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Wingbearer #2
Wingborn
From New York Times bestselling author Marjorie Liu comes the spectacular sequel to Wingbearer, the IndieBound and Publishers Weekly bestselling graphic novel that the New York Times Book Review called “wondrously constructed.”
Zuli's world was just turned upside down by the Witch-Queen, but she’s still determined to find out what’s happening to the spirits of her bird friends. Armed with new information about her identity, she mounts a daring escape from a merchant airship and takes off with Frowly and Orien by her side.
However, the more she tries to solve the mysteries swirling around her friends and herself, the more she’s drawn to legends about the mysterious Siric, who have long since disappeared. Zuli might be prepared to take on new challenges, but is she prepared to go further than she’s ever gone before in her effort to fix the world’s broken magic?
This is the second of four books in the #1 IndieBound bestselling Wingbearer saga.
Zuli's world was just turned upside down by the Witch-Queen, but she’s still determined to find out what’s happening to the spirits of her bird friends. Armed with new information about her identity, she mounts a daring escape from a merchant airship and takes off with Frowly and Orien by her side.
However, the more she tries to solve the mysteries swirling around her friends and herself, the more she’s drawn to legends about the mysterious Siric, who have long since disappeared. Zuli might be prepared to take on new challenges, but is she prepared to go further than she’s ever gone before in her effort to fix the world’s broken magic?
This is the second of four books in the #1 IndieBound bestselling Wingbearer saga.
256 pages, Paperback
First published October 1, 2024
26 people are currently reading
3000 people want to read
About the author
Marjorie M. Liu
322 books4,297 followersNew York Times bestselling and award-winning writer Marjorie Liu is best known for her fiction and comic books. She teaches comic book writing at MIT, and she leads a class on Popular Fiction at the Voices of Our Nation (VONA) workshop.
Ms. Liu is a highly celebrated comic book writer. Her extensive work with Marvel includes the bestselling Dark Wolverine series, NYX: No Way Home, X-23, and Black Widow: The Name of the Rose. She received national media attention for Astonishing X-Men, which featured the gay wedding of X-Man Northstar and was subsequently nominated for a GLAAD Media Award for outstanding media images of the lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender community. Ms. Liu also wrote the story for the animated film, Avengers Confidential: Black Widow and Punisher, which was produced by Marvel, Sony Pictures Entertainment (Japan) Inc., and Madhouse Inc.
Her newest work is MONSTRESS, an original, creator-owned comic book series with Japanese artist (and X-23 collaborator) Sana Takeda. Published by Image in Fall 2015, MONSTRESS is set in an alternate, matriarchal 1920’s Asia and follows a girl’s struggle to survive the trauma of war. With a cast of girls and monsters and set against a richly imagined aesthetic of art deco-inflected steam punk, MONSTRESS #1 debuted to critical praise. The Hollywood Reporter remarked that the longer than typical first issue was “world-building on a scale rare in mainstream comics.”
Ms. Liu is also the author of more than 19 novels, most notably the urban fantasy series, Hunter Kiss, and the paranormal romance series, Dirk & Steele. Her novels have also been bestsellers on USA Today, which described Liu “as imaginative as she is prolific.” Her critically praised fiction has twice received the Romantic Times Reviewers’ Choice Award, for THE MORTAL BONE (Hunter Kiss #6), and TIGER EYE (Dirk & Steele #1). TIGER EYE was the basis for a bestselling paranormal romance video game called Tiger Eye: Curse of the Riddle Box.
Liu has appeared on MSNBC, CNN, MTV, and been profiled in the Wall Street Journal.com, Hollywood Reporter, and USA Today. She is a frequent lecturer and guest speaker, appearing on panels at San Diego Comic Con, the Tokyo Literary Festival, the New York Times Public Lecture series, Geeks Out; and the Asian American Writers Workshop. Her work has been published internationally, including Germany, France, Japan, Poland, and the United Kingdom.
Ms. Liu was born in Philadelphia, and has lived in numerous cities in the Midwest and Beijing. Prior to writing full-time, she was a lawyer. She currently resides in Boston.
Ms. Liu is a highly celebrated comic book writer. Her extensive work with Marvel includes the bestselling Dark Wolverine series, NYX: No Way Home, X-23, and Black Widow: The Name of the Rose. She received national media attention for Astonishing X-Men, which featured the gay wedding of X-Man Northstar and was subsequently nominated for a GLAAD Media Award for outstanding media images of the lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender community. Ms. Liu also wrote the story for the animated film, Avengers Confidential: Black Widow and Punisher, which was produced by Marvel, Sony Pictures Entertainment (Japan) Inc., and Madhouse Inc.
