Review by Publisher's Weekly Review
A magical ability informed by the language of flora offers a lonely teen a glimpse into her community members' internal worlds in this evocative speculative graphic novel by Omar Ata (Nayra and the Djinn). "Ever since I can remember, I've seen these flowers," says pink-haired Marlena Haddad. They "show me how people truly feel, even if it doesn't match what they say. Turns out, the truth doesn't always make for a pretty bouquet." As seemingly the only person with the mysterious affinity to peer into peoples' emotions, Marlena seeks answers about her gift, but her family dismisses her concerns. Marlena's spirits lift when she discovers that blue-haired transfer student Ashe can also see the flowers, but Ashe disregards Marlena, refusing to learn more about their strange bond. Pastel tones reflect Marlena's introspective personality, and vibrant, saturated hues paired with fragmented panels imbue intermittent dream sequences with ethereal mystery. Blooms featured reflect the flora of the Floridian setting while the plants' health--some are depicted in full blossom, others are withered--mirrors the characters' emotional states. Figures are portrayed with varying skin tones. Ages 8--12. (Jan.)
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Review by School Library Journal Review
Gr 6 Up--Marlena's unique ability to see how particular species of flowers connect to different people is a real gift, but she feels isolated when she believes only she can do it. Between being easily overwhelmed in social situations and her intense connection with plants, Marlena feels like an outsider, despite having close friends and family. When a new student named Ashe arrives at school, Marlena is shocked to see that Ashe has the same ability and is then confused when Ashe is rude and dismissive to her. Ashe is prone to emotional outbursts and is wary about letting their feelings show, but with time they form a bond with Marlena, and soon the two discover they have far more in common than their gift of invisible flower perception. The chronic misunderstanding by family and school staff of Ashe and Marlena will undoubtedly resonate with some young readers, but the support they get from friends is strong and keeps hopelessness at bay. Ata's distinctive art style is gorgeous, and readers who enjoyed Nayra and the Djinn will love the illustrations and color palette. The idea that everyone has a psychic flower that needs to be nurtured to thrive is a healthy reminder for young teens to be kinder to themselves. VERDICT An astute and emotional story of the courage it takes to truly accept oneself and to love others for who they are.--Sarah Maciejewski
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Review by Kirkus Book Review
An eighth grade girl who perceives emotions as flowers seeks to piece together the origin of her ability. Ever since Marlena Haddad can remember, she's possessed an ability to see flowers that are visible only to her. They appear on herself and on other people to reveal their true feelings. When Marlena was younger, she tried to tell people about the flowers time and again, but no one believed her, leaving her feeling lonely and overwhelmed. When larger-than-life, nonbinary Ashe Lang transfers to Marlena's middle school, Marlena soon learns that they not only see flowers on people too, but there's also a mysterious connection between their pasts. Marlena hopes that getting to know Ashe will help her unlock the secret of why they share this strange, unwanted burden. But "asking Ashe about the flowers made them snap, somehow," and now Ashe is actively avoiding her. Marlena's journey to unlock her past, overcome what seems akin to a form of emotional synesthesia, and find healing drives an interesting plot; however, the adamant refusal by both young people's parents to provide them with mental health support earlier feels deeply troubling. Ata's mangalike digital illustrations are visually stunning, especially the beautifully detailed florals and the highly saturated, intensely colored dream sequences during which Marlena's subconscious works to piece together fragments of a forgotten history. Brown-skinned, pink-haired Marlena is cued as being of Middle Eastern descent, while blue-haired Ashe presents white. An earnest effort carried by visually impressive graphics.(Graphic fantasy. 8-12) Copyright (c) Kirkus Reviews, used with permission.
Copyright (c) Kirkus Reviews, used with permission.
