An insightful graphic memoir... Until We Meet Again by Lily Kim Qian (Review) #newbooks #bookx #graphicnovels #memoirs #yabooks #yalit


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Until We Meet Again
By Lily Kim Qian
Memoir, YA Graphic Novel
Hardcover, Paperback & eBook, 224 Pages
April 21, 2026 by First Second

Summary

A poignant and vividly illustrated graphic memoir about a young woman’s search for belonging as her immigrant family moves between Canada and China.

Lily isn’t sure where home is anymore. Her family is constantly on the move, resettling in different towns across Canada and, eventually, in Shanghai, China. Her father plays the role of primary caregiver while her mother is absent for long periods of time. When she reappears, her strange behavior turns Lily’s life upside down. As Lily enters her college years, she strives to better understand her family and her place in the world. But can she escape the inherited trauma passed down by her immigrant parents?

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My Review

UNTIL WE MEET AGAIN is an introspective look at a daughter's life. As the author looks back on her life, she touches on some difficult topics such as divorce, feeling like you never settle, her mom's mental illness and her own struggles. It's a story that will resonate with many readers full of heartfelt questions. The illustrations are masterfully done with contrasting colors that evoke emotion. The graphics along with the story will keep readers engaged as they sit down for this quick read.

This is the first I've read a memoir told as a graphic novel, and I will admit that I wasn't sure what to expect. It honestly surprised me how well the illustrations conveyed the feelings that play out in this story and how little needed to be written to explain what was happening. I thought it was very well done and loved this artist's style (who is also the author). I only had one issue with the book, which was that I wanted more depth. More experiencing the story versus being told it. Regardless, this was still worth picking up and spending time reading.

In the end, was it what I wished for? This is an insightful story and deserving of a read. I'm looking forward to seeing what this author/illustrator produces next, as I fell in love with her art in this book!

Content: Clean
Source: I received a complimentary copy through Toppling Stacks Tours, which did not require a positive review. All opinions are my own.

About the Author


Lily Kim Qian is a Chinese-Canadian artist based in New York. She graduated with a BFA in illustration from Parsons the New School of Design in 2021. Along with her illustration practice, she works as a Junior Designer at Penguin Young Readers. Until We Meet Again is her debut graphic novel with First Second books. In her spare time, she enjoys volunteering at shelters and hanging out with her very own cat assistant, Edgar.


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