Living With Viola

“Elevates the graphic novel genre with its heartfelt focus on mental health and immigrant experiences.”

Kirkus Reviews, *starred review, 07/27/21

“This is a rich, moving, multimodal reading experience . . . LIVING WITH VIOLA is a major middle-grade graphic novel debut that explores Fung’s weighty themes deftly and with nuance. This is a wonderful book that young readers and grown-up graphic novel aficionados will both appreciate and love.”

Quill & Quire, *starred review, 09/21

“A poignant and candid exploration of cultural differences and mental health.”

CM Reviews, 09/24/21

“A keenly felt and nuanced look at anxiety disorder.”

The Bulletin of the Center for Children’s Books, 10/21

“Intimate and unforgettable . . . This deeply moving graphic novel will shake middle grade readers to the core . . . An essential purchase.”

School Library Journal, *starred review, 10/21

“Livy’s culturally specific concerns, including her family’s reluctance to discuss mental health, will resonate with diasporic readers, though the exceptionally poignant moments that arise from her work navigating her anxiety reinforce the importance of asking for help for any reader.”

Publishers Weekly, *starred review, 10/21

“The book’s artwork is excellent, and the text works in flawless partnership with it to convey actions, emotions, and moods. . . . an outstanding graphic novel.”

Foreword Reviews, *starred review, 01/22

“This dynamically illustrated graphic novel takes the reader into the inner workings of Livy’s mind and life. One cannot help but cheer for Livy as she slowly overcomes her anxiety and finally breaks free from the negative and destructive voice of Viola.”

School Library Connection, 11/21

“Fung presents her affecting debut in vibrant, full-color panels overflowing with energy and motion.”

Booklist, 11/22

“A unique book exploring culture and mental health in kids.”

City Parent Magazine, 11/21

“Fung successfully strikes a balance in discussing issues of mental health, belonging and cultural differences with engaging illustrations and an interesting story.”

Asian Review of Books, 10/13/21

“Hard to do better than this book. . . . Smart, empathetic, and hopeful.”

Teen Librarian Toolbox, 11/29/21

“An honest and hopeful depiction of life with mental illness.”

Canadian Children’s Book News, 12/21