Synopses & Reviews
A middle-grade novel in verse about a Jewish boy who befriends an outcast girl.
Etan has stopped speaking since his mother left. His father and grandfather don’t know how to help him. His friends have given up on him.
When Etan is asked to deliver a grocery order to the outskirts of town, he realizes he’s at the home of Malia Agbayani, also known as the Creature. Malia stopped going to school when her acute eczema spread to her face, and the bullying became too much.
As the two become friends, other kids tease Etan for knowing the Creature. But he believes he might have a cure for Malia’s condition, if only he can convince his family and hers to believe it too. Even if it works, will these two outcasts find where they fit in?
Review
"The Magical Imperfect is brimming with beautiful language, bursting with heart, and chock-full of important truths. Chris Baron writes exactly the kind of books I needed as a kid.” —Jarrett Lerner, author of the Enginerds and Geeger the Robot series
“I was so taken by Etan and Malia, two outcasts growing up in the 1980s, in a town between the sea and the redwood forests. As their friendship blossoms, they find courage and beauty in imperfection—and in each other. This tender, graceful book will deeply touch readers. It's simply lovely.” —Mae Respicio, award-winning author of The House That Lou Built
“I savored every word of this beautiful and moving story of family, friendship, and being comfortable in your own skin. Highly recommended!” —Adrianna Cuevas, author of The Total Eclipse of Nestor Lopez
About the Author
Chris Baron is a professor of English at San Diego City College. His first novel, All of Me, was a Southern California Independent Booksellers Association bestseller; A BookRiot Best Children’s Book About Kindness; and an NCTE Notable Book. Newbery Medalist Matt de la Pena called it, “Beautifully written, brilliant, and necessary." Chris Baron lives in San Diego with his family. chris-baron.com