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Mysteries of the Mountain Moon Tribe
168 pages, Paperback
Published May 12, 2026
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Displaying 1 - 21 of 21 reviews
May 16, 2026
This graphic novel is a literal feast for the eyes. I’ve never read a graphic novel quite like this. The text is unassuming and small (but so important) while the jaw-dropping artwork fills the entire page of the large book. The coming of age story follows Mia, a child-elder, in her journey to save her tribe from a mysterious curse. Mia and her Pygmy water ferret (I’m a sucker for animal companions!) travel through the fantastical, lush mountain to find the cure. Universal truths and tough realities are slowly revealed. The paring of the beautiful story with gorgeous artwork make this one stellar graphic novel. I cannot wait to share this book with my 9 year old and gobble up the images again!
My only reason for knocking off the one star is the weird contrast between the background and characters. I know it’s supposed to be different, but it’s TOO different.
Thank you to the publisher and Colored Book Pages for the gifted finished copy.
My only reason for knocking off the one star is the weird contrast between the background and characters. I know it’s supposed to be different, but it’s TOO different.
Thank you to the publisher and Colored Book Pages for the gifted finished copy.
May 20, 2026
Such a beautiful story!!
This is truly a story through art! If you saw my reel, you saw just a taste of some of the art in this story. I stand by my stance that any of these pages would stand on its own on any gallery wall. I also appreciated that the art of the characters was in a different style compared to the backgrounds. It does make them stand apart and make it easier to follow Mia on her journey. The landscapes, the animal features, all have swirling colors, showcasing this epic journey to protect her people.
Poor Mia starts to learn as she takes her journey that what she’s been taught her whole life may not be correct, and it might be fear that’s kept her people isolated in their mountaintop village. Including from all the “monsters” from her bedtime stories. When she meets them, they turn out to be gentle giants. I do love how all the good advice from her parents came back to her throughout her journey, despite feeling betrayed by the secrets they kept.
I absolutely loved Francis! The pygmy water ferret, who is so large compared to Mia, but is truly tiny compared to the creatures they meet along the way. He is truly like a giant golden retriever that she can ride, unable to abandon her even when she sends him away.
Some favorite quotes:
It is... a place where the winds speak in whispers of lost and forgotten dreams.
I am surrounded by beauty, yes, but here I am trapped in a story written for me by others.
Curiosity is the spark that lights the flame in the darkness, it's the hunger that leads the soul beyond the horizon.
Solitude can be a sanctuary, yes, but feeling unseen is the deepest ache of all.
Fear no longer controlled me; it had lost its grip. I stood in its darkness, faced it eye to eye, and found that I am stronger than its whispers.
It was no longer just a journey of survival--it was a reckoning.
"Knowledge is a tremendous gift, but it is dangerous when wielded recklessly. Without wisdom and responsibility, it can become a weapon."
"Immortality, at first, seems like a gift--a chance to witness infinity unfold. But without the ones you love beside you, it comes a curse of endless days and hollow nights."
Home is not just a roof over your head, but the quiet place your heart return to in the storms of life. It is found in the eyes of those who see you fully, in the arms that catch you when the world feels too heavy.
Some of that advice from her parents and grandmother:
"Gratitude is the soft glow at the edge of night, where even in darkness, the heart finds the light."
"The mind can be a cruel thing, weaving doubts like chains that bind the heart in silent battle. It conjures shadows where none exist, twisting peace into a storm, but when the heart learns to see beyond its illusions, even the cruelest thoughts lose their power to bind."
"Courage is not the absence of fear but the quiet decision to stand anyway, to face the unknown with trembling hands but a steady heart, knowing that the act of standing is what makes you unbreakable."
"Fear is the silent spectre that stands at the edge of every dream, holding us hostage to the unknown."
"When we hold back our emotions, they gather within us like a hidden weight... Tears give us permission to feel, to let go."
If you’re a fan of graphic novels and want to follow a truly epic journey, then check out Mysteries of the Mountain Moon Tribe!
I received a review copy. This review contains my honest opinion and is being left voluntarily.
This is truly a story through art! If you saw my reel, you saw just a taste of some of the art in this story. I stand by my stance that any of these pages would stand on its own on any gallery wall. I also appreciated that the art of the characters was in a different style compared to the backgrounds. It does make them stand apart and make it easier to follow Mia on her journey. The landscapes, the animal features, all have swirling colors, showcasing this epic journey to protect her people.
