Boss of the Underworld

Freeman (The Book That No One Wanted to Read) crafts a gleefully absurd graphic novel that channels the spirit of The Divine Comedy into a kid-friendly, anarchic adventure. After chasing a runaway coin into an open manhole, young Shirley, depicted with pale skin and a brown bob, finds herself plunged—literally—into the Underworld. Upon arrival, she encounters George, an oversize cockroach with bright red spectacles and a matter-of-fact demeanor, who informs her that escape from the realm requires pressing forward, not turning back. What follows is a series of increasingly bizarre trials: a forest of dubious temptations, a treacherous Bog of Intense Emotions, stampeding rats, a child-hungry witch with a house made of broccoli, and a pair of unnervingly eager Sphinx twins. Looming over it all is an enigmatic figure known only as the Boss, whose connection to Shirley hints at deeper stakes beneath the chaos. Loose, kinetic artwork complements the story’s breakneck pacing, and the episodic quest structure provides a sturdy framework, balancing irreverent humor with a subtle undercurrent of emotional discovery as Shirley and George grow closer over the course of their adventure. It’s a satisfyingly offbeat introduction to what promises to be a wildly imaginative series. Ages 8–12. Agent: Penny Holroyde, Holroyde Cartey. (June)