Her newest work is MONSTRESS, an original, creator-owned comic book series with Japanese artist (and X-23 collaborator) Sana Takeda. Published by Image in Fall 2015, MONSTRESS is set in an alternate, matriarchal 1920’s Asia and follows a girl’s struggle to survive the trauma of war. With a cast of girls and monsters and set against a richly imagined aesthetic of art deco-inflected steam punk, MONSTRESS #1 debuted to critical praise. The Hollywood Reporter remarked that the longer than typical first issue was “world-building on a scale rare in mainstream comics.”
Ms. Liu is also the author of more than 19 novels, most notably the urban fantasy series, Hunter Kiss, and the paranormal romance series, Dirk & Steele. Her novels have also been bestsellers on USA Today, which described Liu “as imaginative as she is prolific.” Her critically praised fiction has twice received the Romantic Times Reviewers’ Choice Award, for THE MORTAL BONE (Hunter Kiss #6), and TIGER EYE (Dirk & Steele #1). TIGER EYE was the basis for a bestselling paranormal romance video game called Tiger Eye: Curse of the Riddle Box.
Liu has appeared on MSNBC, CNN, MTV, and been profiled in the Wall Street Journal.com, Hollywood Reporter, and USA Today. She is a frequent lecturer and guest speaker, appearing on panels at San Diego Comic Con, the Tokyo Literary Festival, the New York Times Public Lecture series, Geeks Out; and the Asian American Writers Workshop. Her work has been published internationally, including Germany, France, Japan, Poland, and the United Kingdom.
Ms. Liu was born in Philadelphia, and has lived in numerous cities in the Midwest and Beijing. Prior to writing full-time, she was a lawyer. She currently resides in Boston.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 72 reviews
December 26, 2025
Still love the story! I like the art as well but I don’t like that they changed illustrator om the middle of it so it’s all a bit different
did-not-finish
November 6, 2024DNF page 125.
I DNF'd a graphic novel? Yes. Listen, it was so boring! Not nearly as good as the first one.
I DNF'd a graphic novel? Yes. Listen, it was so boring! Not nearly as good as the first one.
December 16, 2024
Too many side characters joining Zuli and Orien and too much dialogue made it hard to track and stay involved in the story.
May 26, 2025
So, is there going to be a third book? Because I need one as soon as possible. It can’t end like this.
July 8, 2025
Bummed about this. The first book was SO GOOD and this story just got so bogged down. Too many characters and way too much dialogue. The story was legit hard to follow both conceptually but also practically as the panels on each page had so many text boxes and it wasn’t always clear which order you were to read them in. The artwork is stunning and I do love the original story and characters. This book 2 just lacked something and unfortunately got a bit boring because I couldn’t quite get into it.
September 18, 2024
3.5/5 Thank you to Quill Tree Books and Netgalley for my E-ARC!
This is book 2 in the Wingbearer series, a beautifully illustrated and heartwarming middle grade fantasy graphic novel series. We are still following Zuli, Orien, and Frowly on their quest to save the souls of birds (and possibly other souls too). We have a different illustrator this time around, and while I prefer Teny's art style, Grace does a great job as well! The art is still absolutely lovely, the characters are endearing, the found family is sweet, and the world building is way cool!
My only gripe about this intallment is the plot; it's both meandering and chaotic at the same time which is an odd combination. There is a lot of capture and escape over and over again, friends become enemies become friends again, the villain is a hero but then a villain again. It's all very confusing and felt like the author couldn't decide on which path to take so decided to icorporate a lot of different storylines that in the end just didn't feel cohesive. It's still a lovely series and I plan to read the next book when it comes out.
This is book 2 in the Wingbearer series, a beautifully illustrated and heartwarming middle grade fantasy graphic novel series. We are still following Zuli, Orien, and Frowly on their quest to save the souls of birds (and possibly other souls too). We have a different illustrator this time around, and while I prefer Teny's art style, Grace does a great job as well! The art is still absolutely lovely, the characters are endearing, the found family is sweet, and the world building is way cool!
My only gripe about this intallment is the plot; it's both meandering and chaotic at the same time which is an odd combination. There is a lot of capture and escape over and over again, friends become enemies become friends again, the villain is a hero but then a villain again. It's all very confusing and felt like the author couldn't decide on which path to take so decided to icorporate a lot of different storylines that in the end just didn't feel cohesive. It's still a lovely series and I plan to read the next book when it comes out.
