Dispatches from Parts Unknown

Gr 9 Up–Ever since 18-year-old Julie’s dad died three years ago, she’s been looking for ways to hold on to him. While her mom has become obsessed with health and has started dating again, Julie has been pushing people away, obsessively drinking Orange Julius at the Mall of America, watching her dad’s favorite wrestling VHS tapes, and trying to live her life despite her ever-present sadness. Oh, and ever since her dad died, Julie’s been hearing the voice of his favorite professional wrestler in her head: the Masked Man, who hadn’t been seen—or relevant—in years. Meanwhile, a concerned teacher pushes Julie out of her comfort zone, and with the help of friends old and new—and a cute-but-goofy prom-obsessed skateboarder named Leg—she may just find the strength to move forward. Julie is a well-imagined, strong female lead, and the portrayal of her humor and strength is balanced with the way she navigates grief, loss, and love. The relationship dynamics and challenges the characters face are complex and thoughtfully constructed. This book reminds readers that grief is not a one-size-fits-all process, and it opens a window into the world of professional wrestling and its fandom.