Silk

by E.B. Roshan

Farz and his family are Silki-charmers; they follow the giant, spiderlike creatures known as "Silkis" through their jungle home, harvesting their precious silk. It's been their family's tradition for generations. But Silkis can be dangerous and not everyone wants them around. Farz may be ready to try a different life, but he doesn't want the Silkis to disappear forever.

Genres: Graphic Novels, Middle Grade, Fantasy

104 pages, ebook

Published June 7, 2024

About the author

E.B. Roshan has enjoyed a nomadic lifestyle for several years, living in the Middle East, Asia and various parts of the U.S. She is now temporarily settled in Pennsylvania with her husband and three children.

To learn more about E.B. Roshan and her books, visit: https://shardsofsevia.wordpress.com

Reviews

[Reading_ Tamishly · Rating 3 out of 5]

Thanks to the author for providing me a digital copy of the book.

I enjoyed reading this short graphic novel in one sitting. The story is about a community who is trying to protect the indigenous species of Silkis which provide natural best silk. They harvest these species and are trying to protect them. However, they are being attacked by the authorities for being harmful and dangerous. Rare cases of being bitten by this beings has been reported but the indigenous owners have the antidote which is being ignored by the authorities.

I feel the story needs a good sequel otherwise I feel it ended so suddenly when some concrete steps are about to be taken up by our main protagonists.

I find the art work unique and different. However, I would like the artist to focus more on the main focus , that is , the Silkis, to stand out whenever they are there. However, they appear rather unclear in their appearance and description.

I appreciate the fact that the dialogues and the characters are well written.

Looking forward to more amazing works by the author.

[E.B. Roshan]

I love jungles…and spiders. My kids do, too. Therefore, Silk is the most-anticipated book of the summer (at least in our house.)

[Esme · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5⭐

Very sweet, short and simple to read. This is a graphic novel geared towards a younger middle grade audience for sure. The art is very simple and detailed. The plot is very easy to read and follow. I think it would make a really good book to sit and read with any kiddo in your life. It has a lot of charm to it!

Thank you lots to the author for kindly sending me a digital copy to review! *all opinions are my own!*

[Jaiden Phillips · Rating 3 out of 5]

This was a very quick read for me...lol...A very nice little graphic novel tho!💖

Language: N/A

Violence: N/A

Magic: N/A

Tho it is geared more towards a younger audience, it was still enjoyable! A good little story of sibling-hood and working together. An easy writing style mixed with a simple art, makes for a quick read! Would be a great read for reluctant young readers! And for the littles with a love for sci-fi! This was a very cute story!

All ages!
Would make a great read-aloud!!💖

(Note: I received a free Advanced Reader Copy of this book in exchange for a review. I was not required to give a positive review.)

[Angie Thompson · Rating 4 out of 5]

I wasn't entirely sure what to think when I was offered a review copy of this--I don't have much experience at all with graphic novels, and I have a low-key fear of spiders, so I wasn't at all sure I was the right audience for this one. However! The sibling angle intrigued me, and I've read good reviews of some of the author's adult books by trusted friends, so I decided to give it a try. And--I actually surprised myself with how much I enjoyed it! The art style helped--the combination of simplicity with sci-fi-ish...beings? races? not sure how to classify them, but...various types of non-humans with nothing approaching photorealism helped a lot with not letting the spider-phobia come to the forefront, except maybe that initial shot of just a giant silki leg. ;) But beyond that, and especially since the book is targeted at kids, I also found it just overall endearing. Being a kids' book, the story and dialogue are pretty straightforward, but there's still some subtlety and subtext there, and the various conflicting motivations and loyalties of the characters are well portrayed, and I was sucked into the plot and tension pretty much from the very beginning. If any of that sounds like something you'd enjoy, I recommend giving it a try!

*I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.*

[Nathaniel · Rating 5 out of 5]

Ever since reading Maze, I've been really excited about another graphic novel from Roshan. Silk is a perfect next release. It's just as creative, just as unique, and just as heart-warming. Roshan somehow combines a super fun art style with big concepts/worlds and she makes it work so well.