Poor Mia starts to learn as she takes her journey that what she’s been taught her whole life may not be correct, and it might be fear that’s kept her people isolated in their mountaintop village. Including from all the “monsters” from her bedtime stories. When she meets them, they turn out to be gentle giants. I do love how all the good advice from her parents came back to her throughout her journey, despite feeling betrayed by the secrets they kept.
I absolutely loved Francis! The pygmy water ferret, who is so large compared to Mia, but is truly tiny compared to the creatures they meet along the way. He is truly like a giant golden retriever that she can ride, unable to abandon her even when she sends him away.
Some favorite quotes:
It is... a place where the winds speak in whispers of lost and forgotten dreams.
I am surrounded by beauty, yes, but here I am trapped in a story written for me by others.
Curiosity is the spark that lights the flame in the darkness, it's the hunger that leads the soul beyond the horizon.
Solitude can be a sanctuary, yes, but feeling unseen is the deepest ache of all.
Fear no longer controlled me; it had lost its grip. I stood in its darkness, faced it eye to eye, and found that I am stronger than its whispers.
It was no longer just a journey of survival--it was a reckoning.
"Knowledge is a tremendous gift, but it is dangerous when wielded recklessly. Without wisdom and responsibility, it can become a weapon."
"Immortality, at first, seems like a gift--a chance to witness infinity unfold. But without the ones you love beside you, it comes a curse of endless days and hollow nights."
Home is not just a roof over your head, but the quiet place your heart return to in the storms of life. It is found in the eyes of those who see you fully, in the arms that catch you when the world feels too heavy.
Some of that advice from her parents and grandmother:
"Gratitude is the soft glow at the edge of night, where even in darkness, the heart finds the light."
"The mind can be a cruel thing, weaving doubts like chains that bind the heart in silent battle. It conjures shadows where none exist, twisting peace into a storm, but when the heart learns to see beyond its illusions, even the cruelest thoughts lose their power to bind."
"Courage is not the absence of fear but the quiet decision to stand anyway, to face the unknown with trembling hands but a steady heart, knowing that the act of standing is what makes you unbreakable."
"Fear is the silent spectre that stands at the edge of every dream, holding us hostage to the unknown."
"When we hold back our emotions, they gather within us like a hidden weight... Tears give us permission to feel, to let go."
If you’re a fan of graphic novels and want to follow a truly epic journey, then check out Mysteries of the Mountain Moon Tribe!
I received a review copy. This review contains my honest opinion and is being left voluntarily.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 12, 2026
There’s a rhythm to this book — a grounding beat that comes from the way the text always sits on the left‑hand page, where your eye naturally falls. It reads almost like a voiceover, a steady narrative presence that anchors you while the right‑hand page opens into watercolor dreamscapes. I heard Mia speaking through the words on the left, and then saw through her eyes on the right. The act of turning each oversized page becomes part of the experience; you’re not reading on autopilot, you’re journeying with her.
The art itself creates a fascinating tension. Mia and her family are drawn in a simple, almost anime‑cartoon style, while the world around them is rendered in luminous watercolor and neon otherworldliness. At first it feels like a disconnect — but the more I sat with it, the more it felt intentional. Mia’s flat, 2D simplicity becomes a point of entry for the child reader or listener, a way to see themselves reflected in her quest. She pops off the page precisely because she is the one still learning how to inhabit this strange, translucent world.
What surprised me most is how naturally this book invites a read‑aloud experience. It feels designed for that liminal age — the 8‑to‑14 window where you’re old enough to crave deeper stories, but still young enough to love the ritual of someone reading to you. The oversized pages, the steady left‑page narration, the immersive art on the right… it all creates a shared rhythm between reader and listener. It’s the kind of book that slows you down, opens space for questions, and turns the act of reading into a small, luminous moment of connection.
As an older adult who grew up reading Heavy Metal in the late ’80s and ’90s, there’s something here that taps into that same experimental spirit — the sense that art and story can collide, overlap, and break their own rules. Heavy Metal invited readers, writers, and illustrators to explode the boundaries of genre and meaning, and this book carries a whisper of that philosophy. It’s written for a juvenile reader, yes, but like all good children’s literature, it doesn’t just inspire the young — it revitalizes the imagination of anyone willing to sit with it.
This is not a book to read in one sitting. It’s a book to sit with. A book that asks you to slow down, to look again, to let the art and the words braid together in your mind. And it leaves you with the question that guides Mia’s journey — a question that lingers long after the final page is turned:
“What else lies beyond the clouds?”
