Graceling (Graphic Novel) by Gareth Hinds, Kristin Cashore
Published by Etch/Clarion Books on November 16, 2021
ISBN: 0358250471
Pages: 272
Genres: Fantasy
Format: Graphic Novel
Goodreads

In “Graceling: The Graphic Novel,” Gareth Hinds adapts Kristin Cashore’s first novel in the Graceling Realm series. Retelling the broad strokes of the story, we meet Katsa, a young woman with special powers called a “grace.” Those who have graces have two differently colored eyes. Katsa’s grace seems to be the power to kill easily, so she is the perfect royal assassin. After meeting another graced fighter from another kingdom, Katsa rebels against her uncle and leaves to seek out the true kidnappers of a neighboring royal.

Themes of power and corruption as well as acceptance of oneself and friendship are shown throughout the novel, with those in power typically abusing it and Katsa coming to accept herself, setting her own boundaries, and allowing herself to befriend and love others. The artwork is simple and colorful and it is very easy to follow the story. You can tell that Hinds really loved Cashore’s original novel (which you’ll find out if you read the afterword about how the graphic novel came to be).

This book should appeal to both those who read the book back in 2008 as well as new readers who discover the series through this graphic novel. Recommended for teens and young adults, this graphic novel is a must buy for your YA collection.

Reviewed by Kate Radke, Walker Memorial Library, Westbrook.