Staff Picks - LibGuides at Boulder Public Library

Amazing graphic novel! Given it was originally published as a webcomic, I was a bit skeptical. However, this did not disappoint! The story was clearly written and set up very well, giving the perfect amounts of both thorough explanation and room for interpretation/mystery. The chapters were also well-spaced, which I was concerned about given webcomics are usually published in smaller chunks, sometimes a page at a time. This was edited and compiled in a super accessible way, which was exciting to see the story translate so well into a new medium. The story follows a shapeshifter and how they change the political dynamics in a small kingdom. It has grey heroes, loveable villains, fun science, a queer love story, and so much more. Many themes weren't fully explored, but still are present in a way which made them feel relevant without being over-explained. These include gender expression and dynamics, ethics in science, "good" vs "evil," and how perceptions can affect reality. Highly recommend, Stevenson has yet to disappoint!

-Nelson, twelfth-grade volunteer

Publisher's description:
Nimona is an impulsive young shapeshifter with a knack for villainy. Lord Ballister Blackheart is a villain with a vendetta. As sidekick and supervillain, Nimona and Lord Blackheart are about to wreak some serious havoc. Their mission: prove to the kingdom that Sir Ambrosius Goldenloin and his buddies at the Institution of Law Enforcement and Heroics aren't the heroes everyone thinks they are. But as small acts of mischief escalate into a vicious battle, Lord Blackheart realizes that Nimona's powers are as murky and mysterious as her past. And her unpredictable wild side might be more dangerous than he is willing to admit.

Find Nimona in the library's online catalog.

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