Suee and the Shadow - by Ginger Ly

About the Book

When her shadow suddenly comes to life and starts causing trouble, it's up to 12-year-old Suee to find out why before it's too late! This middle-grade graphic novel debut deals with themes of bullying, friendship, and emotions in stressful times.

Book Synopsis

Meet Suee: Twelve years old, wears her hair to the left in a point, favors a black dress, has no friends--and she likes it that way! When Suee transfers to the dull and ordinary Outskirts Elementary, she doesn't expect to hear a strange voice speaking to her from the darkness of the school's exhibit room, and she certainly doesn't expect to see her shadow come to life. Then things start to get really weird: One by one, her classmates at school turn into zombie-like, hollow-eyed Zeroes. While Suee investigates why this is happening, her shadow gains power. Soon, Suee must confront a stunning secret that her shadow has been hiding under her own two feet--something very dark and sinister that could put Suee and her newfound friends at risk!

Review Quotes

"Ly's haunting story gains depth and texture from Park's minimalist, thick-lined artwork, which sticks to a limited b&w palette occasionally dashed with bright red and muted yellows and blues."-- "Publishers Weekly"

"Park's bold, modish figures, largely in black and white with occasional bright pops of color, add to the eerie atmosphere . . . the stylish art is plenty eye-catching, and a subplot focused on Suee's reluctance to make friends adds a subtle undercurrent of emotional depth."-- "Booklist"

"Park's simple illustrations use a limited palette to convey the story's somber and moody tones. This graphic novel depicts Korean characters without focusing on Korean culture, making it a welcome addition to diverse young adult literature."-- "School Library Connection"

"Perfect for middle grade readers - as well as older readers who just love a good read!"-- "Nerdophiles"

"Some of the best slow-burn all ages graphic novel reading that you'll discover this year if your down with a spooky vibe. It's a pulp noir detective for the elementary school set that manages to build up genuine intrigue and mystery for readers aged 8 and up. . . . an all ages graphic novel with a pulp noir twist." -- "Daddy Mojo"

"The graphics are simultaneously menacing and exquisitely clean, superbly honed in a shiny palette of jet, ash, and crimson...a dark yet digestible visual delight with an endearing investigative trio."-- "Kirkus"

About the Author

Ginger Ly studied design at Seoul Women's University and worked as a designer before earning her master's degree in filmmaking from the Art Institute of Chicago. She lives in the suburbs of Seoul, South Korea.

Molly Park lives in Seoul, South Korea, with two black cats and a mouse, and they all get along very well. Suee and the Shadow is their debut graphic novel.