Title: Princeless, Volume 2: Get Over Yourself
Author: Jeremy Whitley
Illustrator: Emily Martin
Published: 2013
Type: Graphic Novel (library book)
Rating: 4/5 Stars
Read: 2 April 2018
Summary:
Adrienne and Bedelia are back at it again – this time they are on a quest to save Adrienne’s older (and most beautiful) sister, Angelica. While they fight their way through Angelica’s many admirers, the King has decided to send a team of deadly mercenaries to track the short knight who killed his daughter. Now Adrienne finds herself being hunted by her own father, and she discovers that rescuing Angelica is not as simple as she hoped. Curses, new characters, and new villains are out to make Adrienne’s job a bit more difficult.
Review:
Once again, Princeless does not disappoint. Strong POC representation, witty dialogue, clever characters, and beautiful art bring this graphic novel to life. I think that older readers (junior high and teens) may find this series to be a bit simple and below their reading level, but the story is enjoyable and the plot appears to be getting stronger with each issue.
The first issue looked at race and every day issues women and women of color face, and Get Over Yourself continues this trend while also exploring sibling relationships. Adrienne is very different from her sister Angelica, and it is clear that both sisters are frustrated with each other and have never been able to see eye to eye. Adrienne has always been feisty, she questions many things, and she is determined to make a life for herself – with or without a man. Angelica, on the other hand, is content with being the most beautiful princess. A major conflict (aside from the actual duels that take place) in this issue is that Angelica does not want to be rescued, which is something Adrienne has a difficult time understanding. I wish this had been explored further, as the storyline seemed to wrap up a bit too quickly, but it was an interesting surprise either way. I think
I also appreciated the friendship between Adrienne and Bedelia. They come from different upbringings, yet are still able to work together and learn from one another. The girls empower each other, laugh, and work together really well, despite a few differences.
Overall, I really enjoyed this issue. I’m glad this edition was in a more traditional size for a graphic novel, and I think the art is heading in the right direction.
Finally, I’m just happy that the theme of choice was mentioned in this issue. Like I said earlier, Adrienne and Angelica are very different and don’t fully understand each others choices, but learn to accept them. If a women wants to be independent, that’s fine. If she is content being more traditional, that’s ok, too.
The important thing is to not tear other women down for their choices.
On a personal note, I know I’m guilty of not always understanding why someone might make the choice they do. And I know not everyone in my life understands why I’m making the life choices that I do.
It’s time to be a bit more understanding.
Love, always,
Syl.
Syl Reads 