A Haunted Girl

A Haunted Girl #1-4

by Ethan Sacks, Naomi Sacks (creator), Marco Lorenzana (illustrator)

The fate of all life on Earth depends on a girl who doesn’t know if she wants to live Cleo, a 16-year-old adopted Japanese-American whose anxiety and depression drive her to suicidal thoughts, is fresh out of the hospital and trying unsuccessfully to reintegrate back into her old life. What she doesn’t know is that her real struggles are just beginning, as she finds herself encountering an increasingly terrifying succession of ghosts. Is she losing her grip on reality…or is the explanation much, much worse? A HAUNTED GIRL is a horror story that explores the real-life terror that comes with the struggles of anxiety and depression. Courtesy of writers ETHAN SACKS (Old Man Hawkeye, Star Bounty Hunters) and his daughter NAOMI SACKS and artist MARCO LORENZANA (Hulk), this gripping saga aims to be both a paranormal thriller and an inspiration to those who are battling their own—less literal—demons in real life. Collects A HAUNTED GIRL #1-4

Genres: Graphic Novels, Horror, Comics, Mental Health, Young Adult, Fantasy, Graphic Novels Comics

132 pages, Paperback

First published June 4, 2024

About the author

Ethan Sacks is a writer and journalist from New York, who is currently writing the ongoing series Star Wars- Bounty Hunters for Marvel as well as other various Star Wars titles. He is also know for his Marvel works that take place in the iconic Old Man Logan wasteland, Old Man Hawkeye and Old Man Quill.

Reviews

[Mel (Epic Reading) · Rating 3 out of 5]

I love this set-up, the mental health representation, the scary ghosts, and the honesty of the plot and emotions. I have one protest, the ending is so dissatisfying! Yes I know it’s setup so we want to read the next issue; but as a trade (how I read these issues #1-3) it’s less fun to have it cliffhanger as it did. Ironically that cliffhanger could be considered an ending (from the perspective of a short story meant to leave options open) so my criticism may feel misplaced. What I know is getting to the end I was just so annoyed to realize that was the last page!!

I read this on my new Kobo Colour Libre so I didn’t get the full impact of the colours (as all colours are muted on this ereader, but better than black and white)! I did pull a couple single issues from my comic collection of this series just to see the art in its full glory and I must say it’s really wonderful! Just minimal enough to give a spooky aura but detailed enough on all the ghosts; and at the moments it really matters. You have to watch some of the subtleties in the art to get the full story. There are little hints to what is happening that you could miss. So be sure to read and look at the art so you get the full experience.

Check this one out if you want a good, accurate representation of depression (seems weird to say that but you know what I mean), some intense ghosts, a (perhaps!) twist ending, but maybe be sure to have the next issue ready to go so you can keep enjoying this intriguing world. Note: the ebook version I read had issues #1-3.

Please note: I received an eARC of this book from the publisher via NetGalley. This is an honest and unbiased review.

[Natalie all_books_great_and_small · Rating 4 out of 5]

I received a copy of this book to read in exchange for an honest review via netgalley and the publishers.

{Please check trigger warnings for this book}.

A Haunted Girl is a graphic novel where we follow a sixteen year old girl called Clio who is suffering with depression and anxiety and is trying to adapt back into her life from before she went to stay in hospital.
Clio struggles daily and often has thoughts of suicide but little does she know her life is going to be flipped upside down as her biggest struggle is just about to happen.
Clio encounters ghosts. Terrifying ghosts. She doesn't know if this is real or if she's completely losing her grip on her mental health and reality.
The story is fast-paced, and I did feel more could be added within the plot to expand it but the message the story conveys about putting up a fight against depression and anxiety and not allowing it to completely consume you and take over your life, does get through.
The illustrations are fitting with the theme of the book and help bring the paranormal and thriller elements to life.

[Esme · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this, I liked the deeper message of being able to overcome depression and not let it consume you. I also loved how the subject was depicted with the apocalypse element.

