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Atana Duology #1
Atana and the Firebird
A mermaid, a firebird, and a witch become entangled with the mysterious and powerful Witch Queen, who may hold the key to each of their past in this epic middle grade fantasy by debut author Vivian Zhou.
Atana’s island may be quiet and peaceful, but mostly, it’s lonely. With the outside world full of magic hunters who would stop at nothing to capture a mermaid like her, Atana has never been brave enough to swim far from her island’s shores and seek the answers to her mysterious past—until a firebird named Ren unexpectedly crashes into her life.
Ren’s arrival does not go unnoticed, as it has been hundreds of years since a firebird last landed on Earth. Determined to both protect Ren and finally chase the answers she’s longed for, Atana embarks on an adventure that takes her and the firebird to strange new islands and entangles them with the powerful yet secretive Witch Queen.
Generous though the Witch Queen’s offer of protection may be, an invitation to the Blue Palace can’t come without a price. And while the Palace’s splendid halls and library might hold the key to Atana’s past, will she be willing to pay the cost when it risks her chance of a bright new future?
Atana’s island may be quiet and peaceful, but mostly, it’s lonely. With the outside world full of magic hunters who would stop at nothing to capture a mermaid like her, Atana has never been brave enough to swim far from her island’s shores and seek the answers to her mysterious past—until a firebird named Ren unexpectedly crashes into her life.
Ren’s arrival does not go unnoticed, as it has been hundreds of years since a firebird last landed on Earth. Determined to both protect Ren and finally chase the answers she’s longed for, Atana embarks on an adventure that takes her and the firebird to strange new islands and entangles them with the powerful yet secretive Witch Queen.
Generous though the Witch Queen’s offer of protection may be, an invitation to the Blue Palace can’t come without a price. And while the Palace’s splendid halls and library might hold the key to Atana’s past, will she be willing to pay the cost when it risks her chance of a bright new future?
256 pages, Kindle Edition
First published November 7, 2023
About the author
Vivian Zhou
4 books38 followersVivian Zhou is a Canadian cartoonist and story artist. She is a graduate of Sheridan College’s Bachelor of Animation program. After working on a multitude of animated shows and award-winning short films as storyboard artist and occasionally director, she is now following her dream of creating her own comic. Her debut graphic novel "Atana and the Firebird" released in 2023; book two of the Atana duology, "Atana and the Jade Mermaid", is releasing in May 2025.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 152 reviews
August 7, 2023
In a Nutshell: A magical and adventurous graphic novel aimed at middle-graders. First of a duology, so this leaves many threads dangling. Nevertheless, a commendable debut work.
Story Synopsis:
Bookish Yays:
🌹 Interesting characters: One mermaid, one firebird, one witch. Each of them have their own powers and their own secrets, so to see their bond with each other and their battle over their personal issues was a treat to read.
🌹 Even beyond the central trio, there are some interesting characters in the narrative. I particularly enjoyed Suah’s arc, and hope there’s more of her in the next book.
🌹 I loved the various kinds of magic systems in use. Because the characters weren’t typical, neither was the magic they wielded.
🌹 There is a minor LGBTQ+ track in the story. Though this should have been lengthier (and maybe it shall be so in the sequel), I appreciate the inclusion.
🌹 Though on the lengthier side of MG graphic novels at 260 pages, the book just whizzes by. It never slacks off the storytelling paces, and at the same time, it never shoves in too much too soon. I liked the pacing and the steady flow of the narrative that balances between adventurous action and lull moments with aplomb.
🌹 The illustrations, though on the simpler side when it comes to character faces, are perfect for the story. The magical elements are especially beautiful. Quite a few pages allow the art to speak for itself without needing support from text.
Bookish Nays:
🌵 I hadn’t been aware that this was the planned first of a duology. Given a choice, I always prefer reading standalone works. Though the ending is at a fairly safe point for the characters and not exactly a cliffhanger, it leaves plenty of unanswered questions and a few characters with unclarified backstories. I will not be able to evaluate the current story better unless I know how the sequel tackles the pending arcs. (I guess I’ll update this review once I read the sequel.)
All in all, this is a commendable debut with an interesting storyline and just enough magic as to captivate its young readers. Definitely looking forward to the sequel.
4 stars.
