CYBILS GRAPHIC NOVEL NOMINEE: Jupiter Nettle and the Seven Schools of Magic by Sangu Bandanna & Pablo Ballesteros
ABOUT THE BOOK
For all of her twelve years, Jupiter Nettle has wanted to attend one of the Seven Schools of Magic. When she finally gets the call to take the entrance exam, she shocks everyone with her magic skills . . . but not in the way she'd hoped. Failing spectacularly in one test after another, Jupiter goes home dejected and confused. What will she do now?
That night, Jupiter gets an unexpected visitor and, amazingly, another chance at the Seven Schools! But learning magic isn't what she expected it to be . . . the School of Earth Magic is looked down upon by others, it doesn't involve cool spells, and her teacher, Professor Grim, certainly lives up to his name. Jupiter works hard, but the doubts in her mind shake her confidence until she's ready to give up. Then an age-old enemy returns to exact revenge on the Seven Schools, leaving Jupiter to finally find the courage and magic that's been within her all along.
This inclusive, beautifully illustrated graphic novel from the author of Kiki Kallira Breaks a Kingdom is packed with action, heart, and plenty of magic.
REVIEW
Jupiter Nettle and the Seven Schools of Magic presents readers with a magical school and a winning character and her direct-speaking, sarcastic cat. Being in the graphic novel format, the story begins quickly with Jupiter failing to qualify for the Seven Schools of Magic. Having spent her life dreaming of attending the school, she's majorly disappointed. When the headmaster of the School of Earth Magic offers her a spot, she takes it, only to find she's the only student and her teacher is grumpy and unwelcoming. After being bullied and ignored, she leaves. But is it possible that dreams can look different than expected? And that she belonged more than she thought?
I found Jupiter a winning character and her cat a delight. Her knack with plants and animals is what lands her in the School of Earth Magic, but it takes her some time to realize just how valuable her gifts will be to the school. The art is bright and cheerful and bound to appeal to many young readers. Themes related to persistence, friendship, and courage to follow your dreams shine through in fun ways. Recommended.
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