In Mabuhay!: A Graphic Novel, Zachary Sterling introduces us to two first-generation Filipino siblings, JJ and Althea, who struggle to be accepted. JJ is the older brother who just wants to fit in and make friends, while his sister refuses to change who she is. Both JJ and Althea don’t feel comfortable at school—other students make fun of their Filipino-style lunches and struggle to pronounce their last name. It doesn’t help that they also have to work at their family’s food truck, the Beautiful Pig, dressed up in a pig costume in front of their peers. Their parents try to use Filipino folklore to help them feel better, but JJ and Althea are tired of hearing these same stories. One day, JJ and Althea realize that their family is in danger, from the very characters in the folktales their parents have told them over the years. JJ and Althea soon understand that they must accept themselves, each other, and their Filipino culture to save their family. This humorous, fantastical graphic novel tells a heartwarming tale of acceptance and self-discovery.

Check it out along with other children’s fiction books, including two other graphic novels, in our collection below!

Charlie Numbers and the UFO Bash
Written by Ben Mezrich and Tonya Mezrich
Published by Simon and Schuster Books for Young Readers
Available Now!

Confessions of a Candy Snatcher
Written by Phoebe Sinclair and Illustrated by Theodore Taylor III
Published by Candlewick Press
Available Now!

Dear Brother
Written by Alison McGhee and Illustrated by Tuan Nini
Published by Atheneum Books for Young Readers
Available Now!

Ellie’s Deli: Wishing on a Matzo Ball Soup!
Written by Lisa Greenwald and Illustrated by Galia Bernstein
Published by Andrew McMeel Publishing
Available September 5, 2023!

Mabuhay!: A Graphic Novel
Written and Illustrated by Zachary Sterling
Published by Graphix
Available October 17, 2023!

More Tall Tales: A Graphic Novel (BONE Companion)
Written by Jeff Smith and Tom Sniegoski
Published by Graphix
Available September 5, 2023!