Brielle and Bear (Once upon a Time University #1)

As an English major and bookshop assistant at Once upon a Time University, Brielle Da Rosa, who is depicted with vitiligo and heterochromia, believes she knows everything there is to know about fairy tales. And though she yearns to experience “the magic... the drama... the romance” of her beloved stories, she’s certain that romance like that only happens in books. Then, while distracted at work, she collides with humble, soft-spoken rugby team co-captain Bear. Though their meet-cute is disrupted by Brielle’s popular rival Pavão and a trio of sibling cheerleaders, Bear soon becomes all Brielle can think about. Simultaneously, Bear is consumed by thoughts of Brielle, so much so that his best friends and teammates tease him about his crush-like symptoms. Over the course of Brielle and Bear’s first semester, which debut graphic novelist Doku conveys via dreamy oranges, pinks, and yellows, the pair grow closer as they navigate tropey romantic trials such as misunderstandings and meddling peers. Doku introduces the large cast, portrayed with a variety of skin tones, in a rapid-fire sequence that mimics the gently whimsical love story’s episodic cadence. Ages 12–up. (Apr.)