November 25, 2024
Right into the second volume, this series continues to follow Zuli and her friends once more in the world of Wingbearer. A world of magic and mayhem. Zuli’s world is forever changed after she learns who the witch queen really is. With her friends Orien and Frowly by her side, the trio meets allies and enemies as they dwell in the mysteries surrounding them. Legends and myths swirl around Zuli, and with dark secrets and darker magics, can she save her world before it’s too late?
Absolutely stunning of a second volume in a series. This graphic novel ventures into the unknown with different sights and sounds for our current trio. Zuli questions her background as she wonders about her spirit bird friends, and the truth behind her questions mounts until they all break free. Zuli is a free-spirited young girl, ready for more adventure down the road alongside her close friends.
Absolutely stunning of a second volume in a series. This graphic novel ventures into the unknown with different sights and sounds for our current trio. Zuli questions her background as she wonders about her spirit bird friends, and the truth behind her questions mounts until they all break free. Zuli is a free-spirited young girl, ready for more adventure down the road alongside her close friends.
December 20, 2024
Artistic value good but like book one better.
Storyline drawn out and left another cliffhanger which makes me wonder when the mystery will be solved.
Ok
Storyline drawn out and left another cliffhanger which makes me wonder when the mystery will be solved.
Ok
February 24, 2025
less magical than its predecessor. the art is still beautiful, but the story (and the sheer number of larger speech bubbles) bogs it down.
October 20, 2024
First published on my Substack
Wingborn, I'm happy to say, is an enjoyable second act to what has been an imaginative exercise in middle-grade fantasy for the ever-talented Marjorie Liu. I was sent this one by Sparkerpoint Studio in return for a review. Their representative reached out to offer me copies of these, for which–thanks, Rylee!
A full sixty pages longer than *[[Wingbearer]]*, this second chapter in Zuli's adventure is a little darker, a little more grim than its predecessor, but just as resplendent with hope as the previous volume was. Zuli, Frowly, and Orien are caught in a series of unfortunate events: mistrusted, forced to run for their freedom from one supposed safe haven to the next, our characters are forced to reckon with the difficulty of their task. How do you save a world when that world refuses to believe what you know for a fact is real? How do you do the right thing when everyone in a position of authority stands against you? These are the questions *Wingborn* invites, and isn't that excellent for a middle-grade novel?
Kindness in the face of cruelty continues to be Zuli's modus operandi, and it earns her no small amount of friends and trouble alike. The trouble is great, and treacherous: from haughty, conservative griffins who believe they know best despite being out of touch (sound familiar?) to a nebulous figure from Zuli's past who might well have our protagonist's best interests at heart, but is so filled with anger as to be blinded by it. But the friends...the friends rise up to all that trouble in such admirable ways. Zuli has gathered a coterie of friends from various cultures; her kindness has invited all of them to overlook their prejudices, and that makes for another delightful beat to what is middle-grade literature. Best of all, at no point have I come away from this graphic novel with the feeling that Liu is preaching--the moral lessons her work offers aren't intrusive in the least.
I was more than a little surprised to see that Teny Issakhanian has taken a step back and passed the baton to another artist, Grace Kum. Kum's art style is disparate enough to cause you some confusion if you're reading *Wingborn* straight after *Wingbearer* but if you read the first chapter of this journey in 2022 when it released, the transition might be easier. The characters, the world, they are recognizably the same, and the sense that I was looking at these storyboards for an animated feature continued to haunt me. That is almost to the book's detriment, at times: some backgrounds have so sketched a look they seem almost unfinished. It's a sought-after effect, I recognise that - but it doesn't quite work for me. However, the one- and two-page spreads here are absolutely gorgeous, no question about that.
If there's a complaint I can file, it would be that the cycle of capture and escape the characters go through might have played itself out by the end of *Wingborn*. There are only so many exciting ways to tell chase-and-escape scenes in a fantasy graphic novel with the same cast of characters.
Two *Wingbearer* graphic novels down, two more to go. I hope the wait isn't too long for the next part: excited to see how Zuli and her friends will get out of this latest situation they've found themselves in.
Wingborn, I'm happy to say, is an enjoyable second act to what has been an imaginative exercise in middle-grade fantasy for the ever-talented Marjorie Liu. I was sent this one by Sparkerpoint Studio in return for a review. Their representative reached out to offer me copies of these, for which–thanks, Rylee!
A full sixty pages longer than *[[Wingbearer]]*, this second chapter in Zuli's adventure is a little darker, a little more grim than its predecessor, but just as resplendent with hope as the previous volume was. Zuli, Frowly, and Orien are caught in a series of unfortunate events: mistrusted, forced to run for their freedom from one supposed safe haven to the next, our characters are forced to reckon with the difficulty of their task. How do you save a world when that world refuses to believe what you know for a fact is real? How do you do the right thing when everyone in a position of authority stands against you? These are the questions *Wingborn* invites, and isn't that excellent for a middle-grade novel?
