Illegal meets When Stars Are Scatteredin The Other Side of Tomorrow, a middle grade graphic novel in verse with words by Tina Cho and art by Deb JJ Lee, which follows Yunho and Myunghee as they flee North Korea and face many dangers—poisonous jungle snakes, corrupt soldiers, and the daily fear of being found out and sent back—in order to reach for a brighter future.
From never knowing where they’ll find their next meal to avoiding soldiers lurking at every corner, many North Koreans have learned that sticking around can be just as deadly as attempting to flee . . . almost.
Both shy, resourceful Yunho and fierce, vibrant Myunghee know this. So when they each resolve to run away from the bleak futures they face, it’s with the knowledge that they could be facing a fate worse than death.
While Yunho hopes to reunite with his omma, who snuck across the border years ago, Myunghee is reaching for dreams that are bigger than anything the regime would allow her to have. The two are strangers to each other until a chance encounter unwittingly intertwines their fates and Myunghee saves Yunho’s life.
Kept together by their dreams for a brighter future, they face a road plagued by poisonous jungle snakes, corrupt soldiers, and the daily fear of discovery and imprisonment. But with every step toward freedom, there is also hope. Will it be enough for both of them to make it to safety without losing each other along the way?
Note on North Korean history. Full-color digital illustrations created with Procreate.
Topics Refugee children. North Korea. Survival. Friendship. Family. Immigration.
Trim Size 8" x 5 1/2"
JLG Span Spring
Language English
Rights type Print
Publication date 2024-11-11
JLG Release Date Jun 2025
Minimum grade 5
Maximum grade 8
Reading level Middle
Format Print
Graphic Novels Middle Plus (Grades 5-8)
Graphic Novels Middle Plus
Graphic Novels Middle Plus (Grades 5-8)
For Grades 5-8
This 14-book collection features book-length graphic novels that bring stories to life through immersive visuals and compelling narratives. With a mix of humor, adventure, and thought-provoking themes, these selections provide an engaging reading experience that can turn even reluctant readers into eager ones.