Operatic

Kyo Maclear and Byron Eggenschweiler’s Operatic (2019–present, Groundwood Books/House of Anansi Press) is a standalone graphic novel that follows a shy middle-schooler named Charlie as she discovers the transformative power of music, specifically opera, during a class project. Through a blend of quiet introspection and vibrant visual storytelling, the book explores themes of identity, friendship, and finding one’s voice. It stands out for its tender, nuanced portrayal of a young girl’s emotional awakening, rendered in Eggenschweiler’s elegant, atmospheric art.