Ghosts by Raina Telgemeier

Pages: 240

Intended Audience: Tweens and up

Genre: Graphic novel / Supernatural

Notes for Parents: Contains scenes with ghosts and discussions about terminal illness.

The Back Cover

There’s something different about this town…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 Bahia 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 Bahia 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.

What the cover doesn’t tell you:

This is a bit of a deviation from her other graphic novels as it contains some supernatural elements.

What’s good?

Bold, colorful artwork and excellent storytelling drive this graphic novel about a young girl with a terminally ill sister who moves with her family to a town where ghosts are welcomed instead of feared. The relationship of the two sisters is realistic and relatable. Older sister Cat is protective, full of anxiety, and often skeptical, while younger sister Maya, who has cystic fibrosis, is energetic, adventurous, and full of optimism. Their contrasting personalities weave brilliantly into the mystery surrounding their new town. Spanish-American culture, namely (Día de los Muertos Day of the Dead) celebrations, and the rumor that ghosts frequent the small California town, act as a catalyst that allows both sisters to deal with their fears about death.

Best Part: Maya’s optimism.

What isn’t good?

I’ve read other reviews that suggest there are issues in this novel with cultural appropriation and inaccuracies with the portrayal of a child with cystic fibrosis. I don’t know enough about any of those things to be able to agree or disagree, but I think it’s safe to say that there are some inconsistencies included and liberties taken in both respects. Some suspension of disbelief is definitely required, and the information in the novel should not be considered culturally, historically, or medically dependable.

Worst part: None.

Recommendation ☺☺☺☺☻ (4/5)

This was an easy-to-read, engaging story with several heart-stopping and heart-warming moments. The real purpose of Día de los Muertos may have been downplayed, and the portrayal of life with cystic fibrosis may have been a little outdated, but the heart of the story – the relationship between the two sisters – was beautifully told. Definitely recommended.

Telgemeier, Raina. Ghosts. New York: Graphix, 2016.