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The Other Side of Tomorrow
Perfect for fans of Illegal and When Stars Are Scattered, this poignant and moving graphic novel in verse captures the dangers and hope that comes with fleeing North Korea and reaching for a brighter future through the lives of Yunho and Myunghee.
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?
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?
224 pages, Paperback
First published November 12, 2024
39 people are currently reading
4023 people want to read
About the author
Tina M. Cho
17 books59 followersTina M. Cho is also known as Tina Cho.
Tina Cho is the author of Rice from Heaven: The Secret Mission to Feed North Koreans (Little Bee Books 2018), Korean Celebrations (Tuttle 2019), My Breakfast with Jesus: Worshipping God around the World (Harvest House 2020), The Ocean Calls: A Haenyeo Mermaid Story (Kokila/Penguin Random House 2020), God’s Little Astronomer (Waterbrook 2024), God’s Little Oceanographer 2025, & The Princess & the Grain of Rice (FSG 2025). Her lyrical middle grade graphic novel, The Other Side of Tomorrow, debuts from Harper Alley 11/12/2024. After living in South Korea for ten years, Tina, her husband, and two kids reside in Iowa where Tina also teaches kindergarten.
Tina Cho is the author of Rice from Heaven: The Secret Mission to Feed North Koreans (Little Bee Books 2018), Korean Celebrations (Tuttle 2019), My Breakfast with Jesus: Worshipping God around the World (Harvest House 2020), The Ocean Calls: A Haenyeo Mermaid Story (Kokila/Penguin Random House 2020), God’s Little Astronomer (Waterbrook 2024), God’s Little Oceanographer 2025, & The Princess & the Grain of Rice (FSG 2025). Her lyrical middle grade graphic novel, The Other Side of Tomorrow, debuts from Harper Alley 11/12/2024. After living in South Korea for ten years, Tina, her husband, and two kids reside in Iowa where Tina also teaches kindergarten.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 178 reviews
December 17, 2024
In a Nutshell: A middle-grade graphic novel written in verse, telling the story of two tweens from North Korea and their planned escape to a brighter future. I wanted to like this far more than I did, but a few of the writing choices didn’t work for me. The illustrations are stunning. The book has some dark content, so it would be better if adults read and evaluate its suitability for their kids before handing it over.
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Plot Preview:
A book based on two young children fending for themselves in the totalitarian regime of North Korea has to have tremendous merit. Through this graphic novel, we get a glimpse of how rigid the governmental regulations are, how tough it is for the less-fortunate citizens of the country to survive, and how little the residents can trust anyone around them for fear of being reported, or worse, killed.
Most of us don’t know much about life in that closed dictatorship, so this book offers a gritty look at the situation there. The plot captures the restrictive atmosphere and the fear of the people perfectly. It also depicts the citizens’ external subservience to the regime’s dictates, even if they believe something else within. It is easy for us outsiders to question why these people are blind to their woes and why they don’t protest or overthrow the dictators, but only if we ourselves were in that position would we be able to accept that sometimes, surviving means compromising on many accounts, including rebellious tendencies and ethics. If nothing else, the story generates a sense of gratitude for our privileged life, and makes us appreciative of the freedom we take for granted.
While opting for this graphic novel, I hadn’t realised that it was written in verse. I am not comfortable with poetry in any form, so I read the text as ordinary prose and it worked well enough for me. I did see glimpses of a poetic writing style, with some words strung together in a harmonious repetition to deliver a greater impact. Beyond this, I have no comment to make on the poetic merit of this work. That said, the ‘verse’ factor might work against the book; not many readers, regardless of age group, readily opt for books written in verse.
The story journeys through five countries, just like our main characters do. The first part, set in North Korea, is the lengthiest and the most impactful. The middle three sections (covering China, Laos, and Thailand) are good but not extensive. The plot feels somewhat rushed here. The final section is based in the USA, the weakest subset of the book. I am familiar with Southeast Asia, so it was easy for me to keep track of the characters’ escape through multiple countries. But to western readers, including a map might have been helpful.
The illustrations are stunning, as can be seen from that gorgeous cover art. The graphics seem to be shaded in a kind of watercolour effect, so the art appears as fluid as the verses. The expressions on the characters’ faces is especially praise-worthy; we can actually feel their emotional vulnerability in many of the panels.
A special note at the end provides details on North Korean history – this is brilliant.
While the core plot definitely worked for me, some of the writing decisions left me dissatisfied.