Overall I did really enjoy the story but I do wish there was just a little bit more to it, but still would recommend

thank you to Netgalley, Publishers and authors for a copy of the book in exchange for an honest review!

[Scott Rhee · Rating 3 out of 5]

Father-daughter writing team Ethan and Naomi Sacks has created a horror graphic novel, "A Haunted Girl", that has far more heart than scares, but owing to the fact that it tackles a serious subject matter---anxiety, depression, and suicidal ideation in teenage girls---it's worth the read.

Fans of Japanese Yokai ("The Ring", "The Grudge", countless manga) will appreciate "A Haunted Girl", as it follows 16-year-old Cleo as she battles depression which manifests as horrific ghosts that she (and her doctors) at first think are hallucinations. It turns out, of course, that they are real. And they want to take over the world. Cleo, it turns out, is a once-every-thousand-years-or-so bona fide ghost-killer.

Fun, and relatively light on gore, this graphic novel would probably earn a light PG-13 rating if it ever becomes a Netflix show.

[Barbara Behring · Rating 3 out of 5]

An enjoyable graphic novel. The mental health representation was excellent and the story was interesting. The best part was the illustrations.

[alex · Rating 4 out of 5]

“The fate of all life on Earth depends on a girl who doesn't know if she wants to live…”

A compelling hook, executed simply but effectively over four issues. A Haunted Girl very much earns its YA categorisation with its frank, yet age-appropriate depiction of mental health, lent an extra authenticity by the co-writers’ own experiences with depression and anxiety. Peppered with resources, this is one I’d lend to the so-called troubled teen in your life.

Thanks to NetGalley and Image Comics for providing me with a free digital review copy in exchange for an honest review.

[Peacegal · Rating 3 out of 5]

A depressed teenage girl discovers that she may be the only human who can stop an evil force from unleashing its will upon the Earth. A HAUNTED GIRL is a touching, well-illustrated graphic novel that speaks from experience to young people struggling with mental health--with plenty of monster/horror elements woven in.

[Ella :3 · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a great story! I struggle with depression and anxiety, so I could connect with the mental health themes (especially struggling with going to school). I liked the message of not letting your depression win and accepting that you do matter and you have the place in the world. The only thing I didn’t really like was I feel the supernatural elements weren’t fleshed out very much. I think a little more backstory to the ghosts and how they tie into the main story would have made it better. The ending felt like it was wrapped up too quickly, but other than that I really enjoyed this book! Thank you NetGalley and Image Comics for the arc!

[Estibaliz · Rating 2 out of 5]

I wish I had liked this one much more than I actually did (which is barely), because the motivation for this story is really commendable, and there's some considerable added value in the fact the author wrote it along with his daughter, who suffered from mental health issues at a young age.

However, the story in this graphic novel was really basic, very stereotipical and formualic, and the characters felt too flat and one dimensional for it too be a really engaging tale.

The 2 stars are actually quite generous...

[Jeremy Fowler · Rating 5 out of 5]

Heart-wrenching, beautiful writing & storytelling!

A Haunted Girl is a series by Ethan Sacks that seems to be inspired by true events. The protagonist struggles with thoughts of self-harm, anxiety, and depression, all while being the sole force standing between the world and its end. This story is profoundly moving and beautifully written, showcasing Ethan Sacks’ exceptional storytelling talent. The narrative balances heavy subject matter with a hopeful message, offering readers an emotional yet uplifting journey.

The plot remains engaging throughout, introducing the characters and setting while skillfully weaving in flashbacks that reveal the history behind the main conflicts. The pacing is moderate, allowing readers to absorb the emotional weight of the story. However, the ending is well worth the wait, delivering a powerful and impactful message that resonates long after the final page.

Trigger Warnings: Suicide ideation, anxiety, and depression.

This is a meaningful and impactful series that handles its themes with care and authenticity, making it a must-read for those who appreciate poignant and deeply human storytelling.

