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tmeysenburg's review
5.0
Amazing stylish art and plot that is woven into a rich tale. I would love to see this made into a cartoon.
obnorthrup's review
4.0
Accomplishes exactly what it sets out to do. A fun adventure story and thoughtful reimagining of folklore.
tx2its's review
3.0
Reading 2021
Book 140: Djetiya by Juni Ba
#graphicnoveloctober continues! This is a YA selection reviewed for ages 12 and older.
Synopsis: Inspired by West African folklore and stories handed over centuries, this unique graphic novel follows the adventures of Mansou, last prince of a dying kingdom, and Awa, his loyal Djeliya, or 'royal storyteller' as they journey to meet the great wizard who destroyed their world and then withdrew into his tower, never to be seen again. On their journey they'll cross paths with friend and foe, from myth and legend alike, and revisit the traditions, tales, and stories that gave birth to their people and nurture them still.
Review: Include the above synopsis because I had no idea what was happening for most of this book. I understood the premise of the quest the characters were on, but not a book for me. My rating 2.5⭐.
Book 140: Djetiya by Juni Ba
#graphicnoveloctober continues! This is a YA selection reviewed for ages 12 and older.
Synopsis: Inspired by West African folklore and stories handed over centuries, this unique graphic novel follows the adventures of Mansou, last prince of a dying kingdom, and Awa, his loyal Djeliya, or 'royal storyteller' as they journey to meet the great wizard who destroyed their world and then withdrew into his tower, never to be seen again. On their journey they'll cross paths with friend and foe, from myth and legend alike, and revisit the traditions, tales, and stories that gave birth to their people and nurture them still.
Review: Include the above synopsis because I had no idea what was happening for most of this book. I understood the premise of the quest the characters were on, but not a book for me. My rating 2.5⭐.
goondocks's review
3.0
Thanks to TKO Presents and NetGalley for the ARC.
There's a lot to like about this graphic novel. The art is beautiful and unique. Nearly every page is filled with wonderful, colorful art and there is plenty of action. But for whatever reason, I just could not get into this book. I tried so many times, but the story just never grabbed me. It's unfortunate, because I wanted to like this book. I think it's likely this book will find it's audience and there will be many who love it. I wish I did.
There's a lot to like about this graphic novel. The art is beautiful and unique. Nearly every page is filled with wonderful, colorful art and there is plenty of action. But for whatever reason, I just could not get into this book. I tried so many times, but the story just never grabbed me. It's unfortunate, because I wanted to like this book. I think it's likely this book will find it's audience and there will be many who love it. I wish I did.
shea_proulx's review
adventurous
challenging
informative
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Plot
- Strong character development? No
- Loveable characters? No
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? No
3.0
jkw7072's review
adventurous
hopeful
tense
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Plot
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated
4.0
gimchi's review
4.0
really liked this! difficult to follow at first, but did the thing where i read and skim and let it wash over me and it gelled together.
gemtastic's review
4.0
“Fear and superstition are weapons far more terrifying than rifles and bombs. Even in a world where the strangest events can occur, anxiety and bland beliefs foster violence.”
Ain’t that the truth! Beautiful art and great story. I look forward to reading more from this author.
Ain’t that the truth! Beautiful art and great story. I look forward to reading more from this author.
thekipling's review against another edition
adventurous
hopeful
inspiring
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.5
oolymee's review
4.0
I love the West African art style in this book. This was the first graphic novel I've read in this art style, and it made me want to go read more. The story itself was a bit difficult for me to follow at the beginning, but when I got into it, I really enjoyed it. Definitely read the information the artist includes about West African folklore at the back of the book.