Swan Lake

February 1, 2022

Gr 4-8-One of the most popular ballets of all time gets an epic graphic novel retelling. The kingdoms of Bloom and Rotbart have been on the brink of war for ages thanks to a curse cast upon Princess Odette, which causes her to transform into a swan every morning and back into a girl at nightfall. She lives an overprotected life in her castle until she flies off in a fit of rage one day to weep alone on the lake. Here she's discovered by Princess Dillie (Odile), the swashbuckling, mohawked heiress to the Rotbart throne. The two become fast friends, Odette explaining the nature of her curse and Dillie sharing how she lost her leg, which is now outfitted with a prosthetic. The friends are nearly driven apart by the allegation that Dillie's father cursed Odette. Believing that that isn't true, Dillie and Odette set off on a quest to reverse the curse and clear King Rotbart's name. There are deadly challenges, new friends (Prince Fred, of the Montrose Kingdom, and his bear pal Benno), and plenty of swordplay and ballet along the way. The true highlight of the story is the beautiful, supportive bond among the children. Odette and Dillie, who appear to be white, are honest, kind heroes, while Fred, who has a darker complexion, is brave and clever. The bold, expressive artwork is lively and enchanting, and the ending leaves space for a sequel and some possible queer romance. VERDICT Readers who love high-stakes quests will fly through this one. A recommended first purchase.-Abby Bussen

Copyright 2022 School Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.

Starred review from January 15, 2022
Three rival kingdoms, two princesses, one prince--and a quest that could change the realm forever. Princess Odette of Bloom Kingdom is cursed to take the form of a swan during the day and that of a human at night. She loves ballet, but how can she study it as a swan, hidden away from the curious eyes of the world? One day, frustrated with her parents, Odette flies away to the shores of Swan Lake. There she meets Dillie, the headstrong princess of Rotbart Kingdom. The two quickly become friends despite the stark differences between their kingdoms. When they learn that Rotbart is held responsible for Odette's curse, they begin a quest to clear the Rotbart name and lift the curse. Soon, they are joined by Siegfried, the sweet, sensitive prince of Montrose Kingdom who plans to prove that he is worthy of the crown. As the three search for the keys to their quest, they face kidnappers, menacing vegetation, and even goblins and learn to appreciate their individual strengths and weaknesses. Nonstop adventure and colorfully illustrated panels keep the pages of this Swan Lake reimagining turning, while quieter moments underscore the budding friendships among the three heirs. Odette has light-brown skin and red hair, pale goth Dillie has a prosthetic leg, and Siegfried has dark-brown skin and blue and purple hair. A fun, ballet-inspired hero's journey, full of heart, trials, and good humor. (map, author's note, note about Tchaikovsky) (Graphic fantasy. 9-12)

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