Filipina author and illustrator Tori Tadiar is set to introduce the world to Filipino folklore with her graphic novel ‘Highsummer’
Philippine mythology once again gains international attention as Disney Books is set to publish a graphic novel highlighting it. Through a social media post, Filipina author and illustrator Tori Tadiar shared the news about her current comic book project “Highsummer” is set to be released by the publishing house in 2024.
“Highsummer” follows the story of Mika, a 12-year-old student attending Ilustra Junior High School, as she tries to undo a spell she accidentally cast on two classmates. In the process, she awakens ancient gods and a sun-devouring beast, threatening to put the world into darkness. To put a stop to it, the heroine teams up with her former bullies to save humankind.
Britt Siess at Britt Siess Creative Management, the same publisher of the famous novel “Percy Jackson” series by Rick Riordan, did the three-book deal for world English rights, according to the author’s post.
Among those who expressed their congratulations to the graphic novel creator are the National Book Development Board of the Philippines and “Trese” author Budjette Tan.
Apart from “Highsummer,” Tori is also known for her other works like “Twinkle Twinkle” and “Sagala.” The latter won the Best Komiks nod at the 2017 Komiket Awards and the 2020 PBBY-Alcala Prize.
“Shout out to the amazing team at Disney, Elanna Heda and Rachel Stark (the sweetest editor ever)! And of course, my absolutely brilliant agent Britt Siess (who held my hand through every step of the way)” Tori posted. “Much thanks goes to Daniell Chuatico and Richard Mercado for showing me the #DVpit path, that being published internationally was an opportunity for me and my fellow komikeros in the Philippines!”
Check out some of Tori’s graphic novels here.
Hello, readers! Do you have a story you want us to feature? Send us a message on Facebook, Instagram, Tiktok, and Twitter and let’s talk about it.