Simina Popescu (they/she) is an author, illustrator, and cartoonist. They're passionate about LGBTQIA+ representation in contemporary media and stories about queer friendship, intimacy and intense emotion. They live in Bucharest, Romania with a mean cat named Fredi. Leap is Simina's debut graphic novel.
""While the complicatedly unrequited dynamics of both Ana and Sara's relationships will be Relatable to any reader who has danced away a broken heart, their friendship is the truly resplendent pas-de-deux of this queer Eastern European coming-of-age story. . . be sure to pick up this debut graphic novel on its opening night."" --BCCB, starred review ""Rediscover the joy of dancing and explore how gender norms can be bent or broken. An ultimately hopeful portrayal of dance, coming of age, and being true to yourself."" --Kirkus, starred review ""Pivotal and transformative. . . . a fluidly illustrated work that gracefully captures the ups and downs of first love, ambition, and friendship."" --Publisher Weekly ""A sweet, queer coming-of-age story about listening to one's self and navigating the complex world of friendships and romance."" --School Library Journal ""Beautifully expressive . . . in muted shades of gray and pink with the occasional brilliantly colored splash of dynamic dancing. A touching portrait of girls coming of age and forging their paths to the future. A touching portrait of girls coming of age and forging their paths to the future."" --Booklist