Review Detail

I love graphic novels. I was very intrigued by the premise of THE GIRL WHO OWNED A CITY. It's an adaption from the original 1975 novel by O.T. Nelson. The dystopian premise of a virus wiping out all adults fits right in with the current wave of similar stories out there now. Only this story is geared toward a younger audience.

No one lived past the age of twelve in this future. Lisa survives with her seven-year-old brother Todd by her wits. Then Todd asks why doesn't she help the other kids out there. This makes Lisa think that maybe that wouldn't be such a bad idea. Lisa recruits others kids in hopes that they can stand up to the feared Chidester gang that terrorizes others.

I really loved the illustrations and the strong protagonist Lisa who has to grow up fast. She's tough in many ways such as realizing that living on just junk food won't help them to survive and also how she plans out a way to build a community. But then she shows how she longs to be a kid and have a vacation which in this future world is probably as dead as the adults.

I love how Lisa stands up to the bullies. She doesn't let them destroy her even when it scares her. There are a few intense scenes of one kid who is scarred after a fight. But it's not over the top or too graphic.

Fast-paced and engaging, this graphic novel is sure to appeal to reluctant readers. Upper elementary school aged readers will enjoy this story without the usual graphic violence of similar tales. Great timing for those who are looking for a dystopia story for younger readers.