My thanks to HarperCollins Children's Books and NetGalley for the DRC of “Atana and the Firebird”. This review is voluntary and contains my honest opinion about the book.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Connect with me through:
My Blog | The StoryGraph | Instagram | Facebook | Twitter
Story Synopsis:
Atana is a mermaid who has stayed alone on her isolated island for as long as she can remember. As she knows that there are dangerous magic hunters who are always searching for magical beings such as her, she never dares venture out in the open sea. But when a firebird named Ren crashes into her life, quite literally, Atana feels brave enough to explore the uncharted with Ren by her side.
However, Ren is the first firebird in centuries to crash on earth, so her arrival doesn’t go unnoticed. When the two embark upon their adventure, they realise that they are both in need of protection, and it is soon offered to them by the powerful Witch Queen, who assigns young trainee Cosmos the duty of protecting her guests.
But can such a generous offer come without its demands? Atana, Ren, and Cosmos each have to take a call on this tough question.
Bookish Yays:
🌹 Interesting characters: One mermaid, one firebird, one witch. Each of them have their own powers and their own secrets, so to see their bond with each other and their battle over their personal issues was a treat to read.
🌹 Even beyond the central trio, there are some interesting characters in the narrative. I particularly enjoyed Suah’s arc, and hope there’s more of her in the next book.
🌹 I loved the various kinds of magic systems in use. Because the characters weren’t typical, neither was the magic they wielded.
🌹 There is a minor LGBTQ+ track in the story. Though this should have been lengthier (and maybe it shall be so in the sequel), I appreciate the inclusion.
🌹 Though on the lengthier side of MG graphic novels at 260 pages, the book just whizzes by. It never slacks off the storytelling paces, and at the same time, it never shoves in too much too soon. I liked the pacing and the steady flow of the narrative that balances between adventurous action and lull moments with aplomb.
🌹 The illustrations, though on the simpler side when it comes to character faces, are perfect for the story. The magical elements are especially beautiful. Quite a few pages allow the art to speak for itself without needing support from text.
Bookish Nays:
🌵 I hadn’t been aware that this was the planned first of a duology. Given a choice, I always prefer reading standalone works. Though the ending is at a fairly safe point for the characters and not exactly a cliffhanger, it leaves plenty of unanswered questions and a few characters with unclarified backstories. I will not be able to evaluate the current story better unless I know how the sequel tackles the pending arcs. (I guess I’ll update this review once I read the sequel.)
All in all, this is a commendable debut with an interesting storyline and just enough magic as to captivate its young readers. Definitely looking forward to the sequel.
4 stars.
My thanks to HarperCollins Children's Books and NetGalley for the DRC of “Atana and the Firebird”. This review is voluntary and contains my honest opinion about the book.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Connect with me through:
My Blog | The StoryGraph | Instagram | Facebook | Twitter
December 10, 2023
if you're looking for a graphic novel with stunning art, whimsical worldbuilding, and incredible character design, read ATANA AND THE FIREBIRD. i fell in love with this book after seeing the cover, and its content does not disappoint.
atana has grown up alone on an isolated island, and longs to visit the outside world. but magic hunters prowl the waters around, and she's never dared leave. that is, until a rarely seen firebird crashes into her life. ren has never been to earth, and atana decides to finally see the world with her. they quickly attract the attention of the all-seeing witch queen, but her generosity may not be as innocent as it seems.
atana and ren's friendship was so incredibly sweet to read. both of them were so excited to travel the world, and ren especially was so utterly kind to everyone around her. i was really reminded of steven universe while reading because of the innocent magic with which she looked at the world. the worldbuilding also reminded me of steven universe as well as she-ra, with magic being incorporated as a physical aspect of earth's core, and having a cycle resembling the water cycle. i loved it so much, and the amazing art style was the cherry on top. i cannot recommend this highly enough to enjoyers of fantasy and graphic novels.
thank you to the publisher and netgalley for an eARC of this book, all opinions are my own
atana has grown up alone on an isolated island, and longs to visit the outside world. but magic hunters prowl the waters around, and she's never dared leave. that is, until a rarely seen firebird crashes into her life. ren has never been to earth, and atana decides to finally see the world with her. they quickly attract the attention of the all-seeing witch queen, but her generosity may not be as innocent as it seems.
