The Accursed Inheritance of Henrietta Achilles

Gr 6 Up–Henrietta Achilles has had it rough: Because of the war, she grows up in an orphanage. But her life changes when she learns she had an uncle, the great wizard Ornun Zol, who died and left her his house. Henrietta is brought to Malrenard, a run-down town where even the sheep give her the side-eye—and where she discovers her uncle’s house is really a tower stretching high into the sky. Each floor has different themes and labyrinths, and adventurers routinely enter to seek treasure. Henrietta is now responsible for any and all damage caused by her inheritance—easier said than done. This is a delightful romp through a lusciously illustrated fantasy world. Hörnig and Pawlitza draw inspiration from Cartoon Network, Nickelodeon, and Saturday morning cartoons. Characters’ expressive faces and body language make this goofy graphic novel incredibly fun. This first installment in a series introduces characters almost up until the cover closes; readers looking for a self-contained tale might be disappointed, but those seeking a new series to dive into will be pleased.