The Chancellor and the Citadel

Gr 6 Up--When human beings infiltrate the magical city known only as the Citadel, the Chancellor, its sole protector, wipes them out. Convinced that humans will retaliate by devastating their world, as they did once before, the once-peaceful city gives way to fear and aggression. Wracked with guilt, the Chancellor battles an existential crisis while relying on friend Olive's gentle solace. Those who revered the Chancellor now regard her with suspicion, and few speak out in support. So when it is discovered that the Chancellor rescued a human survivor (whom Olive has been using her magic to heal), the Citadel dwellers demand action to safeguard their home. Taking sides with the Chancellor against her people could end everything for Olive. This snapshot tale of good vs. evil is not initially what it seems; ultimately, right and wrong are never black-and-white. The chiaroscuro artwork emphasizes the moral dilemma of the varying characters, with light and dark shading highlighting the literal right and wrong choices that each are poised to consider as the plot builds. VERDICT Thematic elements will lend themselves well to book discussion groups. Recommended for large collections where fantasy is popular.--Elise Martinez, Zion-Benton Public Library, IL

"Frantz immerses readers in a world that feels so much bigger than the brief glimpse readers get here, prompting them to hope for more. It is no small talent to so effectively deploy the unknown and the unseen in a narrative to create such visual and textual richness. . . . The world Frantz creates is a racially diverse one. Just try to put it down." — KIRKUS (Starred Review)

"A potent but kid-friendly look at how people become divided, the book is painfully relevant in today's political climate." — FOREWORD REVIEWS

"A complex and thought-provoking story." — ICv2