Graphic Novel Review – The Girl and the Galdurian (Lightfall, Vol 1) by Tim Probert (5/5 stars)
Reading Level: Middle Grade
Genre: Fantasy/Graphic Novel
Length: 256 pages
Publisher: HarperAlley
Release Date: September 1, 2020
ISBN-13 : 978-0062990464
Stand Alone or Series: 1st book in the Lightfall series
Source: Bought for Son
Rating: 5/5 stars
“Deep in the heart of the planet Irpa stands the Salty Pig’s House of Tonics & Tinctures, home of the wise Pig Wizard and his adopted granddaughter, Bea. As keepers of the Endless Flame, they live a quiet and peaceful life, crafting medicines and potions for the people of their once-prosperous world.
All that changes one day when, while walking through the woods, Bea meets Cad, a member of the Galdurians, an ancient race thought to be long-extinct. Cad believes that if anyone can help him find his missing people, it’s the Pig Wizard.
But when the two arrive home, the Pig Wizard is nowhere to be found—all that’s left is the Jar of Endless Flame and a mysterious note. Fearing for the Pig Wizard’s safety, Bea and Cad set out across Irpa to find him, while danger fights its way out of the shadows and into the light.
Will these two unexpected friends find the beloved Pig Wizard and prevent eternal darkness from blanketing their world? Or has Irpa truly seen its last sunrise?”
Series Info/Source: This is the first book in the Lightfall series. I bought a copy of this book for my son for Christmas.
Story (5/5): Bea lives with the Pig Wizard and works as his apprentice. When she goes out hunting herbs one day she meets Cad, a member of the Galdurian race. The two return to Bea’s home to find the Pig Wizard missing. Bea sets off (with Cad’s help) to find the Pig Wizard and with her she carries the precious Jar of Endless Flame. This was a wonderful fantasy adventure story with some intriguing magic and a lush history. I really loved everything about it, it was such a fun and engaging read.
Characters (5/5): I loved the characters here. Bea has a bit of an anxiety issue but doesn’t let it get in the way of trying to find her adopted grandfather. Cad comes off as very happy-go-lucky but has a lot more depth to him than you initially see. The two run across a number of quirky characters on their journey who were a lot of fun to read about.
Setting (5/5): This was an interesting fantasy world where the world is split into light and dark regions. The light regions are lit up by giant mechanical lights that were originally developed by the Galdurians. It’s a well developed world and beautifully portrayed by the illustrations throughout, I really loved it.
Writing/Drawing Style (5/5): The illustration throughout is beautifully done. This is a bit more cartoony in style and done in full lush color. The drawings were detailed and easy to follow. I loved the world-building, the characters, and the adventure. This was all in all incredibly well done.
My Summary (5/5): Overall I enjoyed this immensely and think this is one of those rare middle grade fantasy graphic novel series that kids and adults will enjoy equally. If you are a fan of Kibuishi’s Amulet series or of the Smith’s Bone series you should check this series out. I can’t wait to read the second volume!
