Stories of the Islands

Debut graphic novelist Angkasa retells three Indonesian folktales and reimagines the female protagonists beyond “superficial tropes like the damsel in distress... the wicked and jealous stepmother... the spinster wishing for a child.” In “Keong Mas,” a fisherwoman’s generosity models compassion for a former princess, whose selfishness begot her transformation into a snail. “Bawang Merah Bawang Putih” highlights the relationship between two stepsisters who, devoted to each other, endure their grieving father’s physical abuse and must decide whether to approach their future with or without him. The final tale, “Timun Mas,” follows green-thumbed Old Mbok Srini and her adopted daughter as they use their horticultural knowledge (and a little bit of magic) to outsmart a giant. This accessible collection’s plethora of protagonists, portrayed with varying skin tones, embody traditional folktale gumption in stories with settings and perspectives that realistically mirror the creator’s native Indonesia. Innovative paneling offers complexity to the storytelling, and eye-catching patterns add cultural specificity to sometimes formulaic tales. Concludes with texts of the original tales and an author’s note wherein Angkasa describes her mother’s influence in creating this feminist remix. Ages 8–12. (Oct.)