Ghosts

Raina Telgemeier's graphic novel, Ghosts, tells the poignant story of Catrina and her younger sister, Maya, who has cystic fibrosis. Their family moves to a coastal California town for Maya's health, where they discover the town is home to benevolent ghosts. Catrina, initially fearful, must overcome her anxieties to support Maya's fascination with the spirits, especially as the Dia de los Muertos celebration approaches. This book beautifully blends magical realism with realistic themes of chronic illness, family love, cultural exploration, and overcoming fear, making it a powerful read for children aged 9-12.

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.