Home, Vol. 1

Home #1-5

by Julio Anta, Anna Wieszczyk (Contributor), Lisa Sterle (Contributor)

After being separated from his mother at the US border, a young Guatemalan immigrant must learn to harness emerging superhuman abilities while being hunted by the Federal Government.

JULIO ANTA and ANNA WIESZCZYK debut with a deeply grounded, and heartfelt graphic novel that explores the real world implications of a migrant with extraordinary powers.

Collects HOME #1-5

Genres: Graphic Novels, Comics, Young Adult, Fantasy, Latinx, Superheroes, Graphic Novels Comics

160 pages, Paperback

First published April 14, 2021

About the author

Julio Anta is the writer of many graphic novels including the Eisner Award-nominated Frontera, This Land Is Our Land: A Blue Beetle Story, Home and Sí, Se Puede: The Latino Heroes Who Changed the United States.

Julio was born and raised in Miami, Florida and currently resides in New York City.

Forthcoming work includes a slate of graphic novels for HarperAlley, Random House Graphic and First Second.

Reviews

[Bookishrealm · Rating 3 out of 5]

I've been hearing so much about Home and I was more than excited to check it out, especially when it was sold as an immigration story with characters that mimic the abilities of X-Men. While the story started off strong, the actual execution fell short and the story ended up being a slight disappointment. 3.5 Stars.

Home focuses on two characters, mother and son, as they leave Guatemala seeking asylum in the United States. Unfortunately, by the time that they make it to the US-Mexico border, it becomes clear that the presidency has switched (presumably to Trump) and previous methods of handling those seeking asylum has changed drastically. Mimicking actual events that have occurred, the young boy is removed from the care of his mother and put into a separate facility. It is there that readers see his special abilities flourish. I thought that the actual premise of the story was interesting; however, by the time I got to the last issue I just felt as though the story itself was anti-climatic. There was so much build up and yet it ended in a way that didn't real resonate with the story itself. In fact, it left me wondering whether this was a complete series (which it appears to be). It definitely has cool elements, but the story as a whole doesn't work that well. I didn't dislike or like the art style. There were certain panels that worked for me and then there were others that I didn't really care for. Overall, a solid comic, but it definitely could have been stronger.

[Chad · Rating 3 out of 5]

Raises the question "What if the X-Men were born in Central America and tried to immigrate to the U.S. during the Trump administration?" It's a very good idea but the execution is lacking something. The art and storytelling is subpar.

[Alexander Peterhans · Rating 3 out of 5]

Guatemalan immigrants, a mother and son, enter the United States legally at the border, and so enter the world of detention and children taken away from their parents, we've all read about, a world that most of US citizens seem to have accepted.

Layer on that a superhero story - the son has emerging powers, as do his sister and brother who already live in the US.

There's the fantasy of people who have lost all control over their own lives, regaining some control through special powers - that doesn't really happen here. Using their powers only attracts more unwanted attention from ICE cops.

That said, the art isn't very good, and the story and characters feel quite cliched. As with most first superhero volumes, it feels like set up for further books.

It's a non-committal 'eh', from me.

2.5 stars

(Picked up an ARC through Edelweiss)

[Natalie all_books_great_and_small · Rating 4 out of 5]

I received an advance reader copy of this book to read in exchange for an honest review via netgalley and the publishers.

Home is a graphic novel with a heartbreaking topic at its heart. We follow a mother and her young son as they flee Guatema to seek refuge as asylum seekersin the USA. The book is set presumably when Trump was in presidency and shows the horror these families and children faced being separated from one another.
The first quarter of the book really pulled at my heart. The story is an x-men type story where the boy discovers he has superpowers, and as he learns to control and use his powers, he seeks revenge. This would make a great book for children to read to teach them of the injustice these families were put through unnecessarily and be an example of how we as a human race can do better and not repeat these things. There's also a guide for teachers in this book of how to use this in a classroom to educate children, which was a great thing to include. I would have liked more information on how the boy and his family came to have superpowers as I felt this would have been a great addition to the story.