Thank you to the publisher and ColoredPages for sharing this gifted print arc for me to review
The art itself creates a fascinating tension. Mia and her family are drawn in a simple, almost anime‑cartoon style, while the world around them is rendered in luminous watercolor and neon otherworldliness. At first it feels like a disconnect — but the more I sat with it, the more it felt intentional. Mia’s flat, 2D simplicity becomes a point of entry for the child reader or listener, a way to see themselves reflected in her quest. She pops off the page precisely because she is the one still learning how to inhabit this strange, translucent world.
What surprised me most is how naturally this book invites a read‑aloud experience. It feels designed for that liminal age — the 8‑to‑14 window where you’re old enough to crave deeper stories, but still young enough to love the ritual of someone reading to you. The oversized pages, the steady left‑page narration, the immersive art on the right… it all creates a shared rhythm between reader and listener. It’s the kind of book that slows you down, opens space for questions, and turns the act of reading into a small, luminous moment of connection.
As an older adult who grew up reading Heavy Metal in the late ’80s and ’90s, there’s something here that taps into that same experimental spirit — the sense that art and story can collide, overlap, and break their own rules. Heavy Metal invited readers, writers, and illustrators to explode the boundaries of genre and meaning, and this book carries a whisper of that philosophy. It’s written for a juvenile reader, yes, but like all good children’s literature, it doesn’t just inspire the young — it revitalizes the imagination of anyone willing to sit with it.
This is not a book to read in one sitting. It’s a book to sit with. A book that asks you to slow down, to look again, to let the art and the words braid together in your mind. And it leaves you with the question that guides Mia’s journey — a question that lingers long after the final page is turned:
“What else lies beyond the clouds?”
Thank you to the publisher and ColoredPages for sharing this gifted print arc for me to review
May 13, 2026
"Imagine a mountain so high that it overshadows every peak in every realm, a mountain so tall that the people who live within its highest peaks know nothing of the world below the clouds."
This opening request to use your imagination nudges you into the right mind frame to experience this adventure. This is the story of Mia, the first and only child in her generation. As such, she's been burdened with the task of being the tribe's "child elder". She will be the guide for any future children of her generation - whether she wants to be or not. She rails against this, wanting desperately to find her own truths, her own meaning of her life.
A stranger brings a gift to Mia's village, and this becomes the inciting incident that sends Mia and her pygmy water ferret named Francis, on a quest. For the first time in her life, and against everything she's been taught, she leaves the village. Her experiences beyond the village are surreal, beautiful, frightening, breathtaking.
Every aspect of her journey is captured in the artwork that fills each page right to the edges. The illustrations are astounding, filled in turn with wonder, sparkle, shadows, gloom, joy, mystery and hope.
An interesting style choice appears in many of the illustrations; people, including Mia, are represented in a simple style, flat and less realistic, overlaid on the complex artwork . I thought this was a brave choice. For me, it highlights the separation between humanity and nature. See what you think and make your own interpretation.
Take time at each turn of the page to immerse yourself in what Mia's experiencing. I lost track of time while reading and savoring the artwork, to the point of being startled when the real world suddenly intruded.
As for the story being told... my advice is to take it personally. There's interpretations waiting to be discovered, and your personal viewpoint will make the story your own. What might life be like beyond our own familiar boundaries? What are our responsibilities to our families, ourselves, our world, the universe?
A note about the text. Each page has a small amount of it, enough to move the story forward and let you know what's going on. The text has the challenge of sharing space with the artwork, not an easy task. The formatting works well on pages with dark art, but not so well on lighter pages. A little patience is needed.
My thanks to author Jack Ruedisueli, Collective Ink Limited, and NetGalley for allowing me to read a digital advance review copy of this book. This review is my honest and unbiased opinion.
This opening request to use your imagination nudges you into the right mind frame to experience this adventure. This is the story of Mia, the first and only child in her generation. As such, she's been burdened with the task of being the tribe's "child elder". She will be the guide for any future children of her generation - whether she wants to be or not. She rails against this, wanting desperately to find her own truths, her own meaning of her life.
A stranger brings a gift to Mia's village, and this becomes the inciting incident that sends Mia and her pygmy water ferret named Francis, on a quest. For the first time in her life, and against everything she's been taught, she leaves the village. Her experiences beyond the village are surreal, beautiful, frightening, breathtaking.
Every aspect of her journey is captured in the artwork that fills each page right to the edges. The illustrations are astounding, filled in turn with wonder, sparkle, shadows, gloom, joy, mystery and hope.
An interesting style choice appears in many of the illustrations; people, including Mia, are represented in a simple style, flat and less realistic, overlaid on the complex artwork . I thought this was a brave choice. For me, it highlights the separation between humanity and nature. See what you think and make your own interpretation.
