Zatanna: The Jewel of Gravesend

Arden (The Casquette Girls) and illustrator de Leon’s fresh take on Zatanna Starr’s origin, set in Coney Island, Brooklyn, is both a captivating introduction for newcomers and a quirky new adventure for existing fans. As the daughter of illustrious magician Ezra and his stage assistant Lola, white, camera-shy Zatanna is expected to enjoy the spotlight but decides that she’d rather be behind the scenes. After Ezra, who’s been pestering her to join his act, coerces her into participating in his show, her stage fright forces her into the wings. Seeking distraction, Zatanna, Russian boyfriend Alexei, and best friends Izzy and Kenia, who have feelings for each other and cue respectively as Romani and Trinidadian American, attend a mysterious circus, which inexplicably disappears the next morning. Zatanna suddenly begins seeing strange mirror-script that only she understands, and further research endangers her once peaceful life. While some character designs are visually similar, causing confusion, de Leon renders entrancing sunsets and mystical atmosphere with a lush pinky-purple palette. Arden steadily develops Zatanna’s magical abilities using expert pacing, and a large cast that feels distinct and fully fleshed out, making for a bewitching summer read. Ages 14–up. (July)