Previously worked on as a webcomic, “On a Sunbeam”, a romantic ‘space’ graphic novel, was published on Oct. 2 by 22-year-old Eisner-Award-winning author Tillie Walden. Photo by Audrey Kennedy
Romantic sci-fi graphic novel “On a Sunbeam” was published Oct. 2 by American cartoonist Tillie Walden.
Initially worked on as a webcomic, Tillie Walden’s “On a Sunbeam” was published on Oct. 2. in graphic novel form. At first glance, “On a Sunbeam” is a sweet, romantic space odyssey following a band of kids trying to keep up with their tedious work. But looking closer, it’s so much more.
The story follows a 19-year-old girl, Mia, as she joins a crew with four members of various backgrounds whose job is to restore ancient architecture. As Mia gets to know her crew, the readers discovers more about Mia’s past, and how it emotionally connects to her team members. But most importantly, they learn how the whereabouts of the girl she fell in love with four years ago affect her still.
The story is told in two ways: one where the reader sees what is going on in Mia’s current life, and another in which it focuses on her past and how it influences her current decisions. The author does a beautiful job of making the story flow without confusion, despite her decision to tell it through two different time periods.
All of the main characters are diverse and beautifully written, each with backstories that are gradually revealed throughout the book. Despite being a sci-fi novel, Walden’s characters are realistic and relatable.
“On a Sunbeam” is a simply gorgeous, touching and immersive book wrapped up with a beautiful art style and color palette. Once picked up, readers will find it difficult to put this emotional book down.
