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49 Days
In Buddhist tradition, a person is in a transition state called bardo for 49 days after death. This graphic novel opens on “Day 1.” Korean American Kit wakes in a lonely landscape of rocks and water with a map, a distant destination marked by an X. The 49 days following Kit’s accidental death unfold in scenes that chronicle her bardo experience as a literal journey, one that is frustration- and grief-filled before she finds acceptance, and then peace. On Day 5, something in Kit’s efforts sparks a happy childhood memory—a scene in which pale gold replaces the gray hues. Additional memories appear over the subsequent days of Kit’s struggle to traverse the landscape. On some days, scenes in which the accent color changes to a soft coppery-brown, follow her surviving family members (mother, sister, little brother, cat) and close friend, Kevin. These, too, are punctuated by memories. Details of Kit’s childhood, young adulthood, spirited personality, and relationships emerge. For those left behind, as for Kit, memories and time are both part of the journey from pain toward peace. It takes some work to contextualize Kit’s bardo state and the weaving of present and memory—always clarified by the accent color. But the effort is worth it in this original story that takes readers on their own journey that is sad, tender, and ultimately hopeful. A brief author’s note makes clear this is an artistic interpretation of bardo, not a model of what is “true or false.” ©2024 Cooperative Children’s Book Center
Illustrated by Agnes Lee
CCBC Age Recommendation: Age 14 and older
Age Range:
Grades 9-12 (Age 14 and older)
Format:
Graphic Novel
Subjects:
Asian Americans
Death and Dying
Faith, Spirituality and Religion
Grief and Loss
Koreans and Korean Americans
Memory
Diversity subject:
Asian
Other Religion
Publisher:
Levine Querido
Publish Year: 2024
Pages: 341
ISBN: 9781646143740
CCBC Location: Non-Fiction, 741.5 Lee