Visitations

In this searing graphic novel memoir, Egbert (I Survived the Attacks of September 11, 2001) details his crisis of faith in Mormonism and in his mother following an allegation that his father has been sexually abusing his younger sister, Sarah. After their maternal grandfather is accused of child molestation, Sarah refuses to be put to bed by their father, claiming, “Daddy tickles me!” Though Egbert’s parents divorce, the court finds no evidence of abuse and orders visitation with their dad. Their mom is deeply upset about this and prays about it often, asking for guidance—which she one day claims to receive from the Heavenly Father himself. She leaves town with the kids, hiding them from police by sleeping in their car in isolated places. Meanwhile, Egbert dreams of a mysterious girl he yearns to communicate with and, in his waking life, fears becoming like his father. Via intimate narration, the creator chronicles the true story of his parents’ divorce and his mother’s struggles with her mental health, as well as religion’s role in his compliance with her actions. A nonlinear timeline layered with lightly mystical elements rendered in muted pastels conveys a compelling emotional journey through a formative traumatic experience. Egbert and his family have pale skin. An author’s note and resources conclude. Ages 12–up. (Nov.)
Correction: The text of this review has been updated for clarity.