Debut YA Graphic Novel Explores Grief, Friendship, and the Great Unknown

This Fall, Emanata, the young adult graphic novel imprint of Conundrum Press, will publish Quiet Crossings, a poignant and visually rich debut by Toronto-based artist Vivi Partridge (they/them), with colour by Janaina Spada (she/her).

In this introspective story, Selena crashes her truck in the countryside and takes a job at an inn located at the very edge of the world. The inn offers a complimentary ferry ride to the Great Unknown, a destination from which no guest has ever returned.

Selena befriends the inn’s guests and grows close to the people who pass through. But one by one, they board the ferry and disappear. As she watches her friends leave, Selena wrestles with what it means to say goodbye—and learns to let go when others are ready, even if she isn’t.

Quiet Crossings offers a thoughtful and tender look at grief, friendship, and transition. With dreamy artwork, warm storytelling, and a quietly magical setting, it’s a book that resonates deeply with readers of all ages.

The graphic novel has already received strong advance praise:

“Partridge’s debut graphic novel implements cozy visuals for a sweet parable about processing love and grief. Quiet Crossings is a perfect summer read for the tender hearted. It’s sure to become a go-to comfort book for those who have experienced loss of a loved one.” —Ren Strapp, How Could You

“A warm and subtly layered story with a charming cast of characters. Quiet Crossings tackles difficult topics with a gentle touch.” —Vivian Zhou, Atana and the Firebird

“Quiet Crossings is simply beautiful. Heartfelt and inviting, Vivi Partridge gently draws you into a world of overlapping journeys, where summer lingers, magic runs close to the surface, and the need to let go meets the desire to hang on.” —Sfé Monster, Minecraft (Graphic Novels)

“Quiet Crossings is a beautiful meditation on when to hold on and when to let go. Lovingly illustrated with inviting colour palettes, it’s sure to linger in the heart long after reading.” —Brenda Hickey, Butterfly House

“Quiet Crossings is a thoughtful reflection on our relationships with death, near-death, and each other. Vivi Partridge’s understated storytelling is complimented by their expressive and beautiful cartooning. A refreshing and creative addition to the genre, many teens will relate to Selena and her journey in this book.” —Jade Armstrong, Food School

About the Creators

Vivi Partridge (they/them) is a queer emerging artist based in Toronto. They graduated from Seneca Polytechnic’s illustration program and have tabled at TCAF, VANCAF, MCAF, and Comic-Con. Their paintings have appeared in Southern Ontario galleries such as Northern Contemporary, Worth Gallery, and the Proudest Pony.

Janaina Spada (she/her), originally from Brazil and now based in Toronto, also studied illustration at Seneca College. She specializes in sequential art and creates self-published webcomics and children’s books.

Quiet Crossings will be available on October 28, 2025.

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