- I didn’t expect to see strong Christian content in this book. Having a pastor as one of the rescuers meant that some lines were deeply rooted in belief, which was fine. But going much beyond those scenes to establish the power of faith in the Christian God as being essential in their escape? I don’t know how to feel about that. In such a grounded story, adding the faith component wasn’t necessary, even if some refugees would certainly lean on faith to guide them to safety. Considering the universality of the story, I think the book should have focussed more on the practical resilience of the characters than on their spiritual enlightenment. Alternatively, the blurb should have clearly indicated the faith-based content so that readers can take a call with complete information. (Note: Practising Christian here. So no, this feedback has nothing to do with my own faith.)
- There are a few scary sequences that might be triggering to sensitive younger readers. I understand that this is based in reality, but a certain dilution of the extreme events such as the public execution would have been better.
- Having two POVs in first person is not a great idea for middle-grade books, especially when each perspective lasts barely a couple of pages. The frequent swap in perspective can get confusing.
- There is a certain idealisation of asylum life in the USA. The characters seem to get an almost instant resolution for all their needs there, and they don’t face any racial or other discrimination. It is too smooth to be believable. This especially jars when we remember that, though the story is set in 2013, the book is coming out in 2024, and everyone knows what the dominant rhetoric of the upcoming US president is.
All in all, I did love the idea behind this story, and I learnt a lot of life in North Korea. I just wish the issues mentioned above had been handled better. Regardless, this is a great option for anyone wanting an OwnVoices middle-grade option about one of the most restrictive countries in the world. Do note that the content gets quite intense at times. Parents/guardians/teachers, please read this book first and judge its suitability for the little ones in your life.
3.75 stars.
My thanks to HarperCollins Children's Books and HarperAlley for providing the DRC of “The Other Side of Tomorrow” via NetGalley. This review is voluntary and contains my honest opinion about the book.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Connect with me through:
My Blog || The StoryGraph || Instagram || X/Twitter || Facebook ||
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Plot Preview:
2013, North Korea. Yunho is a shy ten-year-old who stays alone with his grandmother after his mother escaped across the border to China to earn money and improve their circumstances. She had promised to send for Yunho as soon as possible, but it has been almost two years now with no update. Yunho is good at finding scrap metal, which he sells to the government in exchange for some much-needed money.
Eleven-year-old Myunghee is an independent school dropout who scavenges the mountainside for wild roots and vegetables, and trades them in the market. She lived with her ailing grandmother, but after the latter’s death, Myunghee is all alone.
Circumstances throw Yunho and Myunghee together, first at an horrifying public event, and then as part of a group with a common dream – escape. With the help of a pastor and some local agents, the group travels through four countries until they can apply for asylum. The journey is fraught with danger, but is it better to chance death while running towards a brighter future, or to stay in a country where there is no future?
The story is written in the alternating first-person perspectives of the two kids.
A book based on two young children fending for themselves in the totalitarian regime of North Korea has to have tremendous merit. Through this graphic novel, we get a glimpse of how rigid the governmental regulations are, how tough it is for the less-fortunate citizens of the country to survive, and how little the residents can trust anyone around them for fear of being reported, or worse, killed.
Most of us don’t know much about life in that closed dictatorship, so this book offers a gritty look at the situation there. The plot captures the restrictive atmosphere and the fear of the people perfectly. It also depicts the citizens’ external subservience to the regime’s dictates, even if they believe something else within. It is easy for us outsiders to question why these people are blind to their woes and why they don’t protest or overthrow the dictators, but only if we ourselves were in that position would we be able to accept that sometimes, surviving means compromising on many accounts, including rebellious tendencies and ethics. If nothing else, the story generates a sense of gratitude for our privileged life, and makes us appreciative of the freedom we take for granted.
While opting for this graphic novel, I hadn’t realised that it was written in verse. I am not comfortable with poetry in any form, so I read the text as ordinary prose and it worked well enough for me. I did see glimpses of a poetic writing style, with some words strung together in a harmonious repetition to deliver a greater impact. Beyond this, I have no comment to make on the poetic merit of this work. That said, the ‘verse’ factor might work against the book; not many readers, regardless of age group, readily opt for books written in verse.
The story journeys through five countries, just like our main characters do. The first part, set in North Korea, is the lengthiest and the most impactful. The middle three sections (covering China, Laos, and Thailand) are good but not extensive. The plot feels somewhat rushed here. The final section is based in the USA, the weakest subset of the book. I am familiar with Southeast Asia, so it was easy for me to keep track of the characters’ escape through multiple countries. But to western readers, including a map might have been helpful.
