Mapmakers and the Lost Magic

February 21, 2022
In this auspicious series starter, a debut for both creators, Alidade Rose lives in tiny Alden, whose close-knit population toils under the militaristic ruling Night Coats’ strict watch. Tired of endless drudgery, Alidade sneaks into the restricted lands around town, dreaming of running away to explore the world. The accidental discovery of a secret lodge in the woods leads Alidade to a mysterious map; a magical talking bird, Blue, who rises from it; and the lost history of the mapmakers, who once “sought to better understand the world and share that knowledge with others.” With Blue’s help, Alidade has the potential to become a mapmaker—and to set the town and herself free. Castillo’s muted, earthy palate and rough hatchwork reflect the story’s natural setting, while relationships developed through Chittock’s dialogue, particularly between unflagging Alidade and level-headed best friend Lewis (both portrayed with light brown skin, as is much of the cast), add character depth. With a clever magical system that emphasizes tenets of authenticity and artistry as sources of power, this adventure about “embracing the challenge” offers a fresh perspective. Back matter builds out the world with scrapbook pages and activities. Ages 8–12.

March 15, 2022
Grades 3-6 Alidade is running to escape the Night Coats when she spots the doorknob on a tree. Crossing through the door, Alidade discovers the home of the Mapmakers, magicians who once worked with nature to maintain peace in the valley. Now it's the Night Coats who rule the town of Alden, keeping the brick pit running and the townspeople under their thumb. With the help of a magical talking heron and the loyalty of her best friend, Alidade must learn how the Mapmakers' magic works, discover how to restore life in the valley, and find a way to take down the Night Coats and save her town. The setting and character design is reminiscent of a classic Western, which helps make the disappearance of nature more acute. There are lessons about working alongside wildlife throughout the story, with only a smattering of the didactic. Most of the characters look to be the same age, making identifying adults in crowd scenes confusing, but otherwise the art is solid. This is a debut graphic novel for both author and artist, and readers will look forward to the continuation of this new series.

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