Take time at each turn of the page to immerse yourself in what Mia's experiencing. I lost track of time while reading and savoring the artwork, to the point of being startled when the real world suddenly intruded.
As for the story being told... my advice is to take it personally. There's interpretations waiting to be discovered, and your personal viewpoint will make the story your own. What might life be like beyond our own familiar boundaries? What are our responsibilities to our families, ourselves, our world, the universe?
A note about the text. Each page has a small amount of it, enough to move the story forward and let you know what's going on. The text has the challenge of sharing space with the artwork, not an easy task. The formatting works well on pages with dark art, but not so well on lighter pages. A little patience is needed.
My thanks to author Jack Ruedisueli, Collective Ink Limited, and NetGalley for allowing me to read a digital advance review copy of this book. This review is my honest and unbiased opinion.
May 16, 2026
Thank you to Collective Ink for an ARC of this book. All opinions and thoughts are my own.
When I saw that this graphic novel was marketed “for fans of Studio Ghibli (think Spirited Away meets My Neighbor Totoro) and ancient mythology enthusiasts” I knew I had to give it a try. As someone whose apartment is decorated with Studio Ghibli memorabilia and loves ancient mythology, I went into this with high hopes. However, after reading this, I wouldn’t call this a graphic novel. It reminded me of a picture book with the background/photo taking up 90% of the page and a couple sentences off to the side to narrate the story. I have no issue with this format, but I wouldn’t personally consider it a graphic novel.
To begin, undoubtedly the art is breathtakingly gorgeous. My favorite parts are the backgrounds that really give you that fantasy/mythical vibe that immerses you in the story. However, I noticed that the characters and closer illustrations were a completely different art style. I almost wonder if there were two different artists: one for the backgrounds and one for the zoomed in/people elements. The art styles unfortunately clashed for me, especially side by side. The characters were very flat and lacked the detail the background provided. Juxtaposed like that, it took away the individual beauty from both of them.
Additionally, the text is difficult to read. It is white text with a black/grey outline behind each word. When the background picture was light, it worked okay. However, when there was a darker background, it made it hard on the eyes to really enjoy what I was reading, and most of the book contains darker backgrounds.
To get into the story, Mia’s quest as she aims to discover herself and her own meaning in life was a journey to read. The descriptions were surprisingly deeper than I expected, since I thought the art would carry most of the emotions.
“This was no ordinary storm – it carried within it a presence that gripped the soul, a heaviness in the air that made every breath feel stolen.”
That being said, I didn’t feel connected to the story or the characters unfortunately. Even if I was reading this as a teen, I don’t think I would’ve enjoyed it. Despite some beautiful language like the quote above, the whole story felt very surface level and the impact seemed to pass over my head. I am sure there are people who would love this book, but unfortunately this one was not for me.
When I saw that this graphic novel was marketed “for fans of Studio Ghibli (think Spirited Away meets My Neighbor Totoro) and ancient mythology enthusiasts” I knew I had to give it a try. As someone whose apartment is decorated with Studio Ghibli memorabilia and loves ancient mythology, I went into this with high hopes. However, after reading this, I wouldn’t call this a graphic novel. It reminded me of a picture book with the background/photo taking up 90% of the page and a couple sentences off to the side to narrate the story. I have no issue with this format, but I wouldn’t personally consider it a graphic novel.
To begin, undoubtedly the art is breathtakingly gorgeous. My favorite parts are the backgrounds that really give you that fantasy/mythical vibe that immerses you in the story. However, I noticed that the characters and closer illustrations were a completely different art style. I almost wonder if there were two different artists: one for the backgrounds and one for the zoomed in/people elements. The art styles unfortunately clashed for me, especially side by side. The characters were very flat and lacked the detail the background provided. Juxtaposed like that, it took away the individual beauty from both of them.
Additionally, the text is difficult to read. It is white text with a black/grey outline behind each word. When the background picture was light, it worked okay. However, when there was a darker background, it made it hard on the eyes to really enjoy what I was reading, and most of the book contains darker backgrounds.
To get into the story, Mia’s quest as she aims to discover herself and her own meaning in life was a journey to read. The descriptions were surprisingly deeper than I expected, since I thought the art would carry most of the emotions.
“This was no ordinary storm – it carried within it a presence that gripped the soul, a heaviness in the air that made every breath feel stolen.”
That being said, I didn’t feel connected to the story or the characters unfortunately. Even if I was reading this as a teen, I don’t think I would’ve enjoyed it. Despite some beautiful language like the quote above, the whole story felt very surface level and the impact seemed to pass over my head. I am sure there are people who would love this book, but unfortunately this one was not for me.
