Compass South

Compass South' by Hope Larson and Rebecca Mock is this fantastic middle-grade graphic novel that feels like a swashbuckling adventure straight out of a classic pirate tale, but with a fresh twist. The story follows twelve-year-old twins Alex and Cleo Dodge, who are orphaned and desperate to escape their grim circumstances in 1860s New York. After a botched theft lands them in trouble, they stumble upon a mysterious compass and a clue that hints at a hidden treasure. The twins seize the opportunity to impersonate two other missing children—part of a wealthy family’s inheritance scheme—and board separate ships, each believing they’re on the path to fortune. But the journey is far from smooth; they encounter ruthless pirates, secret codes, and a web of deceit that tests their loyalty to each other. The pacing is breakneck, and the art style captures the chaotic energy of high-seas escapades perfectly. What really hooked me was how the story balances humor with genuine stakes—the twins’ bond is the heart of it all, and their resourcefulness makes them impossible not to root for.

I love how the book weaves in themes of identity and belonging, especially as the twins grapple with whether their shared past is enough to keep them together. The historical details, like the bustling ports and the eerie superstitions of sailors, add so much texture. And that ending? No spoilers, but it leaves you itching for the sequel, 'Knife’s Edge.' It’s one of those books where you can almost smell the saltwater and feel the deck swaying underfoot—total immersion from start to finish.

Compass South' by Hope Larson and Rebecca Mock is this vibrant graphic novel that digs into adventure with a pair of twins at its heart. Alex and Cleo Dodge are 12-year-old siblings who get tangled in this wild journey after their father disappears. The story kicks off in 1860s New York, where they’re handed a mysterious compass and end up on separate ships—one heading to Panama, the other to New Orleans. The twins are scrappy, resourceful, and full of that kid-energy that makes you root for them. There’s also a whole cast of side characters like the rough-and-tumble sailors, shady treasure hunters, and even a rival twin pair. What I love is how Larson and Mock weave in themes of identity and belonging, especially with Cleo cutting her hair and pretending to be a boy to survive. The art’s kinetic and full of life, matching the story’s fast pace. It’s one of those books where you feel the salt spray and hear the creaking ship decks.

Honestly, it’s the twins’ bond that sticks with me—how they’re forced apart but keep fighting to reunite. The villains are properly menacing too, especially the smugglers who’ve got their own agenda. If you’re into historical fiction with a dash of mystery and a lot of heart, this duo’s journey is worth every page.