Katie O'Neill's books are always so inclusive. I especially enjoyed the inclusion of sign language throughout this graphic novel. It really added a depth to the story, the characters, and this little mountain village. Aedhan slowly adapts to this new method of communication, which the villagers have learned for a member of their community. This graphic novel is very much about the village as a whole unit, each person being important in the jobs that they perform and the love they have to share. Rinn is unsure of their future, not sure whether they really are cut out to be an apprentice. They prefer hunting for herbs, spices, flowers, wild vegetables, and other plant life in the forest. Rinn learns about themself through Aedhan's eyes, seeing how important their gathering is to their village. So, the graphic novel has a message about realizing your worth and believing in yourself and what you can provide for others. Do not so easily dismiss something you believe is so minor, but someone else may depend on. Aedhan regrets his deep sleep, but the village accepts him in and helps him to regain his sense of purpose and happiness. He realizes, while he might have missed quite a bit, he has a chance to experience more now. To live in the moment and be grateful for what he has and those he has met. The side story regarding Hesekiel and Erik, whom you may remember from The Tea Dragon Society, as they hunt for the creature that put Aedhan to sleep, was enchanting and beautifully crafted. You see more of their fledgling relationship and see the love they share. Their quest is all about the beauty of nature, the magic within the old forest, and realizing when we make mistakes there are consequences, but to also speak from the heart and resolve conflicts without violence. I wish there was a bit more to the story, it sometimes felt it was lacking something. However, overall it was an enjoyable feast for the eyes.
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