April 1, 2024
A spirited princess seeks answers when members of her community go missing. The winged rabbits known as Bunnybirds live in the idyllic paradise of Halhefla. Princess Aster, a white Bunnybird with blue eyes, spends her days singing, flying, and dreaming. But something sinister is afoot: Bunnybirds are disappearing. While Aster's friends choose blissful ignorance (their mantra: "The bunny who worries grows heavy and slow...The bunny who smiles suits the flock best"), Aster resolves to visit the Great Beneath to see if she can find the missing Bunnybirds. She enlists the help of Carlin, a rogue brown-furred, hawk-winged Bunnybird who loves to cause trouble--Aster's polar opposite. The pair meet up with a 10-legged Sand Dog named Feet, and the trio begin an epic quest across a fantastical and dangerous landscape until they reach the lair of the abominable Lysooth, who has captured Aster's peers. Linn's beautiful and sweeping graphic novel is rendered in a dreamy palette of earth tones; her visually appealing tale is filled with gentle action and burgeoning friendships. The worldbuilding feels thin, however. Linn relies on conveniences and simplistic resolutions; obstacles are quickly overcome, and arguments are hashed out swiftly. First volumes tend to be heavy on exposition; this volume could have benefited from more development. Nevertheless, readers who enjoy graphic fantasy series such as Warriors or Wings of Fire should feel at home among this book's lush illustrations. A stylish series opener sure to find fans. (Graphic animal fantasy. 8-12)
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April 15, 2024
Grades 3-7 *Starred Review* In this magnificent, hilarious, and heartwarming adventure, readers follow Princess Aster of the Bunnybirds as she teams up with Carlin, a rogue Bunnybird turned thief, on a quest to rescue their missing flock beyond the cliff. Along the way, they encounter Sand Dog and form an unlikely trio, finding comfort and learning to work together on their epic rescue mission. As a Bunnybird, Aster understands herself and her people to be peaceful creatures typically known for their prophetic dreams and the need to distance themselves from the world to protect their magic. But along the journey, she begins to discover a wider spectrum of emotions as she faces danger and excitement. This middle-grade book offers a perfect blend of adventure, humor, and emotional depth, making it an engaging read for young audiences. With its richly developed characters and vividly depicted world, it captivates readers and leaves them eagerly anticipating the next installment. Linn's art seems like it's made of crushed petals and splatters of watercolor that bleed into one another, creating a beautiful palette of blues and warm, nature-inspired hues. Compared to beloved series like Warriors and Wings of Fire, this tale stands out for its unique blend of fantasy, friendship, and discovery. It's a delightful addition to any library's collection, sure to spark the imagination and hearts of its readers.
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