Daybreaker - by Tori Tadiar

About the Book

Mika doesn't fit in at the prestigious Ateneum Academy in Manila, but when a moth speaks to her in her grandmother's voice, Mika begins manifesting powers and casting spells that get her into trouble. She soon learns to trust new friends and try to make sense of what her budding powers mean for her and for the world.

Book Synopsis

Mika always thought the gods and goddesses of the Philippines were no more than legend--until she wakes one and discovers a destiny she never imagined.

This middle-grade graphic novel series starter by an award-winning Filipina artist, inspired by the folklore of the Philippines, is perfect for readers of Amulet and Percy Jackson.

"Amulet meets a Filipino Percy Jackson."
--Melissa de la Cruz, #1 New York Times best-selling author

Though Mika Mirasol's boarding school classmates tease her for clinging to the stories of legendary beings her lola raised her on, she can't help but love them--those myths are all she has left of her guardian.

That is, until a year after Lola's death, when a moth speaks to Mika in the old woman's voice. Mika experiences a burst of inexplicable power, and in her panic, she accidentally casts a spell and binds herself to two eavesdropping classmates.

Literally stuck together, Mika, Halle, and Teo grudgingly set out to find a countercurse in ancient Filipino beliefs. But the more they learn, the more it seems that Lola's tales were all true--and that Mika is destined to play a role in them.

The mythology of the Philippine Islands comes to life in this funny, warm, and enchanting graphic novel about making friends, learning to let go, and finding your place in the world.

Review Quotes

"A fun fantasy romp full of expressive and beautiful art for all the girls who get told they are a little too weird." --Wendy Xu, best-selling author of Tidesong and co-creator of Mooncakes

"Amulet meets a Filipino Percy Jackson in this epic, beautifully illustrated graphic novel filled with heartwarming friendships, humor, and thrilling quests. I loved it!" --Melissa de la Cruz, #1 New York Times best-selling author of the Descendants novels

"A captivating journey full of heart and wonder." --Joanna Cacao, author of The Secret of the Ravens and co-creator of The Tryout

"A lustrous and vibrant debut, Daybreaker is a blend of ethereal adventure and tender slice-of-life storytelling that combine in a radiant exhibition of Filipino folklore. Each page builds a beautiful world that readers will be thrilled to explore." --Zachary Sterling, Eisner-nominated and New York Times best-selling author of Mabuhay!

"Steeped in Filipino folklore and mythology, Daybreaker offers a fun adventure that celebrates the importance of friendship." --Jes and Cin Wibowo, authors of Lunar Boy

"Simultaneously filled with action and emotion . . . for fans of Percy Jackson folklore, magic, secrets, and strong, underestimated heroines." --School Library Journal

About the Author

Tori Tadiar is a Filipino comic artist based in sunny Metro Manila. She is an IT professional by day, and works on comics and stories every chance she can get. Her goal is to tell stories that introduce and immerse readers in alternate worlds based on the culture of the land she calls home. When she's not hunched over her workstation, Tori can be found playing videogames with her husband Miko, taking long walks with her beloved dog Macchi, or getting lost while exploring new places. Connect with her online at @HaiToriArt on Instagram and @HaiTori on Facebook and X.