Tuesday, October 18, 2011

Graphic novel review: Anya's Ghost by Vera Brosgol

Anya's Ghost by Vera Brosgol is creepy fun!

Genre: YA Paranormal
Publisher: First Second, 2011
From: Local Library

Story: Anya is a typical highschooler who doesn't feel like she fits in. Her parents are immigrants from Russia, her brother is weirdly happy, and the guy she likes is seeing someone else. It's enough to make her skip school and hang out under the tracks. On her way Anya falls into a well and discovers a skeleton with a ghost attached. Anya wants to solve the ghost's murder, but things keep getting in the way. Here's a 17-page preview from First Second.

My take: I am a sucker for ghost stories and wish I had a ghost friend of my own. Anya's Ghost is a great ghost story. It's engaging, quirky, and even a little scary. I read it in one sitting and was sad when it was over.

Anya wouldn't be a typical American teenager if she wasn't insecure, and she wants to be a typical American. Her complaining gets a little annoying at times, but things pick up when she decides to takes action. I loved how the secondary characters were all well-defined. Anya's friend, the guy she likes, his girlfriend, all have their own unique characteristics. Anya's Russian family is fabulous. I'd love to read the story of Anya's brother. He seems like he gets up to some interesting activities.

Artwork: I am a fan of black, white, and grey comics and this one is an excellent use of the medium. The simple lines and and clean panels let the story jump out. I especially liked the dialogue-free panels. They convey so much better than words what's going through Anya's head.

Final thoughts: Anya's Ghost is a scary-fun teen ghost story perfect for Halloween!

Grade: 5 out of 5


This review is part of Murder, Monsters and Mayhem sponsored by Jenn's Bookshelves and RIP sponsored by Stainless Steel Droppings.

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