[Annalise · Rating 3 out of 5]

This book was definitely a 3.5 star read for me. The mental health representation as well as the art style were fantastic! And to find out the character Cleo’s mental health journey was based off of the author’s daughter, who’s also the co-author?! I thought it was a really nice touch. The ending did feel a little cliche almost with the way Cleo’s monologue at the end goes. I do get how it is supposed to be inspirational in a way, but it just felt empty kind of. I did enjoy this graphic novel though!

[Cassie Knutson · Rating 2 out of 5]

Art was amazing, unfortunately that was about it.

[Books_the_Magical_Fruit · Rating 5 out of 5]

I’m struggling with what to say here. Let’s just say that a lot resonated with me while reading.

This comic is SO important. Children and teenagers are having more and more mental health crises these days. Life is HARD. It’s vital that they know that they’re not alone and where they can get help. Sacks has messages throughout the comic outlining where to go to get resources for depression, anxiety and suicidal ideation. Putting it in a comic book is genius, and this will reach a much larger audience of teenagers.

Make sure you reach out if you think someone you care about is experiencing suicidal thoughts—assume that no one else will reach out if you don’t.

Fair warning—the horror characters are, well, horrifying. I can’t imagine seeing some of these things anywhere, let alone in my bedroom.

Thank you to Ethan and his daughter Naomi for being so vulnerable and sharing this story.

I received an eARC from NetGalley and Image Comics (thank you!). All opinions are my own.

[Steven · Rating 4 out of 5]

An interesting read but I was hoping the first issue was a little longer. I might read more issues at some point in the future. The artwork was really good, and creepy.

[Cal · Rating 3 out of 5]

A Haunted Girl is a series of comic issues that tell the collective story of a girl battling with depression and the goddess of death who wants to takeover the world.

Going into this comic, I didn’t expect depression to be portrayed in an accurate light. A Hollywood’s depiction of mental health maybe but the premise intrigued me so I gave this comic a try and I’m quite glad that I did.

Speaking from my own experience with depression—this comic’s accurate. It’s so, so accurate. Not just surface level, politically accurate research, but It has the touch of someone who actually went through it too... Whichhhhhh I quickly found out was true for one of the authors.

This story is actually a collaboration between Naomi Sacks and her father, Ethan Sacks. Their experiences directly reflect onto the story and presumably parallel the relationship of Cleo and her father.
I felt safer learning that, that I was in good hands and can just sit back to enjoy the storytelling without having to worry about misrepresentation.

The characters feel real and very developed.

For example, I loved Cleo’s father! He wasn’t correct all the time but he kept pushing to understand and to help his daughter which made me like him even more.

There’s a therapist who’s caring and professional despite the supernatural stuff she gets pulled into. Most—if not all—of her advice I’ve heard before in my own sessions. I laughed at the mentions of DBT skills because I remember my therapist teaching them to me.

Poor Cleo is trying so hard to get back to a regular life and I love her. Depression is trying to overpower this girl but she’s still fighting! (She deserves only good things.)

The story’s pacing was quick and dynamic but I couldn’t fully get into it. Maybe it was the comic issue formatting? I wasn't a fan of the artwork either. It felt too stiff and I didn’t like style of it, but despite my preferences, I do appreciate the artist putting in the work and using his skill to bring the story to life.

Sprinkled throughout the comic issues are small PSAs explaining mental health, depression, where to go or what to do if you’re feeling depressed or suicidal, and the importance of keeping good mental health along with your physical health. It’s comforting and I never felt talked down at while reading.
I love the push of including these with the comic. I never felt unsafe or “triggered” while reading, which I appreciated more than I’d initially thought.

I would let older kids and teens read this. It’s a good look into what living with depression is like without the emotional scarring and trauma like the other media depictions of depression have. Who either romanticize it, make it inaccurate, or worse.

A Haunted Girl is a good comic to use as a teaching tool for creating discussions about mental health. It can help teach empathy and compassion while at the same time teaching kids and teens not to let any goddess of death take over the world.

For those fighting depression, I think this is a comic full of adventure that can provide some hope but definitely listen to yourself if it’s not right for you. Keep fighting.

