In this feature, we interview comic book industry professionals via Zoom about their latest projects.

Episode twelve of BEYOND THE SYNOPSIS features writer/illustrator Ariela Kristantina and editor Will Dennis of the ComiXology Originals graphic novel THE GIRL WHO DRAWS ON WHALES, which released September 23rd, 2025.

THE GIRL WHO DRAWS ON WHALES OGN

Written by Ariela Kristantina

Illustrated by Ariela Kristantina

Colors by Sarah Stern

Letters by Bernardo Brice

Edited by Will Dennis

The Girl Who Draws on Whales is a testimony to the power of stories—their uncanny ability to entertain, educate and, ultimately, unite us.

Reminiscent of stories like Moana, Princess Mononoke, The Never-Ending Story, Frozen, and Snow Angels, The Girl Who Draws on Whales is an epic YA grahic novel adventure about two siblings struggling for survival, who must use their art to save their world.

The Girl Who Draws on Whales is set in a fantasy world, several centuries after “The Great Flood.” Sister Wangi and younger brother Banyu live in a sea-village. Wangi has a special bond with the Great Whales that visit their sea-village and they allow Wangi to draw on their backs. Sometimes they return with new drawings on them. Wangi believes that there are other sea-villages or island settlements scattered around and that they are sending her messages but, none of the elders listen to her.

One day, a new whale arrives in the village alone, wounded, and dying—this whale has a new drawing on her back that doesn't look like the previous drawings. Inspired by this mystery, Wangi vows to investigate. Although forbidden by her parents and the village elders, Wangi—along with a stowaway, who happens to be her brother Banyu—embark on a wondrous journey to investigate where the drawings are coming from only to find much more than they were expecting.

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Follow Ariela Kristantina Online:

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Web: arielakris.myportfolio.com

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