No One Returns from the Enchanted Forest

No One Returns from the Enchanted Forest
Robin Robinson
First Second, May, 2021

225 pages

Grades 3-6

Graphic Fantasy

When yet another earthquake threatens to destroy the Goblin's underground city on Teacup Island, Pella has had enough. She may be small, but she is bold, determined, and fearless. Pella stalks off to find the Earth Queen, venturing into the Enchanted Forest, rumored to be dangerous and from which no dwarf ever returns. Pella's older sister and guardian, Bix, has no choice, but try to save her headstrong sister, although she is fearful and much less confident. Luckily for Bix, early on the journey she meets Cici, a super-friendly tree troll, who agrees to join her and help on the mission, eventually becoming a friend. Dangers lurk behind every corner, leading to more mythical creatures and life-threatening encounters. Despite her bravado, Pella discovers her limitations and despite her fear, Bix taps into her inner strength and power. Will Bix and Cici find Pella? Will the adventurers discover the true cause of the earthquakes and then have the courage and wherewithal to fix the situation? One thing is for sure-Teacup Island will never be the same again!

Debut graphic novelist, Robinson, has created a world filled with magical creatures and gentle dangers. Readers will immediate feel comfortable on Teacup Island, despite it's dangers, and relate to the dwarf sisters. Pella is charming, yet a bit reckless and wild, and Bix is the conservative worrywart, left cleaning up after her little tornado of a sister, reminiscent of Beezus and Ramona. I love the friendship between Cici and Bix. They compliment each other and are better together. It is nice for Bix to finally have a friend after having to grow up quickly to take care of her sister. Robinson's illustrations are beautiful, unique and colorful. Somehow her pallet has an Alice in Wonderland vibe and adds to the mysticism of the forest. Creative kids will love the unusual creatures of this fully realized world and escape into the adventure. Never too scary, the plot is absorbing and quickly moving, allowing for places to breath. An original and fresh offering by a new talent for fans of Giants Beware!