May 14, 2026
I received a review copy of this book and would like to thank CollectiveInk for getting in touch.
Jack Ruedisueli lovingly crafted a story that artistically feels like a combination of a Studio Ghibli film and an original Grant Morrison creation.
This story sees our main character Mia and her giant pet ferret travel deep within a mountain to find the spirit to lift a curse on the village.
This is one of those stories that is all about the journey over the destination. It was a wild ride for the eyes the entire way through and I was finding myself thinking how much creativity and imagination does Jack have? Then I turn the page to see my question instantly answered.
Given it's simplistic story telling, I'd say that the main audience of this book is young teens. But with that in mind, it felt light and whimsical to read with deep moral monologues in the final arc.
There are no panels as such and this is not the standard dimensions of a typical graphic novel. Each 2-page spread is one large piece of art drawn to convey what is currently being said or what has just been said on the previous page. It felt nice to take my time on each page; read the text, look at the stunning image, repeat.
The only criticism I have is slightly jarring art styles between the environments and the character designs. A wonderful, vivid background with 2D characters with flat colours sometimes felt distracting when larger on the page.
A great first entry into a budding creator's portfolio. I hope to see more of his work in the future.
Jack Ruedisueli lovingly crafted a story that artistically feels like a combination of a Studio Ghibli film and an original Grant Morrison creation.
This story sees our main character Mia and her giant pet ferret travel deep within a mountain to find the spirit to lift a curse on the village.
This is one of those stories that is all about the journey over the destination. It was a wild ride for the eyes the entire way through and I was finding myself thinking how much creativity and imagination does Jack have? Then I turn the page to see my question instantly answered.
Given it's simplistic story telling, I'd say that the main audience of this book is young teens. But with that in mind, it felt light and whimsical to read with deep moral monologues in the final arc.
There are no panels as such and this is not the standard dimensions of a typical graphic novel. Each 2-page spread is one large piece of art drawn to convey what is currently being said or what has just been said on the previous page. It felt nice to take my time on each page; read the text, look at the stunning image, repeat.
The only criticism I have is slightly jarring art styles between the environments and the character designs. A wonderful, vivid background with 2D characters with flat colours sometimes felt distracting when larger on the page.
A great first entry into a budding creator's portfolio. I hope to see more of his work in the future.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Thank you to Our Street Books for the review copy in exchange for an honest review. This does not change my opinion in anyway.
I was offered Mysteries of the Mountain Moon Tribe through email. It was sold as a YA graphic novel for fans of Studio Ghibli. Unfortunately it did not live up to that.
Lets start with the the art and format. The book is not set-up as the classic graphic novel with panels. Every page has one full illustration and every spread has a bit of text to go with it. The background scenes are stunning like the cover. However it is over-edited in places where it does not feel like this story is taking place in a real world but rather in a dream. But that isn't the case. Even more though, the art of the characters and the art of the background scenes do not share the same skill level. It looks like a different person did them. The characters aren't very solid or consistent in the drawings.
As for the story, this is being narrated by our main character. The interactions with others she has is not direct. Our main character is telling a story and so it is a they said she said text that goes along with the images. This doesn't really work because the story telling is heavy handed and while it tries to be, not whimsical.
All in all I found this graphic novel somewhat dissapointed.
I was offered Mysteries of the Mountain Moon Tribe through email. It was sold as a YA graphic novel for fans of Studio Ghibli. Unfortunately it did not live up to that.
Lets start with the the art and format. The book is not set-up as the classic graphic novel with panels. Every page has one full illustration and every spread has a bit of text to go with it. The background scenes are stunning like the cover. However it is over-edited in places where it does not feel like this story is taking place in a real world but rather in a dream. But that isn't the case. Even more though, the art of the characters and the art of the background scenes do not share the same skill level. It looks like a different person did them. The characters aren't very solid or consistent in the drawings.
As for the story, this is being narrated by our main character. The interactions with others she has is not direct. Our main character is telling a story and so it is a they said she said text that goes along with the images. This doesn't really work because the story telling is heavy handed and while it tries to be, not whimsical.
All in all I found this graphic novel somewhat dissapointed.
May 13, 2026
MYSTERIES OF THE MOUNTAIN MOON TRIBE - JACK RUEDISUELI
I started reading the digital ARC of this but when the print version arrived at my door, my whole experience changed dramatically. Mysteries of the Mountain Moon Tribe is described as a graphic novel, but I experienced it more like a picture book, where there are two-page spreads of the most beautiful, otherworldly art accompanied by small paragraphs of text.
