Choo

I really enjoyed this short graphic novel. Jake Wyatt's story is more intended for juveniles but is still engaging and most definitely edifying. Choo artwork is simple in a very positive way. The influence of manga is apparent. The new perspective on the three wishes motif is original.

A Leviathan, a mist, a wishing well and a curse. These are the things that Lizzy, must contend with when she steals three coins from a wishing well. This is a reverse tale of Aladdin, where Lizzy finds herself on a quest to seek out those who she stole the wishes from and grant the wishes before Lizzy drowns. However, she discovers that some of them don’t want their wishes granted, that they are “happy” with how life has turned out.

This was a beautifully drawn GN with rich colors and show more very expressive graphics, especially Lizzy’s facial expressions. There’s a background love story between Lizzy and Eli, a girl who helps row on the ferry that takes her back and forth to the markets. It’s also an interesting take on a single Grandparent raising his granddaughter after the death/disappearance of her family after defending the island from the Leviathan. show less

While I'm certain that the whole stealing from a wishing well and then sent on a quest/journey has been done a lot, this is the first book I've come across with it. And it's definitely a new favorite. Especially with the journey Lizzy goes on also being that of someone grieving people she never got the chance to know. Was really heartfelt and wholesome despite the angst.

This was a really cute graphic novel. I loved the setting and the overall structure. I think it all worked well. The ending felt a little bit fast though. It didn't feel entirely believable. Overall I would definitely recommend this though. It was definitely my kind of thing.