[R.M. Archer · Rating 3 out of 5]

(Required disclaimer that I received a free copy from the author to review, but all opinions expressed herein are my own.)

I’ll start off by saying I think Silk has a really interesting underlying story, working through how to handle changes in industry, especially when there’s a family tradition to uphold in the middle of it. This was part of what drew me in to reading it in the first place, and I do think it’s a strong story with a strong theme.

Most of my critiques of Silk come solely from its format. This is a graphic novel, but it felt like it was written in a way that would have been more fitting for a non-visual short story format. As a graphic novel, it felt very text-heavy rather than feeling like it utilized the visuals of its frames to full effect–especially as there were a handful of frames that seemed very repetitive, where we saw a character’s thoughts and later saw them communicating these thoughts to other characters with the same or very similar visuals as a backdrop. Graphic novels are a hard format to balance between text and visuals, so I think the skew is totally natural, but I would have liked to see the visuals leaned into more and used to greater effect.

That said, I do think that the visual design of the world was interesting–especially when it comes to the humanoid species that inhabit it. Their markings did seem a bit busy in black and white, but that’s a matter of preference and it was never so busy that it became unclear what was what within a frame. I’d definitely be curious to see more of these characters and their species in the future!

What immediately drew me to this story was the concept of the world and the family legacy idea tying into its silk industry, and I do think all of that was handled well. The world was visually interesting enough to warrant the format, the development of the silkis was interesting, the interactions between the characters were believable and compelling–especially between the main character Farz and his sister Diljin–and I think the theme was done well. While I would have liked to see a bit more visual depth and perhaps a bit more time spent developing the ideological clash between the siblings, I’m glad I read Silk and I look forward to more graphic novels from Ms. Roshan in the future!

[The Book Nerd's Corner · Rating 3 out of 5]

A middle grade graphic novel set on a distant planet that explores topics such as family traditions and changing worldviews.

Farz is a Silki-charmer, a group of brave souls who tame the dangerous spider-like Silki's in order to harvest their silk. Unfortunately, the mayor has banned the harvesting of Silki silk and Farz is faced with a tough decision. Should he serve the mayor that he is obliged to serve as a member of his illustrious patrol or should he stay true to his roots and help his Silki-charmer family save the dying species?

This is the first indie graphic novel that I have ever read, so I feel that I am a little unsure how to view it compared to others. On the one hand, the story is entertaining, the themes are thought-provoking, the world is unique, and the imagery was very much its own thing. On the other hand, I feel like this book didn't exactly need to be a graphic novel and that the illustrations didn't add a whole lot to the story. I'd say that choosing to portray this tale in a graphic format was overall a fine decision though, and elevated this tale from a short story to a graphic novel. Also, I'm not sure how entertained a young child would actually be by this story, but it also felt rather juvenile, so it's most definitely middle grade.

The importance of family traditions really stuck out to me in this one. Farz's family has always been Silki-charmers and it goes against everything inside of him to have to hunt these Silki's. As the world around us changes though, people are often forced to learn to adapt to such chances. I liked seeing how Farz in the end stood up for what he believed in, and is working toward keeping the tradition of spinning silk alive and well on his home planet.

I think that the world that this book is set on is interesting, but I feel it could be greatly expanded on in future installments. This story most definitely leaves many unresolved plot threads, so I could easily see more books to come after this one.

Overall, "Silk" was a quick middle grade read that had me invested the whole way through, but wasn't terribly unique in the long run. I enjoyed it, but I don't think it is all that memorable. I think that the length of this one could persuade many readers to give it a try and get them thinking about topics such as changing worldviews, steadfast traditions, and unjust legal movements.

[Paige · Rating 4 out of 5]

Disclaimer: I received this e-arc from the author. Thanks! All opinions are my own.

Book: Silk

Author: E.B. Roshan

Book Series: Standalone

Rating: 4/5

Diversity: BIPOC MC and characters

Recommended For...: Graphic Novel readers, Animal Conservation

Publication Date: June 7, 2024

Genre: Graphic Novel

Age Relevance: 15+ (animal extinction, animal death, racism, death)

Explanation of Above: The book revolves around discussion and showings of animal extinction and death. Slight racism is shown in how they treat some people who protect animals who are going extinct. There is also death shown.

