Fustuk: A Graphic Novel

Inspired by Armenian and Persian mythology, this YA graphic novel debut follows Katah Fustukian, the youngest of three dysfunctional siblings who strike a magical deal to save their mother's life. Seventeen-year-old Katah, unlike his older siblings who excel in the kitchen, longs to prove his own magic when visions hint at a hidden power. Their father, a legendary Hye chef who left a strong culinary mark on the Pars Empire, casts a long shadow. When a powerful div named Az reveals a path to healing through a dish that could rival their father’s, the siblings bargain for Az’s help. But as rival ambitions collide, Katah must unravel his family history and his own gifts, navigating memory, loyalty, and the cost of magic. Robert Mgrdich Apelian crafts a layered, inventive tale that blends legend, diaspora identity, and sumptuous imagery, offering a fresh voice in diverse YA fantasy.

Who might be interested in reading?

• Readers who crave myth-inspired, coming-of-age stories with a multicultural lens.
• Fans of graphic novels that blend food, family dynamics, and magical realism.
• Teens and young adults who enjoy stories about identity, diaspora, and cultural heritage.
• Readers who appreciate artful illustration and world-building in speculative fiction.