Into the Karnaval | From the Mind of Mitzee

09.28.2019 – There are self-published independent comics out there. It holds so many diverse stories and interest. It might be something about the author’s personal experience or found inspiration from the giants of storytellers out there. Sometimes, it about a story worth sharing that came from so many things that got the author interested to produce a graphic novel that flew under the radar.

For Mitzee Bajet, there was “Karnaval” a supernatural fantasy about a boy meeting a creature-like cat that offered a perspective in pursuit of happiness to the point in risking by having a deal with a stranger. It is an original story that they she wrote and illustrated in 2017. This was also Mitzee’s first published work in the world of Filipino Komiks when she first presented it at Komiket.

Originally this was released back in February 2017 and it was re-released again at the recent Indieket 2019 with brand new external art and with more emphasis on much improved artwork as the author shares that she has re-focused all her energies putting it together. It is actually a brilliant concept and if you’re into silent comics this one has some interesting elements of that as part of this book’s narrative.

Mitzee's First Published Work with "Karnaval."

Mystery in the Big Top

The adventure in “Karnaval” is about the mundane life of a boy looking for some sense in the world he lives in. He thinks there is something missing in life and at the same time he’s being watched by this mysterious creature. It takes you into this world where possibilities can be good or bad, but how you travel through this journey you only need is take the risk to see where it takes you.

It is an uncharted fate for two beings, the boy and the mysterious cat-like creature without spoiling the book it is invitingly curious for those who haven’t heard about this graphic novel and should you be interested? A resounding yes as the author shared her thoughts and some anecdotes about this book as well as her future.

An Author's Perspective

Bajet shares that she got busy putting together the “Nowhere Tree” trilogy after that, and when she had the chance to go back to her first graphic novel it was the opportunity to present it at Indieket for those who missed the original release.

“Karnaval” and “Nowhere Tree” as just the beginning as she also plans to explore Historical fiction, Action, and possibly Romance. Mitzee also had ideas and would like to try to explore on writing and illustrating short stories. “I usually tend to picture the story in sequential form already, but it would be a good challenge to hone my creative writing skills. I love to try and learn new things that really interest me. And if I see a potential in it, I'll always take on the challenge to improve on it.” Mitzee enthusiasm has been consistent with ideas putting together two books already and there’s more where that came from.

Both “Karnaval” and “Nowhere Tree” are in English language that can also get international readers interested. Her works has been well received by readers that during local events like Komikon and Komiket she tends to sold out all her copies. You can catch her on the next local comics-related event where you can get both of the titles and there will be more soon.

The Author with her recent graphic novel "The Nowhere Tree" and celebrating Marion Libraries.

Her Thoughts about Libraries

“We desperately need libraries, especially here in the Philippines where it is hard to gain accessible education of all. Having public libraries and encouraging communities that promote reading and learning are essential to our culture and nation building. We must aim to not alienate and deprive the less privileged from the power of knowledge and creativity. It also helps with personal identity, to read books. That is why, we creators and patrons of the arts and humanities should continuously build ways how to reach these opportunities for everyone.” – Mitzee Bajet, Author & Illustrator

For more about Mitzee and her works you can follow through her social media via Facebook and Instagram!