Demon in the Wood: A Shadow & Bone Graphic Novel

Gr 9 Up–In this beautiful graphic novel prequel to the Grishaverse, Bardugo and Pendergast weave a heartrending tale that foreshadows the rise of the Darkling. Eryk, as he calls himself in this story, wanders from encampment to encampment with his mother. They never stay for long because they are never safe in these camps, for reasons that are teased out during the story. Finally, Eryk gets a chance to spend an entire winter in one place, and he’s looking forward to it. The camp is not far from a normal town, but the elders promise that it’s hidden enough. Meanwhile, the elders debate how best to hunt an amplifier bear, and Eryk makes a new friend after saving her sister several times. It seems like for once Eryk will be able to put down some temporary roots, but nothing is ever safe for a Grisha, especially one like him. When his new friend discovers his most deeply held secret, Eryk has to do whatever it takes to survive. Pendergast’s art adds a new dimension to the emotions in this book, with the characters’ innermost thoughts appearing in their faces, which elevates every page. This turns into a necessary read for fans, while serving as an accessible entry point for anyone to enter the Grishaverse.