Review by Matthew Nielsen
Ghosts by Raina Telgemeier (writer/artist) and Braden Lamb (colorist) centers around Cat (Catrina), a preteen, moving with her family from sunny southern California to gloomier, rainier northern California. The move is due to Cat’s younger sister, Maya, having been born with cystic fibrosis; the climate is supposedly healthier for her.
They soon find that the small but friendly town they move to has a strong connection with ghosts and the Mexican holiday Día de los Muertos (The Day of the Dead). This leads to various adventures and challenges as Cat tries to adjust to this new place and with her sister’s ever-deteriorating health.
The book is a fairly short read, but it is filled with fine colouring and clean line art. Telgemeier’s style is like that of mainstream contemporary North American animation, with strong bold lines and vibrant colours. The body language and expressions of the characters are very enjoyable, and all-in-all it feels like an excellently polished piece of work.
I recommend this book – especially for those who enjoyed such animated series as Steven Universe and Over the Garden Wall. It’s fine for adults, teens, children; anyone in the mood for a good little story. Check it out on the Ghosts website.
