SGCC Learning Package: Journeys of Self-Discovery
Adults & Seniors
by LearnX Arts
SGCC Learning Package
Journeys of Self-Discovery
The exploration of identity and personal growth has been a cornerstone of storytelling, with authors and artists continually finding new ways to depict the universal and transformative experience of finding one's place in the world. This collection delves into the intricate pathways of self-discovery across different cultures and perspectives. From summer vacations that become turning points to solitary quests in the wilderness, these works capture the pivotal moments that shape young lives.
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Book Recommendations
1. This One Summer
Author: Mariko Tamaki & Jillian Tamaki
Format: Book
Call No.: 741.5973 TAM-[ART]
Publisher: New York : First Second, 2014
Set during an annual family vacation, the story follows Rose as she faces changing dynamics, new responsibilities and early teen challenges. Through beautiful illustrations and nuanced storytelling, the Tamaki cousins offer an authentic portrayal of adolescence and growing up.
https://catalogue.nlb.gov.sg/search/card?recordId=201073066
2. Ash’s Cabin
Author: Jen Wang
Format: Book
Call No.: 741.5973 WAN [CMX]
Publisher: New York : First Second, 2024
In this graphic novel, Jen Wang explores personal identity and belonging through Ash, a young protagonist struggling with isolation and the climate crisis. Their journey of self-reliance in the California wilderness offers a poignant reflection on finding one's place.
https://catalogue.nlb.gov.sg/search/card?recordId=3000758553. A Quiet Girl in a Noisy World
Author: Debbie Ting
Format: Book
Call No.: 741.5942 TUN-[CMX]
Publisher: Kansas City, MO : Andrews McMeel Publishing, 2017
This graphic memoir offers an intimate look into the life of an introvert navigating an extrovert-centric world. Through beautifully illustrated vignettes, Ting shares experiences of socialising, dating and finding peace in a busy workplace, offering comfort and insight to all readers.
https://catalogue.nlb.gov.sg/search/card?recordId=2030704604. Haru: Book 1: Spring
Author: Joe Lantham
Format: Book
Call No.: HAR
Publisher: Kansas City, Missouri : Andrews McMeel Publishing, 2024
Set in a richly imagined world, this story follows Haru, a small bird with big dreams, and Yama, a talkative boar, on an epic adventure. Latham's beautiful illustrations highlight themes of bullying, self-acceptance and change, with a touch of mysticism.
https://catalogue.nlb.gov.sg/search/card?recordId=3000834595. Nightlights
Author: Lorena Alvarez Gomez
Format: Book
Call No.: ALV
Publisher: London ; New York : Nobrow, 2016
In this visually stunning graphic novel, Alvarez celebrates the artistic spirit through Sandy, a young girl who transforms stars into fantastical creatures. Lush, dreamlike illustrations bring this enchanting world to life, exploring the fears and insecurities of creative pursuits.
https://catalogue.nlb.gov.sg/search/card?recordId=2028022846. Continental Drifter
Author: Kathy Macleod
Format: Book
Call No.: 305.895 MAC
Publisher: New York : First Second, 2024
Continental Drifter is a graphic memoir that explores the author’s experiences growing up between two cultures. Through vibrant illustrations and candid storytelling, MacLeod reflects on her life between Bangkok and Maine, showing that home is a patchwork of experiences.
https://catalogue.nlb.gov.sg/search/card?recordId=3000416877. Rose Wolves
Author: Natalie Warner
Format: Book
Call No.: WAR
Publisher: Sherman Oaks, CA : Top Shelf Productions, 2023
This captivating wordless graphic novel tells a tale of friendship and self-discovery through a stunning two-colour palette. Following a young girl with a missing arm and a rose wolf, it explores themes of disability, acceptance and the power of companionship.
https://catalogue.nlb.gov.sg/search/card?recordId=300005035 -
Videos
1. Making a GRAPHIC NOVEL! THE BREAKAWAYS Process
This video explores The Breakaways, a graphic novel by Cathy G. Johnson about a diverse group of middle school girls forming a soccer team. Focusing on personal struggles and friendships, it highlights themes of identity, belonging and adolescence, with a focus on Johnson's storytelling style.
2. " I'm Making a Webtoon ✿ Cozy intro to my story and comic-making process
This video is on the making of a webtoon, Heart on a Stale Canvas. The webtoon follows Hina, a young office worker struggling with career pressures and neglected artistic passions. As she reflects on her troubled childhood, the webtoon explores themes of self-worth, personal dreams and the impact of societal expectations on relationships.
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Articles
1. Comics and Graphic Novels: Impact on Children Through History
This article from Information Matters explores how comics and graphic novels shape children's development, fostering literacy, creativity and critical thinking. It examines the challenges they’ve faced and their evolving cultural and educational impact, offering insights for anyone interested in their influence on young minds.
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https://informationmatters.org/2023/08/comics-and-graphic-novels-impact-on-children-through-history/
2. Growing up Graphically: Coming-of-Age Issues in Graphic Novels
Growing up Graphically by Kasey L. Garrison explores how graphic novels give voice to young adults, addressing real-life issues like identity, family and the chaos of growing up. Through selected works, it highlights their emotional impact and relevance for today’s youth.
https://www.google.com/search?q=Growing+up+Graphically%3A+Coming-of-Age+Issues+in+Graphic+Novels&oq=Growing+up+Graphically%3A+Coming-of-Age+Issues+in+Graphic+Novels&gs_lcrp=EgZjaHJvbWUyBggAEEUYOTIGCAEQRRg90gEHMjg2ajBqNKgCALACAA&sourceid=chrome&ie=UTF-8
