The following is an interview with Melanie Lee and Arif Rafhan regarding their upcoming return to the graphic novel series, Amazing Ash & Superhero Ah Ma, with publisher Difference Engine. In this interview, Fanbase Press Editor-in-Chief Barbra Dillon chats with Lee and Rafhan about their shared creative process in bringing the latest volume and its characters to life on the page, the themes that they hope will resonate with readers, and more!
Barbra Dillon, Fanbase Press Editor-in-Chief: You will soon be returning to the world of Team Ash with the graphic novel series, Amazing Ash & Superhero Ah Ma. Where will readers find the characters within this second volume (Coming of Age) of the series?
Melanie Lee: Team Ash is in full swing with their weekly superhero operations! However, they encounter their first “major” nemesis and this brings on plenty of adventure, drama, and much-needed reckoning in terms of not overstretching themselves.
BD: What can you tell us about your shared creative process in reuniting to bring this incredible world and characters to life on the page? Have you found that you’ve developed a creative “shorthand” in your collaboration?
ML: I think we both give each other the space to explore how the story can be conveyed through words and illustrations.
Arif Rafhan: Not to say ‘shorthand’ but rather, we have a clear way of communication that allows us to complement each other creatively. As a result, we can work on our forté with much confidence.
BD: What makes publisher Difference Engine the perfect home for this story?
ML: Difference Engine shares the same vision as us in creating a middle-grade graphic novel series that is both heartwarming but also incredibly fun for kids. They offered plenty of editorial support to help us tell the story the best way we can.
AR: DE and us are in sync in developing a heartwarming story that we are both proud of.
BD: At Fanbase Press, our #StoriesMatter initiative endeavors to highlight the impact that stories can have on audiences of various mediums. How do you feel that Ash and Ah Ma’s story may connect with and impact readers?
ML: This story reinforces how important community is. While Ash and Ah Ma are the ones with superpowers, it is the care, support and resourcefulness from the rest of Team ASH that truly empowers them to be the superheroes they are.
BD: Are there any other projects – past or current – that you would like to highlight for our readers?
AR: Currently, I’m working on another children’s book that encourages them to be curious and creative by using their senses. It’s not a superhero story, but still a wholesome story about finding one self and inner peace.
BD: Lastly, what is the best way for readers to learn more about The Amazing Ash & Superhero Ah Ma: Coming of Age?
ML: Visiting our microsite, Amazing Ash and Superhero Ah Ma: The Unforgettable Adventures, where you’ll be introduced to the characters. There are also free online comics and a bunch of digital goodies you can download.
