Salvage

After rising sea levels flood coastal cities, the wealth gap between displaced climate refugees and those living inland widens, a dichotomy that Nault (The Handmaid’s Tale: The Graphic Novel) captures with searing clarity in this stunning tale. Years later, Paolo, a descendant of refugees, helps his family make ends meet by diving into the nearby underwater city and scouring the abandoned skyscrapers for items to sell. While scavenging, Paolo finds a suitcase full of perfectly preserved, vintage designer clothes. Donning one of his finds, Paolo travels to the Uplands, an opulent neighborhood housing Ocean City elite. There, he befriends a group of affluent teens and develops feelings for Jules, a shy sculptor and daughter of a famous but disengaged actor. Lying about his background, Paolo tags along to the group’s nightly escapades at lavish clubs and art galleries. Inventive depictions of these extravagant outings feature mermaid-lagoon-themed pools, roller coasters speeding into giant live angler fish, and psychedelic, 1970s-inspired tea parties, drawing readers into the teens’ world while emphasizing the differences in their experiences. Organic dialogue models healthy communication as the characters’ confront socioeconomic disparity and the long-standing impact of the climate crisis. The result is a discerning coming-of-age graphic novel that teems with surreal beauty and tender, honest heart. Ages 14–up. (July)