"Yet Another Troll-fighting 11-Year-Old Orthodox Jewish Girl"The tagline of this book pretty much says it all. Mirka is always fighting with her step-mother and would rather be welding swords and fighting dragons than sitting at home knitting. This first book (yes, there are more!) tells the story of how our heroine wins her sword from a witch, fights a troll, and maybe even learns a little something about herself on the way.
Once upon a time I was a section head for the children's graphic novel section at Powell's Books in Portland, OR. I didn't really read comics beyond the old Archie comics my mom had in a cardboard box in the garage, but by the time Hereville was published I'd already picked it as my staff pick and made plans to drag two unsuspecting friends along to a reading Barry Deutsch was giving in Portland. I'm not Jewish, so I can't speak to the authenticity of the Orthodox community portrayed, but I have heard it is very good, and it is a wonderful way to introduce readers to a religious doctrine they might not be as familiar with. Regardless of the religious setting, this is a wonderful book for all girls (and boys!) who ever felt like they are maybe meant for something bigger and have ever wished they could ditch their chores and go fight a dragon. Also their is a pretty unconventional battle with a troll.
Recommend: All ages!
Published by Amulet Books
