The Magic Fish by Trung Le Nguyen - YA Review

Did you ever think that Young Adult Graphic Novels couldn't make you cry? If so, "The Magic Fish" by Trung Le Nguyen will (probably) prove you wrong.

How do you communicate when there's a language barrier between you and your parents. What if you absolutely need to tell them something, but you just don't know how to? How would you communicate?

The story revolves around Hiền and Tiến, a mother and son who grapple with a language barrier between them. Tiến finds a unique way to communicate with his mother by reading her fairy tales daily, helping her improve her English while also staying connected to their Vietnamese heritage through them. As you delve into the book, you realize that the choice of fairy tales is not random but a deliberate and intelligent decision.



The graphic novel's storytelling is exceptionally powerful and emotional, immersing the reader in Tiến's world, his emotions, and his mind.

This graphic novel beautifully weaves together the past, the present, and fairy tales - depicted in yellow, red, and blue panels - exploring themes of communication, family, and immigration. 

Trung Le Nguyen meticulously hand-painted the majority of these artworks on paper, and they now grace the panels in a stunning display. The clever use of colors helps readers keep track of the narrative flow. For this alone, he deserves a big round of admiration and applause.

Lastly, let me share three quotes that you might consider tattooing close to your heart:

To all parents, teachers, kids, teenagers, young adults, and those who deny being over 40, as well as all the avid readers out there, I wish you a wonderful reading experience with this fantastic graphic novel.

(Insider Tip: I've seen two hardcover copies of The Magic Fish in our nick and dent boxes, so if you can stop by the shop, you can get price reduced copies but pssshhhhh.)