I received this ARC from Publisher for free in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
NewsPrints by Ru Xu on January 31st 2017
Pages: 208
Amazon-Indiebound
Goodreads
Blue is an orphan who disguises herself as a newsboy. There's a war going on, and girls are expected to help the struggling economy by selling cookies. But Blue loves living and working at the Bugle, the only paper in town that tells the truth. And what's printed in the newspapers now matters more than ever.
But Blue struggles with her secret, and worries that if her friends and adopted family at the Bugle find out that she's a girl, she'll lose everything and everyone she cares about. And when she meets and befriends Crow, a boy who is also not what he seems, together they seek the freedom to be their true selves... and to save each other.
My Thoughts:
I am a huge fan of the movie and musical Newsies. I’ve often wished there were YA fiction or nonfiction books like it. When I received an advanced copy of NewsPrints I knew I would have to read it. A graphic novel about a newsboy? Yes, please! Even better… Blue is actually a newsgirl in disguise!
This was a really fun start to a series I think my students will enjoy. I loved everything about it. For starters, the art and colors were so well done. I think my manga loving students will love the style! I really loved the historical steampunk setting. So many interesting things to see and learn about. And the story! The focus on friendship and being true to yourself is excellent. Also, girl power! Blue is such a great character to follow. She’s plucky and loyal and just so full of heart.
NewsPrints by Ru Xu will be a great addition to my middle school graphic novel collection.
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