Review of Red Threads by Ila Nguyen-Hayama
From the moment I heard about Red Threads by Ila Nguyen-Hayama, I felt an undeniable pull. A contemporary fantasy graphic novel set in a magical school? Yes, please! As a reader who delights in tales steeped in culture and magic, I was eager to dive into Hana’s world. And while the story unfolds as a delightful blend of whimsy and gravity, it’s the rich themes woven throughout that truly captured my heart.
At its core, Red Threads centers around Hana, a young girl who, after saving a crow, finds herself at an esoteric Buddhist school that harbors deeper secrets. But what I loved most was how Nguyen-Hayama introduces us to the vivid friendships and cultural nuances that underpin the characters’ lives. Hana’s best friend, Yoomi, embodies the struggles faced by Koreans in Japan, and through their camaraderie, we see the trials of navigating identity and discrimination highlighted in a way that is approachable for younger audiences.
The gentle yet poignant exploration of anti-Korean discrimination flows through the narrative, initially subtle but growing increasingly explicit as the story unfolds. It’s not just a backdrop; it becomes a vital thread in the fabric of the narrative. Watching Yoomi confront bullying from elite students genuinely stirred my emotions, prompting reflection on societal issues that can often disguise themselves behind cultural façades. As a reader, I appreciated how this topic was addressed, making it a perfect gateway for discussions with young readers about these systemic issues.
As I turned each page (or scrolled, in the case of the ARC), I found myself drawn into the story’s unique artistic style. While the ARC didn’t include color illustrations, I could still appreciate Nguyen-Hayama’s manga and Japanese folklore inspirations. It made me think of a delightful crossover between American animation and classic manga—a style reminiscent of The Powerpuff Girls—that makes it visually engaging without leaning into the more familiar territory of typical anime tropes. I can only imagine the vibrancy that full-color illustrations will bring to the final version.
Often, I find it challenging to categorize books like this—Red Threads straddles the line between upper Middle Grade and lower YA so adeptly. The focus on friendship over romance offers a refreshing take, and it really feels like a love letter to childhood camaraderie set against the backdrop of high school pressures. It exudes a comforting pace that invites readers to revel in the subtleties of each moment—definitely a welcome change from the frenetic stories I’ve encountered lately.
Is this book for everyone? Absolutely! I wholeheartedly recommend Red Threads to young readers interested in Japanese mythology and folklore and to graphic novel enthusiasts who crave a tale with magic and mystery. Its handling of complex themes alongside captivating narrative makes it a potential favorite for not just young readers but also adults who cherish stories that blend light-hearted adventure with a deeper commentary on society.
In conclusion, Red Threads is a heartwarming exploration of friendship intertwined with vital conversations about identity and discrimination. Reading it was an enriching experience that left me contemplating the delicate threads that connect us all, regardless of our backgrounds. I can’t wait to see how others react to this lovely addition to the graphic novel landscape!