Graphic Novel Review – The Nameless City Vol 1 by Faith Erin Hicks and Jordie Bellaire (4/5 stars)

Reading Level: Middle Grade
Genre: Graphic Novel/Fantasy
Length: 240 pages
Publisher: First Second
Release Date: April 5, 2016
ISBN-13: 978-1626721562
Stand Alone or Series: 1st book in the Nameless City series
Source: Gift
Rating: 4/5 stars

“Every nation that invades the City gives it a new name. But before long, new invaders arrive and the City changes hands once again. The natives don’t let themselves get caught up in the unending wars. To them, their home is the Nameless City, and those who try to name it are forever outsiders.

Kaidu is one such outsider. He’s a Dao born and bred–a member of the latest occupying nation. Rat is a native of the Nameless City. At first, she hates Kai for everything he stands for, but his love of his new home may be the one thing that can bring these two unlikely friends together. Let’s hope so, because the fate of the Nameless City rests in their hands.”

My son actually got this for Christmas and I borrowed it from him to read. This was a very well done fantasy/historical fiction of sorts set in a Middle Eastern type of city.

I love the idea of this “Nameless City” that has been conquered and renamed so many times that the long-time residents just call it Nameless. This book is a great look at how war affects the citizens of a city and the common everyday person. The people of the city don’t even really care who is in power as long as it doesn’t affect their day to day lives.

It is also interesting how the leader wants to include the voice of the everyday-person but the resistance from his own people makes it tough to do. The core of the story basically shows how a friendship between two young people (who are generally seen as insignificant) can really pull a society together and lead the leadership to new places. It’s a very hopeful and optimistic look at things.

I thought the illustration was excellent; it’s easy to follow and there is a lot of detail and beautiful color. The story was very well done and engaging as well.

Overall this was an excellent graphic novel. It’s one that is entertaining and engaging but also makes you think about society and war. It’s appropriate for middle grade and older. I really enjoyed it and would definitely recommend; especially to historical fantasy fans. I plan on reading future books in the Nameless City series.