Thank you to Images Comics! They gave me an eARC through Netgalley in exchange for an honest, unbiased review :D

[Piskie · Rating 4 out of 5]

First, I'd like to send my thanks to NetGalley and Image Comics for giving me access to the eARC of Crave. What follows is my true and honest opinion.

A Haunted Girl is a story about an impending apocalypse with a chosen one who is destined to either prevent it or cause it. The only problem is the chosen one doesn't want to live in this world. The story is compelling with wonderful art and Depictions of the supernatural, mixing the supernatural in with the real world situation of a teenager struggling with her Mental Health. I believe that this is one of the few cases in comic books where I haven't found mental health issues to be romanticised or played up. This is a topic that has been handled so poorly in the past, that I am often hesitant about media including it as a main plot point. However A Haunted Girl gives such a realistic representation of Depression that somehow fit seamlessly into the supernatural side of things without it seeming over exaggerated or making things difficult to read. Throughout the story, there are moments where the characters pause and reflect, the perks of having a therapist as one of your main cast.
I think that this comic is very important for young people to read. It shows that we're not alone with those feelings. It's important that Mental Health stop being stigmatised. Everyone has it, just some need a little help to get it healthy again.
Throughout this book, there are listed support helplines listed. I do think that if this was to ever be published in multiple countries, that it could be cool to I clude helplines for those specific countries however I don't know how publishing works or if that would even be feasible.
A Haunted Girl is a powerful but short comic book story that reaches its conclusion within one volume. It can feel a little short or rushed at times, but that is to be expected when doing a single volume comic book.

[Eileen · Rating 5 out of 5]

Tears of pain and tears of triumph

This was a powerful story about a girl’s journey through her battle with depression with a supernatural element. It began as a single line written by the author as he sat in a hospital waiting room with his daughter battling depression and suicidal ideation. Four years later, she ended up writing the story together with him, instilling this with her personal experiences.

While I don’t suffer from major depression, I did go through a period in my life when I was severely depressed and I could relate to some of Cleo’s thoughts. I thought the intertwining of the supernatural elements and her depression was very well done, and I liked that as Cleo started realizing she had strong allies on her side we also learned who they were. I loved that even when they didn’t understand what she was seeing and experiencing, they loved her enough to listen and to support her.

I appreciate that Ethan and Naomi Sacks allowed their vulnerability to be shared so that others might find healing and encouragement. The art was beautifully done, the monsters were real, but the love was also real. I highly recommend this to anyone who might be struggling with depression or who may be watching helplessly as a loved one struggles.

[Logan H · Rating 3 out of 5]

When a graphic novel starts like a B-rated horror movie, it's going to grab my attention. Cleo is a young woman learning to navigate her life after she tried to end it. Little does she know the lives of humankind depend only on her ability to stop an age-old curse? responsibility? placed on her bloodline. I enjoyed the premise accompanied by the harsh artistic flare of the artists. The plot lulled until partway through and concluded itself almost too quickly. I would've preferred at least 2-3 volumes of a story with lore I felt had a little more to say. The resources provided to readers about the origins of the author's idea for this story and the additional mental health resources were placed throughout the story in areas that provided a good reprieve from the heaviness of its topic. I gratefully received an e-ARC of this work via NetGalley and Image Comics.

[Victoria · Rating 4 out of 5]

The story depicted here resonated with me so much. I suffer with major depression and it was so relatable to see it on paper. I think it’s an ingenious idea to add that mental health can be a struggle. I read that this story was based on the authors daughter own struggle. The supernatural elements are a great addition too.

I flew through this comic. I recommend it’s a read for all young adults and even adults. Who knows you might be able to relate to someone that has major depression.

Thank you to NetGalley, the publisher and author for a copy of this eARC in exchange for an honest review.

[RoseDevoursBooks · Rating 2 out of 5]

I appreciate the idea behind the story about a young girl who suffers from depression and yet is the only one who could save the world from an apocalypse. The general idea is to give readers hope as we see how Cleo battles her demons in a literal and psychological sense but unfortunately it fell flat for me. The characters were one dimensional and the story was too rushed to feel any emotional attachment. The artwork however, is fantastic and beautifully executed but unfortunately this won’t be much of a memorable read for me.

