The Quest for Pixtopia

Yehudi Mercado draws inspiration from his childhood struggle with his weight while finding friendship with his imaginary mascot, Chunky, as he navigates growing up in a working-class Mexican Jewish family. Hudi's doctors say he needs to lose weight, and his parents, concerned about a past medical issue, push him to try sports. Hudi meets Chunky, his imaginary friend and mascot, and together they decide to try baseball. Although baseball doesn't work out well, Hudi and Chunky enjoy drawing and making jokes. Despite continued pressure from his parents to find the right sport, Chunky encourages Hudi to pursue his true passion—comedy. However, when Hudi's dad loses his job, it becomes difficult for Hudi to follow his dreams, even with Chunky's support. This full-color middle grade graphic memoir explores how friendship and self-acceptance can help navigate the challenges of growing up.