The illustrations are stunning, as can be seen from that gorgeous cover art. The graphics seem to be shaded in a kind of watercolour effect, so the art appears as fluid as the verses. The expressions on the characters’ faces is especially praise-worthy; we can actually feel their emotional vulnerability in many of the panels.
A special note at the end provides details on North Korean history – this is brilliant.
While the core plot definitely worked for me, some of the writing decisions left me dissatisfied.
- I didn’t expect to see strong Christian content in this book. Having a pastor as one of the rescuers meant that some lines were deeply rooted in belief, which was fine. But going much beyond those scenes to establish the power of faith in the Christian God as being essential in their escape? I don’t know how to feel about that. In such a grounded story, adding the faith component wasn’t necessary, even if some refugees would certainly lean on faith to guide them to safety. Considering the universality of the story, I think the book should have focussed more on the practical resilience of the characters than on their spiritual enlightenment. Alternatively, the blurb should have clearly indicated the faith-based content so that readers can take a call with complete information. (Note: Practising Christian here. So no, this feedback has nothing to do with my own faith.)
- There are a few scary sequences that might be triggering to sensitive younger readers. I understand that this is based in reality, but a certain dilution of the extreme events such as the public execution would have been better.
- Having two POVs in first person is not a great idea for middle-grade books, especially when each perspective lasts barely a couple of pages. The frequent swap in perspective can get confusing.
- There is a certain idealisation of asylum life in the USA. The characters seem to get an almost instant resolution for all their needs there, and they don’t face any racial or other discrimination. It is too smooth to be believable. This especially jars when we remember that, though the story is set in 2013, the book is coming out in 2024, and everyone knows what the dominant rhetoric of the upcoming US president is.
All in all, I did love the idea behind this story, and I learnt a lot of life in North Korea. I just wish the issues mentioned above had been handled better. Regardless, this is a great option for anyone wanting an OwnVoices middle-grade option about one of the most restrictive countries in the world. Do note that the content gets quite intense at times. Parents/guardians/teachers, please read this book first and judge its suitability for the little ones in your life.
3.75 stars.
My thanks to HarperCollins Children's Books and HarperAlley for providing the DRC of “The Other Side of Tomorrow” via NetGalley. This review is voluntary and contains my honest opinion about the book.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Connect with me through:
My Blog || The StoryGraph || Instagram || X/Twitter || Facebook ||
February 16, 2025
This is one of the best middle grade graphic novels that I’ve ever read. I was surprised by Cho’s ability to not only display the experience of those that attempt to flee North Korea, but also maintain characterization that permitted the children of the story to still be children even though they were experiencing things that most adults couldn’t comprehend. There is a great deal of history tied into this and it’s bound to give readers better insight to the experiences of the global community. JJ Lee did an immaculate job with the art. This is definitely a story I won’t forget.
March 15, 2025
picked this up because i love deb jj lee's art, and the art is definitely the highlight of the book - it's absolutely STUNNING and this whole book is worth a read just for that.
however i found the story itself to be a bit...lacking at times? the choice to write it in verse didn't always seem the most effective to me, and it definitely at times reads like american+christian missionary propaganda which kind of soured the whole story for me. however, i would say it's still worth flipping through just for the art, which is shockingly gorgeous. always a treat to get a full length graphic novel from deb lee!
however i found the story itself to be a bit...lacking at times? the choice to write it in verse didn't always seem the most effective to me, and it definitely at times reads like american+christian missionary propaganda which kind of soured the whole story for me. however, i would say it's still worth flipping through just for the art, which is shockingly gorgeous. always a treat to get a full length graphic novel from deb lee!
December 12, 2024
Beautiful, gripping story of North Korean citizens escaping toward freedom. It takes a lot of help to face the many obstacles, but these kids learn to trust that God can care for them even in the most impossible moments. Really a sweet story that sheds light on the darkest country in the world.
August 21, 2025
harika harika harika...
November 21, 2025
Bu kez yazılanlardan çok çizilenleri öveceğim. Grafik roman okumak sadece edebi doygunluk değil, görüş açınızı da zenginleştiriyor.
February 7, 2025
"The Other Side of Tomorrow" is a gripping graphic novel that explores the harrowing journey of North Korean refugees seeking freedom. The story follows Yunho and Myunghee, two young protagonists with vastly different dreams but a shared determination to escape the oppressive regime of their homeland.
Their perilous journey is fraught with danger—encounters with soldiers, the challenges of nature, and the constant fear of betrayal or capture. Yet amidst the hardship, the narrative also weaves in threads of hope, resilience, and the power of human connection.
