Title: Hereville: How Mirka Got Her SwordAuthor: Barry Deutsch
Publication Date: November 2010
ISBN-13: 978-0810984226
Wow! Hereville is the first graphic novel I've ever read, and I must admit, I really liked it! Mirka is an 11-year-old girl who lives with her blended Jewish family in the Orthodox town of Hereville. When she inadvertently offends, and then protects a witch's pig, she is given the chance to take the first step towards becoming the fearless dragon slayer she envisions herself to be. She gets to try to kill a troll!
The illustrations in this book are of the highest caliber and do an amazing job of depicting the full spectrum of human emotions. Two scenes, in particular, set the tone for the work. In one image, an angel assumed to be Mirka's biological mom intercedes when Mirka's life is in danger. She comes to Mirka at the bottom of a lake and pacifies Mirka's obstinacy in a scene that exudes peace. In another frame, Mirka receives the Shabbat blessing from her step-mom. Love and respect emanate from this frame. These two pictures set the tone for the story without using any words. A book about family, imagination, and magic, Hereville is essential to any library serving tweens! Well done!
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