ARTIE AND THE WOLF MOON

A girl discovers she comes from a family of werewolves, starting her on a path to discovering her own abilities and history.

Black eighth grader Artemis “Artie” Irvin doesn’t really fit in with the kids at her mostly White school, where she is mocked and bullied. She devotes her time to developing photos she takes on her deceased father’s old film camera, which helps her feel closer to him. All that changes after she sneaks out for a nighttime photo shoot during a full moon and runs into a wolf. Calling her mom for help, she instead sees her mother transform from wolf to human before her eyes. Soon after, her powers show themselves, and her own wolf training begins. Artie’s mother reaches out to a community of Black werewolves who are old friends for help. As Artie trains with them, she develops ties to those like her—and something more with her friend and crush, Maya. She also learns about the origins and culture of werewolves and the history of her parents’ relationship. But danger lurks nearby, and Artie must stay alert. Stephens’ art leaps off the page, from the beautiful scenery to the celebration of characters’ Black features. Throughout, the panels are expertly used to create tension in dramatic moments and excitement that showcases the joyous ones. Readers looking for a story of discovery and healing wrapped in the paranormal will hit the jackpot.

A stirring, eye-catching portrayal of growth.