Publisher: Indie Published

Pages: 104

Synopsis: Farz and his family are Silki-charmers; they follow the giant, spiderlike creatures known as "Silkis" through their jungle home, harvesting their precious silk. It's been their family's tradition for generations. But Silkis can be dangerous and not everyone wants them around. Farz may be ready to try a different life, but he doesn't want the Silkis to disappear forever.

Review: I liked this little graphic novel overall. I thought it was a sweet little story about the harm and impact of animal extinction, especially that which is caused by humans. The book was really powerful in how it handled all of that. The book also was really impactful in how it showed the impact preconceived notions about people, especially in their line of work, effect others. The book was short and sweet and to the point, but it had great world building and character development.

My only complaint is that I would like to see this book be a bit longer and better developed, but other than that it was good!

Verdict: A short and sweet story.

[LittlePiscesReading]

Silk is an interesting graphic novel. The style is somewhat reminiscent of formline art and I found that a lovely choice. It stands out stylistically. Unfortunately, however, the panels can be quite busy. In the jungle especially with the various textures of the wildlife and plants. It crowds together, not helped by the lack of depth.

It’s unfortunately a criticism that also extends to the narrative. This is a really interesting conflict. And one Farz is perfectly placed to explore. His fondness for the traditions of his family and their work endear them to the reader. There’s an emotional heart in this conflict and it’s where the story shines brightest. However the conflict itself is more glanced over than looked into with any depth.

The first concern raised is about the wellbeing of the Silkis but the narrative at large is concerned with the knowledge of the Silki-Charmers. Both are linked but they’re more points in a Venn diagram. With a little more finesse they could have been made into a single point. Nonetheless the relationship between Farz and his sister, Diljin, was touching and while abrupt, it ended on a hopeful and encouraging note.

With thanks to E.B. Roshan for this review copy.

[Alisha (booksmellz) · Rating 4 out of 5]

Farz and his family have harvested Silki’s precious silk, as Silki-charmers for generations. But Silkis, giant, spider-like creatures, can be dangerous and the government has decided they don’t want them around. But even though Farz is ready to try a new life, it doesn’t mean he wants Silkis to disappear forever. What happens when his past and present crash together one day?

I was pulled into the plot of this graphic novel and turned pages as fast as I could. The simplicity of the art style, mixed with straightforward dialogue make it a quick and easy read.

A part of me respects the quickness of the story, but the other part of me wants to know more about this world and not only the Silki-charmers, but everyone else as well as being able to dive into the world building. E.B. Roshan has many layers that are only briefly scratched in this novel. It honestly gives an opening to possibly make this into a series.

This young middle grade graphic novel has a lot of appeal to those who like sci-fi with alien adventures that humans will understand too.

*Thanks to the author for a digital copy of this book in exchange for an honest review

[Rachel · Rating 4 out of 5]

I enjoyed this MG/YA graphic novel. The art is bold but minimalist, and reminds me of Satrapi's Persepolis, and very easy to read.

The story is set on an alien planet, where a young "silki charmer" and his sister are trying to protect the local wildlife, which provides beautiful silk. But the authorities are making it illegal to silk harvest. At the same time, this is endangering the species and causing conflict. There's a good message about being true to yourself, family, and friends.

If you like Cameron's Avatar movies, this story felt like it could almost be set in the same world.

Disclosure: I was offered the e-book ARC in exchange for a review.

[Milla Holt · Rating 4 out of 5]

I read this charming little graphic novel in one sitting. I'm not a fan of spiders, so at first I was fascinated in a creeped out way at the idea of people havesting silk from arachnid-looking poisonous creatures.

But the story very quickly drew me in. Although aimed at middle graders, it deals with important themes, such as cultural differences, cultural misunderstandings, what happens when laws are rushed through without thought of the consequences, and seeing that issues can have many different sides.

In fact, there was so much complexity that this story could very easily work as a full-length novel. That speaks to the richness of the concept.

