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Mall Goth

Colorist Diana Sousa / Illustrated by Kate Leth / Letterer Robin Crank

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About The Book

Laura Dean Keeps Breaking Up with Me gets a Y2K twist in this coming-of-age young adult graphic novel from acclaimed comic artist Kate Leth about a 2000s goth teen whose favorite part of her new town is the mall.

Liv Holme is not exactly thrilled to be moving to a new town with her mother. After all, high school can be brutal, even more so when you’re a fifteen-year-old, bisexual goth. But Liv is determined to be who she is, bullies or not. Still, being the new kid and the only out student brings her a lot of unwelcome attention, and Liv flounders in her search for community. The only person who makes time for her is one of teachers, but Liv isn’t sure how to feel about the way he behaves toward her.

Thankfully, she’s found the perfect escape: the mall. Under its fluorescent lights, Liv feels far away from her parents’ strained marriage and the peers who don’t understand her. Amid the bright storefronts, food court smell, and anonymous shoppers, Liv is safely one of the crowd and can enjoy the feeling of calling the shots in her own life for once.

With the help of her suburban refuge, Liv sets off on a journey of self-acceptance and learns to navigate the ups and downs of high school and to recognize true friendship.

About The Author

Photograph (c) 2022 by James MacLean
Kate Leth

Kate Leth is a Canadian author and illustrator working in comics, animation, design, and feelings. A grown-up goth and pop culture devotee, Kate specializes in work for kids and teens. Her comics work includes Patsy Walker, A.K.A. Hellcat!; Girl Over Paris; Spell on Wheels; and Adventure Time, among others.

About The Illustrator

Photograph (c) 2022 by James MacLean
Kate Leth

Kate Leth is a Canadian author and illustrator working in comics, animation, design, and feelings. A grown-up goth and pop culture devotee, Kate specializes in work for kids and teens. Her comics work includes Patsy Walker, A.K.A. Hellcat!; Girl Over Paris; Spell on Wheels; and Adventure Time, among others.

Why We Love It

“With her poppy, fun art and Liv’s snarky personality, it’s impossible not to be delighted by this graphic novel; but what really took me by surprise is the emotional nuance with which Kate Leth handles the tougher themes in this story. I experienced the heartbreak right along with Liv, and the tender ending left me feeling hopeful for her future.”

—Deeba Z., Senior Editor, on Mall Goth

Product Details

  • Publisher: Simon & Schuster Books for Young Readers (September 26, 2023)
  • Length: 256 pages
  • ISBN13: 9781534476943
  • Ages: 12 - 99

Awards and Honors

  • ALA Quick Picks for Reluctant Young Adult Readers
  • ALA Rise: A Feminist Book Project List Selectio

Resources and Downloads

High Resolution Images

  • Author Photo (jpg): Kate Leth
    Photograph (c) 2022 by James MacLean
    (0.1 MB)

    Any use of an author photo must include its respective photo credit

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