By Maureen Tai, 28 September 2023

The Only Child (ages 4+), the debut wordless graphic novel by Chinese illustrator Guojing, was inspired by her own experience growing up in the days of China’s one child policy. The masterful, atmospheric and haunting pencil drawings tell the story of a little girl who spends many of her days alone. After looking at photographs of happier times on a cold, wintry day, she decides to embark on a solo journey to her grandmother’s house, a place of warmth and birthday cake. The giddy look of wonder on the girl’s face turns to anguished tears as she realises she’s lost her way, and that she’s alone in a dark forest. Suddenly, a shadowy, familiar form magically emerges from the gloom to take the girl on an adventure she will never forget, and ultimately to help her find her way home. A gorgeous visual masterpiece that will leave your heart slightly broken, but mended by the end.

Ages 4 and up.