Review by Booklist Review
Other Ever Afters is a delightful collection of comics showcasing new stories inspired by traditional fairy tales and folklore. While Gillman created several of the tales for 24-hour-comics-day projects, other stories, like "New Name," are debuting here. Readers follow a diverse cast of characters through events such as an arrogant princess proposing to the local goose girl; monster folk, like mermaids and giants, turning out to be more understanding than most people; or a knight learning that there is more to life than sacrifice and duty. All the stories are short and self-contained, much like in a traditional illustrated book of fairy tales. They are also bookended by an illustrated introduction and conclusion that aptly set the themes of independence, community, and fairness seen throughout the book. Gillman's soft lines and pastel colors also lend a fantastical feel to the stories that belies the incisive lessons and commentary woven into the words. A work of fresh twists and many queer happily-ever-afters for all lovers of fairy tales.
From Booklist, Copyright (c) American Library Association. Used with permission.
Review by Kirkus Book Review
Happily-ever-after has no predictable formula for these protagonists. In the king's forest, a young ranger is charged with protecting the magical flowers. When a flower thief shows the ranger that any picked flowers will be replaced by two more the next day, the ranger begins to question the king's edict. In another kingdom, a princess tries to woo an uninterested goose girl, promising more and more rewards in exchange for accepting the marriage proposal. With each refusal, the princess grows angrier and more confused. In a village far away, a child enlists their grandmother's help in burning away their old name, but the ritual is interrupted by their grandfather's death, and their old name returns to haunt them. The men of another village sacrifice a woman to the Giantess every year, but the latest sacrifice discovers things may not be as they seem. These stories and more are told through enchanting full-color art whose sweet, pastel shades and soft lines belie the powerful punch the stories convey. Each narrative is self-contained and perfect for reading either individually or in one fully engrossed sitting. Gillman subverts the traditional fairy-tale format in an evolution of the genre that does not feel out of place alongside the classics. Characters present as diverse in race, sexuality, and gender expression. Fresh and exciting; sure to delight and surprise. (Graphic fiction. 12-17) Copyright (c) Kirkus Reviews, used with permission.
Copyright (c) Kirkus Reviews, used with permission.