[Jake · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was emotionally intense. Just the captions felt heavy to go through. Making this stuff in reaction towards ICE is really touchy. I'm all too familiar with how people work in this field flying by the seat of their pants. I felt nothing but fear from how Juan and his family always have to look over their shoulders, especially with an agent who feels like he's really only in the game to gain a foothold in politics. The inclusion of superpowers just makes this harder to not get worked up over.

But I'd like to also direct people to this link that show how these themes are more complicated: https://blog.petrieflom.law.harvard.e...

[Jennifer · Rating 2 out of 5]

This graphic novel did not work for me. It is interesting as an origin story in some ways, and I do appreciate how it depicts the struggle of illegal immigrants to the US during the ICE separation period. But I had a few challenges reading this and truly enjoying it.

First, I was not a fan of the artwork at all. The character's faces were just very jarring for me and as a result I had a hard time truly embracing them. The good and the bad all had these very harsh and surreal lines that made me react in a visceral way. Perhaps intentional but not for me.

Second, the vilification of the enemy. Yes, I don't think that ICE handles deportation cases well and there is some truth in the story presented, especially around the inhumane separation of parents from children. But there is also the other side which is that these individuals have left their countries to seek asylum in the US illegally. I understand leaving behind a situation that is more refugee than immigrant, but it is still illegal and the US does have some authority to push back.

Third, the story felt very disjointed. How the supers emerge. How they use their powers. And how the immigrants are depicted by the press (FOX News I guess) which is very one sided despite there being other sides. Also not sure about the ending with the spoiler of who is working for whom.

So, there was a lot of potential and if you want to read about a new superhero storyline, this may work. Just didn't work for me.

I gave it two stars for the effort at putting forward the topic and for building a new super story.

* I received an ARC via NetGalley.

[Hadia · Rating 4 out of 5]

*3.5 🌟

The art style was not my favourite, but it was a solid, heart-wrenching story nonetheless. It ended on a cliffhanger which just left me wanting more.

[Theediscerning · Rating 3 out of 5]

Don't come here looking for subtlety. A bludgeoning opening issue shows a youngish woman and her son trying to migrate from Guatemala and alleged gang problems into the US, but during their trip a new American president has put the order out that – because children are played as a sympathy card by invading immigrants – families will be separated at processing. She is destined for a one-way flight back home, but as for the kid? Well, he'll break out and go on the lam, when he proves to have eaten his Ready Brek and gained superpowers.

Read as a supes book this isn't too bad, although anyone who has seen The X-Men get frowned upon by society because of their mutant abilities will see nothing new here. Read as a book about the current or recent US policy it's ridiculous – haranguing, pestering and complaining all while the end-matter has the author deny it's a political read. Yes, for sure it provides Latinos and -as some form of representation, and I guess it's no great stretch to say its their culture and sensitivity that has meant this has the broadest of emotional strokes, but again I would have thought they would have wanted to see themselves in something at least a bit more rounded.

[Sarah Dawson · Rating 4 out of 5]

While I liked the story, I really loved the educator's guide at the back. It definitely pushed this one from 3 to 4 stars.

[Rich in Color is now on StoryGraph]

I’ve said this before and I’ll say it again — this is such a good time for graphic novels right now, especially graphic novels featuring marginalized voices and underrepresented stories. From Gene Luen Yang’s Superman run, to queer graphic novels like Laura Dean Keeps Breaking Up With Me and Mooncakes, it’s a good time to be reading. And of course, we can’t forget John Lewis’s incredible graphic memoirs which you absolutely need to read if you haven’t already.

Home by Julio Anta and Anna Wieszczyk is another great entry into this era of impactful graphic novels for young people. It follows a Guatemalan boy and his mother as they seek asylum in America and are met with the cruelty, neglect, and injustice that pervades the American immigration system, including the family separation policy. But in Home, our hero discovers his own latent superpowers, and that’s where the story takes a turn. He has powers he can hone and harness, and he is not alone.

The storytelling and art in this graphic novel are incredibly compelling. I read this in one sitting and you likely will too, if you pick it up. The ending does leave many things unresolved, which I assume points to the first volume being part of a larger series. Unfortunately, I don’t see more issues coming out at the current moment, so this story will have to be left on a cliffhanger for me.

That said, I’m excited for what Julio Anta does next, and if you are looking for a heartfelt, impactful graphic novel that doesn’t shy away from current events, Home is where you’ll want to look.