Kindness in the face of cruelty continues to be Zuli's modus operandi, and it earns her no small amount of friends and trouble alike. The trouble is great, and treacherous: from haughty, conservative griffins who believe they know best despite being out of touch (sound familiar?) to a nebulous figure from Zuli's past who might well have our protagonist's best interests at heart, but is so filled with anger as to be blinded by it. But the friends...the friends rise up to all that trouble in such admirable ways. Zuli has gathered a coterie of friends from various cultures; her kindness has invited all of them to overlook their prejudices, and that makes for another delightful beat to what is middle-grade literature. Best of all, at no point have I come away from this graphic novel with the feeling that Liu is preaching--the moral lessons her work offers aren't intrusive in the least.
I was more than a little surprised to see that Teny Issakhanian has taken a step back and passed the baton to another artist, Grace Kum. Kum's art style is disparate enough to cause you some confusion if you're reading *Wingborn* straight after *Wingbearer* but if you read the first chapter of this journey in 2022 when it released, the transition might be easier. The characters, the world, they are recognizably the same, and the sense that I was looking at these storyboards for an animated feature continued to haunt me. That is almost to the book's detriment, at times: some backgrounds have so sketched a look they seem almost unfinished. It's a sought-after effect, I recognise that - but it doesn't quite work for me. However, the one- and two-page spreads here are absolutely gorgeous, no question about that.
If there's a complaint I can file, it would be that the cycle of capture and escape the characters go through might have played itself out by the end of *Wingborn*. There are only so many exciting ways to tell chase-and-escape scenes in a fantasy graphic novel with the same cast of characters.
Two *Wingbearer* graphic novels down, two more to go. I hope the wait isn't too long for the next part: excited to see how Zuli and her friends will get out of this latest situation they've found themselves in.
January 7, 2026
I love this series. I was nervous about the illustrator switch, but Grace Kum did an amazing job and each panel looked straight from an animation with gorgeous huge spreads. the effects and lighting are seriously gorgeous work. The first one had that gorgeous graphic comic look with clean colors and linework while this one looked a lot more dynamic in color and the lighting just pops. Both feel extremely polished and I wouldn't be able to choose one over the other <3
I think the narrative wasn't quite as strong in this one as in the first installment, but I still enjoyed our different settings and characters. I wasn't totally sure what role the guild was playing, but thought the captain and their ship mates were cool designs and interesting additions.
I loved the platonic relationship between Zila and Orien. The number of times that it emphasized Wow I'm so glad to have a friend like you etc was almost comical to me. But I love that he forced is way through that final door with her and is insisting on being her companion. We love a Ride or Die.
I love that none of these villains are really villains. They are opposition, but they ride the line between antagonist and ally at every turn. They all seem to kind of have the same goal, but no one is on the same page about how to get things done, or what the ultimate cause is, or what the priority is. I appreciate the societal nuance of this.
I really love the significance of wings in this story and how flight is an right that can be taken away out of disgrace. Those who don't fly are shamed, and yet they are some of the strongest characters who have learned to be resourceful and full of their own private dignity. I loved that Orien was willing to give up his wings to help Zila, but I TRULY hope he never has to. :( :( :(.
I really enjoyed all of the POV from Zara the witch queen in one. She comes off as both sympathetic, but also still very villainous because we see the world from Zila's perspective of kindness and hope rather than seeing dominion as the only option.
I am VERY excited to read the next installment of this story!
I think the narrative wasn't quite as strong in this one as in the first installment, but I still enjoyed our different settings and characters. I wasn't totally sure what role the guild was playing, but thought the captain and their ship mates were cool designs and interesting additions.
I loved the platonic relationship between Zila and Orien. The number of times that it emphasized Wow I'm so glad to have a friend like you etc was almost comical to me. But I love that he forced is way through that final door with her and is insisting on being her companion. We love a Ride or Die.
I love that none of these villains are really villains. They are opposition, but they ride the line between antagonist and ally at every turn. They all seem to kind of have the same goal, but no one is on the same page about how to get things done, or what the ultimate cause is, or what the priority is. I appreciate the societal nuance of this.
I really love the significance of wings in this story and how flight is an right that can be taken away out of disgrace. Those who don't fly are shamed, and yet they are some of the strongest characters who have learned to be resourceful and full of their own private dignity. I loved that Orien was willing to give up his wings to help Zila, but I TRULY hope he never has to. :( :( :(.
I really enjoyed all of the POV from Zara the witch queen in one. She comes off as both sympathetic, but also still very villainous because we see the world from Zila's perspective of kindness and hope rather than seeing dominion as the only option.
