How to Talk to Your Succulent by Zoe Persico is a middle grade graphic novel with magical realism about processing grief (4/5 stars)

How to Talk to Your Succulent by Zoe Persico is a middle grade graphic novel with magical realism about processing grief.

I thought this graphic novel was a really good exploration of grief, not only from our young protagonist, but also her father and grandmother.

The way the artist/author drew thorns as a visual representation of grief and pain especially resonated with me. When I’m dealing with pain of any sort, I often feel prickly. In fact, when I’m feeling those feelings, I will typically give my partner a head’s up that I am feeling a bit spiky. That way, he knows that I am in need of a higher level of gentleness than normal.

I’m a huge fan of magical realism, and thought it was used in a lovely way here: talking to plants. I often talk to my houseplants, and obviously they do not talk back. But I think that would be a wonderful power to have!

I’d highly recommend this, especially for kiddos who may be dealing with grief or other sorts of pain that makes them feel prickly.

I received a complimentary review copy from The Book Drop. All opinions contained herein are my own.

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