
Reach for this book when your child feels invisible or struggles to find where they fit in. It is a perfect choice for those navigating the quiet loneliness of being different or looking for a story that validates their search for a true friend. July Chen is a girl who sees things others don't, which makes her feel isolated until she meets William, a boy who is part ghost. Together, they embark on a high stakes journey through the world of spirits to save William's life and rewrite their own fates. This graphic novel masterfully uses Chinese mythology to explore themes of loyalty and belonging. It is fast paced and visually vibrant, making it an excellent bridge for readers who might find heavy prose intimidating but are ready for deep emotional themes. You might choose this to help your child see that their unique perspective is a strength, not a flaw.
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Sign in to write a reviewCharacters are frequently in life or death situations while navigating the underworld.
Discussion of past losses and the stakes of a soul not returning to its body.
Strong themes of social isolation, loneliness, and the fear of being forgotten.
The book deals directly with death and the afterlife through the lens of Chinese folk religion and mythology. The approach is metaphorical and mythological rather than clinical or traditionally religious. It explores the idea of a 'pre-written' fate and the loss of a parent, though the resolution is deeply hopeful and emphasizes agency over destiny.
A middle grade reader who feels like they are on the periphery of social groups. It is especially resonant for a child who enjoys 'Spirited Away' or folklore but wants a contemporary protagonist they can relate to.
Parents should be aware of the imagery of 'hungry ghosts' and the Death God, which can be visually intense. The story involves a child in a coma (William), so some sensitivity around medical fragility might be needed. A parent might notice their child retreating into their own world or expressing that 'no one at school notices me.' This book serves as a bridge for that child.
Younger readers (8-9) will focus on the thrill of the chase and the cool monster designs. Older readers (11-12) will better grasp the existential weight of 'fate' and the sacrifice inherent in true friendship.
Unlike many ghost stories that focus on horror, this is a heart-first adventure that integrates traditional Chinese mythology into a modern graphic narrative with a unique, vibrant color palette.
July Chen is a twelve year old girl who has spent her life being ignored by her peers and seeing hungry ghosts that no one else notices. When she saves a ghost boy named William from being eaten by a spirit, she discovers he is actually a wandering soul whose body is still alive. They embark on a quest through the underworld, guided by a sarcastic cat, to return William to his body while avoiding the terrifying Ox Head and Horse Face, the guardians of the dead.
This overview was generated by AI based on the book's content and reviews, and may not capture every nuance.