Shushu

A tender exploration of motherhood, memory and the silences that speak louder than words.

Miri is the exhausted mother of a screaming newborn and four-year-old Frances, who refuses to give up her shushu (pacifier). When Miri’s judgmental mother-in-law Bella arrives, she’s more of a burden than a help; criticising mealtimes, bedtimes, and of course, the ever-present shushu. When not dispensing unsolicited advice, Bella lounges in a Valium-induced haze on the sofa.

Miri is overwhelmed – not just by Bella, but by motherhood itself. Her identity is subsumed in the relentless rhythm of nursery runs, dinner prep and the demands of domesticity. All the while, Frances, ever watchful, gathers her lessons in silence.

This is a tender, sharp, and quietly powerful story about the isolation of motherhood, and the pacifiers - both literal and metaphorical - we pass down through generations.

Benjamin Phillips’ expressive, hand-drawn, ink illustrations breathe life into every page. Told with subtlety, wit and warmth, it explores universal themes that will resonate deeply with readers.

From the creators of Alte Zachen (V&A award-winner and Carnegie-shortlisted graphic novel for children), Shushu is Cicada’s first adult graphic novel.