Matteo

Eleven-year-old Matteo feels out of place among his peers, but hopes joining his dad’s old baseball team, the Blue Whales, will help him fit in. However, instead of finding his place on the team, Matteo undergoes a mysterious transformation, sprouting leaves and growing bark on his skin. His search for answers leads him to the magical oak tree at the heart of town, revealing deep family secrets and helping him understand what it means to be a 'real boy.' This touching story, penned by Michael Leali, navigates identity, family, and acceptance, with a blend of whimsy and poignancy. A finalist for the 2024 LAMBDA AWARD, it resonates with readers who enjoy the works of Mark Oshiro, Anne Ursu, and Katherine Applegate.