(review for books 1-7) At first, I was a little disappointed that there needed to be a horrible Disney-esque killing off of a parent right at the beginning to drive the main character's motivation. And the event that drags Emily and her brother Navin into the world of Alledia, is their mother's kidnapping by a rather disgusting tentacled beast. Yet the story, world building, and breathtaking illustrations completely make up for this one quibble. It's a wonderful tale of good vs evil and that things are not always what they seem. There are familiar elements of classic fantasy: curses, chosen ones, wise men, masters and apprentices that are comforting, as well as clever plot twists. I also love that the protagonist taking the lead is a girl and in many ways it reminds me of my absolute favorite book from when I was about my son's age: A Wrinkle in Time by Madeline L'Engle - wherein a young Meg Murray is on a quest with her younger brother to save their father and lots of crazy, otherworldly things transpire.
Reading a graphic novel is a completely new experience for me and so very enjoyable. It adds such an intimate way of seeing a character's emotions or the setting of a scene. I wonder if I am being spoiled with Kibuishi's beautiful imagination and illustrations. I love the two page spreads whenever the characters happen upon a new magical place.
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