Graphic Novel Review: The Secret of the Ravens

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The Secret of the Ravens: 

A bird in the hand is worth how many coins?!? 

The raven said it had a secret to share.
The Secret of the Ravens answers the question that everyone has been asking: What would the world be like if the gig economy was run using magical ravens instead of phone apps? Unfortunately the answer to that is a secret that only the ravens know...



Lucky for us, the ravens just published a spill-all graphic novel. Joanna Cacao, illustrator of the breakout hit The Tryout with author Christina Soontornvat, makes her author-illustrator debut by telling a story that seamlessly integrates topics of economic exploitation and governmental corruption into a tale of magic, adventure, and maybe even romance.


The Secret of the Ravens' title page
Overview

This graphic novel exemplifies what fantasy is capable of, re-contextualizing contemporary issues to make them accessible and engaging for a larger audience. Written for middle grade readers, Joanna Cacao grafts the exploitative dynamics of the modern gig economy onto a magical world full of quest-giving ravens. 


Synopsis 

It also has a beautiful raven and mushroom inside-cover design.
With their parents gone, twin siblings Elliot and Liza subsist by sorting through trash before learning about Raven Quests and the quick money they promise. The twins follow this newfound opportunity to the royal capital, but quickly learn that  the opportunity for better rewards comes at the cost of exorbitant prices and widespread derision from the city’s inhabitants. The only exception is Seb, a royal apprentice who tries to recruit the twins to join their ranks. Initially reticent, Elliot is forced to ask Seb for help when Liza nearly gets killed in pursuit of a quest. After seeking the help of a reclusive sorceress, the two boys are left to decide how far they are willing to go to save Liza’s life.  


Final Thoughts 

Concept art by Joanna Cacao included at the end of the book.
The Secrets of the Ravens is set in a world with a complex history, and tells a compelling story while also laying the groundwork for what I hope will become an ongoing series. Joanna Cacao already proved her skills as an illustrator with her work on The Tryout, but the world of magic she's created allows her to showcase her skills to the fullest. This book checks all my boxes: it develops compelling characters, tells an engaging story, grapples with important issues, and does it all in a rich and vibrant setting. 


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Book Nerd Details 

Format: Graphic Novel 
Recommended Age: 8 - 12 years old 
Recommended Grade Level: 3 - 7 
ISBN: 9780358650119
Publisher: Clarion Books/Harper Alley (imprint of Harper Collins Publishers)
Publication Date: November 7th, 2023
Pages: 272


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