Recommendation: Get it soon!

[James · Rating 4 out of 5]

Donald Trump and his evil minions deliberately stole children from their parents as part of their 'zero tolerance' policy. This is illegal under US as well as international law, along with the other criminal acts performed by ICE and Border Patrol.

The Gomez family, fleeing from a ganglord who wants Juan for his gang, makes it to the southern border and Juan is separated from his mother. The ICE agents abuse him for having extra food and throw him into solitaire confinement, Juan is a young child and is freaking out.

At this point the book breaks from reality and Juan displays his superhero powers, he is able to escape and there are future encounters with ICE where latinx superheroes kick some government ass. While the actual story is a bit simple and plain, there's an excellent study guide in the back designed for classroom use. This book is probably on several banned lists.

A good book for the youngsters in your life, with some serious food for thought along with some superhero action.

[Corinne · Rating 3 out of 5]

Home Vol. 1 is a graphic novel that follows a mother and a son escaping Guatemala and seeking asylum and help in the U.S. They are separated at the border and following a series of events Juan, the son escapes because of new found super abilities.

This story is an intersection of fantasy and modern politics. Just as many other reviewers have said, it’s comparable to the ideas and themes of X-Men. I think this is a great book for middle grade or as a supplemental text in high school. I think the connection of super powers making you seem as an outsider with a character who is already being treated as an outsider creates relevant and interesting discussions for students.

I think this book is important for students and teachers to read. The storyline allows readers to see the perspective of immigration and the border in the eyes of those experiencing it rather than just what the news and storylines tell the public.

Received a free NetGalley copy.

[Jaclyn Hillis]

This is a graphic novel that explores the real world implications of a migrant with extraordinary powers. Think “What if the X-Men were born in Central America and tried to immigrate to the U.S. during the Trump administration?”

After being separated from his mother at the U.S. border, Juan must learn to harness emerging superhuman abilities while being hunted by the Federal Government.

This is real life. Families are being separated at the border. If you aren’t angry, you aren’t paying attention.

I loved that the creators took this current issue and added a superpower spin to it. The superpowers made me feel hopeful that not everyone will have a heartbreaking ending, because they can fight back. 

The book also includes a bonus educator guide by Re-Imagining Migration. There are some great discussion points and questions, and it made the story even more impactful.

[Liliana · Rating 3 out of 5]

The topic explored in this graphic novel is very important, and I would appreciate seeing more of this. However, while I appreciate the premise, the execution was flawed and in the end it's more of a lackluster story with "meh" art. It was interesting (in a bad way) how the creators seemed to not want to villify migrants, and decried the one-sided story and propaganda, but then did the exact same thing with their portrayal of US border control, ICE and politics. In my opinion, they missed an opportunity to present a well-rounded story with more nuance. I also did not like the superpower aspect, I think it was mostly used as a crutch.
The main positive point about this is the study guide at the end, which I can see being really useful for preparing classes and promoting discussion on this topic. The way migrants and asylum seekers are "processed" and perceived is truly atrocious, not just in the US. So for that reason it gets three stars from me!

[erika · Rating 4 out of 5]

Given the current political climate, stories like Home by Julio Anta are more important than ever. They shine a much-needed light on the struggles immigrants face—not only in their journey to the U.S. but also in the barriers they encounter once they arrive. Too often, people forget that immigrants are human beings seeking a better life, many of whom also support loved ones back home. The sacrifices they make are immense, yet they are frequently misjudged and unfairly labeled.

This graphic novel was deeply emotional, and I found myself relating to Juan’s longing for home—his comfort zone. I also loved how the author incorporated superpowers as a metaphor, adding a powerful layer to the story’s themes of resilience and identity. I really enjoyed Home and highly recommend it!

[Estibaliz · Rating 4 out of 5]

While the superhero story in itself might be nothing specially noteworthy, the immigrant perspective adds a whole new layer to the stereotype, making it far more richer and interesting.

So the original 3 stars get upgraded to 4 in my final rating, particularly influenced by the nice art, and that complete and thorough educational/reading guide at the end.

All in all, interesting enough to consider volume two in the future.

