Description

In this first book of an epic debut middle grade fantasy graphic novel duology by Kara Bodegon-Hikino, Mage and her shark best friend, Squalo, set off on a wild adventure filled with mythical and powerful creatures from Filipino folklore to save their world from the wrath of the Bakunawa. Perfect for fans of Hildafolk and Final Fantasy.

After losing her father in an attack by the evil Tikbalang, Mage and her best friend, Squalo, set off an important quest far from home to honor her father’s last wish-find the Bakunawa, the guardian of the sea.

But Mage and Squalo don’t know where to find the Bakunawa. And the evil Tikbalang was only one underling of Ventrolio, the nightmare maker, who is hunting Mage at any cost. Mage and Squalo’s journey takes them all over Mundo, facing monsters and possessed minions of Ventrolio until they hear news of an angry bakunawa that would rather destroy ships and summon storms than help sailors. Why would Mage’s father send them to someone so dangerous? Can Mage and Squalo uncover the truth before the Bakunawa unleashes her wrath and plunges all of Mundo into chaos?

Publisher Review

A magical child and her shark friend set out on an adventure to find the sea serpent known as the Bakunawa… The narrative is rich with Filipino mythology, providing enough contextual clues for readers unfamiliar with the culture to follow the story. Though the storyline occasionally touches upon serious topics, debut author-illustrator Bodegon-Hikino successfully maintains a fun, upbeat adventure with Squalo and Mage’s friendship at the heart of the story. The soft pastel color palette adds a whimsical touch to the cartoon-style artwork, and video game-inspired elements interspersed throughout offer additional appeal. Young readers will be eager for the second volume. A delightful, fantastical duology opener infused with Filipino folklore. – Kirkus

Young druid Mage and her warrior shark pal, Squalo, pair friendship with magic in this Philippine mythology adventure by author-illustrator Bodegon-Hikino [that is] an inviting fantasy world… Panels featuring heads-up displays throughout the story, providing power, inventory, and rewards received, will give this added appeal for video game fans, who will appreciate this series starter’s wealth of action, battles, and charm. – Booklist

As they battle and explore, the two hilariously encounter tropes from role-playing games and stealth action video games, like leveling up, inventory management, and poor level design… The lightheartedness of the piece will appeal to kids, and both the cartoonish design of the art and the bubbly personality of Squalo will be a hit with readers. The neon color palette adds to the charm, seeming to coat the entire piece with bubblegum beauty. A solid and upbeat adventure that will keep newly independent readers engaged from start to finish. – School Library Journal