★★★★★ 5
The perfect MG graphic novel
Format: Paperback
I absolutely adored this MG graphic novel!
In this fantasy adventure we follow Aster, a young boy raised by a magical collective of families. For as long as they can remember, boys have always shifted and girls have always performed magic, but Aster knows he has magic inside of him, the kind the girls are always using. As a mysterious force thrusts the families' adolescents into danger, Aster must come to terms with his true nature and find the strength to thwart the evil threat.
I think what worked best for me was our MC Aster. He's an introverted kid that's going through puberty, and naturally everything is confusing. I remember feeling the same way growing up, so it wasn't hard to resonate and cheer for him as he struggled and sorted things out. I thought he was a great hero with intelligence and a sound, rational mind, someone younger readers could look up to.
The world this was set in was so cool! This little colony of magical families is set just outside the reach of the normal human world, and I loved the easy to understand magic system and the little secrets within. I had to know everything!
Plotwise this book had it all. Magic, mystery, and a little dollop of mayhem. A core theme of this novel is questioning gender roles, and I think it made some great points while keeping things light and fun. Pacing was great and moved quickly like I prefer, and I honestly have no complaints about this great work of fiction.
If you're looking for a light LGBT read for you or your youngster, this is the perfect pick!
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Reviewed in the United States on June 9, 2023


