Earth to Chris Cleevy: A Graphic Novel

Description:

Aliens have invaded Earth--or so it would seem--in this contemporary middle grade graphic novel that follows 11-year-old Chris Cleevy as he navigates the emergence of his OCD and his mom's new boyfriend. Perfect for fans of Very Bad at Math and Real Friends.

Chris Cleevy's out-of-this-world imagination has always been fueled by his love of sci-fi. Thankfully, simple routines like tying his shoelaces and picking out his socks have kept him grounded right here on Earth. But his carefully constructed world is shattered when his mom brings home her new boyfriend, Phil.

Despite Phil's friendly demeanor, Chris becomes convinced Phil's a member of the mind-controlling alien race from one of his science-fiction stories. Chris believes, however, that his routines will shield his mind from Phil's alien influence. As the world becomes harder and harder to navigate, Chris discovers the source controlling his behaviors may have a different, more earthly origin.

Earth to Chris Cleevy is a poignant exploration of mental health, the ups and downs of middle school, and what it means to accept yourself for who you are even when you're still trying to figure that out.

Brief description:

Christof Bogacs (He/him) is a nonbinary comics writer from Sydney, Australia. His body of work covers topics of living with mental illness, self acceptance and male identity. He excels at crafting stories for MG and YA spaces.

His debut graphic novel Under Kingdom, a middle grade fantasy-comedy with an emphasis on non-violent problem solving, was released in April 2023 through Dark Horse Comics. Rick and Morty presents: Brawlher, his first licensed work, was published by Oni press in April, 2024. This was followed by the Rick and Morty New Year Special in January, 2025. His short comics have been published by DC Comics, Image comics and in the Ringo award nominated Dead Beats anthology from AWBW as well as the Eisner award winning PanelXPanel magazine. You can learn more about him at Christofwritescomics.com.

Review Quotes:

"A powerful and accessible story for kids who may be facing challenges they do not yet fully understand. Bogacs draws on his own childhood experiences with OCD in this thoughtful depiction of how intrusive thoughts can affect a kid. Rendering the thought as literal alien invaders is an effective device that clearly communicates Chris' anxieties." - Booklist (starred review)

A tender, cleverly framed look at OCD that resonates. This book includes realistic portrayals of OCD symptoms and therapy processes. The graphic format enhances the story's emotional resonance, visually capturing the push and pull between Chris's imagination and his lived reality through inviting, action-packed panels. Bogacs handles family and friend dynamics with care, furthering the story's authenticity. - Kirkus

An imaginative, engaging contribution to children's graphic fiction centered on mental health issues. Smartly integrated details make Chris a fully relatable character. Krieger and Savos's artwork is playful yet intentional. Brain-sucking blobs, looming spaceships, and monster-filled dresser drawers are depicted in eerie, purple-gray hues, while cinematically dramatic angles aptly communicate Chris's internal tension. - School Library Journal