Recommended Reading Order for Alyssa Zaczek's Books
As a writer who crafts stories across multiple mediums, Alyssa Zaczek (who also writes and performs under the name Alyssa Fraser) focuses on heartfelt, diverse, and vibrant tales. Because her published catalog is still growing, navigating her work is straightforward, but understanding the context of her stories makes the reading experience much richer.
Currently, the recommended way to read her books is by publication order, starting with her celebrated standalone middle-grade debut before diving into her upcoming projects:
- Martin McLean, Middle School Queen (2020) — Standalone Novel
- Meat Cute (Expected Fall 2028) — Young Adult Graphic Novel
Deep Dive: Martin McLean, Middle School Queen (2020)
Published by Union Square Kids, Martin McLean, Middle School Queen is Zaczek's debut middle-grade novel. It introduces readers to Martin McLean, a shy, seventh-grade Afro-Cuban-Irish boy who is trying to find his place in the world. While Martin is normally quiet and avoids the spotlight, he discovers a love for the theatrical world of drag through his supportive uncle, Tío Billy. Inspired by the colorful performances, Martin creates his own drag alter ego: Lottie León.
The narrative follows Martin as he balances his regular life—including math club, friendships, and first crushes—with the exciting, secret world of performing in drag. When a talent show presents the ultimate challenge, Martin must decide whether he is ready to show the world both sides of his identity.
Zaczek deliberately chose an Afro-Cuban-Irish background for Martin to pay homage to the Black and Latinx roots of the historical drag and ballroom community. The novel was highly praised by critics, earning a starred review from Kirkus Reviews and a spot on their "Best Modern-Day Middle Grade of 2020" list. It stands out as an empowering, warm, and highly accessible read for children and adults alike.
What to Know Before You Start: Themes and Representation
Zaczek's work is defined by several core elements that readers should keep in mind before starting:
- Queer Identity and Acceptance: The book explores LGBTQ+ themes with extreme gentleness, sensitivity, and joy, making it perfect for middle-grade readers who are exploring their own identities or learning about others.
- The Power of Family: The relationship between Martin and his uncle, Tío Billy, is one of the pillars of the story, demonstrating how crucial adult support is for queer youth.
- Theater and Performance: Drawing from Zaczek's own background in playwriting, the book captures the sparkling energy of stage performance, self-expression, and finding confidence through art.
Upcoming Releases: Meat Cute (Expected Fall 2028)
Readers looking forward to more of Zaczek's writing should keep an eye out for her upcoming graphic novel, Meat Cute. Pitched as Pride & Prejudice meets the hit television series The Bear, this young adult graphic novel is written by Zaczek and illustrated by artist Jackie Morrow.
The story takes place in Chicago and follows seventeen-year-old Lou. Lou is determined to save her family's beloved Chicago-style hot dog stand, but her plans get complicated when she clashes with the son of a rival restaurant owner. Published by First Second Books, this graphic novel promises to combine Zaczek's signature witty banter with a delicious enemies-to-lovers romance and deep Chicago roots.
Other Works: Playwriting and Short Stories
If you have finished Martin McLean, Middle School Queen and want to explore Zaczek's other creative endeavors, you can seek out her work in theater and literary journals. Zaczek holds a Bachelor's degree in Playwriting from Columbia College Chicago and has had several plays produced on stages across the Midwest.
Additionally, her short fiction and journalism have appeared in several publications, showing off her versatility as a storyteller. Some notable outlets featuring her short works include:
- Midwestern Gothic
- Jet Fuel Review
- The Dionysian