Review by Kye Glab

Have you ever wanted to change into someone or something else? Nimona the shapeshifter protagonist of this graphic novel can transform into any creature or person! She joins the supervillain Lord Ballister Blackheart so they can cause havoc for Sir Ambrosius and the rest of the Institution of Law Enforcement and Heroics. Despite being a villain Lord Ballister shows Nimona what friendship is and that everyone should care for others.

Using its quirky and interesting set of characters Nimona advocates accepting others despite differences. Having silly humor based around Nimona’s shapeshifting and Lord Ballister’s comedic straight man act and serious moments of reflection on trauma and belonging the graphic novel highlights and delights in differences and uniqueness. The vibrant color pallet and motion-focused art style makes the text dynamic and engaging for the eye and fits well with the brash and active Nimona.

Nimona by Noelle Stevenson. HarperCollins, 2012, 256 pgs.

Kyle Glab is an all-around nerd enthusiast finishing his MEdu at the U of MN, Twin Cities before venturing off to teach abroad again.