Age 16
Age 16 by Rosena Fung, published by Annick Press in 2024, is a coming-of-age graphic novel that explores the complex dynamics between mothers and daughters as they navigate societal standards of beauty, race, and worth. Set across different decades, the narrative follows three sixteen-year-old girls—Mei Laan in 1954 Guangdong, Lydia in 1972 Hong Kong, and Roz in 2000 Toronto—each grappling with their identities and familial expectations. The book spans 312 pages and is presented in English.
Readers will find an emotional exploration of generational relationships and the impact of cultural heritage on personal growth. As Roz’s estranged grandmother arrives, the story delves into family secrets and the challenges of self-acceptance amidst societal pressures. The themes of diversity and multiculturalism are woven throughout, reflecting the experiences of Asian American and Pacific Islander communities. This edition offers a poignant look at how the past shapes the present, making it a significant addition to the young adult fiction genre.
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Best Books of 2024 lists: NYPL, The Globe and Mail,Quill & Quire * Most Anticipated Feminist Books of 2024, Ms. magazine * Kids Indie Next Pick
A powerful coming-of-age graphic novel about how mothers and daughters pass down–and rebel against–standards of size, gender, race, beauty, and worth.
Guangdong, 1954 Sixteen-year-old Mei Laan longs for a future of freedom, and her beauty may be the key to getting it. Can an arranged marriage in Hong Kong be the answer to all her problems?
Hong Kong, 1972 Sixteen-year-old Lydia wants nothing more than to dance and to gain approval from her mother, who is largely absent and sharply critical, especially about the way she looks. Maybe her way to happiness is starting over in Toronto?
Toronto, 2000 Sixteen-year-old Roz is grappling with who she wants to be in the world. The only thing she is certain of is that if she were thinner, things would be better. How can she start living her life, instead of just photographing it?
When Roz’s estranged por por abruptly arrives for a seemingly indefinite visit, three generations are now under one roof. Delicate relationships are suddenly upended, and long-suppressed family secrets begin to surface.
Award-winning creator of Living With Viola Rosena Fung pulls from her own family history in her YA debut to give us an emotional and poignant story about how every generation is affected by those that came before, and affect those that come after.
“Moving and emotional.” –Victoria Ying, Harvey Award-winning author of Hungry Ghost
“Crucial.” –Deb JJ Lee, creator of In Limbo
“Beautiful.” –Fiona Smyth, illustrator of Sex Is a Funny Word
Content Warning: body image, disordered eating.
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