Written by: Kim-Joy
Art by: Alti Firmansyah
Lettering by: Sarah Linsley
Published by: Comixology Originals
Summary:
This graphic novel starts years ahead in the future, in 2060. The story starts with a quiet girl named Mary who stands out for her choice to refrain from talking. The other children tend to bully her, and as a result, she retreats to places that feel familiar to her, such as the library and jumps into solitary activities such as baking.
Although this book is illustrated in black and white, there are instances in the story where color is seldom added; for example, Mary tends to “freeze up” as a way to show that she’s uncomfortable speaking in class. She freezes up in a literal sense, as a blue ice cube. I think it’s a great way to show what she feels and the contrast of struggling to speak up, which is powerful to see for young people or adults who can relate.
Ms. Emuka is Mary’s teacher in the story, and she helps her to use a serenibot for school and studies. The bot helps her to speak, little by little. She names the bot SID for short, and the second half of the book is Mary learning how to slowly become more comfortable in her skin and how to manage bullies. Mary progresses through her school days, learning more about acceptance, anxiety and learning how to be comfortable being herself.
I would highly encourage this book for teens or young adults, especially people who can relate to being quiet and maneuvering through school. The artwork is solid, and the dialogue is relatable.
Overall: 8/10
India Williams is a comic writer and reviewer based in Florida. She is a lifelong comics fan, with favorites including Thor, Conan, G.I. Joe, and Speed Racer. When she’s not writing comics or reviewing them, she enjoys toy photography.
