A review by destdest
Mabuhay!: A Graphic Novel by Zachary Sterling

adventurous emotional funny hopeful inspiring lighthearted mysterious fast-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? A mix
• Strong character development? Yes
• Loveable characters? Yes
• Diverse cast of characters? Yes
• Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

5.0

“You shouldn’t hide things that make you unique … you should celebrate them.”

A great mixture of humor, poignancy, action, family, and culture! The family aspect was truly one of my favorite parts along with how involved the parents were too.

I also think the art style complemented the story well. Mabuhay! had a lot of personality! If this was a cartoon, I’d happily watch it. 

Siblings JJ and Althea are both dealing with not fitting in, JJ wants to distance himself from anything that references his Filipino heritage and/or others himself while Althea is being ostracized by her former friend group for not “growing up.” If that wasn’t bad enough, then witches and evil spirits started hunting them too. Magical shenanigans abound.

SN: Victor was cringyyyyy—maybe a subtle or unintended commentary on how some children of immigrants (?) ( I don't think Victor's background was addressed) really overdo throwing themselves into hiphop/black-created/urban cultures to find a spot in American society. Or, it could be solely comic relief. Anyway, read this!