Meroz intended this work originally to be an animated film, and it retains the tight pacing and emotional clarity of a movie. The multiple moments of real danger keep the emotions high. The villains are easily distinguished, but their goals are revealed slowly, creating genuine surprises. Some scary scenes and bloody scenes of the aftermath of violence might frighten some children, and the introduction of magic at the end is a little surprising but does not detract from the careful earlier worldbuilding.
Fogel’s art will remind adult readers of Don Bluth’s animated films: the animals are mildly stylized but retain a natural look with the delicate line work and smooth coloring. Feba’s white fur could be more distinct from the gray members of the pack, but even among the same animal species individual personalities shine through. Occasionally, a panel crops a close-up or otherwise breaks the straightforward pattern, offering welcome cinematic flair. Meroz and Fogel give a fully realized graphic novel treatment that creates a satisfying experience.
Takeaway: Sometimes dark and always engaging, this animal adventure graphic novel shows significant promise.
Great for fans of: Mouse Guard, Frederic Brremaud’s Love series.
Production grades
Cover: A
Design and typography: A
Illustrations: A
Editing: A
Marketing copy: A