When her tribe becomes endangered, Mia and the cutest sidekick, a water ferret called Francis, go on a journey to appeal to the spirit of their mountain realm. On the way she encounters fantastical creatures, broken sculptures and colossal ruins - and all of these contradict the stories she was told by her elders.
This is a coming-of-age tale, but it's full of comforting words for anyone going through their own struggles. The artwork is truly stunning, and I could immediately see why this book is described as having Studio Ghibli vibes. But more than that, I feel like it's also a comfort read about finding your own path and overcoming difficult situations. I'd highly recommend it.
Thank you to Jack Ruedisueli, Collective Ink Fiction and Colored Pages Book Tours for the chance to read this book and be part of the tour!
I started reading the digital ARC of this but when the print version arrived at my door, my whole experience changed dramatically. Mysteries of the Mountain Moon Tribe is described as a graphic novel, but I experienced it more like a picture book, where there are two-page spreads of the most beautiful, otherworldly art accompanied by small paragraphs of text.
When her tribe becomes endangered, Mia and the cutest sidekick, a water ferret called Francis, go on a journey to appeal to the spirit of their mountain realm. On the way she encounters fantastical creatures, broken sculptures and colossal ruins - and all of these contradict the stories she was told by her elders.
This is a coming-of-age tale, but it's full of comforting words for anyone going through their own struggles. The artwork is truly stunning, and I could immediately see why this book is described as having Studio Ghibli vibes. But more than that, I feel like it's also a comfort read about finding your own path and overcoming difficult situations. I'd highly recommend it.
Thank you to Jack Ruedisueli, Collective Ink Fiction and Colored Pages Book Tours for the chance to read this book and be part of the tour!
May 15, 2026
An advance copy of this book was provided to me for free by the publisher.
Mysteries of the Mountain Moon Tribe is both an epic adventure and an intimate portrait as Mia embarks on a quest to save her community and discovers secrets about their way of life.
The visuals for this graphic novel are truly stunning! They beautifully capture the fantastical world beyond the borders of Mia's village as she travels into the unknown. I was frequently awed by the depictions of her world and by how Ruedisueli brings the emotional core of Mia's story to life. The contrast in visual styles between the background and Mia and her loyal water ferret, Francis, allowed each element to complement the other.
Mia's story was touching, and I enjoyed following along on her journey as she grappled with wanting to help her community and a longing to explore the unknown. Ruedisueli leveraged poignant prose that keeps you invested in her quest and personal growth.
✨ If you are looking for a visually stunning, reflective adventure, Mysteries of the Mountain Moon Tribe should be on your reading list.
Star Rating: 3.5 (Rounded up due to limitations on this platform)
Mysteries of the Mountain Moon Tribe is both an epic adventure and an intimate portrait as Mia embarks on a quest to save her community and discovers secrets about their way of life.
The visuals for this graphic novel are truly stunning! They beautifully capture the fantastical world beyond the borders of Mia's village as she travels into the unknown. I was frequently awed by the depictions of her world and by how Ruedisueli brings the emotional core of Mia's story to life. The contrast in visual styles between the background and Mia and her loyal water ferret, Francis, allowed each element to complement the other.
Mia's story was touching, and I enjoyed following along on her journey as she grappled with wanting to help her community and a longing to explore the unknown. Ruedisueli leveraged poignant prose that keeps you invested in her quest and personal growth.
✨ If you are looking for a visually stunning, reflective adventure, Mysteries of the Mountain Moon Tribe should be on your reading list.
Star Rating: 3.5 (Rounded up due to limitations on this platform)
May 17, 2026
The artwork was really the star here. Glowing colors, dreamlike landscapes, giant creatures, full page spreads that just pull you in completely. Really atmospheric and imaginative stuff. Although I will admit, there was two distinct styles of artwork, and the more simplistic character work over laid over top of the magical backgrounds was a little jarring to me.
I also struggled to connect with the story itself. It felt like the visuals were doing most of the heavy lifting and the story felt unpolished and didn’t quite keep up. I also couldn’t get past the typography…and I say this as a designer…it felt really out of place against such gorgeous artwork. Like someone dropped a Word text box onto a painting.
If you’re someone who reads for atmosphere and visual storytelling this one will probably really work for you. For me personally I needed a little more from the story to go with it.
But I could totally see this being read aloud to children. I think it would work in that context.
I also struggled to connect with the story itself. It felt like the visuals were doing most of the heavy lifting and the story felt unpolished and didn’t quite keep up. I also couldn’t get past the typography…and I say this as a designer…it felt really out of place against such gorgeous artwork. Like someone dropped a Word text box onto a painting.
