THE SNOWCAT PRINCE

A young feline prince journeys to find a mysterious magical crown in hopes of saving the kingdom.

According to snowcat lore, over a thousand years ago, there lived an Eldking who had his smiths forge a crown made of magic called aura. When he was attacked by the cunning, evil shape-shifting sandfoxes, the Eldking and the crown were never seen again, and the snowcats were cursed. Syv is the youngest snowcat of the seven princes. Earnest and well-liked, he is seen as a threat by his brothers, who send him out alone to acquire the Eldking’s crown, a near-impossible feat. Plucky and determined, he ventures out, meeting a red-haired, light-skinned human girl named Kit along the way. As a hero’s quest often goes, Syv discovers that both the legends about the sandfoxes and the Eldking and his new friend, Kit, may not be what they appear. Norlund’s stand-alone graphic offering is stunning, with lush, vibrant illustrations that flawlessly complement her richly imagined world. Reminiscent of a fairy tale but in no way derivative, this feels fresh and innovative in its exploration of the lasting power of myth, systemic corruption, and the search for truth. Backmatter includes more in-depth aspects of Syv’s world, helpfully explaining some of the nuance and history of aura, the snowcats, and the sandfoxes.

Purr-fect.