I loved the stunning illustrations, which vividly bring the characters’ struggles and the harsh realities of their world to life. The story is both educational and deeply moving, offering readers a window into the challenges faced by refugees and fostering empathy and understanding.
While the novel is nearly flawless in its execution, the overt reliance on Christianity as a source of hope might feel heavy-handed to some readers, depending on their own experiences. However, this does not diminish the overall impact of the story.
Final Verdict: 4.5/5. A beautifully crafted and essential read that balances tragedy with hope, making it a powerful tool for fostering empathy in young readers.
Their perilous journey is fraught with danger—encounters with soldiers, the challenges of nature, and the constant fear of betrayal or capture. Yet amidst the hardship, the narrative also weaves in threads of hope, resilience, and the power of human connection.
I loved the stunning illustrations, which vividly bring the characters’ struggles and the harsh realities of their world to life. The story is both educational and deeply moving, offering readers a window into the challenges faced by refugees and fostering empathy and understanding.
While the novel is nearly flawless in its execution, the overt reliance on Christianity as a source of hope might feel heavy-handed to some readers, depending on their own experiences. However, this does not diminish the overall impact of the story.
Final Verdict: 4.5/5. A beautifully crafted and essential read that balances tragedy with hope, making it a powerful tool for fostering empathy in young readers.
January 11, 2025
This was a REALLY great graphic novel about two youth who seek to leave North Korea. North Korea and the way it treats people is just horrendous but honestly, we don't talk about it much. In this book, we are given a glimpse behind the curtain and the yearning for a different life occurs.
Font and color were so similar that in the beginning, switching between voices was a little confusing (although I liked both stories so didn't mind horribly much.) I also did not expect such Christian undertones about love, forgiveness, faith, etc. I liked it because this is my background. I do wonder if someone stumbles upon it will they be upset by it (though The Other Side of Tomorrow does a good job at more depicting the struggle between belief, anger, hate, etc......all good things.....and no faith decision is made either)
It reminds me of When Stars are Scattered in its honesty...at first. Let me rephrase. Showing the trials getting out of North Korea via China, Laos, Thailand.....it isn't so simple as "crossing over a border." You got the DMZ to deal with. However, upon arriving in America, you would think everything was perfect. For an immigration narrative, both young protagonists have not as much of an issue adjusting as I would expect. Another review stated they "fairytaled" American and truly, they aren't wrong.
It's a tough read at times and hopeful at others. I'm a fan!
Font and color were so similar that in the beginning, switching between voices was a little confusing (although I liked both stories so didn't mind horribly much.) I also did not expect such Christian undertones about love, forgiveness, faith, etc. I liked it because this is my background. I do wonder if someone stumbles upon it will they be upset by it (though The Other Side of Tomorrow does a good job at more depicting the struggle between belief, anger, hate, etc......all good things.....and no faith decision is made either)
It reminds me of When Stars are Scattered in its honesty...at first. Let me rephrase. Showing the trials getting out of North Korea via China, Laos, Thailand.....it isn't so simple as "crossing over a border." You got the DMZ to deal with. However, upon arriving in America, you would think everything was perfect. For an immigration narrative, both young protagonists have not as much of an issue adjusting as I would expect. Another review stated they "fairytaled" American and truly, they aren't wrong.
It's a tough read at times and hopeful at others. I'm a fan!
November 5, 2024
(Disclaimer: I received this book from the publisher. This has not impacted my review which is unbiased and honest.)
Being a fan of Deb J.J. Lee's illustrations, I knew I would love The Other Side of Tomorrow. Predictably, it has a beautiful art style and striking panel composition. There's both a sense of movement and lyricism in its lay out and color. Additionally, the story of The Other Side of Tomorrow is moving. It's a story about love and perseverance, but also the burdens children should never have to bear. They grow up in a moment as they balance their own loss with the challenges to come.
Being a fan of Deb J.J. Lee's illustrations, I knew I would love The Other Side of Tomorrow. Predictably, it has a beautiful art style and striking panel composition. There's both a sense of movement and lyricism in its lay out and color. Additionally, the story of The Other Side of Tomorrow is moving. It's a story about love and perseverance, but also the burdens children should never have to bear. They grow up in a moment as they balance their own loss with the challenges to come.
Read
January 10, 2025Ok, I understand now why this graphic novel in verse was on so many 2024 wrap-ups. It's really good! Also sad 🥲. Very very sad 🫠. Definitely need to pick up something light next.
I'd rec this one to fans of When Stars Are Scattered (MG) and
They Called Us Enemy (Adult), though unlike those two, THE OTHER SIDE OF TOMORROW is fiction, not memoir. I will say that because it *is* a fictional story, I do think the kids' arrival in the US is very romanticized (just based on my experience as someone who taught English to recently arrived refugees), but honestly, I'll take it. Yungho and Myunghee deserve restful peace 😮💨.
