The Ojja-Wojja: A Horror-Mystery, or Whatever
Magdalene Visaggio
About this book
The first in a new graphic novel series from indie comic stars Magdalene Visaggio and Jenn St-Onge is a coming-of-age story about the transformative power of friendship. And an immortal demon with the power to take over the world. But mostly the friendship thing. Welcome to Bolingbroke. It's a small town just like any other . . . or so eighth graders Val and Lanie think. They’re the best of best friends—they love the same comics, they watch the same shows, and they’re always there for each other. Which is important when you’re queer, like Lanie, or on the spectrum, like Val, and just don’t seem to fit in anywhere. When a school project about their hometown’s supernatural history leads to a for-real ghost sighting, Val and Lanie realize Bolingbroke might not be as boring as they’d always thought. But after a run-in with the resident middle school queen bee (who also happens to be Lanie’s former friend), they decide to take things to the next level . . . and accidentally summon the Ojja-Wojja, a demonic presence connected to a slew of mysterious tragedies throughout Bolingbroke’s sordid history. Now all heck has broken loose. With the whole town acting weird and nowhere left to turn, it’s going to be up to Val, Lanie, and their small group of friends to return things to normal—if “normal” is even something they want to return to.
Censorship history
In 2024, "The Ojja-Wojja: A Horror-Mystery, or Whatever" by Magdalene Visaggio was banned at the school level in several districts across the United States due to concerns over its themes and content, categorized under "Other." Specific details regarding the challenges leading to the ban remain sparse, but similar graphic novels have faced scrutiny from parent-teacher associations and school boards nationwide, reflecting ongoing debates about age-appropriate material in educational settings. The ban's status remains contested in some areas, with advocates for the book arguing for its reinstatement based on its positive portrayal of friendship and personal growth.
Bans
| Country | Year | Reasons |
|---|---|---|
| United States | 2024 | LGBTQ+Violence |
