KEY POINTS
● A fresh blend of picture book and graphic novel genres, showcasing their dynamic "chemistry"
● Lovable characters and a humorous storyline that captivates both children and adults
● A “tremendous comfort” for all the lonely hearts out there
"This cuteness is tremendous!"
"The courage of an extraordinarily big and special boy who reaches out in hopes of meeting someone"
"The Very Big Invitation" is the first picture book by author Park Seoyoung, who has made a name for herself with her unique graphic novels. The story follows a boy who hosts weekly parties in his house on the hill, posting invitations on the village’s telephone poles, but no one ever shows up—until one day, surprise guests arrive at his door.
Living alone in a black house on a hill, the boy ventures down to the village every Tuesday to post a very tiny invitation on a telephone pole. It reads, "Saturday night at 8 p.m. in the black house on the hill," as he waits for someone to notice. But come Saturday, he's always alone at his party. Now, with only one invitation left, the boy decides he'll never host another party. He tosses away the final invitation. But on the first Saturday when there's no party, knock knock knock—someone knocks at the door...
Determined to protect himself from further hurt, the boy chooses to be alone. The author tells the boy’s story with a light, rhythmic touch, sometimes omitting sentences entirely. Yet, the narrative is neither unfriendly nor cold. Instead, it invites readers to read between the scenes, to explore the spaces between the words and the pictures, allowing them to experience the boy’s emotions alongside him.
In this work, the author delivers a delightful experience by blending the best elements of picture books and graphic novels. The weighty theme of "loneliness" is approached with humor and lightness, offering quiet comfort, support, and warmth to readers who may be alone or who have passed through their own moments of solitude.