Graphic Novel Review – The Space Race of 1869 (Castle in the Stars, Book 1) by Alex Alice (4/5 stars)

Reading Level: Middle Grade
Genre: Graphic Novel/Steampunk
Length: 64 pages
Publisher: First Second
Release Date: September 12, 2017
ISBN-13: 978-1626724938
Stand Alone or Series: 1st book in the Castle in the Stars series
Source: Borrowed from Library
Rating: 4/5 stars

“In search of the mysterious element known as aether, Claire Dulac flew her hot air balloon toward the edge of our stratosphere―and never returned. Her husband, genius engineer Archibald Dulac, is certain that she is forever lost. Her son, Seraphin, still holds out hope.

One year after her disappearance, Seraphin and his father are delivered a tantalizing clue: a letter from an unknown sender who claims to have Claire’s lost logbook. The letter summons them to a Bavarian castle, where an ambitious young king dreams of flying the skies in a ship powered by aether. But within the castle walls, danger lurks―there are those who would stop at nothing to conquer the stars.”

I saw this graphic novel at our library and it immediately grabbed my attention. This was a very well done graphic novel and is appropriate for middle grade and older readers.

The artwork is done in a watercolor style and is absolutely amazing; incredibly detailed and easy to follow.

This is a steampunk story full of adventure and intrigue. The story is exciting, magical, and has great characters throughout.

Overall I enjoyed this book a lot and plan on continuing with the series. My 11 year old son also really enjoyed this book. I am exciting to see what book 2, The Moon King, is like when it releases in September.

This book goes towards the following reading challenges:
– Goodreads Reading Challenge
– Graphic Novel Reading Challenge