If you’re someone who reads for atmosphere and visual storytelling this one will probably really work for you. For me personally I needed a little more from the story to go with it.
But I could totally see this being read aloud to children. I think it would work in that context.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Thank you to NetGalley and Collective Ink Limited for a Digital copy of this in exchange for my review!
This "graphic novel" had promise but was not really what I was expecting. It is not really a graphic novel, it is more like pages of scenic art with overlayed bits of text in the corner. Unfortunately, a lot of the words were overlayed each other and barley understandable. This might be fixed in the print copies, or in finalized digital copies. The art itself was beautiful, but then the art of the character was a very different cartoonish style that seemed odd with the different textures of the backgrounds. I found it hard to connect with the characters or the story from what I could understand. I am not quite sure who it was trying to appeal to, but this didn't end up appealing to me.
This "graphic novel" had promise but was not really what I was expecting. It is not really a graphic novel, it is more like pages of scenic art with overlayed bits of text in the corner. Unfortunately, a lot of the words were overlayed each other and barley understandable. This might be fixed in the print copies, or in finalized digital copies. The art itself was beautiful, but then the art of the character was a very different cartoonish style that seemed odd with the different textures of the backgrounds. I found it hard to connect with the characters or the story from what I could understand. I am not quite sure who it was trying to appeal to, but this didn't end up appealing to me.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
To say this book is stunning is an understatement.
It glows right off the page with how the light is illustrated and I cannot get over the beauty. I’ll be thinking about this one for a long time.
I really enjoyed the story. We follow Mia of the Mountain Moon Tribe and her loyal ferret Francis on their quest to save everyone. Along the way, Mia encounters wonders beyond her wildest imagination, challenging everything she was taught to believe.
It was fun trying to find Mia & Francis on many of the pages as they are often tiny within the grand scenes.
Mysteries of the Mountain Moon Tribe gave me vibes like Studio Ghibli, Atlantis The Lost Empire, Avatar The Last Airbender and Horizon Zero Dawn.
Thank you to NetGalley, Collective Ink Limited and Jack Ruedisueli for this eARC!
It glows right off the page with how the light is illustrated and I cannot get over the beauty. I’ll be thinking about this one for a long time.
I really enjoyed the story. We follow Mia of the Mountain Moon Tribe and her loyal ferret Francis on their quest to save everyone. Along the way, Mia encounters wonders beyond her wildest imagination, challenging everything she was taught to believe.
It was fun trying to find Mia & Francis on many of the pages as they are often tiny within the grand scenes.
Mysteries of the Mountain Moon Tribe gave me vibes like Studio Ghibli, Atlantis The Lost Empire, Avatar The Last Airbender and Horizon Zero Dawn.
Thank you to NetGalley, Collective Ink Limited and Jack Ruedisueli for this eARC!
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
*I received an advanced reader copy (ARC) via Netgalley in exchange for my fair and honest review*
This graphic novel was just not it for me. The background art was gorgeous and made me so excited. Then the character art came in and it looked sloppy, almost like a completely different artist had done it, which made every appearance jarring. Add to that the issues with the typeface; the font was too small, the color was a bad contrast with the art, and every single page had multiple instances of overlap, making the whole thing almost impossible to read. Even if they do fix the typeface issues, I don't think I would recommend this graphic novel.
This graphic novel was just not it for me. The background art was gorgeous and made me so excited. Then the character art came in and it looked sloppy, almost like a completely different artist had done it, which made every appearance jarring. Add to that the issues with the typeface; the font was too small, the color was a bad contrast with the art, and every single page had multiple instances of overlap, making the whole thing almost impossible to read. Even if they do fix the typeface issues, I don't think I would recommend this graphic novel.
May 19, 2026
"Betrayal is the ghost of past mistakes, haunting the corners of our memories."
In the deep mountains - Mia is the child elder, first of her generation who bears the responsibility to guide her tribe. Brimming with curiosity, she ventures into forbidden lands.
MYSTERIES is an adventurous tale à la Ghibli - pulsing raw connection with the harmonious nature that has its own rhythm, there's a mysterious world building populated by ancient spirits, mythical creatures and ethereal vibes. Mia and her companion (the loyal water ferret) are captivating and in this straightforward plot, I marveled at the stunning art. The story takes its time to unfold the secrets and magic, allowing one to meditate on isolation, loneliness, obsession, fate and freedom through the details of the breathtaking beauty and chaos. With lyrical prose, the cartoonish character art contrasts with the exquisite scenery and, while amplifying the nature of their essence, the opposite texture might not work for everyone.
