Author: Jane Yolen, illustrated by Mike Cavallaro
Publisher: First Second, 160 pages
Copyright: 2010
School Library Journal Review:
Gr 8 Up—The chapters in this clever graphic novel follow the terms of a fencing match, from "Engagement" to "Disengagement," with successive stages in between. Most of the illustrations are done in two tones as Aliera Carstairs makes it through her humdrum days in high school, where she doesn't fit in. Color begins to appear when she puts on her fencing mask at Grand Central Station and the fantasy begins. Illustrations complement the text well, with larger pictures reflecting the character's situation and feelings. After meeting her date and admitting to seeing ogres and dragons when wearing her mask, he thinks she is crazy, but a wild adventure ensues. She loses her weapon but it is returned by a fairylike creature who tells her that the foil her mother purchased at a tag sale is the source of her powers, and she is the defender and now part of a world called Helfdon. The ending will leave readers anxiously awaiting the second installment in the series.—Karen Alexander, Lake Fenton High School, Linden, MI
Fencing is Aliera's passion. She is a loner who doesn't fit in at school with any of the cliques and she doesn't even stand out enough to get picked on by anybody. Everyday after school she goes to fencing class and is told she is very good and can go "far", which for her means...The Nationals. Her dream is to become Xenda of Xenon, expert swordswoman.
Aliera is colourblind and the majority of the book has been illustrated in black, white, and various greys going up to a bluish tint. This not only shows Aliera's colourless world but also her broody personality. Imagination meets reality when Aliera puts her fencing mask on in the subway and suddenly she can see color from the world which exists parallel to ours, full of fairies, dragons, strange creatures and dragons and a queen who tells her she is a Defender of her world and gives her her first mission.
Foiled is a wonderful graphic novel intended for younger teens and tweens. Aliera is a great main character, one that is easy to relate to. She plays a loner type; somewhat shy, different, and she thinks for herself. Symbolism and imagination run rampant in this novel and readers will enjoy how well the illustrations fit in with Aliera's personality and condition. There is also a hint of romance in the novel with another character. Overall, a great pick for reluctant readers and possibly a good choice for their first graphic novel.
Reading Level: Beginner
Notes about Audience: Recommended for ages 12 and up.
Other books by Jane Yolen:
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