Stand-alone debut Next Stop is a heartfelt graphic-novel from award-winning illustrator Debbie Fong that tackles tough topics with warmth and humor.
Pia is a soft-spoken middle schooler whose life is turned upside down after the loss of her younger brother, followed by her parents’ decision to move to a new town. In an effort to get her mind off of the troubles at home, Pia goes on a bus tour with a family friend, stopping at weird and wacky roadside attractions. The final destination: a mysterious underground lake. The locals say it has magical powers; Pia won’t admit she believes in it, but she’s holding on to hope that the waters may hold the answer to mending her broken family.
The trip is much more than the final stop. The friendships that Pia makes along the way are just as valuable as the destination itself. Next Stop explores grief, resilience, and learning how to laugh again. Debbie Fong weaves together an incredibly strong debut filled with humor and heart, with a splash of mystery and magic.---from the publisher
272 pages 978-0593425183 Ages 8-12
Keywords: graphic novel, middle school, loss, family life, road trip, Asian American, diversity, diverse books, Asian American author, 8 year old, 9 year old, 10 year old, 11 year old, 12 year old