[L.D. Houghton · Rating 5 out of 5]

A fun read, with a unique and attractive art style. This graphic novel is perfect for middle grade/JHS students, with a moral dilemma and a resolution that could get them thinking about real-world issues. Without spoilers, the story is set on a distant planet and considers the impact of law and modern society on the traditional lifestyles of those who live there. The images make it easy to follow, and there is a tension throughout that will keep readers engaged.

[Isaiah · Rating 4 out of 5]

To see a full review check it out here.

Another great book by Roshan. This one stands on its own and I think it is stronger for it. Great moral dilemma.

I can't wait to see where this goes next! There is so much space left to explore and so many more dangerous creatures I will want to love.

[Jaime Andrews · Rating 4 out of 5]

A really simple, clean story about spider-crab silk monsters and family loyalty. Perfect for young readers with artwork that's unique and different from your average manga nowadays. I enjoyed this one and can't wait to share it with my middle-schooler.

[Mary · Rating 3 out of 5]

Farz grew up as a Silki Charmer on his planet in the Vega system, but now he finds himself working with the Jungle Path Patrol–on the other side of the law–in order to remain alongside his beloved Fila. The Jungle Path Patrol is the antithesis of everything Farz has ever known, and his family feels betrayed by Farz’s choices. When Farz is out in the jungle one day, he encounters his sister Diljin unexpectedly, and Farz is bitten by a venomous Silki shortly thereafter. Despite their differences, it is up to Diljin to bring Farz the anti-venom he needs to survive, and it will require some flexible thinking for the two siblings to see past their divided natures and find a way to move forward together.

This intriguing graphic novel is accessible for middle grade readers thanks to its overall brevity and clear illustrations. Though the narrative lacks a solid foundation, readers are able to piece together the important elements of the plot as the story continues. As this is a graphic novel, the images are the primary feature of each spread. Within the illustrations, the characters all have expressive faces and body language, and symbols specific to the cultures in the story adorn the pages alongside the bulk of the narrative. Young readers will find the plot to be easy enough to follow even though the exposition does not provide sufficient support for the narrative as a whole. Despite the shortcomings in the story arc, however, young middle grade readers will appreciate the accessibility of the vocabulary used throughout the book along with the chunky, clearly defined illustrations that propel the story. This unique middle grade graphic novel is poised for a sequel while simultaneously ending in a neat and tidy fashion. This book will appeal to readers with an interest in light science fiction and graphic novel storytelling.

[H.A. Pruitt · Rating 5 out of 5]

Genre: Graphic novel; fiction; set on a planet with tribal jungle elements but also technologically advanced cities; maybe sci-fi

Audience: Middle grade

My summary: Silkis are spider-like creatures who produce silk that their world can use. Silkisilk has been harvested through charming, but when two merchants die from the fatal silk venom, silki charming is banned and patrols begin killing silkis and raiding their nests for silk. When Farz is bitten while on patrol, his sister must choose between saving her brother or protecting her family’s secret of being silki charmers.

Positives
The illustrations made the story. They instantly set the mood, setting, and character dynamics, and throughout the story, they conveyed emotions and added understanding to the plot in every way. The illustrations were great in how they looked and in their function.
The sibling characters acted as two sides of the story. They had opposite views, which represented two sides of their world’s fight, and so through their dispute and resolution the reader gains the tension, emotions, arguments, and then realization and cooperation of their entire world.
The story had clear messages of doing what is right even when it’s hard and coming to find common ground.

Negative: The illustrations were so well stylized that I did wish the text and text boxes shared that style instead of looking so text-boxy.

Overall: A unique story of resolving conflict


I received an ARC of this book, but that did not influence my review.

[Kirby · Rating 4 out of 5]

I've read and enjoyed a couple of E.B. Roshan's titles in the past, but I was a little unsure when she reached out to me about this one. I don't have a lot of experience with graphic novels, and I wasn't sure I'd end up being the intended audience for it. However, my hesitations were quickly pushed away once I got into the story, and I ended up enjoying this quick, visual read a lot more than I initially thought I would.

For some reason I was expecting this to be more of an adult graphic novel, so it was a pleasant surprise that it's more of a middle grade/young adult read. The author's art style was both interesting and vivid, and helped the unique storyline get its point even further across.