atana and ren's friendship was so incredibly sweet to read. both of them were so excited to travel the world, and ren especially was so utterly kind to everyone around her. i was really reminded of steven universe while reading because of the innocent magic with which she looked at the world. the worldbuilding also reminded me of steven universe as well as she-ra, with magic being incorporated as a physical aspect of earth's core, and having a cycle resembling the water cycle. i loved it so much, and the amazing art style was the cherry on top. i cannot recommend this highly enough to enjoyers of fantasy and graphic novels.
thank you to the publisher and netgalley for an eARC of this book, all opinions are my own
January 20, 2024
Atana is a mermaid, but she was banished from her home to live alone on island for a reason she doesn't understand. One night a curious young firebird leaves her flock in space to come down and visit Earth, and she convinces Atana to go an adventure. They are soon pursed by magic hunters, but they also make friends, and end up as invited guests in the Witch Queen's palace. She makes them welcome in her massive library and gardens, but she also has ulterior motives. This is a fast paced story of magic, friendship, and young people slowly learning about the forces larger than themselves that shape their world and their lives. I really enjoyed the art, it has a very active, energetic line which serves the action scenes particularly well. I can tell the author came from an animation background! I am glad that the ending set up potential future installments in this world.
July 16, 2023
I went into this expecting it to be a stand-alone graphic novel, but apparently, it's going to be the first book in a series! The world is of Atana and the Firebird is a fascinating one; it's full of magic with witches, mermaids, and firebirds! After their eventful first meeting, Atana and Ren go on an adventure to meet the Witch Queen. The story was excellent, I found myself fully absorbed in reading this book. The art style is excellent! The style is very clean and at times could be considered simplistic, but it works amazingly with the story. I also loved the action scenes, they had me on the edge of my seat! I'm looking forward to reading more volumes in this series!
Thank you to NetGalley and the publishers for an advanced copy in exchange for my honest review!
Thank you to NetGalley and the publishers for an advanced copy in exchange for my honest review!
June 23, 2023
Thanks to NetGalley, HarperCollins Children's Books and HarperAlley for the eARC.
4.75*. Such a beautiful and fun story. It has great characters and dynamics, an interesting world and magic system, and an engaging plot that I can see will evolve further in the next volume. It's never boring, we get to see different kinds of magic and how they work, and there are also slight mysteries here and there, which adds to the plot and intrigue of the story. The art style is gorgeous, the colors and illustrations bring the characters to life and make it unique. Highly recommend.
4.75*. Such a beautiful and fun story. It has great characters and dynamics, an interesting world and magic system, and an engaging plot that I can see will evolve further in the next volume. It's never boring, we get to see different kinds of magic and how they work, and there are also slight mysteries here and there, which adds to the plot and intrigue of the story. The art style is gorgeous, the colors and illustrations bring the characters to life and make it unique. Highly recommend.
January 7, 2024
3 stars
I liked this middle grade graphic novel a lot. Atana and the Firebird would make a fantastic animated film or TV show. In this, we follow Atana, a merperson who has been isolated from her people, and a firebird named Ren. They go on adventures together to travel the Earth and discover the amazing places and stories Ren heard from her aunt.
This was a fun little graphic novel that is quickly paced and keeps the reader turning the page. It isn't my favorite graphic novel or even my favorite MG graphic novel, but I'm glad I read this and if I come across the opportunity to read the sequel, I will. It's a fun time and I think if MG and graphic novels are your thing, then this will be something you may love.
I liked this middle grade graphic novel a lot. Atana and the Firebird would make a fantastic animated film or TV show. In this, we follow Atana, a merperson who has been isolated from her people, and a firebird named Ren. They go on adventures together to travel the Earth and discover the amazing places and stories Ren heard from her aunt.
This was a fun little graphic novel that is quickly paced and keeps the reader turning the page. It isn't my favorite graphic novel or even my favorite MG graphic novel, but I'm glad I read this and if I come across the opportunity to read the sequel, I will. It's a fun time and I think if MG and graphic novels are your thing, then this will be something you may love.
November 17, 2023
Atana and the Firebird is a magical story unlike any graphic novels I’ve previously read.
Atana and Ren have this wonderful innocence and joy to them. Even when they face danger, there’s a lightness to them that is wonderful.
