A YALSA 2021 Great Graphic Novels for Teens

"Like [M. T. Anderson's] National Book Award-winning The Astonishing Life of Octavian Nothing, this graphic novel is both accessible to a wide age range and rich with ideas that will intrigue adults... Jo Rioux’s character designs—which reference fifth century Anglo-Saxon art—aren’t just beautiful, they allow her to test the evocative possibilities of minimalist cartooning." —NPR, from "NPR's Favorite Books Of 2020"

"Anderson adds compelling depth to the story with just a few details beyond the original tale, and Rioux’s lush, dense artwork, full of dynamic figures, swirling lines, dramatic angles, and colors that seem to glow, cultivates a fantastic, magical folk-tale atmosphere."—Booklist, starred review

"Anderson and Rioux have woven a lush folktale filled with magic, lust, and feminine power. Rioux’s pencil illustrations are melancholic, with dramatic shadows, glowing moonlight, and swirling seas. ...A haunting rendering of an ancient folktale, packed with magic."—School Library Journal, starred review

"Anderson’s [lyrical] version of the original lore...draws the reader into the eerie mystical world of Ys. Rioux’s enchanting classical artwork employs rustic pencils in a romantic style that recalls Emily Carroll, and autumnal colors which harken back to Breton culture. Readers keen on Celtic mythology will appreciate this whimsical tale with a dark turn, with crossover for Anderson’s teen fans likely."—Publisher's Weekly


"Rioux’s graphics stress the magical effects and action elements of the folktale, with a shadowy, subdued palette and abundant, inventive sound effects. [Rioux and Anderson] transport us to a world that seems beyond language itself, a dangerous confluence of nature’s forces."—Horn Book

"Intriguing and accessible, this thought-provoking tale will be new to many."—Kirkus