Lumberjanes: Unicorn Power!

Lumberjanes: Unicorn Power!

Lumberjanes: Unicorn Power! is a young adult novel spun off from the popular comic series. It’s written by Mariko Tamaki (This One Summer, Supergirl: Being Super) with cover and occasional illustrations by Brooke A. Allen, co-creator of the Lumberjanes.

It’s aimed at ages 10-14 years old, and older readers may find the writing a little strained, as early on, the book attempts to work in as much background and trivia about the characters and concept as possible. I thought it sounded like it was writing down a few times at the beginning; I prefer books aimed at kids that don’t come this close to sounding like an adoring auntie saying “aren’t you cute? yes you are!” This gets better further into the story, though, once we get past the cover-promised elements, where the scouts meet a unicorn herd and climb a mountain.

I’m not going to spoil anything, but as in the comics, there are unexpected supernatural creatures and plenty of teamwork, caring, and friendship. I would have preferred a little more emphasis on the young women interacting with each other to distinguish their personalities and voices, a little less on “here’s another fantastic setting”, but I liked the overall theme, which deals with balancing achievement (stacking up badges, worrying about setting records) with what you learn while doing those things.

My quibbles aside, younger readers, particularly those who like the comics and want more with the characters, will enjoy this story. It is firmly part of the same universe, with much of the same appeal.

Lumberjanes: Unicorn Power!

Lumberjanes: Unicorn Power! can be preordered from your local comic shop with Diamond code AUG17 1193. It’s a 256-page hardcover with a list price of $14.99, and it’s promised to be first in a series. (The publisher provided an advance digital review copy.)



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