A Work in Progress by: Jarrett Lerner

A Work in Progress tells the poignant story of Will, a middle‑schooler struggling with body image, self‑acceptance, and the daily pressures of fitting in. In a school where he feels like the only “round” kid, Will hides behind baggy clothes, avoids the cafeteria, and wrestles with deep insecurity — especially around a crush on a girl he believes will never notice him. As he tries to change his body through increasingly extreme measures, shame and self‑criticism grow heavier until a friendly skateboarder named Markus helps him reframe how he sees his body and himself. Written in a blend of reflective prose, verse, and expressive illustrations, the story offers a perceptive, empathetic look at identity, resilience, and self‑worth for readers roughly ages 8–12.