Ghosts by Raina Telgemeier
Review by Lauren
source: copy from BEA ’16; all opinions are my own
Official Summary: Catrina and her family are moving to the coast of Northern California because her little sister, Maya, is sick. Cat isn’t happy about leaving her friends for Bahía de la Luna, but Maya has cystic fibrosis and will benefit from the cool, salty air that blows in from the sea. As the girls explore their new home, a neighbor lets them in on a secret: There are ghosts in Bahía de la Luna. Maya is determined to meet one, but Cat wants nothing to do with them. As the time of year when ghosts reunite with their loved ones approaches, Cat must figure out how to put aside her fears for her sister’s sake – and her own.
Review:
This is a book that I read in one night, which isn’t surprising because it’s a graphic novel, but it was also really good and something I didn’t want to put down! Ghosts is the story of two sisters, Cat and Maya, though the book follows Cat’s point of view. The two girls have been moved to a town in Northern California that is not as sunny in order to help with Maya’s cystic fibrosis. While there, they realize that the town very much believe in ghosts and they aren’t afraid of them returning on The Day of the Dead.
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| I loved this graphic novel for various reasons, so I thought I’d share a list!
1. The sister relationship. Despite Cat wishing she didn’t have to move, she loves her sister and would obviously do anything to help if needed. 2. Day of the Dead celebrations. I know a bit about this holiday, when ghosts of people’s ancestors are said to return. I loved learning more, as well as getting some colorful illustrations of the parties and costumes. 3. Being able to see Maya’s cystic fibrosis. It’s one thing to explain this disease in a novel, but with the illustrations, the author could really show the coughing and the equipment that Maya had to use to move the fluid from her lungs. It made me care for her even that much more. 4. Have I mentioned the illustrations? I know not all graphic novels are in color, but this one was, and I really loved it! It wouldn’t have been as an exciting novel without the color, especially concerning the Day of the Dead celebrations. A great graphic novel – perfect for middle school and up, though I highly suggest adults check it out too! |
that nice, many good things in this one!
This sounds like such a lovely read Lauren. I love the sense of family and a great way to introduce kids to cystic fibrosis if they have a family member who suffers with the disease. Thanks for sharing Lauren and wonderful review as always <3
I think it's interesting that there were illustrations to give a visual to cystic fibrosis – what an awesome aspect!
xx
Love that this had you captivated! Lovely review and have a wonderful weekend!
The Illustrations are bright and eye catching. I like that this captures the Day of the Dead and it introduces kids to cystic fibrosis.
Oh you have captured several reasons this appeals to me. First that the illustrations were so perfect. Second, Dia Los Muertos! And third, the fact that there is a person with cystic fibrosis. There is way too much lack of disability in books. This sounds perfect for kids (and me)! 🙂
This is the second review I am seeing for this. I think I am going to pick it up and check it out and pass it on to my niece. Great review!!
I picked this one up as well and enjoyed it Lauren!
The illustrations really grab your attention!
This sounds like a wonderful graphic novel!
This sounds like fun! I love graphic novels, too and I can see myself enjoying this one.
Thanks for sharing!
This looks like a great one! The illustrations look amazing and that's great they are all in color. The Day of the Dead celebration sounds like a nice touch!
Sounds like a good graphic novel, I'd like to read it!
I've been curious about this one. I love it when an author covers a tough topic in a format that makes it more accessible. Sounds like this book is really successful at that.
Nicole @ Feed Your Fiction Addiction