Sunhead: A Graphic Novel

In this queer coming-of-age teen graphic novel by breakout talent Alex Assan, high schooler Rotem feels herself growing apart from her friends in a million inexpressible ways. But an unexpected connection with another student makes her feel more herself than ever before. This incisive and stunningly gorgeous debut is perfect for fans of Bloom and Gender Queer.

Rotem is a Sunhead, a fan of the international smash hit Sunrise series of books and films. She’s obsessed with the story’s love interest, Edmund, and no one else gets it. But all that changes when she befriends Ayala, a shy classmate and avid book lover who’s as swept away by the romance as she is. The two become fast friends, but as their deep connection grows stronger, Rotem starts to wonder: What exactly draws her to this story?

Alex Assan’s debut, Sunhead, is an earnest coming-of-age graphic novel that explores how the stories we love help us understand our friendships, our relationships, and ourselves.

“Assan’s uniquely affective art style complements a story beautifully devoted to subtextual queerness and the imaginative space fandom provides queer teens. Every glance, bit of dialogue, and scene transition is imbued with meaning, using visual storytelling to its absolute highest potential, and warm cloud-puffs and wordless panels in tones of coral and salmon give Rotem’s imaginings of the books a sense of both whimsy and yearning.” - Bulletin of the Center for Children’s Books (starred review)

“A charming LGBTQIA+ coming-of-age story that captures the ordinary angst of teenagers. A recommended purchase for libraries with demand for inclusive graphic novels.” - School Library Journal