Thank you netgalley and Image Comics for a digital copy of this graphic novel in exchange for an honest review.

[Emelia · Rating 5 out of 5]

This graphic novel was emotive and captivating, and I loved every page. Father and daughter duo Ethan and Naomi Sacks teamed up to write this story based on Naomi's own struggles with mental health. This brought a realistic element that definitely spoke to me as a reader. The parallels drawn between depression and the supernatural were moving, highlighting how strength can be found when we look to others for help.

With a beautiful art style and colour use reflecting the main character's inner thoughts, A Haunted Girl was a striking graphic novel. Anyone looking for an uplifting (and sometimes spooky!) read should give this a try.

Thank you NetGalley and Image Comics for providing this e-ARC for an honest review.

[Ronja · Rating 4 out of 5]

A Haunted Girl is a beautiful story about mental health struggels and what it means to face your fears.

I was very excited when I finally got my copy of the A Haunted Girl collection (issues 1 to 4). I have been wanting to reas this story ever since it was first announced. What drew me to it especially was that it is based on Naomia depression and her journey following a suicide attempt.

Ethan and her tell a wonderful story about coming to terms with mental illness, about accepting the thoughts and feelings you are dealing with and about facing your fears.
This is portrait in a paranormal horror setting where the demons we carry inside our heads are real and main character Cleo, a depressed teenage girl, is the only one who can stop them. It is a story that deals with wanting to give up and what it means to fight to stay alive.

The art by Marco Lorenzana compliments the story very well.

Ethan has teased "A Haunted Girl 2" recently and I am looking forward to what he and Naomi come up with.

[Alicia Evans · Rating 3 out of 5]

I read this in one sitting and it is beautiful and sad and truly haunting, as the title would suggest. The notes in the back about the father and daughter team writing this together left me a mess. This is a strong visualization to depression and questioning how important life really is. Heavy and worth it.

Themes/possible red flags: depression, hospitalization, and mentions of suicidal thoughts/attempted suicide; graphic horror depictions of the dead; LGBTQIA (suggested); medication & therapy; orphanhood/being raised by an uncle; ghosts; apocalyptic themes.

[Felicia Schuster · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a great graphic novel with amazing art. I loved the overall deeper meaning and portrayal of mental health. Finding out how this story came to be was super touching and seeing the end result is amazing. Such a creepy, cool comic with an important message! Thank you to NetGalley for getting me onto this amazing read 😁

[Katie Mac · Rating 4 out of 5]

The art and imagery are stellar, and I appreciate that Chloe's depression is depicted realistically and isn't sensationalized. I wish the ending had been less abrupt and more nuanced, but since it's a short volume I kind of expected it. Also, small quibble, but...who is the cover depicting? It's gorgeous, but the person on the front isn't Chloe...

[Taelyr · Rating 4 out of 5]

A girl who doesn't know if she wants to live is the only one who can save all life on earth.

The art in this is beautiful; captivating and dark. The story portrays real mental illness mixed with magic and mythology. I enjoyed the Japanese elements and how they mixed into the story. It was a tad on the cheesy side, but hey it's a comic.

[K · Rating 3 out of 5]

Took me a minute to get out of the reading it backwards thing I was doing with manga to be able to read this graphic. I really liked the artwork a lot. It had a lot of fun colors together. Plus the cover is so sick

[Craig Schorling · Rating 2 out of 5]

I liked what this story was trying to tell but the pacing was a bit disjointed. Things happened really fast and characters other than the dad and MC get not real development. The art was really nice at times.

[Genesee Rickel · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this! Beautiful, full-color, bold art, plus a classic chosen one storyline and really great mental health rep. Can’t wait to suggest this! It’s labeled as horror but I feel it better fits with urban fantasy/dark fantasy (like Buffy). The sapphic rep is incidental but present.

[Dean · Rating 1 out of 5]

Definitely not for me.
I didn't enjoy the dialogue and the story felt poorly executed. I liked the premise.