Author Vivian Zhou’s worldbuilding is spot on, and their artwork truly transports you to a different place. Most importantly, Zhou’s ability to convey the entire story through text and words cohesively is to be admired.
Atana and the Firebird is the first book in a planned duology. It’s a fast and enchanting read.
Atana and Ren have this wonderful innocence and joy to them. Even when they face danger, there’s a lightness to them that is wonderful.
Author Vivian Zhou’s worldbuilding is spot on, and their artwork truly transports you to a different place. Most importantly, Zhou’s ability to convey the entire story through text and words cohesively is to be admired.
Atana and the Firebird is the first book in a planned duology. It’s a fast and enchanting read.
June 22, 2023
Thank you to Netgalley for the Arc!
What a lovely little story :) The art is really fantastic, especially the colors and character designs. Each character had a unique look and feeling. Looking forward to recommending this to the library.
What a lovely little story :) The art is really fantastic, especially the colors and character designs. Each character had a unique look and feeling. Looking forward to recommending this to the library.
January 16, 2024
As my first book this year, I would say this read was a great start to my goodreads challenge. This book had original characters and ideas along with beautiful designs that made me want to spend more time reading this graphic novel. Vivian Zhou told a story through characters Atana, Ren, and Cosmos; three magical girls who explore the vast lands of their world, each seeking to find answers about themselves and the ways of magic.
As someone who mostly looks at the pictures of graphic novels instead of reading them, I found myself caught up in the story and the development of characters. Zhou answered all my questions that I had about the book yet left me wanting to know what happens next. Even though this entire world is full of fantastical beings such as mermaids, witches, and "firebirds", it didn't feel like too much world building. I did find it a little strange that there were only women in the story, the only men in the story were the hunters. I don't know if it was intentional, but I still enjoyed the story.
The artwork was simple, but fit the personalities of the characters very well. Atana was always wearing green, Ren was always wearing red, and Cosmos was always wearing blue. The coloring had little to no shading, but there was a soft gradient in most of the backgrounds. I liked her color choices and the way she went about spending time on the story more than the art.
Overall, I would give this book a 5/5 stars because of the original storyline, simplistic artwork, and creative storytelling. I would recommend this to anyone who enjoys fantasy and magic.
As someone who mostly looks at the pictures of graphic novels instead of reading them, I found myself caught up in the story and the development of characters. Zhou answered all my questions that I had about the book yet left me wanting to know what happens next. Even though this entire world is full of fantastical beings such as mermaids, witches, and "firebirds", it didn't feel like too much world building. I did find it a little strange that there were only women in the story, the only men in the story were the hunters. I don't know if it was intentional, but I still enjoyed the story.
The artwork was simple, but fit the personalities of the characters very well. Atana was always wearing green, Ren was always wearing red, and Cosmos was always wearing blue. The coloring had little to no shading, but there was a soft gradient in most of the backgrounds. I liked her color choices and the way she went about spending time on the story more than the art.
Overall, I would give this book a 5/5 stars because of the original storyline, simplistic artwork, and creative storytelling. I would recommend this to anyone who enjoys fantasy and magic.
Shelved as 'read-comix'
November 2, 2023This was a beautiful and magical graphic novel featuring mermaids, firebirds, and witches. The friendships were my favorite and I really enjoyed the world building. I’m excited to see where the story goes from here!
I also loved the artwork so much and it reminded me of K. O’Neill a bit.
I also loved the artwork so much and it reminded me of K. O’Neill a bit.
January 30, 2024
Two characters finding their way and their selves. An adventurous, heartwarming tale with great illustrations.
March 3, 2024
In a whimsical world where mermaids swim, firebirds soar, and witches brew potions, join Atana on her magical journey in this enchanting middle-grade fantasy by the talented debut author, Vivian Zhou. The illustrations are absolutely gorgeous!
Atana lives on a serene island, but her heart is full of curiosity and questions about her mysterious past. She's always been too scared to venture far from home, especially with magic hunters lurking around. But everything changes when a dazzling firebird named Ren swoops into her life!
Ren's appearance is extraordinary, stirring up excitement and wonder. With newfound courage, Atana decides to embark on an adventure alongside Ren. Together, they discover enchanting new islands and encounter the mysterious Witch Queen, whose powers are both captivating and puzzling.
