Review: Visitations

Title: Visitations

Author: Corey Egbert

Publisher: Farrar, Straus, and Giroux

Publication date: December 17, 2024

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Summary

After his parents’ divorce, Corey has always felt safe with his mom. He always dreaded the visitations with his dad, believing the things his mom always said about him. That he wanted to corrupt Corey and his sister because she believed his father was the devil.

However, when his mom takes them away from their home into the Nevada desert with no plans, Corey starts to question his mom’s beliefs. What was once a safety net for him starts to look a little scarier. An encounter with a ghost one night might lead him down the path to truth. And the path to healing.

Review: Visitations

Thanks to NetGalley and Farrar, Straus, and Giroux for an advanced copy of Visitations by Corey Egbert to review! There definitely has been an increase in popularity of YA graphic novels based on real life, which is a trend I am 100% behind. Especially when they explore issues that might hit home for a variety of teen readers.

This book explores mental illness in a way that we don’t necessarily see in a lot of YA books. It focuses on Corey’s mother and the way that her mental illness affected the safety of her children. Even though she felt what she was doing was for their safety. Seeing Corey’s realization throughout the book feel true to the teenage experience, especially as he begins to question if his mom’s beliefs are grounded in reality.

There is also such a strong sibling relationship in this book. You can tell that Corey really wants to protect his sister, and that they feel comfortable being supports for each other. I always love seeing this kind of sibling relationship, and am glad that it’s such a strong one.

This book explores such important, complex issues and I think it’s an important addition to the YA graphic novel market. Plus, the art reflects the story and is overall beautifully done.

Definitely check it out when it comes out in December!

4/5 stars