K. O’Neill

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GZLA

THE MOTH KEEPER

March 2023, Random House Graphic, 272 pp

Being a Moth Keeper is a huge responsibility and a great honor, but what happens when the new Moth Keeper decides to take a break from the moon and see the sun for the first time? A middle-grade fantasy graphic novel about passion, duty, and found family.

Anya is finally a Moth Keeper, the protector of the lunar moths that allow the Night-Lily flower to bloom once a year. Her village needs the flower to continue thriving and Anya is excited to prove her worth and show her thanks to her friends with her actions, but what happens when being a Moth Keeper isn’t exactly what Anya thought it would be?

The nights are cold in the desert and the lunar moths live far from the village. Anya finds herself isolated and lonely. Despite Anya’s dedication, she wonders what it would be like to live in the sun. Her thoughts turn into an obsession, and when Anya takes a chance to stay up during the day to feel the sun’s warmth, her village and the lunar moths are left to deal with the consequences.

K. O’Neill brings to life a beautifully illustrated fantasy world about responsibility to yourself and your community. The Moth Keeper is filled with magic, hope, and friendship.

STARRED REVIEWS

KIRKUS – “A nature-based coming-of-age story aglow with the light of loving bonds and communal living.”

BOOKLIST – “Fans of O’Neill’s comics, such as Tea Dragon Society (2017), will recognize some hallmarks of their work—matter-of-fact queer representation, stunning natural scenes, themes of conservation—but the distinctive desert setting and glowing nighttime palette set this apart.”

PUBLISHERS WEEKLY – “Containing a deeply contemplative aura, this worthy volume explores themes of connection, mythology, personal growth, and tradition.”

ACCOLADES

  • March/April 2023 Kid’s Indie Next list #1 pick

INTERNATIONAL RIGHTS

FrenchBliss Editions
ItalianEditrice Il Castoro
SpanishEdiciones La Cupula

NOTE: Two more books under contract.