Monstrous: A Transracial Adoption Story
Written by Sarah Myer
Published by First Second
Sarah has always struggled to fit in. Born in South Korea and adopted at birth by a white couple, she grows up in a rural community with few Asian neighbors. People whisper in the supermarket. Classmates bully her. She has trouble containing her anger in these moments—but through it all, she has her art. She’s always been a compulsive drawer, and when she discovers anime, her hobby becomes an obsession.
Though drawing and cosplay offer her an escape, she still struggles to connect with others. And in high school, the bullies are louder and meaner. Sarah’s bubbling rage is threatening to burst.


Primary ISBN: 9781250268792
Publication Date: June 2023
Available As: Hardcover, Paperback, eBook
Young Adult , Age 14 or older
Community Represented: Korean/Korean American
Themes: Adoption, Coming of Age, Cross-Group Friendship, Discrimination: Cultural, Discrimination: Gender and Sexual, Discrimination: Racial, Family Relationship: Parents, Graphic Novel, LGBTQIA+, Mental Health, Own Voices/Lived Experience, Starred Review, The Arts
Setting: United States (Maryland)
Character's Place in the Immigration Journey: Immigrant
Book Creator(s) Connection to the Community Represented: Own Voices/Lived Experience
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