Who else has this one on their 2025 TBR?
I'd rec this one to fans of When Stars Are Scattered (MG) and
They Called Us Enemy (Adult), though unlike those two, THE OTHER SIDE OF TOMORROW is fiction, not memoir. I will say that because it *is* a fictional story, I do think the kids' arrival in the US is very romanticized (just based on my experience as someone who taught English to recently arrived refugees), but honestly, I'll take it. Yungho and Myunghee deserve restful peace 😮💨.
Who else has this one on their 2025 TBR?
October 10, 2024
Speed thru this graphic novel. Review to follow. My heart strings tugged while reading this one🥺
This graphic novel has been on my reading list for months, and it centers on the lives of North Koreans yearning for freedom. They long to escape oppression, hunger, and a lack of education—all while being forced to work merely to survive.
The story follows two children, Myunghee and Yunho. Yunho's mother attempts to cross the border into China, spending years saving money to bring him over. While living with his Halmeoni, Yunho also has an uncle who is absent from their lives. Myunghee, similarly, resides with her Halmeoni.
Both kids face daily struggles but hold on to their dreams. Myunghee, for instance, aspires to be a K-pop singer, secretly listening to songs with her friend despite the restrictions around them. In North Korea, the walls have ears, so they must be cautious about discussing anything that could be seen as opposing Kim Jong Un or the regime.
The story evokes deep emotions as it depicts their perilous journey in search of a better life, filled with suspense over the potential dangers of getting caught. It’s harrowing to think that other countries repatriate North Koreans for a monetary reward.
It’s heart-wrenching to witness their struggles. It prompts reflections on our own freedoms and the unimaginable reality of living without them.
This graphic novel is a compelling read for anyone seeking insight into North Korea and the desperate attempts of its people to escape to other countries, particularly the U.S. While the circumstances may have changed, the situation in North Korea remains largely isolated from the world. I sincerely hope for the day when its citizens can experience true freedom.
P.S. I was surprised by the unexpected relationship between Myunghee and Yunho—it added an intriguing layer to the story!
Thank you Edelweiss and HarperCollins for the eARC🥹
This graphic novel has been on my reading list for months, and it centers on the lives of North Koreans yearning for freedom. They long to escape oppression, hunger, and a lack of education—all while being forced to work merely to survive.
The story follows two children, Myunghee and Yunho. Yunho's mother attempts to cross the border into China, spending years saving money to bring him over. While living with his Halmeoni, Yunho also has an uncle who is absent from their lives. Myunghee, similarly, resides with her Halmeoni.
Both kids face daily struggles but hold on to their dreams. Myunghee, for instance, aspires to be a K-pop singer, secretly listening to songs with her friend despite the restrictions around them. In North Korea, the walls have ears, so they must be cautious about discussing anything that could be seen as opposing Kim Jong Un or the regime.
The story evokes deep emotions as it depicts their perilous journey in search of a better life, filled with suspense over the potential dangers of getting caught. It’s harrowing to think that other countries repatriate North Koreans for a monetary reward.
It’s heart-wrenching to witness their struggles. It prompts reflections on our own freedoms and the unimaginable reality of living without them.
This graphic novel is a compelling read for anyone seeking insight into North Korea and the desperate attempts of its people to escape to other countries, particularly the U.S. While the circumstances may have changed, the situation in North Korea remains largely isolated from the world. I sincerely hope for the day when its citizens can experience true freedom.
P.S. I was surprised by the unexpected relationship between Myunghee and Yunho—it added an intriguing layer to the story!
Thank you Edelweiss and HarperCollins for the eARC🥹
October 14, 2024
Cho juxtaposes the bleak with the hopeful in this narrative through the alternating perspectives of Yunho and Myunghee. Two children, strangers to one another, forge a friendship in China after their escape from North Korea, but their journey isn't over yet. Under risk of being repatriated, readers follow Yunho and Myunghee working in a Christmas lights manufacturing factory, hopping safe houses, and narrowly avoiding capture. What was done really well was the undercurrent of anxiety and danger without the full visual--partly due to this being a middle grade level book--but I think that made me even more weary of what I wasn't seeing. As things similar to the events in this story happen every day in the real world, sharing stories like this is what will hopefully generate compassion, empathy, and understanding which will bring more people together than tearing them apart. Lee's illustrations complemented the narrative with their heartwrenching beauty. I am happy to have had the opportunity to read an e-ARC of this work via NetGalley and the publisher.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
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December 15, 2024I love Deb JJ Lee's art and am a fan of her graphic novel IN LIMBO, but I wouldn't have picked this up if I'd realized the target audience for Tina M. Cho's writing is people who are very into religious proselytizing. Not for me.
