Ghosts: A Graphic Novel

“I’m her sister. I’m supposed to protect her!” (107). These are Cat’s words when Maya nearly dies after their hike to the mission to meet the spirits. As Maya’s older sister, Cat feels a deep responsibility to protect and care for her; this is a source of pride for Cat but also of guilt and inner conflict. When Cat puts her own needs first or fails to protect Maya, she feels that she is not doing enough as a sister. Her parents reinforce this belief, scolding her for taking Maya up the hill without her medication. At one point, Cat lies to other kids about Maya, referring to her as a friend instead of her sibling and failing to mention her disease. Maya feels betrayed by Cat’s actions, but their bond is strong, and Maya forgives her after a heart-to-heart exposes Cat’s need to have her own identity. Although Maya does not do so directly or deliberately, she in many ways lives through Cat, watching as her sister goes trick or treating without her and encouraging her to attend the Day of the Dead celebration when she cannot. The bond that ties Cat and Maya together is eternal and unbreakable, and it is because of their bond that Cat is able to find the courage to confront her fear of death, loss, and change.