What happens when immortality isn’t a blessing but a curse? "DYING INSIDE", the latest graphic novel from Fall Out Boy’s Pete Wentz, Hannah Klein, and Lisa Sterle, takes this very concept and turns it on its head with a dark, supernatural twist. Equal parts emo, fantasy, and coming-of-age, this book is for those who love the fusion of humor and heartbreak that’s reminiscent of Scott Pilgrim or Wednesday Addams with a heavy dose of dark humor. Rockstar Book Tours is sponsoring this book tour, so check out my review and enter the giveaway!
MY REVIEW
At the center of DYING INSIDE is Ash, a sixteen-year-old whose life is a whirlwind of apathy, angst, and unfiltered bitterness. Fans of Joy Division's Ian Curtis and Elliott Smith (her idols) will recognize Ash’s obsession with despair and gloom. She’s depressed, tired of life, and looking for a way out—literally. But, just when she’s finally ready to make her “grand exit,” her plans are hilariously (and tragically) derailed by a mystical twist: the knife she intended to use is charmed with a protection spell, and now, Ash is cursed with immortality.
Plot and Concept: A Supernatural Teen Existential Crisis
Ash's journey to reclaim her mortality (yes, mortality!) is a mix of wit, dry humor, and reflective commentary on mental health. She teams up with Liv, the witch responsible for her botched escape plan, and together, they set out to undo the curse. Along the way, Ash navigates not only her desire to die but also the frustrating, almost absurd complications of being an immortal teen. The introduction of Somnia, a new antidepressant with an eerie connection to Ash’s predicament, only deepens the plot’s blend of reality and fantasy.
The concept of death as a relief from life’s emotional toll is handled delicately yet boldly. Klein and Wentz do an exceptional job of using Ash’s pursuit of death to talk about mental health, depression, and the complex emotions that teenagers face. It’s dark, yes, but it’s also thoughtful.
Characters: A Perfect Mix of Relatable and Absurd
Ash is, without a doubt, a memorable protagonist. She’s sarcastic, sharp-witted, and at times, frustratingly defeatist, but that’s exactly what makes her journey so compelling. Her dynamic with Liv is refreshingly real—both girls are flawed, vulnerable, and awkward, yet their unlikely friendship gives the story much-needed warmth and humor.
Liv, the accidental witch, is another standout. Her magical ineptitude paired with her genuine desire to help Ash makes her more than just a supporting character; she’s a fully realized co-hero in this journey. And then there’s Greg, Ash’s mom’s creepy boyfriend, who provides the perfect backdrop of everyday horror that contrasts with the book’s supernatural elements.
Art: A Bold, Emo-Fantasy Aesthetic
Lisa Sterle’s artwork is the heartbeat of DYING INSIDE. Her bold, angular lines and expressive characters perfectly capture the moodiness and sharp wit of Ash’s story. The color palette—dominated by deep purples, reds, and blacks—further enhances the emo-fantasy vibe. The art not only serves to visually immerse readers in Ash’s bleak world but also adds layers to the emotional beats of the story, especially in moments of introspection.
Sterle’s experience with projects like The Modern Witch Tarot shines through here, with a few panels resembling tarot-like symbolism, adding a deeper, almost mystical layer to the narrative.
What Worked
The strongest element of DYING INSIDE is its clever fusion of supernatural fantasy with real-world emotional struggles. Ash’s character is complex, deeply flawed, and completely relatable, especially for anyone who’s ever felt overwhelmed by the weight of life. The witty dialogue and dark humor keep the tone light even when dealing with heavier themes like depression and hopelessness.
The unlikely friendship between Ash and Liv also stands out as a highlight. Their chemistry adds heart to the story, providing not only comedic moments but also moments of genuine emotional growth. The plot, with its fantastical elements, still grounds itself in very human experiences, making it relatable despite its surreal premise.
What Could’ve Been Better
At 224 pages, the book does feel a bit rushed at times, especially in the final third. Ash’s journey, while satisfying, could have benefited from more time to develop certain plot points, particularly around the mysterious drug Somnia and its connection to her immortality. The pacing picks up quickly, and some emotional beats get glossed over in favor of moving the story forward.
Additionally, while the humor is sharp, there are moments where Ash’s relentless sarcasm can feel a bit overwhelming, leaving less space for moments of introspection. A bit more balance between her humor and vulnerability could’ve elevated the emotional stakes even further.
Final Thoughts
Overall, DYING INSIDE delivers a fresh and edgy take on the supernatural fantasy genre with a heavy dose of emo flair. Pete Wentz, Hannah Klein, and Lisa Sterle have crafted a story that’s as funny as it is poignant. It’s not just about the fear of death, but the overwhelming burden of living—something many readers, particularly teens, can relate to. Whether you’re a fan of Scott Pilgrim, Wednesday, or just enjoy dark humor with heart, DYING INSIDE is a graphic novel worth diving into.
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️☆ (4/5)
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