'A Haunted Girl' graphic novel explores mental illness through horror

Editor's note: If you or someone you know may be considering suicide or is in crisis, call or text 988 to reach the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline.

On the surface, the new graphic novel “A Haunted Girl” is the story of a teenage girl who has to fight giant supernatural monsters to save the world. But it’s also a poignant depiction of mental illness and suicidal ideation, and the protagonist’s struggle to do what many would consider simple things: maintain friendships, go to school, and plan for her future.

Written by the father-daughter team of Ethan Sacks and Naomi Sacks and illustrated by Marco Lorenzana, the book is getting rave reviews not only from comic book enthusiasts but also mental health professionals including those at the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention.

Ethan and Naomi Sacks join host Robin Young to talk about their new release and the personal experiences that inspired the graphic novel.

By Ethan and Naomi Sacks, illustrated by Marco Lorenzana