty with your friends and family (when you're ready) and most importantly with yourself.
A must-have addition to all library graphic novels collections, and especially if you already have rex Ogle books.
#RexOgle #FruitcakeGraphicNovel #FourEyes3 #SchoolLibrary #SchoolLibrarians #PublicLibraries #PublicLibrarians #ReadABook #ReadThisBook #Books #Read #MGReads #MGBooks #MGLit #KidLit #ElementaryBooks #ElemReads #Edelweiss #Goodreads
April 11, 2026
This will always mean so much to me, especially because I can see myself in Rex. It’s nice to know that you do have people on your side.
October 6, 2025
Book 3️⃣ in the Four Eyes MG graphic novel series by @thirdrex @dave.valeza
🍰
Rex is headed into eighth grade and all his friends seem to have paired off, leaving him feeling like the odd man out. When a new girl, Charlotte, starts school Rex is immediately drawn to how fearless, outspoken and pretty she is. The two begin dating and Rex feels “normal” until while spending time with his childhood friend, Drew, the two kiss. Rex wants to live his truth, but is unsure quite what is. With help from a new friend, Nina, his abuela and others in his life, Rex is able to finally come out at the end of middle school.
🍥
Sheer perfection. It’s hard to rate a graphic memoir because so much of this was Rex’s actual experiences, but having grown up around the same time as him in a small Texas town I can confirm that so much of what he went through, our kids are still experiencing now. This book is going to change so many lives—make sure you read the Author’s Note at the end. The way the series + artwork has evolved from elementary to lower middle school then almost high school was unlike any other series I’ve read before. Shout out to @graphixbooks for publishing these titles and it’s the perfect way to kick off #bannedbooksweek This one releases April 7!
CW: homophobia, bullying, violence, religious bigotry, classism/poverty
🍰
Rex is headed into eighth grade and all his friends seem to have paired off, leaving him feeling like the odd man out. When a new girl, Charlotte, starts school Rex is immediately drawn to how fearless, outspoken and pretty she is. The two begin dating and Rex feels “normal” until while spending time with his childhood friend, Drew, the two kiss. Rex wants to live his truth, but is unsure quite what is. With help from a new friend, Nina, his abuela and others in his life, Rex is able to finally come out at the end of middle school.
🍥
Sheer perfection. It’s hard to rate a graphic memoir because so much of this was Rex’s actual experiences, but having grown up around the same time as him in a small Texas town I can confirm that so much of what he went through, our kids are still experiencing now. This book is going to change so many lives—make sure you read the Author’s Note at the end. The way the series + artwork has evolved from elementary to lower middle school then almost high school was unlike any other series I’ve read before. Shout out to @graphixbooks for publishing these titles and it’s the perfect way to kick off #bannedbooksweek This one releases April 7!
CW: homophobia, bullying, violence, religious bigotry, classism/poverty
April 11, 2026
good book
Rlly good, very different than the last books but still really entertaining. Hope there’s another book. Try it out it’s a good read!
Rlly good, very different than the last books but still really entertaining. Hope there’s another book. Try it out it’s a good read!
April 9, 2026
Amazing, inspiring.
Book teache kids that it is, in fact, 100% okay to be gay. Some churches allow who you are, some do not. A small suggestion.... Don't listen to those churches. Listento the ones that feel right.
Book teache kids that it is, in fact, 100% okay to be gay. Some churches allow who you are, some do not. A small suggestion.... Don't listen to those churches. Listento the ones that feel right.
March 17, 2026
the colors are so pretty!!! i would protect rex with my life
November 19, 2025
Rex Ogle and Dave Valenza are a powerhouse, and Fruitcake does not disappoint.
A phenomenal story of understanding who you are in middle school among all the changes in life that happen at this stage.
An emotional journey, well worth reading.
A phenomenal story of understanding who you are in middle school among all the changes in life that happen at this stage.
An emotional journey, well worth reading.