The Witch Queen extends a kind offer of protection, but it comes with a catch. To uncover the secrets of her past, Atana must brave the dangers of the Blue Palace. Will she risk everything, including her bright future, for the chance to unlock the mysteries of her origins?
Join Atana, Ren, and their magical friends as they navigate thrilling quests, face daring challenges, and learn the true meaning of bravery, friendship, and belonging in this captivating tale of wonder and enchantment. A must have for graphic novel lovers.
Atana lives on a serene island, but her heart is full of curiosity and questions about her mysterious past. She's always been too scared to venture far from home, especially with magic hunters lurking around. But everything changes when a dazzling firebird named Ren swoops into her life!
Ren's appearance is extraordinary, stirring up excitement and wonder. With newfound courage, Atana decides to embark on an adventure alongside Ren. Together, they discover enchanting new islands and encounter the mysterious Witch Queen, whose powers are both captivating and puzzling.
The Witch Queen extends a kind offer of protection, but it comes with a catch. To uncover the secrets of her past, Atana must brave the dangers of the Blue Palace. Will she risk everything, including her bright future, for the chance to unlock the mysteries of her origins?
Join Atana, Ren, and their magical friends as they navigate thrilling quests, face daring challenges, and learn the true meaning of bravery, friendship, and belonging in this captivating tale of wonder and enchantment. A must have for graphic novel lovers.
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September 8, 2023I know this graphic novel doesn't debut until November, but y'all NEED to go request it on Netgalley asap!! (Or just save this post so you don't forget to add it to your tbr 😅). It's so so good!
ATANA AND THE FIREBIRD (which is the first book in what will be a middle grade duology), has:
- a magic earth with firebirds, merfolk, and witches
- the sweetest magical friend group
- missing memories & prophecies 👀
- libraries!
- research for "the greater good" 🤔
- oral storytelling
- casual queer side rep
- a chinese-canadian author / illustrator
Honestly, I read this gem in one sitting and will be singing its praises when it finally comes out! Good rec for kids who enjoyed The Girl From the Sea and/or Tidesong, except this one has more epic adventure vibes.
Looking forward to book 2 for sure ✨.
ATANA AND THE FIREBIRD (which is the first book in what will be a middle grade duology), has:
- a magic earth with firebirds, merfolk, and witches
- the sweetest magical friend group
- missing memories & prophecies 👀
- libraries!
- research for "the greater good" 🤔
- oral storytelling
- casual queer side rep
- a chinese-canadian author / illustrator
Honestly, I read this gem in one sitting and will be singing its praises when it finally comes out! Good rec for kids who enjoyed The Girl From the Sea and/or Tidesong, except this one has more epic adventure vibes.
Looking forward to book 2 for sure ✨.
July 1, 2024
Graphic novels aren't really my thing, and stories without a male lead are really not my thing. But somehow, this one works.
April 9, 2024
Such beautiful art and fun story! I love comics 😭
June 4, 2024
Atana, a young mermaid, wants to learn about her mysterious past, but it’s dangerous for magical creatures to travel alone. This all changes when a Firebird named Ren falls from the sky. Together they seek answers, meet new friends, and become entangled in the Witch Queen's plans.
I absolutely adored this book! I was swept away by the characters and the story. Atana, Ren, and their friend Cosmos are so much fun to read. Vivian Zhou does an excellent job balancing each of their individual arcs and the overall mystery of the Witch Queen. I was constantly on the edge of my seat wanting to know what happened next. The art style is also fantastic. I loved looking at each panel- especially the facial expressions. They captured so many emotions! I can't wait for book 2 to come out!
Thank you Netgalley and the publishers for an advanced copy in exchange for an honest review.
I absolutely adored this book! I was swept away by the characters and the story. Atana, Ren, and their friend Cosmos are so much fun to read. Vivian Zhou does an excellent job balancing each of their individual arcs and the overall mystery of the Witch Queen. I was constantly on the edge of my seat wanting to know what happened next. The art style is also fantastic. I loved looking at each panel- especially the facial expressions. They captured so many emotions! I can't wait for book 2 to come out!
Thank you Netgalley and the publishers for an advanced copy in exchange for an honest review.
