From the Publisher
"This vibrant, fast-paced werewolf tale rejuvenates the genre with themes of Black family, community, and history, offering accessible dialogue and reimagining the folklore of werewolves with a striking premise that has a tremendous payoff."—starred, Publishers Weekly
School Library Journal
09/01/2021
Gr 5–8—When Artie disobeys her mom and sneaks out after dark to photograph a full moon, she discovers that her mother is a werewolf—and so is Artie. They return to her mom's hometown, home to a werewolf pack, so Artie can learn about her history. She soon realizes that there are things more sinister than werewolves and uncovers details about her father's disappearance while making new friendships and love interests. This exciting, plot-driven story will appeal to young teens struggling to find themselves and fit in. While Artie's quick acceptance that her mother is a werewolf seems a bit unbelievable, readers will easily overlook it. Artie is well developed; the supporting characters are less fleshed out but help move the action forward. The complicated family history and dynamics among some of the adults are genuine and relatable. The full-color, realistic illustrations are appealing, and the palette helps establish the tone for the different settings. Artie and her mother are Black. VERDICT Fans of graphic novels, realistic fiction, and the paranormal will all find something to enjoy in this book. Suggest it to those who devoured Emma Steinkellner's The Okay Witch.—Ellen Conlin, Naperville P.L., IL
Kirkus Reviews
2021-06-24
A girl discovers she comes from a family of werewolves, starting her on a path to discovering her own abilities and history.
Black eighth grader Artemis “Artie” Irvin doesn’t really fit in with the kids at her mostly White school, where she is mocked and bullied. She devotes her time to developing photos she takes on her deceased father’s old film camera, which helps her feel closer to him. All that changes after she sneaks out for a nighttime photo shoot during a full moon and runs into a wolf. Calling her mom for help, she instead sees her mother transform from wolf to human before her eyes. Soon after, her powers show themselves, and her own wolf training begins. Artie’s mother reaches out to a community of Black werewolves who are old friends for help. As Artie trains with them, she develops ties to those like her—and something more with her friend and crush, Maya. She also learns about the origins and culture of werewolves and the history of her parents’ relationship. But danger lurks nearby, and Artie must stay alert. Stephens’ art leaps off the page, from the beautiful scenery to the celebration of characters’ Black features. Throughout, the panels are expertly used to create tension in dramatic moments and excitement that showcases the joyous ones. Readers looking for a story of discovery and healing wrapped in the paranormal will hit the jackpot.
A stirring, eye-catching portrayal of growth. (Graphic paranormal. 12-16)
