KCU Pitchfest Showcase 2023 (Top 50)

Like Mother

Mallory, a 17 year-old witch, receives a package from her estranged mother, who has a knack for curses. Soon after, a curse begins haunting Mallory, lurking in the shadows with the goal of isolating her from reality. Unable to evade the curse on her own, Laurel (Mallory’s school crush) and her loving moms step in to help. After failed spells, a heart-wrenching betrayal from Laurel, and facing her mother head on, Mallory realizes the curse was a manifestation of her own feelings all along. With the help of her newfound family, Mallory accepts herself despite her biggest fear, being like her mom, coming true. Like Mother is a young adult graphic novel about finding self acceptance amidst battling generational trauma and mental illness.

My Why:

When I was 8 my dad signed over his rights, and at age 13 my mom went to prison and left my life. Losing two parents, not to death or illness, but due to their choices was very confusing for me to grieve as a teenager. In stories, parents and children often forgive each other and reunite; however, when your family doesn’t get the fairy tale ending, it can make you feel like you did something wrong. The aim of Like Mother is to show us that no matter how scary life can get, whether struggling with complicated feelings towards family, battling mental illness, or navigating romantic relationships, it’s vital that we show ourselves patience and empathy. I hope this book can help others process their grief and accept themselves, flaws and all.