Review of Raised By Ghosts by S. K. K.
From the moment I dove into S. K. K.’s debut graphic novel Ephamera, I’ve been captivated by her unique storytelling style, emotional depth, and ethereal visuals. So, when Raised By Ghosts was announced, I could hardly contain my excitement! This latest gem doesn’t just promise to wrap us in a web of captivating imagery and poignant narrative; it delivers both in spades, exploring themes of invisibility, longing, and the complexities of growing up.
At its core, Raised By Ghosts follows Briana as she navigates the turbulent waters of adolescence, framed through the haunting yet relatable lens of her diary entries. The title couldn’t be more apt. Briana embodies the essence of a ghost—adrift in a world where her parents are too absorbed in their own lives to acknowledge her existence. She often finds herself drifting, feeling as though she’s “walking in a field of flowers when I suddenly realize they are nails,” a vivid metaphor that struck a chord with me.
The stark contrast between her life at home and the fleeting connections she forges at school is beautifully chronicled. Briana often feels invisible until she unexpectedly discovers kindred spirits—those who are “happy and sad in the same way.” This moment of recognition felt profoundly true; it reminded me of my own childhood friendships that emerged from shared silences.
K. masterfully captures the nostalgia for fleeting moments, especially when Briana expresses her “permanent tomorrowness” and the weight of solitude she carries. Yet, there’s a thread of hope woven throughout her story. When the world closes in, Briana’s drawings and notes burst into vibrant life, serving as an escape hatch from her suffocating reality. I found myself rooting for her liberation, longing to see her fully embrace her creativity.
The quote that resonated deeply with me is drawn from Briana’s favorite movie: “Let’s just say I was deeply unhappy but I didn’t know it because I was so happy all the time.” It speaks volumes about masked emotions and the complexity of our inner lives, and it’s a sentiment that many can relate to, myself included.
K.’s illustrations are as enchanting as her words. The way Briana’s hair seems to have a personality, reacting to her feelings when she struggles to voice them, adds another layer to her character. It’s a detail that underscores the brilliance of K.’s art, enhancing the emotional landscape of the narrative.
If you, too, were raised by ghosts—parents who seemed more like distant shadows than nurturing figures—this book will resonate with every word. Conversely, if your upbringing was filled with warmth and support, Raised By Ghosts serves as a reflective mirror, prompting questions about the overlooked ‘ghosts’ in your life.
In essence, this graphic novel is a beautiful exploration of invisibility and self-discovery. It’s perfect for those who have ever felt a little lost, and it invites readers to ponder the ghosts that linger in their own lives. Personally, the reading experience left me both reflective and inspired—encouraged to embrace myown creativity amidst life’s chaos. Whether you’re a longtime fan of K. or a newcomer to her work, Raised By Ghosts is a hauntingly beautiful journey you won’t want to miss.
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