[Bailey Novinbury · Rating 3 out of 5]

A lot of potential but not so great execution

[Roberth ventura · Rating 5 out of 5]

The book was pretty good. especially when Juan accidentally found out that he had powers that caused it to gain my attention a bit more. one of the parts that i liked was when Juan's cousin teleported to where he was, after he had dodged the bullets of the police force. Overall i rat the book 10/10. Highly recommend because its a really good book.

[Lotte Visser · Rating 4 out of 5]

A combination of fantasy and the immigration process in America.

[Crystal · Rating 4 out of 5]

Definitely want to continue reading the next volumes.

I love that in the back, there were suggestions for teaching on the topic and integrating the volume

[Ilene Wilson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Very interesting read.
I was already angry while all of this was happening, in a way the actual occurrence of the main narrative affected my family. Reading it from the perspective of immigrants and adding the bonus of superpowers only made the message stronger.
It was good I got angry. If you aren't angry, you aren't paying attention. It's a good story, now I need to find the kther volumes, if there are any.

[Alex Sarll]

Initially I thought this was going to be the sort of story content to tell an audience who already know that a thing is bad that yes, the thing in question is indeed bad, and I've never really gone for that sort of Ken Leigh, Mike Loach worthy slog. But then Juan, the Guatemalan kid who's been separated from his mum by Trump-era immigration agents, blasts through the wall of the wilfully inhumane processing centre, and all of a sudden it's Magneto tearing the camp gates asunder, except relocated to US soil in the 21st century, and oh yes, that's more like it. Not just for being considerably more exciting, but because it's using the parallels to do something more than a case study, and because that's the point where the leads start feeling like characters rather than illustrative examples. Does it seem likely to change the mind of anyone who previously thought the ICE were American heroes? Probably not, especially given the lead, for all that he may be a cute kid, does also take the idea of illegal immigrants as dangerous way past even the most deranged MAGA victim fantasies. But as a topical re-skin for the old Magneto/Xavier debate – especially at a time when Magneto and Xavier aren't doing it themselves – it fair zips along. Also, y'know, the bad thing is pretty bad.

(Edelweiss ARC)

[Annabelle Manzo · Rating 4 out of 5]

The comic “Home” does an incredible job at highlighting and illustrating the experiences of migrants but specifically, migrants that attempted to seek asylum when the Trump administration’s “zero tolerance” and separating families immigration policy was in place. It visualizes the exhaustive journey and what migrants go through on their migration journey as well as the emotional, physical, and mental abuse migrants experience within the US immigration system at the hands of officers, processes, and the system as a whole. The comic also works to address common negative stereotypes/rhetorics used against migrant communities by pushed by xenophobic and racist politicians. In the beginning, it shows quotes of Trump or his administration’s rhetoric berating, demonizing, and vilifying migrants; often characterizing them as criminals, rapists, liars, untrustworthy, and a liability to the country– putting it in jeopardy of being stolen and drained from “real” Americans. Since migrants are often seen as not coming here for legitimate reasons but instead to cause harm, this comic does work to counter or dismantle these ideas by explaining why Juan and his mother Mercedes were fleeing. The story explains that they were fleeing targeted gang violence and fled out of necessity not out of want. It also emphasizes that they are only coming to the US to escape, work, and give Juan a “better life”. While this narrative and characterization do work to challenge the conceptions about migrants that are perpetuated in mass media or like what was shown at the beginning of the comic, it does further this notion of what is a “valid” immigrant which perpetuates the model minority myth which can be problematic but regardless of this it still does challenge those initial stereotypes.


Additionally, by crafting this story as a superhero narrative, I think the author is working to give the immigrant/migrant communities a form/sense of power and agency while sharing their experiences and stories. I think this choice by the author was particularly to offer a new form of storytelling about immigrant experiences that don’t solely create pity or sympathy for them but rather give them back the power and agency that they have lost while being detained, deported, or mistreated. While it is fantasy and not realistic it offers a new perspective in which to view asylum seekers and migrants as not just “in need” or “poor”, etc. but a community that is resilient, strong, and powerful even in the face of their mistreatment and dire circumstances. Often in mass media we see immigrants either vilified, demonized, or pitied and always powerless, their fate lies in the hands of the nation-state to admit them or “accept” them, however, this story dares to allow immigrants the opportunity to be seen fighting back and not just accepting their abuse. Overall, it is a refreshing new approach to immigrant storytelling that works to give migrants their voices and powers back, although symbolically, it still is a powerful representation.