The jungle setting was on point, and I especially enjoyed the emphasis on sibling relationships and familial history amidst changing industries, laws, and societal expectations. As someone who does not like spiders whatsoever, I was thankful that the "Silkis" were more cartoonish looking, and didn't appear creepy or freaky to the reader.

All in all, this was a fun read that I think a lot of families will enjoy getting to dive into, and I definitely wouldn't hesitate to pick up a graphic novel from this author in the future.

My only negative was that I thought the conclusion was a bit too quick, and I was hoping for a little more resolution in some of the circumstances. Still a lovely read though, and one I'd definitely recommend to anyone who enjoys clean, adventurous graphic novels.

Final Rating: 4/5.



Thanks so much to the author for providing me with a complimentary copy to read and review!



I voluntarily read and reviewed a complimentary copy of this novel from the author in exchange for an honest review. I was not required to give a positive review. All thoughts and opinions are my own, and this is my honest review.

[Miranda Sylvester · Rating 4 out of 5]

Another adorable story set in the same universe as Maze. While I liked Maze more, this one was no less enjoyable. Just as thoughtful and clever as its predecessor.

I loved how this one focused on siblings this time. On how they had different views on life and what they valued in it, and how that caused conflict and division. That is often just a natural occurrence between siblings, especially when they are growing up. I loved seeing that both brother and sister truly loved each other, but are still hurt and upset by each other. In a lot of fiction, it seems like it's either they hate each other and don't get along, or they love each other so much and never fight. I loved the more complex approach. The best thing though is one of them felt it was important to talk things out despite how difficult it was. It's refreshing to see the more passionate sibling be willing to seek and hear out the other.

Another fascinating setting with a jungle environment. The culture and politics in this world are the opposite of Maze, in which the people are against the "monsters" in this story, and the creatures need respect and protection. I really enjoyed exploring the new perspective.

Like Maze, Silk showed both sides of the issue fairly, not villainizing one over the other, but also naturally led to the correct view of the situation, not telling readers what to think but walking them through it like they are a part of the discussion and dilemma. And the solution that the story concluded with was based on the main characters' personal opinions and feelings on the matter, not only connecting to each other again but also connecting us to them.

I loved seeing the themes of sibling love, traditions, and fighting for what you believe in. Each were shown to be equally valuable and can co-exist even with hardships.

I thought the resolution ended too abruptly. I would have loved more time in the last scene and the conversation to have gone longer. I felt like that it was rushed.

[C.O. Bonham · Rating 4 out of 5]

Silk is a graphic novel suitable for middle grade readers.

The art style is fun and unique. I also liked that the story was set on another planet that has a good mix of technological industry and also people who did things traditionally.

While there is certainly a message here about how progress shouldn't replace tradition it wasn't aggressively hostile towards progress or technological advancement. This graphic novel has characters on each side of the argument and takes a very balanced approached to the issue. It was a refreshing change from some of the ecological messages that have been pushed in recent media.

I also like how at the end the characters decided to do something about what was wrong with their society without resorting to drastic measures or violence.

*I was given a free review copy of this book, and the opinions expressed above are my personal and honest opinions of the provided work.*

[Kelly · Rating 5 out of 5]

Silk is the first graphic novel by E.B. Roshan. It follows a brother and sister into the jungle of a fantasy world, where the girl protects spider like creatures who spin a fine silk. However, her brother works for a group of men who believe the spiders are a danger to the people living in the city. As he is torn between his family's beliefs and his job, a disagreement ensues and the boy is endangered. Will his sister be able to save him?

Although I am not a fan of graphic novels, I found this one to be unique. I like that it is educational in a scientific and moral way. The artwork is unique and is black and white. It fits well with the fantasy, jungle, and city setting the story takes place in.

This story is easy to read, and I believe children of middle grades will enjoy it.

[J.R. Gibson · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the first kids graphic novel I've reviewed, and I must say that I really enjoyed it. The story is set in a jungle setting featuring enormous spiders called Silkis involving a family of Silki charmers who harvest their silk. It seems to be set in some alternate sci fi universe, but it focuses on very real moral issues about the ethics of what the Silki charmers are doing for a living.

