I would love to see more graphic novels like this! A stubborn, talented girl making her way — with sword play — in a beautifully rendered fantasy world based on Middle Eastern cultures and traditions. Great art and warm colors, easy to follow lettering, important thoughts and timely themes (patriotism, colonization, imperialism, militarism, war, friendship, loyalty, empathy), a great cast of characters with interesting relationships. Aiza, our main character, was just a bit grating for me, and I wanted a little more from the ending (or a sequel?!) but this is a great story to get into the hands of mature middle graders. (It's categorized as YA, but it really felt middle grade to me.)