Toby is thirteen, but his world is coming apart. His parents are newly divorced. Now Toby is forced to shuttle between two homes, juggling the awkward reality of his mother’s new boyfriend and the longing for life with his father in the old house. Nothing feels right anymore – and nobody seems to notice the storm of feelings he’s caught up in.

In this award-winning graphic novel, Toby retreats to the familiar treehouse in the woods with his best friend Sindre, not sure how to fit in at school, or anywhere at all. Through everyday scenes full of tension and heartache readers witness Toby’s struggle to make sense of complicated family routines, forgotten gym bags, and the growing pains of adolescence. New feelings for his classmate Aisha only make everything more confusing.

Toby, 13 Years is a nuanced portrait of contemporary childhood, tackling divorce, puberty, and emotional isolation with honesty and artistic depth. Anja Dahle Øverbye’s expressive grayscale illustrations and understated dialogue resonate powerfully with anyone who has felt out of place, whether child or adult. Perfect for fans of introspective comics and coming-of-age stories, this book invites readers to see – and feel – the world through a child’s eyes.

Awards and nominations:
Winner of the Critics’ Prize for Children’s and YA Literature
Nominated for Norway’s most beautifully illustrated books and This Year’s Comic 2023 (Årets tegneserie)

Anja Dahle Øverbye (b.1981) is a visual artist, illustrator and author of numerous award-winning graphic novels. Toby, 13 years old is her first graphic novel for middle grade. Her works are translated into French, English, Russian, Ukranian, Czech, and Polish.

Reviews Norwegian press:
“In Anja Dahle Øverbye’s new graphic novel, the subtle shades she uses in her illustrations work in perfect harmony with the emotions expressed through both words and images. Øverbye is a true master of grayscale.” – Anne Schäffer, Numer

“An outstanding children’s book! It’s remarkable when a story contains so many believable, complex characters that you want to keep reading about them. Despite all its everyday complications, there’s never a dull moment. The book is emotionally rich and wise.” – Kristine Isaksen, VG Five star-review

“With sensitivity and precision, Øverbye portrays how everyday routines shift for a child experiencing their parents’ separation. Tarjei’s conversations with his mother—and with his father—reveal what it’s really like to be a child of divorce.” – Ruth Halstensen, Empirix

“With Tarjei, 13 Years, Øverbye lays bare the challenges of divorce and adolescence in a moving and insightful way, all while maintaining a high level of artistic craft. This is her finest comic yet.” – Egon Låstad, Periskop

“Tarjei, 13 Years must be one of the best books about divorce involving children I’ve ever encountered. Stories like this are so important in a world that often portrays boys as tough and emotionless. In this book, Øverbye sets out to capture how children experience divorce—and it’s powerful, evocative, and deeply moving.” – Francine Mbanza Jensen, Serienett.no

Read English sample translation here