Review of advance copy received from Edelweiss+
E ARC provided by Edelweiss Plus
As the new year of middle school starts, Rex is dismayed that all of his classmates seem to be forming romantic pairs. He's still hanging out with his friend Drew, but things are very complicated with him. Chase and Ramon are still giving people a hard time, even accosting Kyle just because he is wearing a pink shirt. Rex finds himself wanting to have a girlfriend, and connects with Charlotte, whom he asks to a dance. She accepts, and he feels like he is part of the larger group who have romantic entanglements. He can't afford to get his hair cut, as his family struggles with their finances, so takes a job babysitting to earn some money. His stepfather cautions him against letting people at school know about his employment, since babysitting is a girl's job. The stepfather also doesn't want to travel to California, because it's full of "fruits and nuts". Rex spends some time hanging out in the art room with other students who find the cafeteria daunting, and he talks to Nina as well as Kyle, who says openly that he is gay. When Rex's abuela visits, she always makes sure that the family has food and clothing. She also wants to take the family to church. Rex's mother won't attend, and Rex is shocked with the minister decries "the sin of homosexuality" from the pulpit. Even though Rex has leanings towards liking boys, he tells himself that if it is a sin, he will make the choice to like girls. Drew continues to deliver conflicting messages to Rex; they can hang out and kiss, but if Rex talks in public to Kyle, he can't talk in public to Drew. When Rex feels that kissing Drew is cheating on Charlotte, he breaks up with her with little explanation. There is a lot of drama at the school dance, but Rex eventually makes peace with Charlotte, his grandmother and her religion, and his own sexuality.
Strengths: This is an interesting look at how middle school life was back in the 1980s or 90s- going by the author's own age, this should be 1993, but the presence of overalls wants me to set in a few years earlier! This has all of the tween drama. Charlotte is a great character, and the way that Rex breaks up with her seems completely realistic. Drew is quite the eye opening character, and I always love reading about Abuela. The illustrations really make this one.
Weaknesses: The trend in LGBTQIA+ literature has been away from coming out stories, but since Ogle frequently draws on his own middle school experiences, this must have been the story he wanted to tell. I don't know how many 13 year olds now will understand the term "fruitcake".
What I really think: Readers who have followed Ogle's story in Four Eyes and Pizza Face wil be interested to see how his life in middle school continues. I know that marginalized communities often take derogatory terms and regain power by using them, but I haven't been a fan of any of Ogle's titles. I never would have referred to myself as "four eyes" in middle school, but times do change.
As the new year of middle school starts, Rex is dismayed that all of his classmates seem to be forming romantic pairs. He's still hanging out with his friend Drew, but things are very complicated with him. Chase and Ramon are still giving people a hard time, even accosting Kyle just because he is wearing a pink shirt. Rex finds himself wanting to have a girlfriend, and connects with Charlotte, whom he asks to a dance. She accepts, and he feels like he is part of the larger group who have romantic entanglements. He can't afford to get his hair cut, as his family struggles with their finances, so takes a job babysitting to earn some money. His stepfather cautions him against letting people at school know about his employment, since babysitting is a girl's job. The stepfather also doesn't want to travel to California, because it's full of "fruits and nuts". Rex spends some time hanging out in the art room with other students who find the cafeteria daunting, and he talks to Nina as well as Kyle, who says openly that he is gay. When Rex's abuela visits, she always makes sure that the family has food and clothing. She also wants to take the family to church. Rex's mother won't attend, and Rex is shocked with the minister decries "the sin of homosexuality" from the pulpit. Even though Rex has leanings towards liking boys, he tells himself that if it is a sin, he will make the choice to like girls. Drew continues to deliver conflicting messages to Rex; they can hang out and kiss, but if Rex talks in public to Kyle, he can't talk in public to Drew. When Rex feels that kissing Drew is cheating on Charlotte, he breaks up with her with little explanation. There is a lot of drama at the school dance, but Rex eventually makes peace with Charlotte, his grandmother and her religion, and his own sexuality.
Strengths: This is an interesting look at how middle school life was back in the 1980s or 90s- going by the author's own age, this should be 1993, but the presence of overalls wants me to set in a few years earlier! This has all of the tween drama. Charlotte is a great character, and the way that Rex breaks up with her seems completely realistic. Drew is quite the eye opening character, and I always love reading about Abuela. The illustrations really make this one.
Weaknesses: The trend in LGBTQIA+ literature has been away from coming out stories, but since Ogle frequently draws on his own middle school experiences, this must have been the story he wanted to tell. I don't know how many 13 year olds now will understand the term "fruitcake".
