What happens when the number one rule is “don’t cause trouble,” but trouble seems to find you anyway?
In Arree Chung’s graphic novel, “Don’t Cause Trouble,” readers meet twelve-year-old Ming Lee, as he navigates the treacherous waters of middle school. Ming just wants a fresh start, but his hopes are quickly dashed by a thrift-store wardrobe, a cringe-worthy bowl haircut, and the ultimate embarrassment: being mistakenly placed in an ESL class even though English is the only language he speaks. The story follows Ming and his two new friends, Marcus and Vikram, as they tackle everything from awkward family and cultural misunderstandings, to ill-fated money-making schemes, all while trying to live by his father’s simple yet impossible rule.
This book is a welcome choice for students learning English, with a relatable character that will help ESL students feel seen. As a graphic novel, it leans heavily on visual storytelling; the clear, expressive illustrations do much of the heavy lifting, allowing students to infer meaning, track emotions, and follow the plot with ease. For instance, a student struggling with vocabulary can see Ming’s embarrassment on the page, making the experience instantly relatable. The language itself is accessible, using short, direct sentences and age-appropriate vocabulary that won’t intimidate developing readers. “Don’t Cause Trouble” is a humorous and heartfelt story that builds both reading confidence and empathy.