August 2, 2025
oh I knew i was gonna cry reading this, that's been the major theme with most middle grade graphic novels I read, but DAMN, I really sobbed reading this.
also, I had no idea there was an Asian underground railroad. so im really glad a whole bunch of kids can learn that with some beautiful art and a great story.
also, I had no idea there was an Asian underground railroad. so im really glad a whole bunch of kids can learn that with some beautiful art and a great story.
May 1, 2025
Yuzu’dan ikinci Deb JJ Lee kitabında aradığımı buldum!
İlk kitabı daha çok duymuş ve görmüştüm. Fakat bu sürpriz eser (belki bir demografi durumundan sebep) benim beğenimi kazandı.
Bu defa bir yazarla çalışmış. Kuzey Kore’de yaşayan, sefalet içerisindeki sıradan insanların mücadelesi ve dünyanın geri kalanına ulaşmaya çabaları konu ediliyor. Kitapta iki ana çocuk karakter var. Bölümler onların arasında/bakış açıları arasında gidip geliyor. Bunu yazdım ki başta karıştırıp hızlı okuyup benim gibi “noluyo” demeyin :) bu anlatı biçimi, çizim ve hassaten renklendirme çok güzel. Özellikle hikayenin ilk yarısını daha etkileyici/vurucu bulduğumu söylemeliyim.
İşlediği konu itibariyle elbette siyasi/politik bir yönü var. (Kuzey) Koreyle ilgili ne zaman okusam böyle hissediyorum. Lider kültünün ne fena bir şey olduğunu bir kez daha gözler önüne seriyor. Başka şeyler de düşündürüyor tabii. Lider kültü deyip geçmek kolay. Çizgiyi kim çekmeli, nerede çekmeli, o kadar zor sorular ki…
Mesela bugün Amerika bir obje olarak anti-kapitalistlerin de Müslümanların da ideolojik olarak “teoride” tasvip etmediği aksiyonlar içerisinde. Ama günlük hayatta yeterince kınanmıyor. Herkes okumaya gidebiliyor, gezmeye, kültürüne aşina… Yoz bir diktatörlüğün hatalarını işaret etmek kolay. Ama kitapta da kuzeydekilerin düşman olarak tanımladığı amerika gibi elinde bol neşe, oyuncak ve haz sunanı işaret etmek, hatta deşifre etmek zor.
Kim düşman? Kim kötü?
Özgürlüğe kaçışın ülkesi Amerika denizaşırı bir kan akıtıcı değil mi? Veya çok tuhaf ve asimetrik şekilde Filistin desteğinden ötürü gözaltına alınan Rümeysa Öztürk örneğinden tümevarımla ülkelerin seçici tavırları özgürlüğün neresinde? Bir yandan da çok milletli/kültürlü enterpreneur cenneti bir memleket?
Zalim olma potansiyeli ve merhamet potansiyeli hepimizin içinde var. Hepimizin de keskin bir lazer kılıcı gibi sonsuza uzayan kırmızı çizgileri var. Önüne geçeni kesebiliyor işte.
İnsan bu hercümerç içinde anlam arayan, anlam aradıkça anlamlanan, aksi takdirde ve bugünlerde bana çokça basit bir karınca kolonisinin davranışlarını hayli andırarak hayvanlaşan bir garib varlık…
Tam ifade edemediğim bu balonlarla okudum. Drama, Asya kültürüne meraklı grafik roman okuruna muhakkak öneririm.
İlk kitabı daha çok duymuş ve görmüştüm. Fakat bu sürpriz eser (belki bir demografi durumundan sebep) benim beğenimi kazandı.
Bu defa bir yazarla çalışmış. Kuzey Kore’de yaşayan, sefalet içerisindeki sıradan insanların mücadelesi ve dünyanın geri kalanına ulaşmaya çabaları konu ediliyor. Kitapta iki ana çocuk karakter var. Bölümler onların arasında/bakış açıları arasında gidip geliyor. Bunu yazdım ki başta karıştırıp hızlı okuyup benim gibi “noluyo” demeyin :) bu anlatı biçimi, çizim ve hassaten renklendirme çok güzel. Özellikle hikayenin ilk yarısını daha etkileyici/vurucu bulduğumu söylemeliyim.
