Genre

Graphic Novel, Young Adult

Audience

Adults/ Teens

Author’s Worldview

Catholic

Year Published

2023

Themes

Teen Pregnancy, Pro-Life, Popularity, Choices, Abortion, Adoption, Keeping the baby

 

Reviewed by

Tiffany Buck

Casey is so lucky to have Josh as a boyfriend. All the girls envy her, and why wouldn’t they? He’s cute, smart, and the star basketball player. Best of all, he treats her right. Casey knows she’s young, but Josh is the ONE. For his sixteenth birthday, Casey wants to give him a gift he’ll never forget.  

Casey’s gift becomes much more than she hopes.  A life is created.  At sixteen, neither she nor Josh is prepared to care for a baby. What will their parents say? What about high school? Filled with anxiety, they wonder what they’re going to do. They have three choices: abortion, adoption, or keeping the baby. Which one is the right choice?

Life, Canada, and Voyage Comics have teamed up to create a high-quality 40-page choose-your-adventure comic that addresses the consequences of teen pregnancy.  Casey and Josh’s sexual encounter created a life. This will change their lives and relationship forever. The Gift explores the three paths of abortion, adoption, and keeping the baby through the eyes of Casey and Josh, portraying how each choice will affect all concerned.

First option: Abortion

It seems like the obvious choice. “The baby isn’t a baby, yet,” people say. Or, “it’s just a clump of cells.” An office visit will solve your problem, so you can get on with your life. Casey and Josh think this is their best choice. But is it? Does life for the young parents really go back to normal like they anticipated?

Second option: Adoption

Casey isn’t ready to be a mom and Josh isn’t ready to be a dad. Adoption is a good choice. Giving up your baby is difficult but loving at the same time. Casey and Josh hope the adoptive parents appreciate their sacrifice, as they hand over their newborn baby. Will they be able to be a part of the life they’ve brought into the world?

Third option: Keeping the baby

Telling your parents a baby is on the way and you’ve decided to keep it isn’t easy. Finishing high school and raising a baby requires help. On this path, Casey and Josh face the highs and lows of being new parents. Is this the right choice? What about their relationship? Will it fall apart, or will parenthood bring them closer together?

The comic begins in the halls of a typical high school. The average teen will easily spot the familiar fashions drawn by the artists. Although the book revolves around the aftermath of a sexual encounter between two teens, all the images are appropriate. Casey and Josh are only seen kissing fully clothed. I must point out that there is one picture of a condom pack if that is disturbing for some. The Gift shines as a teen comic highlighting the realistic struggles, fears, sorrow, and joy with each choice, and the consequences that follow. 

In the back of the book, the authors offer more information on abortion and adoption as well as on keeping the baby. There is also a small section on abstinence which encourages teens to take the time they need to become the people they are meant to be. As children of God, they are worth waiting for. 

The Fisherman’s Tomb; The Story of the Vatican’s Secret Search by John O’Neill

The untold true story of the greatest treasure hunt of the century, all done under the noses of the Nazi invasion.

The Wolf, the Lamb, and the Air Balloon by Corinna Turner

A wolf, a lamb, an air balloon—what could go wrong?

Image of God, Personhood & the Embryo by Calum MacKeller

Abortion is not the only danger to the human embryo. Defend humanity from experimentation in the USA.

Sunrise on the Icewolf by Colleen Drippe

Helen grew up on a world ruled by women where showing interest in your father is taboo, but she will journey across planets to save him.

Island of Miracles by Amy Schisler

When she finds out her husband had a whole other set of wife and kids Kate starts over in a small beach town.

Saving Mt. Rushmore by Andrea Jo Rodgers

John’s summer plans are ruined when he is recruited to a top-secret crime-fighting school, St. Michael’s Academy.

Introducing Our New Historical Fiction Editor: Ruby Shao

 Ruby Shao Passionate about helping people transform into the most virtuous and therefore happiest versions of themselves, Ruby loves delving into theology, philosophy, literature, and the arts. Raised as a non-denominational Christian by a Protestant mother and...

A Printer’s Choice by W.L. Patenaude

The first nation in space has sworn off religion, but now they need the help of Fr. McCellan to solve a murder and save them from religious terrorists.

The Saving Power of Suffering By Father Jacob Powell

A Catholic guide to taking up our cross and following Jesus.

Everything Old: Love in Anadauk Book 1 by Amanda Hamm

Two youth group leaders rekindle their friendship and find love with each other along the way.

Shadow of the Bear by Regina Doman

An intriguing story that will enchant with a sweet romance and take you on a thrill ride through the Gothic version of modern-day New York City.

Shadow in the Dark by Antony Barone Kolenc

An immersive mystery and an amateur sleuth set in the walls of a 12th century English monastery

Honor at Stake by Declan Finn

If you’re looking for a vampire-romance with a truly unique twist look no further.

Books for Lent

Deepen your Lenten reflection with these stories of repentance and forgiveness

Heavenly Hosts: Eucharistic Miracles for Kids by Kathryn Griffin Swegart, O.F.S.

Teach your children about the real presence through these short bedtime stories.

The Grace Crasher by Mara Faro

The Grace Crasher is the ecumenical romantic dramedy that everyone who has ever had family members in split churches needs to read.

Demons are Forever by Declan Finn

Marco flees from his fears of hurting Amanda by taking a job to train Vampire Hunters in San Francisco. Should be a quiet job right?

When Headlines Hurt: Do We Have a Prayer? by Bill Schmitt

The Pope’s Words of Hope for Journalism

A Spiritual Odyssey By Brian O’Hare

A wonderful testament to the love of God and how He never abandons us, even when we say no to Him for decades.

How Sweet the Sound by Courtney Guest Kim

Annette makes all the wrong decisions for her love life—but through Grace finds true wisdom.