September 5, 2023
Atana is a mermaid banished to live on land where she meets a firebird named Ren. After the two become friends they set out on an adventure to learn what they can and also keep Ren safe.
First, the art for this graphic novel is gorgeous. I love the cover, it's amazing and invokes so many emotions in me. The magic system was interesting and different than what I've read before, I like how it incorporated three different kinds of magical beings in order to function, how they are all reliant on each other. And the casualness of queerness is always appreciated!
I very excitedly await book two!
Thank you to NetGalley for making this available in exchange for an honest review!
First, the art for this graphic novel is gorgeous. I love the cover, it's amazing and invokes so many emotions in me. The magic system was interesting and different than what I've read before, I like how it incorporated three different kinds of magical beings in order to function, how they are all reliant on each other. And the casualness of queerness is always appreciated!
I very excitedly await book two!
Thank you to NetGalley for making this available in exchange for an honest review!
December 26, 2023
This is a wonderful graphic novel with a very unique plot and characters! I love the world Zhou has created and the use of magic. Everything flows so smoothly and i'm anxiously awaiting the 2nd book!
Atana, Ren and Cosmos are a wonderful trio and their friendship is really sweet. I love the depth of their individual dreams and what theyre aiming to get from the world/life. Additionally the side characters like the Queen and Cosmos' sister + others leave so much open for more story growth that I would love to read. Overall it was a quick read with beautiful art and a great story. Will definitely recommend and wait for more!
Atana, Ren and Cosmos are a wonderful trio and their friendship is really sweet. I love the depth of their individual dreams and what theyre aiming to get from the world/life. Additionally the side characters like the Queen and Cosmos' sister + others leave so much open for more story growth that I would love to read. Overall it was a quick read with beautiful art and a great story. Will definitely recommend and wait for more!
September 2, 2023
4.75 stars rounded up. Vivian Zhou has created a masterful fantasy graphic novel filled with the magic of witches, firebirds and mermaids. The simple, clean art is gorgeous with predominantly pastel colors. I loved the world building and bond between the characters. Given this book is a duology, the ending lacked some satisfaction that I hope will come in the next installment- I’m looking forward to it! This book features strong female characters and is LGBTQ positive. I’m grateful for an advanced read from NetGalley.
March 21, 2024
Visuals=incredible, the story=AMAZING! overall, a 5 star read! I fell into the world of Atana and left a part of my heart there.
January 2, 2024
Rating: 5
Thank you HarperAlley for providing an e-copy through NetGalley.
Synopsis:
Atana lives a quiet life, secluded on an island. When a prophecy announced that she would be the end of the mermaid world, the queen banished her indefinitely, so Atana doesn’t mind…mostly. One night, when she gazes upon the night sky, firebirds streak across the stars with their vibrant colors, shining light on a lonely night. One of the birds, though, falls out of the flock. Everyone around the world - from magic hunters, to keen islanders, to the Witch Queen herself - watches as the orange fire drifts down to their world and crashes into the sea. Atana rescues the firebird first, whose name is Ren, and suddenly, Atana’s life isn’t so quiet anymore. Many on the sea want Ren themselves, either to trade for money, to protect her from harm, or for more mysterious purposes. So, when Ren decides to explore the world and asks Atana to join, the mermaid swallows her fear and journeys out to sea, both to protect her new friend but also to seek answers about the prophecy, and why she was chosen. The two will meet new friends and foes, learn important history of the firebirds and the magic of the world, and develop a strong bond between one another - for neither Atana and Ren has ever had friends, so maybe they can form something new together.
What I Liked:
Atana and the Firebird is a light-hearted and peaceful fantasy graphic novel about a mermaid and a firebird trying to find their way in the magical world. Both Atana and Ren are great protagonists, each bringing a different energy to the story and propelling the narrative with their wits, friendship, and kindness to others. Side characters are fleshed out and morally complex, with no fully “good” or “evil” antagonist, which is sometimes rare in juvenile fiction. The world building revolves around the three beings: Firebird, mermaid, and witches, with humans scattered throughout, and the magic system is simple yet effective for this type of story. This is an atmospheric graphic novel, with light/pastel colors, minimal line art, flat colors/shading, and gentle art style that relaxes the readers in the quiet yet magical fantasy world. It also helps that the plot is serious, if you break it down, but the tone of the novel is not, so readers can zone out and escape to the beautiful landscape and setting of the story, journeying with Atana and Ren across the sea and to the many islands. Definitely pick up this book for a serene graphic novel experience, and if you like light and enjoyable children’s fantasy.
