HALL WAYS REVIEW: It had been a while since I read a graphic novel, and I must say that jumping back in with Kasey Iris’s Ghoul was a delight. Iris is both author and illustrator and excels on both fronts.
The color scheme in GHOUL (mauve/rose) was a great choice for conveying the often-melancholy storyline of a teenager Lyn’s grief in losing her best friend to suicide. Her parents recognize a change is needed and move the family overseas, to the US, in hopes that Lyn can get a fresh start.
In their new apartment building, Lyn not only finds a new friend (Imaginary? Real?) and a bit of intrigue in the rumors surrounding a neighbor who may—or may not—have killed his wife and son. (Interesting side note from this reader who’s considerably older than the target audience: apparently, we don’t say “killed” or “dead;” we say “unalived” or “unalive.”)
Being out of practice with graphic novels, I had a little difficulty following the flow of the text bubbles, especially with the Tagalog translations sprinkled throughout. But kudos to the author for corralling all those terms in a glossary of terms at the end. Fortunately, the expressive and evocative illustrations assure that readers are never lost or confused. And the spooky, spiritual, mysterious plot is sure to keep them fully engaged and turning pages.
There are surprises and plot twists that both charm and satisfy, and the bonus materials at the end are a real plus. Included at the end are a fab playlist, a mini-graphic novel that the author created nearly ten years ago, and some character sketches the artist created for GHOUL.
GHOUL is a truly entertaining and thoughtful book that belongs in school libraries and counselors’ offices. It leaves readers hopeful and happy. I look forward to what’s next from this talented author/illustrator.
Thank you to the publisher, Top Shelf Productions, for providing me a digital ARC in exchange for an honest review--the only kind I give.
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