Lambeth student saves up money to self-publish graphic novel

A teenager from Clapham has self-published a graphic novel based on an ancient story about two Japanese gods.

Kaya Forde, 17, wrote and illustrated the book as part of her Sixth Form studies at Lambeth Academy in Elms Road.

The Year 13 student saved up her own money to print the novel which is called The Story of Amaterasu and Tsukuyomi and is based on the ancient Japanese tale about the god of the sun and the god of the moon.

Ms Forde said she was inspired by Japanese history and contemporary culture, including manga and anime.

She said: “I spend a lot of free time watching anime and gaining inspiration for the stories and aesthetics. 

“My school trip to the V&A Museum showed me that there is a lack of Japanese representation in the UK, and probably in other western countries. 

“Being able to introduce and engage children in a new language and culture that enables them to make links between their culture and others’ culture is important to me.”

Ms Forde currently studies Art, Sociology and English Literature.

She made the graphic novel as part of her EPQ investigation – an additional project which encourages students to study independently.

She hopes to go on to study illustration at university, saying: “I aspire to develop a beautiful art style that I can adapt to young people. 

“After this, I wish to either create my own books, or work in the gaming industry and illustrate for games.” 

Lydia Smyth, Head of the Art Department at Lambeth Academy, said: “I’ve had the pleasure of teaching Kaya for the last three years and within this time she has never failed to impress me with her incredible talent, focus and 100 per cent commitment. 

“She is a student who knows what she wants and has the tenacity to be the best. 

“I have absolutely no doubt that Kaya will have a long and successful career in the creative arts.” 

Pictured top: Kaya Forde with her book The Story of Amaterasu and Tsukuyomi (image: Lambeth Academy)