İşlediği konu itibariyle elbette siyasi/politik bir yönü var. (Kuzey) Koreyle ilgili ne zaman okusam böyle hissediyorum. Lider kültünün ne fena bir şey olduğunu bir kez daha gözler önüne seriyor. Başka şeyler de düşündürüyor tabii. Lider kültü deyip geçmek kolay. Çizgiyi kim çekmeli, nerede çekmeli, o kadar zor sorular ki…
Mesela bugün Amerika bir obje olarak anti-kapitalistlerin de Müslümanların da ideolojik olarak “teoride” tasvip etmediği aksiyonlar içerisinde. Ama günlük hayatta yeterince kınanmıyor. Herkes okumaya gidebiliyor, gezmeye, kültürüne aşina… Yoz bir diktatörlüğün hatalarını işaret etmek kolay. Ama kitapta da kuzeydekilerin düşman olarak tanımladığı amerika gibi elinde bol neşe, oyuncak ve haz sunanı işaret etmek, hatta deşifre etmek zor.
Kim düşman? Kim kötü?
Özgürlüğe kaçışın ülkesi Amerika denizaşırı bir kan akıtıcı değil mi? Veya çok tuhaf ve asimetrik şekilde Filistin desteğinden ötürü gözaltına alınan Rümeysa Öztürk örneğinden tümevarımla ülkelerin seçici tavırları özgürlüğün neresinde? Bir yandan da çok milletli/kültürlü enterpreneur cenneti bir memleket?
Zalim olma potansiyeli ve merhamet potansiyeli hepimizin içinde var. Hepimizin de keskin bir lazer kılıcı gibi sonsuza uzayan kırmızı çizgileri var. Önüne geçeni kesebiliyor işte.
İnsan bu hercümerç içinde anlam arayan, anlam aradıkça anlamlanan, aksi takdirde ve bugünlerde bana çokça basit bir karınca kolonisinin davranışlarını hayli andırarak hayvanlaşan bir garib varlık…
Tam ifade edemediğim bu balonlarla okudum. Drama, Asya kültürüne meraklı grafik roman okuruna muhakkak öneririm.
November 11, 2024
The Other Side of Tomorrow tells the story of two North Korean children, Yunho and Myunghee, and their search for family and freedom. The chapters alternate between their points of view, a first for me in a graphic novel. Being caught up in the story, I didn't notice this until their stories intersected, at which point I had to go back to begin again. Yet every minute spent with these two was worth it, and I don't want to give any spoilers, except to say that the character of the pastor and the themes of forgiveness made this book a must-add to the classroom library shelves of my Christian school.
In looking up whether this book was fact or fiction, I came across Cho's post on Harper Stacks where she recounts how she first learned about the Asian Underground Railroad working to rescue North Koreans. While living in South Korea, she became aware of the refugee crisis hearing pastors preaching about the work of organizations trying to help. Just as Cho didn't know of these stories before working with these aid groups, I know her graphic novel will be revelatory to my students as they discover a refugee crisis previously unknown to them, just as I did.
Many thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for the eARC.
In looking up whether this book was fact or fiction, I came across Cho's post on Harper Stacks where she recounts how she first learned about the Asian Underground Railroad working to rescue North Koreans. While living in South Korea, she became aware of the refugee crisis hearing pastors preaching about the work of organizations trying to help. Just as Cho didn't know of these stories before working with these aid groups, I know her graphic novel will be revelatory to my students as they discover a refugee crisis previously unknown to them, just as I did.
Many thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for the eARC.
December 24, 2024
‘The Other Side of Tomorrow’ by Tina Cho with illustrations by Deb J.J. Lee is a graphic novel for young readers telling the story of a boy and a girl trying to escape from North Korea.
Yunho and Myunghee both live in North Korea but have different goals for leaving. Their stories are told in alternating chapters. Yunho wants to reunite with his omma who left years ago and Myunghee dreams of a life not remotely possible where she lives. Both face food shortages and the terror of an oppressive government. They both make the treacherous river crossing to China but they have different experiences until their journeys unite. Now they have to somehow cross more borders until they are safe, or caught and imprisoned.
This is a poignant and powerful story with really great art. It is never stated if this is based on a true story, but it has a ring of truth to it. What stands out are the tenacity and hope of the main characters. Making this a true must-read.
Yunho and Myunghee both live in North Korea but have different goals for leaving. Their stories are told in alternating chapters. Yunho wants to reunite with his omma who left years ago and Myunghee dreams of a life not remotely possible where she lives. Both face food shortages and the terror of an oppressive government. They both make the treacherous river crossing to China but they have different experiences until their journeys unite. Now they have to somehow cross more borders until they are safe, or caught and imprisoned.
