A Devil and Her Love Song

Gr 7–10—Maria is a talented vocalist who is forced to enroll at the local public high school, and she soon discovers that her reputation precedes her. The rumors have already started about why she got expelled from her prestigious private school. Students are staying away from her, but not making an effort to hide their preconceived impressions. They gather in groups and whisper things about her while she is walking by, making it clear that they already don't like her. Yusuke and Shin, however, are intrigued by the mystery that is Maria. Did she really beat up a teacher? Where does that amazing voice come from and why is she singing "Amazing Grace?" The art is crafted in a way that shows that Maria stands out not only in talent, but also in looks, creating yet another reason for the girls to be jealous of her. While her reputation makes her sound spiteful and capable of cruel things, she is illustrated as sweet and innocent. The story ends leaving readers wanting to know the truth about her; they are sure to ask for future volumes in the series.—Jessica Lorentz Smith, Bend Senior High School, OR