Book Reviews

Review: The Other Side of Tomorrow by Tina Cho & illustrated by Deb J.J. Lee

This moving graphic novel explores home, family, and escape. I read this in one sitting. I was completely absorbed by The Other Side of Tomorrow. Keep reading this book review of The Other Side of Tomorrow for my full thoughts.

Summary

From never knowing where they’ll find their next meal to avoiding soldiers lurking at every corner, many North Koreans have learned that sticking around can be just as deadly as attempting to flee . . . almost.

Both shy, resourceful Yunho and fierce, vibrant Myunghee know this. So when they each resolve to run away from the bleak futures they face, it’s with the knowledge that they could be facing a fate worse than death.

While Yunho hopes to reunite with his omma, who snuck across the border years ago, Myunghee is reaching for dreams that are bigger than anything the regime would allow her to have. The two are strangers to each other until a chance encounter unwittingly intertwines their fates and Myunghee saves Yunho’s life.

Kept together by their dreams for a brighter future, they face a road plagued by poisonous jungle snakes, corrupt soldiers, and the daily fear of discovery and imprisonment. But with every step toward freedom, there is also hope. Will it be enough for both of them to make it to safety without losing each other along the way?

Review

(Disclaimer: I received this book from the publisher. This has not impacted my review which is unbiased and honest.)

Being a fan of Deb J.J. Lee’s illustrations, I knew I would love The Other Side of Tomorrow. Predictably, it has a beautiful art style and striking panel composition. There’s both a sense of movement and lyricism in its lay out and color. Additionally, the story of The Other Side of Tomorrow is moving. It’s a story about love and perseverance, but also the burdens children should never have to bear. They grow up in a moment as they balance their own loss with the challenges to come.

(Disclaimer: Some of the links below are affiliate links. For more information you can look at the Policy page. If you’re uncomfortable with that, know you can look up the book on any of the sites below to avoid the link)

It’s a story about escape. About what we would have to do, what we ask children to do, for a chance at a future. At the same time, it’s a story about friendship, two lives forced together and which have them questioning faith, truth, and what we were taught. The Other Side of Tomorrow is tender and emotional. Find The Other Side of Tomorrow on Goodreads, Storygraph, Amazon, Bookshop.org, & Blackwells.

Discussion

What is the last graphic novel you wanted to read in one sitting?


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