What I Didn’t Like: Nothing!
Personal Bias: I love this type of atmospheric graphic novel for kids because the gentle, serene nature of the world, characters, and plot help me relax and escape from it all.
Who Would I Recommend this to: Kids who like graphic novels such as The Tea Dragon Society and The Moth Keeper, Pilu of the Woods, Seance Tea Party, Tidesong, and Lightfall.
Review Date: December 30, 2023
Thank you HarperAlley for providing an e-copy through NetGalley.
Synopsis:
Atana lives a quiet life, secluded on an island. When a prophecy announced that she would be the end of the mermaid world, the queen banished her indefinitely, so Atana doesn’t mind…mostly. One night, when she gazes upon the night sky, firebirds streak across the stars with their vibrant colors, shining light on a lonely night. One of the birds, though, falls out of the flock. Everyone around the world - from magic hunters, to keen islanders, to the Witch Queen herself - watches as the orange fire drifts down to their world and crashes into the sea. Atana rescues the firebird first, whose name is Ren, and suddenly, Atana’s life isn’t so quiet anymore. Many on the sea want Ren themselves, either to trade for money, to protect her from harm, or for more mysterious purposes. So, when Ren decides to explore the world and asks Atana to join, the mermaid swallows her fear and journeys out to sea, both to protect her new friend but also to seek answers about the prophecy, and why she was chosen. The two will meet new friends and foes, learn important history of the firebirds and the magic of the world, and develop a strong bond between one another - for neither Atana and Ren has ever had friends, so maybe they can form something new together.
What I Liked:
Atana and the Firebird is a light-hearted and peaceful fantasy graphic novel about a mermaid and a firebird trying to find their way in the magical world. Both Atana and Ren are great protagonists, each bringing a different energy to the story and propelling the narrative with their wits, friendship, and kindness to others. Side characters are fleshed out and morally complex, with no fully “good” or “evil” antagonist, which is sometimes rare in juvenile fiction. The world building revolves around the three beings: Firebird, mermaid, and witches, with humans scattered throughout, and the magic system is simple yet effective for this type of story. This is an atmospheric graphic novel, with light/pastel colors, minimal line art, flat colors/shading, and gentle art style that relaxes the readers in the quiet yet magical fantasy world. It also helps that the plot is serious, if you break it down, but the tone of the novel is not, so readers can zone out and escape to the beautiful landscape and setting of the story, journeying with Atana and Ren across the sea and to the many islands. Definitely pick up this book for a serene graphic novel experience, and if you like light and enjoyable children’s fantasy.
What I Didn’t Like: Nothing!
Personal Bias: I love this type of atmospheric graphic novel for kids because the gentle, serene nature of the world, characters, and plot help me relax and escape from it all.
Who Would I Recommend this to: Kids who like graphic novels such as The Tea Dragon Society and The Moth Keeper, Pilu of the Woods, Seance Tea Party, Tidesong, and Lightfall.
Review Date: December 30, 2023
November 8, 2023
I love this book so so much, my only wish was that I had been able to read it as a kid. I would have been obsessed.
It has a gorgeous fantasy setting, incredibly endearing protagonists, and a story that feels both epic and very personal. This alone would have made me enjoy it, but the author has crafted the story in such a way that they are never talking down to the reader, simply guiding us through this beautiful world, hinting at darker undertones and looming destinies, and presenting us with morally grey characters we can’t help but empathize with. I only wish I’d had more books that spoke to me with that level of assumed maturity and understanding, and I’m jealous of the kids who will get to read it now!
Similarly, getting to see powerful queer characters in awesome fantasy settings makes me so happy.
You should absolutely get this book just to read for yourself, but I am *telling* you that every kid in your life that loves fantasy and adventure has Got. to. Read. This. book.
It has a gorgeous fantasy setting, incredibly endearing protagonists, and a story that feels both epic and very personal. This alone would have made me enjoy it, but the author has crafted the story in such a way that they are never talking down to the reader, simply guiding us through this beautiful world, hinting at darker undertones and looming destinies, and presenting us with morally grey characters we can’t help but empathize with. I only wish I’d had more books that spoke to me with that level of assumed maturity and understanding, and I’m jealous of the kids who will get to read it now!
