Title: Ink Girls
Author: Marieke Nijkamp
Publisher: HarperCollins
Publication date: November 21, 2023
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Summary
Cinzia is a printer’s apprentice, taken in by Mestra Aronne when most other guilds wouldn’t give her a second glance because of her crippled leg. When Mestra Aronne is arrested for publishing the truthful accusations against the royal family, it is up to Cinzia to find proof. Without it, Mestra Aronne is in danger of being put to death.
Cinzia finds an unlikely ally in Elena, the daughter of the princessa. Together, they follow a trail of clues throughout the city to get to the truth. As they learn more about their city, they realize that though one person can make a difference, what they really need is the rest of the city behind them.
Review: Ink Girls
Thanks to NetGalley and HarperCollins for an advanced copy of Ink Girls by Marieke Nijkamp to review! I am always on the lookout for new graphic novels to read, and this one is quite the adventure!
Set in an Italian Renaissance setting, one of my favorite things about this book was the way that maps were incorporated into the main story. It was easy to see where the girls were going and get a good sense of the city in a graphic novel format. Because who isn’t a fan of maps in books, anyway? It also added to the overall world building in what I thought was a clever way.
So much diverse representation as well, which we have come to expect from Nijkamp honestly. All of the characters are well fleshed out and add to the overall story. The message is also a really timely one, about the fact that one person working towards the truth can really make a difference, even if they’re just a kid. Especially if they can convince a larger voice to stand behind them.
All in all, fans of middle grade adventure graphic novels will definitely enjoy this one!