What I really think: Readers who have followed Ogle's story in Four Eyes and Pizza Face wil be interested to see how his life in middle school continues. I know that marginalized communities often take derogatory terms and regain power by using them, but I haven't been a fan of any of Ogle's titles. I never would have referred to myself as "four eyes" in middle school, but times do change.
April 14, 2026
Fruitcake is a heartfelt and emotionally honest graphic memoir that captures the confusion, vulnerability, and intensity of growing up. Rex Ogle tells a story that feels deeply personal while also being incredibly relatable, especially for readers navigating identity and belonging.
What stands out most is the way the book handles complex emotions crushes, friendship, and self-discovery with authenticity and care. The relationships in the story, particularly between Rex, Drew, and Charlotte, feel real and layered, making the emotional journey all the more impactful.
The story also does an excellent job of portraying the external pressures that shape how young people see themselves, whether from family, school, or community expectations. That tension adds depth and makes the moments of self-realization even more meaningful.
A thoughtful, engaging, and important read that speaks to the challenges of being yourself in a world that doesn’t always make it easy.
What stands out most is the way the book handles complex emotions crushes, friendship, and self-discovery with authenticity and care. The relationships in the story, particularly between Rex, Drew, and Charlotte, feel real and layered, making the emotional journey all the more impactful.
The story also does an excellent job of portraying the external pressures that shape how young people see themselves, whether from family, school, or community expectations. That tension adds depth and makes the moments of self-realization even more meaningful.
A thoughtful, engaging, and important read that speaks to the challenges of being yourself in a world that doesn’t always make it easy.
Review of advance copy received from Edelweiss+
Ogle continues to bring middle grade graphic novels into their best selves by sharing pieces of his own self and this one is one of the best yet-- the third book in his "Four Eyes" series that was about getting glasses, to Pizza Face about acne and puberty, and now Fruitcake about realizing he was gay and sharing with friends and family.
The story moves through middle school with a cinematic flair that brings everyone back to those days from lunch time to morphing friendships, family life, and school including rites of passage like a school dance. Coupled with Valeza's fantastic artwork for this graphic novel, the winning combination is unmatched and all librarians who read them feel a sense of kinship with Ogle for sharing these pieces of his life so that other kids can understand their own journey.
The story moves through middle school with a cinematic flair that brings everyone back to those days from lunch time to morphing friendships, family life, and school including rites of passage like a school dance. Coupled with Valeza's fantastic artwork for this graphic novel, the winning combination is unmatched and all librarians who read them feel a sense of kinship with Ogle for sharing these pieces of his life so that other kids can understand their own journey.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Reading 2026
Book 71: Fruitcake: A Graphic Novel by Rex Ogle
Got a finished and signed copy of Fruitcake at #NTTBF at the beginning of March. Official Pub day for this book is April 7.
Synopsis: A pitch-perfect middle-grade graphic memoir about crushes, coming out, and finding the courage to be yourself.
Review: I enjoyed the whole Four Eyes series. Told as memoirs of Rex’s time in middle school, he artfully captures the highs and lows of middle school told through different “traumas”. Getting glasses, acne, and figuring out where you fit when all you friends start coupling up. My rating 4⭐️
Book 71: Fruitcake: A Graphic Novel by Rex Ogle
Got a finished and signed copy of Fruitcake at #NTTBF at the beginning of March. Official Pub day for this book is April 7.
Synopsis: A pitch-perfect middle-grade graphic memoir about crushes, coming out, and finding the courage to be yourself.
Review: I enjoyed the whole Four Eyes series. Told as memoirs of Rex’s time in middle school, he artfully captures the highs and lows of middle school told through different “traumas”. Getting glasses, acne, and figuring out where you fit when all you friends start coupling up. My rating 4⭐️
Review of advance copy
Amazing book! I've been following this series for a while and if you like this than you might like the Berrybrook Middle School series.
April 10, 2026
I love this author, love his story, and love his different ways of sharing it.
Read
April 11, 2026Really precious I loved it
April 16, 2026
Graphic novel, 8th grade Rex struggles with friendships, crushes and questions about relationships
April 18, 2026
Fruitcake is a graphic novel retelling of the author's coming out journey.
April 20, 2026
I’m not the target audience—by about 30 years—but it’s cute!
April 21, 2026
Such a great series: Four Eyes, Pizza Face, and this one. I can't wait for the last book. This book would be so great for an intermediate book club.
Displaying 1 - 21 of 21 reviews