[Laura · Rating 4 out of 5]

The best way to describe this comic series is revenge fantasy. The story tells of a family trying to get refugee status after having escaped from gangs in Guatemala, only to end up in the US, when Trump was separating children from their parents.

But, this child, and this family have powers, though the boy doesn't know he does, and they are not to be messed with, as the story unfolds , and the boy gains control over his powers.

This is book also has a teaching guide at the end, to help teachers teach this book.

Although it doesn’t say so this appears to be just the first volume.

Thanks to Netgalley for making this book available for an honest review. THis book was first published in 2021, so is probably readily available.

[Sem · Rating 2 out of 5]

How not to do a timely story.

[Johanny Ortega · Rating 5 out of 5]

Home: A Superb Reimagining of the Immigration Story

Rating: 5/5 stars

In "Home," written by Julio Anta and illustrated by Anna Wieszczyk and Lisa Sterle, readers are taken on a poignant journey through the experiences of Juan, a young immigrant forced to cross the border due to the violence and threats he faced in his home country. The gripping illustrations vividly depict the harsh realities of the Trump administration's aggressive immigration policies, leaving a lasting impact on readers.

While the topic of immigration is not new, the emotional depth with which the characters' stories are portrayed makes the narrative all the more compelling. It is heart-wrenching to witness their struggles, but it is essential to confront these realities, as they reflect the current U.S. environment. Ignoring such issues would be a disservice to those affected and inhibit our progress towards a more compassionate society.

However, the comic takes a fascinating turn when Juan discovers his superpowers, unintentionally escaping a detention center for children. This twist adds an element of entertainment to the story while also offering thought-provoking parallels. The revelation that Juan's powers stem from his family's lineage is reminiscent of the X-Men, showcasing a powerful "X-family" of Latine individuals. This juxtaposition between genuine human struggles and superhuman abilities effectively highlights society's tendency to dehumanize certain groups while simultaneously fearing and targeting them.

As an immigrant myself, I found it fitting that the comic explores the descriptor of "aliens" and how superpowers manifest within this group. It cleverly exposes how a government entity, responsible for the dehumanization of a specific community, discovers extraordinary abilities in the very people it vilifies as dangerous and violent—a concept all too familiar from news headlines.

Moreover, "Home" emphasizes the pervasive fear ingrained in society, resulting in divisions among different races and ethnic groups. It insightfully explores the divisive tactics of those in power, forcing members of marginalized communities to betray their own. This portrayal is a reminder of the destructive impact fear can have on a society when used as a tool for control.

This powerful comic should be considered required reading, especially for students. It goes beyond entertainment and provides a comprehensive set of learning modules in the back, enhancing readers' understanding of the complex issues surrounding immigration. Representative stories like "Home" have the potential to foster empathy and compassion while expanding readers' perspectives. As an immigrant, I wish I had access to such compelling graphic novels during my school years, and I feel fortunate to have experienced this impactful narrative.

In conclusion, "Home" is an exceptional reimagining of immigration in comic form. Its vivid illustrations, relatable characters, and thought-provoking storytelling make it a must-read. It is a testament to the power of representative literature and its ability to foster empathy and understanding among readers of all ages and backgrounds.

[Evan · Rating 3 out of 5]

I read it a single day, two train trips from Long Island to Manhattan on the LIRR. I read it because the text is listed a "supplemental text" to a unit plan I will be teaching from Re-Imagining Migration.

I really like the idea of including more graphic novels in my English classes. The illustrations and artwork in this book were phenomenal. It had a good storyline and it definitely had its emotional moments.

I did have a few concerns about the book though. I have to admit I'm generally not a huge fan of books that involve "supernatural powers," but I wanted to be open-minded because I know many of my students enjoy those stories. However, the "superpowers" in this book were never really explained; it was just kind of said that he had "powers," like some others in his family. There was one scene where his aunt helps him "hone" his powers, but it seemed at odds with such an otherwise highly realistic story - the fact that immigrant families were being separated by U.S. immigration officials.

