Description
Book SynopsisA positively ingenious story about a mysterious island, long-lost secrets, and a young girl’s quest in the world of mad science, Linette Moore’s debut middle-grade graphic novel, The Prisoner of Shiverstone, “is a good mix of fantasy, mystery, and action” (Horn Book). Eleven-year-old Helga Sharp is found unconscious in a drifting rowboat near the coast of Utley Island. Utley, as Helga finds out when she awakens in the hospital, is forbidden territory: It’s a prison island to which the Mainland has exiled troublesome mad scientists for generations. Helga is questioned by the island’s guards and though they’re suspicious of her story, they agree to let her stay until they find her family.
The truth is, it’s no accident that Helga landed here. She is a keen inventor, but the Mainland is suspicious of all scientists and inventors. While working on her projects in secret, Helga made radio con
Trade Review**STARRED REVIEW** "The quirky characters and inventive world-building are largely products of the cartoonish style of the gouache and watercolor illustrations, while the composition and layout of the comic panels help the outlandish plot zip along. This delightful confection will entice readers with a good mix of fantasy, mystery, and action." * The Horn Book Magazine *
**STARRED REVIEW** "Moore's debut is an exciting entry in the world of middle-grade graphic novels, thanks to her unusual art style—her gorgeous watercolors in saturated tones have an appealing vintage look to match the story about a vibrant girl who dreams big. . .The focus on inventions will make this a nice STEAM crossover title, but the sci-fi story should have wide appeal among middle-grade comics fans." * Booklist *
This is a delightful, fast-paced read starring a protagonist whose love of science and adventure is at odds with societal expectations. Moore’s background as a painter and cartoonist shines through in the sharp, angular art; character designs, especially some of the expressions, are reminiscent of classic newspaper comics. * School Library Journal *
