Graceling: the Graphic Novel, written by Kristin Cashore, adapted and illustrated by Gareth Hinds, reviewed by Bethany Bratney

Summary:  Katsa is a Graceling, a person graced with a special skill that sets them apart from others. Katsa’s skill is deadly fighting ability, which has made her valuable to her ruthless uncle, a king who now uses her as his enforcer. On a royal mission, Katsa meets Po, a Graceling with incredible combat abilities who has traveled a great distance in search of his missing grandfather, who Katsa rescues on her mission. As his grandfather recovers, Po stays at the castle, sparring daily with Katsa as they ponder who has the most to gain from kidnapping his grandfather, and what other sinister plans such a person might consider. Katsa and Po make a startling discovery that sends them on an epic journey back to Po’s homeland, but the path will be treacherous and their enemy is even more dangerous than expected.

Straight Talk for Librarians:  This is a graphic adaptation of the 2008 bestselling fantasy novel and it is masterfully done. The story holds up well without aging itself as it takes place in a fictional land with little technology. Illustrator and adaptor Gareth Hinds artwork is incredible, capturing the essence of the original story and leaving little out. The fight scenes, which are plenty thanks to the specific Graces of Katsa and Po, are particularly impressive, as are the way in which Hinds handles Katsa’s internal thoughts. A specific feature of Gracelings is their two-colored eyes, which are striking in the graphic version. The inclusion of different skin tones and hair types amongst the characters from different lands is particularly welcome in this updated version. Many students will be drawn to this exciting fantasy graphic novel and it may even draw some readers to the original series as well. A highly recommended purchase for middle school and high school libraries.