Also, there is no depth to the characters in this book at all. They are only very superficially developed. In many ways, the book plays into stereotypes rather than encourages us to think beyond them. There's no subtleties to it; it almost beats you over the head with its message on immigration. The book leaves little room for diverse opinions and is sure to alienate many students, even immigrant students who feel strongly about the importance of following the "legal" process.

Lastly, the book ends on such a cliffhanger that it can barely be considered to stand on its own. The ending almost begs readers to buy the other volumes. The book should encourage readers to want a sequel because of the quality of the story and the writing, not because it gets readers to emotionally invest in a story that it never concludes.

The best part of the book is the unit plan at the back from Re-Imagining Migration. It includes a lot of high quality activities and discussion questions. For that reason alone, I am still considering using this book in class. Also, this would be an enjoyable book for reluctant readers or English Language Learners. My more advanced readers may enjoy the story, but wouldn't feel highly challenged intellectually.

[Brandon · Rating 4 out of 5]

A mother and son trying to immigrate to America are detained and separated, but the son accidentally escapes because of his superpowers. It feels sort of like a Superman story but instead of an alien from space it is an "alien" from Guatemala. It's very blunt with its message, and you know what I think that's earned. The ICE and the GOP government are evil bastards and sometimes people need to be beaten over the head with that fact. I think sometimes the book got caught up in its message and failed to tell a complete arc for itself, but if the backmatter isn't evident enough I think that clearly and concisely spreading its message was very much the point.

For a book called "Home" it's about people not having a home, leaving one behind and trying to find a new one but not being safe anywhere. The real home being the family and people who love you who try to protect you, but the sadness and rage of never being truly free or safe. Juan's powers give him a sort of privilege other children don't have, that he can escape the detention facility. But of course all that does is make him a target for people who fear him even without the powers, who hate him for simply being.

I really do enjoy the art in Home. When it wants to show off superpowers it can be a big cool superhero thing, but so much of the time it's focused on the sadness and emotion of the characters instead and that's where the book really shines. The tears on the characters' faces, the barely-contained anger, the constant worry... everything comes out great and carries you through an otherwise dialogue-heavy slow plot.

[Bernie Gourley · Rating 3 out of 5]

This book starts out with a gripping premise, a single mother and her son separated at the border, the mother being deported back to Guatemala as the son makes his way to the home of his aunt in Texas. The story shows a great deal of promise in the introductory issue. Unfortunately, over the course of the volume, all of the tension that is painstakingly built up is squandered. Whenever there is a challenging and visceral circumstance a new set of random superpowers is revealed, such that by the fifth and final issue, one no longer feels the protagonist is in peril (regardless of circumstance) because it’s a given that some deus ex machina magic will come along to save the day.


What’s sad is that, other than the crippling problems of anti-climactic story, the book shows many positive attributes. It’s well drawn. The book builds characters for whom the reader is rooting. Emotion is effectively portrayed. I think if the superpowers had been introduced upfront with some understanding of limitations and “kryptonite,” there would have been potential for an enjoyable read. As it is, however, it’s exactly the opposite of what one would like – a book that gets more and more intense – as resolutions come too easily.


It’s an impassioned, if not nuanced, view of immigration issues, and – if that’s enough for you – you might be interested in checking it out.

[SuperDemonBoy · Rating 4 out of 5]

You know what it's about, but what's it like?
4 stars (but ideally would give it 4.3)

Promising start to a very important (and heartbreaking) story that needs to be told.
In all honesty, part of me initially would've preferred a fully realistic version of this story without involving any super-powers. But then, thinking about the theme and concept of power, and those who wield it, it adds a welcome element for young readers to consider and discuss.

But this also had me conflicted. I feel like having a young boy with special abilities as the protagonist would appeal to a much younger audience. Meanwhile, the author tries to navigate through a complex political system I'm not fully convinced school kids would comprehend.
But perhaps I'm not giving school kids enough credit.

That's not to say that adults won't be able to appreciate the story, but junior high students are likely the target audience.

That said, it injecting special abilities into the story also makes future issues a tougher juggling act for the author. Personally, there are a number of details I would've fine-tuned, but I'm looking forward to see how they manage to balance everything out.

Recommend borrowing - *maybe* a set purchase for younger readers, depending on where the rest of the story goes.