The Faint of Heart

Gr 7 Up–In this story that takes place in the future, sisters June and Maya bond over art and enjoy each other’s company until Maya has her heart removed, a routine procedure in their society. After that, she can no longer feel emotions and concentrates only on her other studies. Even though June feels like an outcast at school, she believes that art is important and refuses to have the surgery. Eventually June’s parents insist that she have her heart removed, but she only pretends to have the procedure. While researching the reclusive scientist who developed the unusual idea, June meets Max, who is beginning to feel emotions despite having undergone the surgery. While the plot seems unlikely and the teens rush towards their goal, the graphic novel’s art is outstanding. The monochromatic background colors represent the heartlessness of society and set a sterile tone. Eye-catching pops of color are used to direct the movement and actions of June’s mission. The artist uses color to represent shifts in time, allowing readers to reminisce along with June. Wilson makes a strong statement about the importance of art and emotions in society. June appears to be white, while the male lead has dark skin and curly hair.