This is a poignant and powerful story with really great art. It is never stated if this is based on a true story, but it has a ring of truth to it. What stands out are the tenacity and hope of the main characters. Making this a true must-read.
March 10, 2025
This is a really beautiful and intense story. I struggle at the beginning with this because the combination of novel in verse and graphic novel took some getting used to. But once I found the flow I was completely sucked in. Reading this was very eye opening to the terrible things happening around the world. Reading this in March 2025 just makes this hit even harder. I'm also impressed how this book manages to tell such a harrowing story in a way that seems accessible for the middle grade audience...it's not dumbed down but it's also not graphic in a way that would make it too intense or upsetting. Not sure if that makes sense, but I would recommend this to readers of all ages. So happy I picked this up.
December 22, 2024
This book was absolutely emotional wonderful gorgeous thought provoking eye opening comforting. i like that through the two main characters (and the supporting cast) you get to see a larger scope of the north korean diaspora and life in north korea. I esp feel as an american, North korea is talked about a lot but nothing substantial is actually said that allows me to understand the situation, so reading this felt eye-opening. I also think this is a great contribution to a the large canon of immigration stories. It really highlights how important it is to put your best foot forward because even the tiniest of small acts of kindness can have a great impact. It also emphasized how grey and complex everyone’s situations are, how what’s wrong and what’s right are not always obvious or easy to do. This book should be required reading for everyone i 100% recommend
June 1, 2025
Yunho and Myunghee’s escapes from North Korea were harrowing to read! The descriptions of their existences in North Korea and while on the run were horrible and so difficult to read. Stories like these are so important to remind us that kids (people) in this world live lives much different than ours.
(I had an issue with how Christianity was presented as a miracle and that once they began following the principles of the religion that things in their journey began coming together perfectly, but I enjoyed the rest of the story enough to overlook it.)
(I had an issue with how Christianity was presented as a miracle and that once they began following the principles of the religion that things in their journey began coming together perfectly, but I enjoyed the rest of the story enough to overlook it.)
November 30, 2024
So good, but a book I wish didn't need to be written, because people shouldn't have to live like this, ever.
I went to a diverse high school near an organization that helps refugees and immigrants. I played soccer on a team where only 2 or 3 of us were born in America, and most people didn't speak English. I heard bits and pieces of stories similar to this one. To see a story in detail, and to imagine that my teammates and fellow students went through an experience like this, is a lot to swallow.
I went to a diverse high school near an organization that helps refugees and immigrants. I played soccer on a team where only 2 or 3 of us were born in America, and most people didn't speak English. I heard bits and pieces of stories similar to this one. To see a story in detail, and to imagine that my teammates and fellow students went through an experience like this, is a lot to swallow.
March 15, 2025
This graphic novel is heart wrenching. The harrowing escape stories of Yunho and Myunghee from North Korea as children is informative, tense, and emotional as they encounter the cruelties of governments, but also the kindnesses of individuals who try to help. An eye opening account of the realities of communist North Korea and how faith can give hope and champion a cause.
April 21, 2025
This is well-told and beautifully illustrated. I think young readers picking it up will be amazed by the different lives these kids lead. It was very emotionally realistic to the way they felt about each other and the difficulties they faced. However, it was even more emotionally dark than I was expecting, so I would recommend with care.
November 15, 2024
Lee’s illustration’s are gorgeous, and the coloring….They are the perfect choice in Artist for the lyricism Cho employs to tells a heartbreaking, fraught, but ultimately hopeful story of oppression and escape.
I love the dual perspective, their intervals moving a long and arduous journey at a lithe pace.
A great addition to refugee stories.
I love the dual perspective, their intervals moving a long and arduous journey at a lithe pace.
A great addition to refugee stories.
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January 3, 2025
Heartbreaking, and such an important read.
June 29, 2025
A story about courage, resilience, and hope. Thank goodness for the brave souls of the Asian Underground Railroad who help people escape from North Korea.
July 8, 2025
I'm going to use this in the classroom one day! And I love that its a graphic novel and a novel in verse. The art work is also beautiful!
December 16, 2024
An incredible journey of escape from North Korea for a small group of people. Heart-wrenching and terrifying! Absolutely beautiful artwork.
January 30, 2025
The art is so beautiful and the story is told with such grace. My heart hurts for these two kids.
March 29, 2025
It moves a little slowly and episodically. But the art is gorgeous and there is tenderness and surprises along the way. This is a harrowing story, but hopeful and moving.
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