Staff Pick
Portland author Robin Robinson wrote and illustrated this fantasy graphic novel perfect for ages eight and up. Adventure awaits goblin sisters Pella, the thrill seeker, and Bix, the reluctant adventurer. Stunning, fantastical illustrations take the reader on a trip though the enchanted forest: a wondrous land filled with demigods and monsters along with these compelling characters. Recommended By Kim T., Powells.com
This book is such a delightful read. I really love how worrying isn't portrayed as a bad thing, as long as you do it in moderation. The colors and art style are very cute and have cottagecore energy; you can tell the author is passionate about what they do. I got so hooked that I had to read it in one go, but I'm going to go back and read it a second time just to analyze the art more. I recommend this if you like the Moomins, Hilda, or Steven Universe. Recommended By Seb D., Powells.com
Synopses & Reviews
In this fantasy adventure graphic novel, a shy goblin must play the role of hero.
They say no one returns from the Enchanted Forest — but that won't discourage Pella. Earthquakes are destroying her village, and worst of all, they've caused the Midsummer Festival to be canceled. According to legend, the Earth Queen is to blame for these violent quakes — and the Earth Queen's tower lies at the heart of the Enchanted Forest. Late one night, Pella sneaks away to find the Earth Queen and give her a piece of her mind. But she's not afraid — she's never afraid.
It's Bix, Pella's sister, who does the worrying for both of them. She's the one, after all, who was tasked with keeping her sister safe after they lost their parents. But despite her fears and the very real dangers that lie ahead, Bix will do anything to protect her little sister — even walk into the Enchanted Forest with only a ball of yarn to guide them home.
They say no one returns from the Enchanted Forest. Will Bix and Pella be the first?
About the Author
Robin Robinson is a huge nerd who can be found crashing comic conventions up and down the West Coast with a booth full of colorful artwork. No One Returns from the Enchanted Forest is Robinson's author-illustrator debut, after drawing The City on the Other Side with writer Mairghread Scott. Robin lives in a house that looks like someone had a Halloween party in a library and forgot to clean up afterwards. The pet rats only add to this impression.