Similarly, getting to see powerful queer characters in awesome fantasy settings makes me so happy.
You should absolutely get this book just to read for yourself, but I am *telling* you that every kid in your life that loves fantasy and adventure has Got. to. Read. This. book.
March 11, 2024
This was a great graphic novel. The colour pallet was super soft and cuddly, the characters were so sweet and good, and the story was complex enough to warrant sequels while being complete enough to stand alone. When the reader is faced with the Queen's real motive (who I did not trust from the moment she showed up with her own guard and secret tower and experiments... it's the helmet), it's shocking and violent and really breaks from the overarching softness of the story.
This is straight up a good book and I look forward to the sequels and the characters continuing love of libraries!
This is straight up a good book and I look forward to the sequels and the characters continuing love of libraries!
November 13, 2023
Fun middle grade friendship-magical creatures-worldbuilding adventure story featuring a lonely mermaid brought out of their shell by a firebird visiting Earth for the first time; together they get into trouble with magical forces out to steal their power, and make friends with a loyal young witch with secrets of her own. Nice background queer content and sets up a second volume without leaving the reader on a cliffhanger. The illustrations are sweet and colorful and dynamic; though simply drawn, all the characters are very distinct and their actions easily readable in the worldless panels. Great for fans of Miyazaki.
July 15, 2023
Such a cute story with beautiful artwork. The magic systems were interesting to me with the different magical creatures and their sources of power. There were little strings of mysteries that can continue over into the next book. I loved Ren so so much. This was my first graphic novel and I am intrigued to see the next book when it comes out! Thank you NetGalley for the ARC!!
September 12, 2024
Awe-inspiring sci-fi fantasy comic that I really enjoyed and my daughter completely adored. Atana is an exiled mermaid that comes upon a beached firebird named Ren. Together they become entrenched in a wild adventure involving witches, magic and ancient prophecies. A fun, out-there story with beautiful art reminiscent of the "ligne claire" tradition of french artist legends like Herge and Moebius.
January 16, 2024
"Atana and the Firebird" is a stunningly beautiful graphic novel with delightful characters, plenty of intrigue, and exceptional worldbuilding. Readers will be immediately drawn in to this magical world and fall in love with Atana and Ren. As the two set off together on an innocent quest to explore the world, danger lurks seemingly around every corner. Questions of trust, loyalty, and family will keep everyone on their toes. On the final page, readers will be left begging for Zhou to complete the second volume with haste. Highly recommended, especially for fans of K. O'Neill, Reimena Yee, and Wendy Xu.
February 26, 2024
A cute but very slow-moving middle-grade fantasy comic book about a mermaid, a firebird, and a witch who want to see the world but somehow find themselves wrapped up in some sort of prophecy.
The illustrations were adorable but I was disappointed to find that this wasn't a standalone comic (and is planned as a duology). I have nothing against duologies, but there wasn't enough momentum built into the plot and characters for me to be curious about the second book. I wish more time was spent on developing the characters and their relationships (perhaps by having them explore a bit more and share more fun and intimate moments).
The illustrations were adorable but I was disappointed to find that this wasn't a standalone comic (and is planned as a duology). I have nothing against duologies, but there wasn't enough momentum built into the plot and characters for me to be curious about the second book. I wish more time was spent on developing the characters and their relationships (perhaps by having them explore a bit more and share more fun and intimate moments).
February 28, 2024
4.5/5
hello, just ur regular connoisseur of middle grade graphic novels checking in! this was just the right balance of whimsy and adventure for me!! would love to continue the series once the second one is out! :)
hello, just ur regular connoisseur of middle grade graphic novels checking in! this was just the right balance of whimsy and adventure for me!! would love to continue the series once the second one is out! :)
August 13, 2024
Artwork is adorable. Storyline is ok. This book is supposed to have a second half so maybe the storytelling will go up a notch.
Middle grade graphic novel with fantasy (witches, firebirds, mermaids), some mild violence, and lgbtq+ side storyline.
Middle grade graphic novel with fantasy (witches, firebirds, mermaids), some mild violence, and lgbtq+ side storyline.
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