Occulted

In the final panels of this gripping graphic novel memoir, Rose defines the titular phrase as “an astronomical term for when something is hidden from view.” For Rose, the term is all-encompassing when applied to her childhood being raised and largely neglected in the Temple, a cult commune in San Diego, where she is cut off from the world. Since her mother is sick and requires a lot of rest, Rose spends most of her time with the Temple’s acerbic and emotionally manipulative leader. Rose feels most at peace when she’s reading, and she delights in finding Leader’s secret library. But after deeming Rose “too stupid. Or just corrupted,” Leader sends her home with Jeanie and Derek, Temple members who reside off-site and who become her adoptive parents. With them, she experiences the outside world—going to grocery stores, learning how to woodwork, and visiting the public library. Lee’s uncomplicated, thinly lined b&w illustrations keep the characters and their emotions front and center. Rose and Estrada (the Student Ambassador series) imbue young Rose’s harrowing story with emotional heft by navigating heavy themes involving emotional abuse. Ages 10–14. (May)