Hey Kiddo, a graphic memoir by author Jarrett J. Krosoczka, has been selected as the 2019 Book to Action pick by the County of San Luis Obispo Public Libraries. The book, a National Book Award finalist, illustrates Krosoczka's childhood growing up in a family grappling with his mother's heroin addiction. The book is intended for young adults and also recounts how an art class and a sketchbook brought much-needed positivity to Krosoczka's life.

"This book breaks your heart and cracks you up," Erica Thatcher, a collection development coordinating librarian, said in a press release. "It's such a timely topic. We think it will resonate with both teens and adults."

Thanks to funding from Friends of the Atascadero Library, SLO Friends of the Library, and the California Center for the Book in Los Angeles, Krosoczka will host presentations for students at Atascadero High School, SLO High School, and the SLO County Juvenile Hall. A book signing and discussion, open to the public, takes place on Wednesday, April 10, from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. at the SLO Library.

Hey Kiddo is available at SLO County libraries for checkout. A book club kit is available as well. Visit slolibrary.org for more information. Δ