The scenes set in the hospital featuring the little medical robots, the chase and the rush to get the antivenom, were my favourite part of the story.

[Gold · Rating 5 out of 5]

Heartfelt, entrancing, and unique – those are the words that immediately come to mind when thinking about this graphic novel. With a captivating and action-packed storyline, "Silk" takes us on a journey full of fascinating creatures, relatable family conflict, and heart-stopping drama. This story also carries a thought-provoking message about standing up for what you believe in and preserving cherished values. With its relatable characters and themes, this endearing story is perfect for younger audiences looking for both excitement and meaning in their reading.

[Lil Rustle · Rating 5 out of 5]

I am new to graphic novel, but this was really an interesting read for me. It is entertaining and easy to read, and the illustrations of the character expresses their emotions well. The story reflects actual modern society taking over precious old craft and the dilemma it caused for those caught in between, this leaves me wanting to read the next book to know what happens next!

[Zephyr Thomas · Rating 5 out of 5]

A quick read, yes, but full of meaning for both the target audience and the adults guiding them. It opens up discussions about just and unjust laws, and the importance of preserving cultures. The art style is as usual detailed yet accessible, with a unique theme that catches the eye. The author provided me a digital copy for review.

[Samantha Mendell · Rating 4 out of 5]

A sweet graphic novel/comic for young readers that reminds us of the importance of using our voice. I would feel comfortable recommending this to parents of young readers.

I received a free eARC in exchange for my honest review.

[Audrey · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is the first graphic novel I’ve read by E.B. Roshan. I’m familiar with some of her other books so I was curious to read Silk (and eventually Maze). This was a bit away from my usual genre so I was a little lost, but I enjoyed branching out.

[D.T. · Rating 3 out of 5]

Given a free copy for an honest review (This is for the first edition of Silk)

On my initial read, I thought the message was a bit muddied, or I just didn't grasp it well. Is this about being true to yourself and standing up for what you believe in? How technology cannot replace nature? Pro-hunting? Pro-environment? My takeaway is that we (readers) have to advocate for issues we care about to those in authority.

The silki situation initially confused me, but as the story progressed, I understood. Farz and his sister Djinn disagree on many things as it relates to the silki industry except that silkis make their land beautiful. A good question for younger readers will be “what’s something that makes the place they live beautiful?”

Breakdown on the silki situation: Farz and his family were silk-charmers, skilled people who knew how to lull these dangerous spider-like creatures to sleep without harming them to retrieve their silk. After their government got too cheap or too impulsive to hire skilled charmers, some travelers were killed and a total ban on silkis happened. The patrols began exterminating the creatures overall to Djin’s horror. Farz doesn’t completely agree with the ban, but his role in the patrol allows him the funds and status to be with his lover whose father also owns a fake silk-spinning factory.

I think the art style has a quirky, alien cartooniness to it. There are all types of creatures here in this scifi rolodex world, and it uses the gray color scheme effectively. I think I saw one humanoid person here who I remembered from Roshan’s other book (a cute easter egg!)

Word bubbles could be more evenly balanced and centered. Sometimes, too many words are crammed into one bubble whereas splitting it up into multiple bubbles would read better.

Overall, I did not have a bad reading experience though I enjoyed Roshan’s other book more. I think her ideas are interesting and many readers will think the same. She knows how to convey conflict, action, and differences in ideals without talking down to readers.

[Katja Labonté · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5 stars (3/10 hearts). I am not the world’s biggest fan of spiders—at least in my proximity. However, I have enjoyed nonfiction books about spiders, who are very interesting little creatures despite their creepy looks; and I appreciated how this book shared a love and respect for them—something rather rare. I also liked how it was a very good allegory of snap reactions following unfortunate events, and consequent mass hatred with no acknowledgment of the victim’s errors.

As far as the actual story went, it’s simple, but it’s well done and I really liked the world building. The characters were interesting and once again well done. Personally I struggle with the resisting-government trope (and it brings back some unpleasant memories concerning the 2020 pandemic) but I definitely appreciated both MC’s POVs and getting to see the tension between them. The book is a little young for me, but I still liked it and I’m going to be offering it to my younger siblings to read.