Title: Firebird
Author: Sunmi
Publisher: HarperAlley
Publication date: July 25, 2023
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Summary
It’s sophomore year and Caroline Kim is already feeling the pressure of graduation. Of deciding what to do after high school. To help pad her resume, she’s decided to start tutoring. When she’s assigned to senior Kimberly Park-Ocampo, an out lesbian who’s friends with everyone, she’s not sure what to think. But she does know she’s intrigued.
When the two start hanging out outside of tutoring, a friendship quickly sparks. They bond over shared desires, over music, and over the stars. But will their friendship survive outside of their nightly adventures? Or will it disappear before it even has a chance to begin?
Review: Firebird
Thanks to NetGalley and HarperAlley for an advanced copy of Firebird by Sunmi to review! I am always intrigued by new graphic novels, so I was excited to pick this one up. The art style is definitely reminiscent of manga, and I think a lot of teens will enjoy it for that.
This is a bit of a slow moving graphic novel, focusing a lot on the characters and their emotional journeys. Which is not necessarily a bad thing! However, it is heavy on the dialogue and moments where the characters turn to their inner emotions. This leads to some great, well-rounded characters, but it also makes the plot overall drag a bit.
The ending of the story also felt a bit rushed for this reason, almost making it feel like maybe there will be more coming in the future? It’s not pitched as a current series, but I see potential. I could definitely see getting more of Caroline’s life in high school, especially as she gets to know herself a little bit more. Caroline is such an intriguing character, and I would for sure read more about her.
Even though this does feel a bit unfinished at the end, it was still an enjoyable read. I think a lot of teens will relate to Caroline’s overall storyline.
4/5 stars