Rise of the Halfling King

September 14, 2020
This first in a series of full-color graphic novels draws from the author’s 2018 work for older readers, Feathered Serpent, Dark Heart of Sky. Apprentice witch Almah must complete her training by meeting the Aluxes, “mystic elfin beings who wield great magic to protect nature.” She is given two items: a magical stone and a drum that will “announce the rightful king of Uxmal,” which hasn’t had one in a century. Years later, under the rule of cruel King Kinich Kak Ek, who outlaws witches, lonely Almah finds an egg that hatches a boy, whom she adopts as her grandson. But half-human, half-Alux Sayam is different from other humans, and his first battle, against a giant snake attacking a nearby city, garners the king’s attention. When the kingmaker drum is struck, a prophecy is set in motion: whoever bests the king at three impossible tasks will succeed him. Armed with magical knowledge from Almah, a mind for reading ancient spells, and his spider monkey best friend, Sayam challenges the monarch. Expressive, boldly lined art complements simple storytelling, resulting in a respectful, engaging interpretation of ancient Mesoamerican folklore accessible for younger readers. Final art not seen by PW. Ages 8–13. Agents: Taylor Martindale Kean and Stefanie Sanchez Von Borstel, Full Circle Literary.

November 1, 2020
In this series starter, David Bowles, author of 2018's Feathered Serpent, Dark Heart of Sky: Myths of Mexico, adapts a tale from that anthology for the graphic novel form. This volume focuses on the classic legend of Sayam -- the Halfling (part-human, part-alux) king of Uxmal, the ancient city of Late Classic Mayan civilization. Raised and trained by the wise healer and medicine woman Almah, Sayam is destined to overthrow Kinich Kak Ek, Uxmal's despotic king, whose tyrannical rule has wrought disharmony across the realm, driving aluxes, witches, and the healing arts of magic underground. Throughout, Bowles highlights Mayan writing and storytelling systems, embedding references to Mayan philosophy and ethics in a thrilling, fast-moving plot that sees Sayam fulfill the prophecy of his reign. Charlene Bowles's illustrations match the pacing and cadence of the narrative with varying yet well-organized panels that build robust characters and convey emotions. In particular, Sayam's growing maturity, leadership, and sense of duty to his people are depicted through relatable simplicity of expression and peaceful equilibrium achieved by the cool teal-blue palette. A directory of characters precedes the story, and a concluding author's note about the aesthetics of graphic art in Mayan writing traditions articulates the importance of perpetuating Mayan epistemology and culture in modern-day storytelling. Lettycia Terrones

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