I’m a huge fan of Gus Gordon’s storytelling, so I was absolutely thrilled to discover this middle grade graphic novel that delves into his perennial themes – friendship, adventure, and existential musings. Luis (a bear) and Pablo (a mole) are the classic odd couple, living together in bickering companionship in the woods, but Luis longs for more – theatre, adventure, excitement! When two tickets arrive in the mail to go to the Big City for a theatre production of The Weary Mermaid, this is Luis’s big chance to explore. But who will he take with him (certainly not Pablo!) and will the Big City live up to his expectations?

This is a delightful and wacky graphic novel that will have adventurous spirits of all ages smiling as they follow this charming pair. The book doesn’t talk down to readers, containing impressive vocabulary and concepts that work on a number of levels. It’s a gorgeous little hardback and an absolute joy for ages 9+.