Friendship, Team Dynamics, And Mental Health — Oni Press Announces ‘I Felt Myself Slipping’

Cartoonist Ray Nadine was a competitive gymnast for a decade as a teen and wished there were gymnastics comics, so they made one.

Oni Press has announced I Felt Myself Slipping, a touching coming-of-age story by former competitive gymnast and cartoonist Ray Nadine. The young adult graphic novel spotlights two aspiring Olympic gymnasts trying to balance it all while navigating past hurts, school struggles, anxiety, grief, and a friendship that might be something more.

“My time as a gymnast was incredibly formative to the person I am today, and writing about my experiences through Kota and Riley felt like a way I could honor the lessons my coaches and teammates imparted on me,” said Nadine. “And I always wished there were gymnastics comics when I was a teen, so I Felt Myself Slipping is just as much for me as it is for the next generation of gymnasts!”

Riley Glass moves to Stephon, Illinois after losing her dad in an auto accident. As she struggles to fit in with the other gymnasts, she misses her friends back home. She is cautious of making new connections at Station Six, which is made all the more difficult as she’s hard of hearing and none of her new teammates know ASL. 

When Riley meets Kota, she’s surprised by Kota’s effort in learning ASL in order to communicate with her. Kota is determined to make Riley feel more at home, even though she struggles with her own anxieties. Kota wants to be the best gymnast and make it all the way to the Olympics, but her fears of getting injured could stand in the way of achieving her goals. As they make their way to the prestigious U.S. Classic gymnastics event, their future as friends and as gymnasts will be put to the test. 

“With a focus on friendship, team dynamics, and mental health, I Felt Myself Slipping is perfect for fans of YA sports stories like Spinning, Heartstopper, and Check, Please!,” said Senior Editor Grace Scheipeter. “Sports, school, friendships, anxiety, and more are on the balance beam as Riley and Kota are trying to navigate all of the emotions and trials that go along with growing up while chasing their Olympic dreams.”

I Felt Myself Slipping lands in stores on September 11, 2024. Check out the preview pages below.