Where Black Stars Rise: A Journey Through Horror and Healing
When I first picked up Where Black Stars Rise by Nadia Shammas and illustrated by Marie Enger, I was captivated by the blend of graphic storytelling and deep psychological themes wrapped in an eldritch horror narrative. As someone who has always found solace in the pages of comics but also yearns for stories that dive into mental health and the complexities of the human condition, this book felt like an invitation to explore dark yet significant realms.
In modern-day Brooklyn, Where Black Stars Rise follows Dr. Amal Robardin, a Lebanese immigrant and therapist in training, who grapples not only with the challenges of her profession but also with her own emotional journey. Her first patient, Yasmin, becomes a reflection of dual struggles: fighting against the haunting grip of schizophrenia and being drawn into the chilling world of Robert Chambers’ The King in Yellow. This is where the narrative transforms into something spectacular and haunting; readers are swept away in a story that is both a psychological thriller and a mystical exploration of dimensions.
The themes of diaspora and mental illness resonate deeply throughout the graphic novel. As Amal slips into the otherworldly realm of Carcosa, I felt an intense pull—the exploration of mental health is portrayed with such authenticity and respect. Shammas and Enger beautifully illustrate that recovery is not a straightforward path but a labyrinth filled with shadows and unexpected turns. This sentiment echoes in the reviewer, Ancient History’s thoughts on how the graphic novel revisits concepts of mental health through a contemporary lens, stripping away the outdated stigmas of the past.
What stood out to me, beyond the interweaving of horror and therapy, was the stunning artistry. Marie Enger’s illustrations conjure a visceral quality that perfectly complements the theme of the narrative—strange and beautiful, with a haunting quality that invites multiple readings. I found myself pausing often to absorb the intricate details that seem to dance off the page. Combined with Shammas’ potent writing, the pacing is masterfully orchestrated, drawing you deeper into the story’s layered complexities.
The memorable quote, “Strange is the night where black stars rise, and strange moons circle through the skies,” reflects not just the aesthetic of the novel but also the experiences of those who wrestle with their inner demons. It nudges the reader to acknowledge that darkness exists not only in fiction but also in our lived experiences, reminding us that those shadows can sometimes hold the key to understanding and connection.
Where Black Stars Rise is a must-read for anyone intrigued by the intersection of psychological insight and horror. It holds a particular significance for those who appreciate LGBTQ+ narratives and stories that dissect the intricacies of identity and mental health. My own reading experience was marked by an appreciation for not only the narrative but also its profound implications—this is a graphic novel that urges you to confront the shadows within yourself while exploring the beauty of resilience and compassion.
Whether you’re a horror aficionado, a graphic novel enthusiast, or someone seeking more representation in literature, Where Black Stars Rise undoubtedly leaves an indelible mark. As I turned the final pages, I carried with me a haunting, beautiful ache—a reminder of the mixed bag of tones and emotions we all navigate in life. Don’t miss this extraordinary journey; it just might resonate with you more than you expect.