Serafina and the Black Cloak: The Graphic Novel
Robert Beatty
Adapted by Michael Moreci
Art by Braeden Sherrell
Disney Hyperion
Published April 4, 2023
Amazon | Bookshop | Goodreads
About Serafina and the Black Cloak: The Graphic Novel
Robert Beatty’s best-selling gothic fantasy about an unforgettable heroine is now a mesmerizing graphic novel with rich, atmospheric illustrations.
“The story drips with suspense, wrapping readers into the narrative just as easily as the man in the black cloak binds his young victims.” — School Library Journal
“ Never go into the deep parts of the forest, for there are many dangers there, and they will ensnare your soul.”
Serafina has never had a reason to disobey her pa and venture beyond the grounds of Biltmore Estate. There’s plenty to explore in her grand home, although she must take care to never be seen. None of the rich folk upstairs know that Serafina exists; she and her pa, the estate’s maintenance man, have secretly lived in the basement for as long as Serafina can remember.
But when children at the estate start disappearing, only Serafina knows who the culprit terrifying man in a black cloak who stalks Biltmore’s corridors at night. Following her own harrowing escape, Serafina risks everything by joining forces with Braeden Vanderbilt, the young nephew of Biltmore’s owners. Braeden and Serafina must uncover the Man in the Black Cloak’s true identity…before all of the children vanish one by one.
Readers who enjoy history and mystery and like their thrills and chills in visual form will delight in this graphic novel adaptation of a bestseller.
My Review
SERAFINA AND THE BLACK CLOAK has been on my reading list for a long time, but I had never read it before. When I saw the release of the story as a graphic novel, I realized it was the perfect way to immerse myself in the book.
My favorite part of the story is actually Serafina’s relationship with her pa. He protects her, but also gives her some autonomy (he gives her a job as Chief Rat Catcher for the estate). The panels show how much they love each other and the closeness of their family bond.
I also liked the relationship between Serafina and the boy she befriends. I like the way they work together and look out for each other.
While I’ve never been to the Biltmore, I spent a lot of summers in the nearby areas, so I found it really easy to think of the story as set in those kinds of woods. It was cool reading a story set in that part of the country.
Overall, I’m glad I read this one. I thought the illustrations brought a lot of heart to the scenes and really showed the connections between the characters. I’m not sure if there are plans to release the whole Serafina series as graphic novels, but I’d definitely continue reading them if so. I think readers who enjoyed TIDESONG or WINGBEARER will enjoy this one.
Content Notes
Recommended for Ages 8 to 12.
Representation
Human characters appear white and mostly upper class. Serafina learns she may not be fully human.
Profanity/Crude Language Content
None.
Romance/Sexual Content
None.
Spiritual Content
A man appears to absorb children into his black cloak.
Violent Content
Serafina witnesses a girl being kidnapped by a man in a black cloak. A mountain lion attacks Serafina, protecting her cubs. Serafina battles human and magical enemies.
Drug Content
None.
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