Ditching Saskia

A heart-warming, supernatural slice-of-life graphic novel that gently weaves together tough, everyday themes of identity, grief, and accepting flaws in those we love the most.

Living with his grandfather and struggling in a new high school, Damian decides to summon his mother’s ghost so he can talk things out - but he blows it and summons Saskia, a scruffy, annoying kid. Trying to settle into his new life, Damian doesn’t need her hanging around trying to ’help’ him with his crush - but Saskia’s suffering too, and everything they’re both hiding deep down might be just what they both need to get some peace. John Moore and Neetols paint a sweet and hilarious tale of young love amid grief, where someone’s flaws might be the reason you love them the most.

John Moore grew up exploring the creaky woods of Hertfordshire and studied at the University of Sussex where he developed his socially conscious writing style. Subjects such as grief, mental health, childhood and family are core themes in his work which he often tries to examine with humour. He has been awarded places on programmes run by the likes of BBC Writersroom, Papatango Theatre Company, Screen Arts Institute and Working Title. In 2021, John was also selected for the VAULT Festival New Writers Programme.

Neetols (they/them) is a graphic designer and illustrator born and raised in Manila, Philippines, where they reside still. They have worked in advertising and the non-profit sector where they realized their interest in narrative art and illustrating genuine human connections. They are inspired by classic manga, mid-century packaging design, old gig posters, and slice-of-life movies.