NewsPrints: A Graphic Novel (NewsPrints #1) - Softcover

Xu, Ru

Softcover

ISBN 10: 0545803128 ISBN 13: 9780545803120

Publisher: Graphix, 2017

Synopsis

A gorgeous, provocative debut graphic novel about the power of friendship and finding the courage to be one's true self.

Blue is an orphan who disguises herself as a newsboy. There's a war going on, and girls are expected to help the struggling economy by selling cookies. But Blue loves living and working at the Bugle, the only paper in town that tells the truth. And what's printed in the newspapers now matters more than ever.

But Blue struggles with her secret, and worries that if her friends and adopted family at the Bugle find out that she's a girl, she'll lose everything and everyone she cares about. And when she meets and befriends Crow, a boy who is also not what he seems, together they seek the freedom to be their true selves... and to save each other.

About this title

About the Author:

Ru Xu grew up in Indianapolis and received a degree in Sequential Art from the Savannah College of Art and Design. She is the creator of the popular webcomic Saint for Rent, and NewsPrints is her first graphic novel. Her favorite things include historical fiction, fat birds, and coffee-flavored ice cream. Visit Ru online at ruemxu.com and on Twitter at @ruemxu.

From School Library Journal:

Gr 4–7—In a world where only boys can be newsies, Blue poses as a boy in order to live in the communal house and hawk papers each day. What seems like a familiar setup quickly takes strange and delightful turns in this graphic novel by new artist and author Xu. Blue's city is at war, and the leaders are looking for a missing weapon. Meanwhile, Blue's newest friend, Crow, and her new mentor Jack have lots of secrets as well. When Jack and Crow's secrets collide, it might be time for Blue to reveal hers. The full-color palette is beautifully rendered. Xu's artwork is imbued with a beauty and depth that create a world slightly out of step with our own, at once familiar and excitingly strange. The illustrations match pace perfectly with the story, frantic at times and celebratory at others. The style veers between steampunk and manga and more traditional American comics, resulting in an exciting and refreshing title. Some of the details of the plot and the world are maddeningly vague, but that should not confound readers for long. Those who enjoyed "Amulet" will eagerly devour this book, the first in what will surely be a popular new series. VERDICT This excellent and unique offering features strong world-building and an original story line. It will happily find a home in most library collections.—Elizabeth Nicolai, Anchorage Public Library, AK

About this edition

• Publisher: Graphix
• Publication date: 2017
• ISBN 10: 0545803128
• ISBN 13: 9780545803120
• Binding: Paperback
• Number of pages: 208
• Illustrator: Xu Ru