Nola's Worlds, #1: Changing Moon

Nola York-Stein may have an unrealistic cartoony look and salmon pink hair, but adolescents will find plenty to relate to in this appealing new graphic novel series. Taking place in the formerly dull coastal town of Alta Donna, she finds a mystery to keep her busy. Nola introduces herself as someone habitually late for school and always struggling with one thing or another, although she's clearly smart and means well. She doesn't like school and has a stressful home life; with her parents divorced, she seldom sees her father, and her mother pays more attention to her job than to her daughter. But when the school librarian is attacked, Nola decides to play detective. The librarian gives a few cryptic clues, and though those around him are quick to say it's no big deal, Nola believes otherwise. While there's a mystery afoot, the biggest pull for the book is the relatable main character and her situations. An offbeat humor to Nola's difficulties gives a light feel to the whole story. Previously published in France, two subsequent volumes are also available. Ages 11–15. (Nov.)