This story is in turns extremely dark and very sweet. I do wish some pieces were developed further, but that's often the case with graphic novels that are trying to tell big stories with limited space. The art is gorgeous, but I do think some of the scenes that involve partial nudity may prevent this from being used in book clubs/other youth programs, especially at schools - it's pretty mild and not at all sexual in nature but given the current climate, I wouldn't be surprised by complaints from admin or parents.

Such a sweet and heartwarming read. Made me tear up a bit but the ending was worth it :) Thank you netgalley for the early copy of this graphic novel!

A sweet and beautiful story about the friendship between an outcast runaway child and the mysterious witch who lives in the woods. Martino was born an albino and seen as a curse by the village, not only being bullied and shunned but being blamed for everything that went wrong in the village. Martino finds solace in the woods where Viviana, the witch lives. Martino befriends Viviana and soon a sweet friendship grows. As Martino begins to grow and find a new family, the story shows the delicate and sweet progress of it all. It's a really charming story about found family, change, and acceptance. So beautifully drawn and charming, it's a great coming of age story and a really sweet one that deals with being an outcast and coming into yourself and embracing who you are.

Release Date: April 1, 2025

Publication/Blog: Ash and Books (ash-and-books.tumblr.com)

*Thanks Netgalley and First Second Books | First Second for sending me an arc in exchange for an honest review*