This is a cinematic, dark and eccentric YA graphic novel that I would recommend for those wanting Ghibli vibes.
[ I received a complimentary copy from the publisher/tour. All opinions are my own ]
In the deep mountains - Mia is the child elder, first of her generation who bears the responsibility to guide her tribe. Brimming with curiosity, she ventures into forbidden lands.
MYSTERIES is an adventurous tale à la Ghibli - pulsing raw connection with the harmonious nature that has its own rhythm, there's a mysterious world building populated by ancient spirits, mythical creatures and ethereal vibes. Mia and her companion (the loyal water ferret) are captivating and in this straightforward plot, I marveled at the stunning art. The story takes its time to unfold the secrets and magic, allowing one to meditate on isolation, loneliness, obsession, fate and freedom through the details of the breathtaking beauty and chaos. With lyrical prose, the cartoonish character art contrasts with the exquisite scenery and, while amplifying the nature of their essence, the opposite texture might not work for everyone.
This is a cinematic, dark and eccentric YA graphic novel that I would recommend for those wanting Ghibli vibes.
[ I received a complimentary copy from the publisher/tour. All opinions are my own ]
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
**Thank you to Our Street Books & NetGalley for the ARC; all opinions are my own.**
3.25 ⭐️
This graphic novel has some beautiful illustrations, but while it was sold to me as a Studio Ghibli-esque adventure, I was a bit let down.
The story is told more in picture book format- there's an illustration and then words are placed on top of it. The MC, Mia, is the one telling the story, but it's just that: telling. It did sort of give me video game vibes where the back story is being told before the gameplay starts. It was interesting, I'm not mad about it, but I'm not enthused either.
3.25 ⭐️
This graphic novel has some beautiful illustrations, but while it was sold to me as a Studio Ghibli-esque adventure, I was a bit let down.
The story is told more in picture book format- there's an illustration and then words are placed on top of it. The MC, Mia, is the one telling the story, but it's just that: telling. It did sort of give me video game vibes where the back story is being told before the gameplay starts. It was interesting, I'm not mad about it, but I'm not enthused either.
May 17, 2026
👧🏻 review: It is a dark dystopian fantasy graphic novel based on Mia’s challenges, struggles and determination. This book is quite ominous because it certainly feels like doomsday is coming soon. The what-ifs, can-I or maybe-me will have an impact on your life and possibly future?!? I really enjoyed this graphic novel and the dark-artistic pages of gorgeous illustrations absolutely captured my imagination. The sci-fi-ish style definitely didn’t disappoint too. After reading I was thinking of David Almond’s books because this has a little of the similarities.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
With thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for the advance copy.
This is a very uneven book. Gorgeous spreads and landscapes, very flat character art. Big cosmomagical story, tiny tiny text. It kind of felt like I was reading a point and click video game.
This is a very uneven book. Gorgeous spreads and landscapes, very flat character art. Big cosmomagical story, tiny tiny text. It kind of felt like I was reading a point and click video game.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
May 18, 2026
Stunning graphic novel, suitable for adult and young-adult readers too. Would make a fabulous gift for anyone who enjoys anime / manga illustration. A truly special book
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Amazing read!!! The storyline is so interesting!!! The curiosity to know about what out there. The world building, the characters they all are soooo unique!! The art is sooooo amazingly beautiful!!! The mythical monsters are beautiful!!! I love this book so much!! I spent so much time on admiring the beautiful art!!
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Thank you to the publisher and netgalley for giving me the opportunity to read this amazing book~
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Thank you to the publisher and netgalley for giving me the opportunity to read this amazing book~
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
Tysm to Our Street Books and Collective Ink Books for the eARC! All thoughts and opinions are my own.
If I could transport myself into any fantasy world, I might just pick this one. There may be some trials and challenges to face, but we'll work around that. It's too beautiful to pass up the opportunity!
This was an absolutely gorgeous read, and the level of detail is jaw-dropping. If you're a fan of Ghibli films, like My Neighbor Totoro or Spirited Away, I guarantee this will scratch that itch. Thoroughly enjoyed this read *insert heart eyes*
If I could transport myself into any fantasy world, I might just pick this one. There may be some trials and challenges to face, but we'll work around that. It's too beautiful to pass up the opportunity!
This was an absolutely gorgeous read, and the level of detail is jaw-dropping. If you're a fan of Ghibli films, like My Neighbor Totoro or Spirited Away, I guarantee this will scratch that itch. Thoroughly enjoyed this read *insert heart eyes*
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