When you mention the words graphic novel, most people assume you are going to be talking about superheroes or fantasy themes. There are, however, a wide range of genres that are in no way connected to mutants, space creatures, science experiments, and the like. Sometimes, authors use sequential art to reach new fans or tell their stories in a new way. Illegal definitely falls into this latter category, as I will explain below.
Our main character is named Ebo, a 12-year-old boy from a poorer than poor village in Ghana. This is his story of how he attempts to escape the shackles of poverty and make a new life for himself and his family in Europe. The best laid plans do not always work, unfortunately. The tale begins in the middle, but we get to jump back and see the events that started our young protagonist on his path to a new life.
Students of the Unusual™ comic cover used with permission of 3BoysProductions
The Mercuri Bros.™ comic cover used with permission of Prodigal Son Press