Junkwraith

By Ellinor Richey. Published by Top Shelf. 

Softcover, 288 pages, Colour, 2022. 

What she once possessed… now threatens to possess her. This vibrant Swedish debut graphic novel is an epic quest for the things left behind, with icy-cool artwork and astonishing sci-fi settings.

What happens when our most precious belongings… no longer belong? When something we loved suddenly becomes junk, a powerful energy is unleashed. One night, ice-skating prodigy Florence Sato is overwhelmed by pressure and throws away her skates. This fateful moment accidentally summons a “junkwraith,” a terrifying ghost which seeks revenge for its abandonment by attacking the memories of its former owner. Before she forgets who she is, and to find out who she really wants to be, Florence must set off (with her trusty digital assistant Frank) on a long journey into the Wastelands to put to rest the monster she created.

“A story of memory, belonging, patience, and oddly enough, recycling… Richey’s delightfully odd characters and increasingly strange landscapes cultivate a rich sense of atmosphere. Highly recommended for teens and adults who want to learn how to be brave.” — Booklist (starred review)

“Visually enticing and creative… the concept is fascinating and fresh.” — Kirkus Reviews

“The book’s distinctive art style is a detailed, appealing visual feast… a bizarre and imaginative graphic novel about growing up.” — Foreword Reviews

“This Swedish graphic novel uses color in brilliant ways… Give this genre-fluid tale to horror, science fiction, and fantasy buffs, or even realistic fiction readers who don’t mind their family explorations or coming-of-age stories souped up with some supernatural elements.” — Bulletin for the Center for Children’s Books