The Snowcat Prince

A magical kingdom, feuding mythical creatures, and a treacherous quest for power frame this expansive graphic novel adventure. According to legend, the leader of the Snowcats, the Eldking—an icy blue feline entity with elk horns—once ruled over the Nordan Kingdom. Wanting his power for themselves, red serpentine monsters with vulpine heads called Sandfoxes stole the Eldking’s crown and disappeared. The youngest of seven Snowcat princes, Syv—whose late father often regaled him with these tales of old—is determined to reclaim the stolen crown from the malicious Sandfoxes, especially after his brothers claim to have found a map to it in their father’s belongings. Syv sets out alone until he befriends Kit, a rambunctious freckled human wearing a crown of twigs upon flaming red hair. As the pair travel across the land, through snow-covered hills and into eerie, sunset-hued forests, Syv must confront hard truths about his people’s past if he hopes to return home alive. Norwegian artist Norlund cleverly utilizes highly saturated contrasting color palettes to emphasize the mystical species’ ancient feud. Boasting a vivid sense of place and a tranquil ambiance, this contemplative story explores preconceived notions and the import of generational storytelling. Ages 8–12. (Mar.)