I am VERY excited to read the next installment of this story!
February 5, 2025
The saga continues in Wingborn, the latest installment in Marjorie Liu's captivating graphic novel series, beautifully illustrated by Grace Kum. This book brings us deeper into the mystery of what is happening to the world, offering some answers but leaving plenty of intrigue for the next volume. Readers will have to wait patiently for the full conclusion, but the journey so far is nothing short of breathtaking.
One of the standout aspects of Wingborn is its phenomenal artwork. Grace Kum’s illustrations bring an incredible depth of emotion to the story, making the characters' struggles, joys, and sorrows feel all the more real. From intense dramatic moments to lighthearted slapstick humour, the visuals enhance every beat of the narrative. Despite the darker undertones of the story, these moments of humour and warmth create a perfect balance, making the journey engaging and heartfelt.
The story is fast-paced and keeps readers on their toes, with each new development adding to the suspense and excitement. The emotional core is centred around Zuli and her deep love for every soul she encounters. This compassion sharply contrasts with her twin sister, Zara, whose path has led her toward bitterness and a belief that the world’s problems can only be solved through violence. Their stark differences, shaped by their separation and vastly different upbringings, create a compelling dynamic. As Zuli holds on to her belief in love as the answer, it remains to be seen whether she can maintain this conviction in the face of increasing challenges.
Wingborn is a thrilling, fast-paced continuation of an already stunning series, blending heart, humour, and high stakes in a world filled with magic and mystery. I can’t wait to see where the story goes next and whether Zuli’s ideals will stand the test of time. Fans of beautifully crafted graphic novels with rich storytelling will not want to miss this one.
One of the standout aspects of Wingborn is its phenomenal artwork. Grace Kum’s illustrations bring an incredible depth of emotion to the story, making the characters' struggles, joys, and sorrows feel all the more real. From intense dramatic moments to lighthearted slapstick humour, the visuals enhance every beat of the narrative. Despite the darker undertones of the story, these moments of humour and warmth create a perfect balance, making the journey engaging and heartfelt.
The story is fast-paced and keeps readers on their toes, with each new development adding to the suspense and excitement. The emotional core is centred around Zuli and her deep love for every soul she encounters. This compassion sharply contrasts with her twin sister, Zara, whose path has led her toward bitterness and a belief that the world’s problems can only be solved through violence. Their stark differences, shaped by their separation and vastly different upbringings, create a compelling dynamic. As Zuli holds on to her belief in love as the answer, it remains to be seen whether she can maintain this conviction in the face of increasing challenges.
Wingborn is a thrilling, fast-paced continuation of an already stunning series, blending heart, humour, and high stakes in a world filled with magic and mystery. I can’t wait to see where the story goes next and whether Zuli’s ideals will stand the test of time. Fans of beautifully crafted graphic novels with rich storytelling will not want to miss this one.
June 17, 2025
★★★★★ (5/5)
Okay, so maybe I suck at rating or maybe I'm just too easily pleased, but I don't care—this book absolutely gets 5 stars because when I love something, I love it loudly. And Wingborn was such a thrill to read.
From what I remember of the first book (which I read back in 2022 and is now a little foggy), this one felt heavier on plot, and there were a few moments where I was like, “Wait, what?”—but with a bit of rereading and thought, things started clicking into place. It’s one of those books where the deeper you go, the more rewarding it becomes.
The art? STUNNING. I literally had to pause while reading just to soak in the details of every panel. It’s honestly such a visual feast, and it enhances the emotional beats so beautifully.
And okay… I can’t be the only one rotting away over the tension between Orien and Zuli, right?? Their connection, the way they trust each other, how their bond has grown through every challenge—it’s giving so much. I felt the unspoken moments, the handholds, the subtle dialogue shifts. Like please, I need just a tiny hint of something romantic in the last book, and I’ll be on the floor. Once they grown up!? Okay sorry- Yes, I know I’m delulu—but it’s too late, I’m in deep and I love it here.
But seriously, when I spotted this book on the library shelf, I legit squealed. I had no idea it had come out, and it felt like fate. This series has such heart, adventure, and emotional pull—and even if my memory of book one is hazy, I’m absolutely planning a reread and a potential rating refresh. Until then, I’ll just be here, spiraling over Orien and Zuli <3
Okay, so maybe I suck at rating or maybe I'm just too easily pleased, but I don't care—this book absolutely gets 5 stars because when I love something, I love it loudly. And Wingborn was such a thrill to read.
From what I remember of the first book (which I read back in 2022 and is now a little foggy), this one felt heavier on plot, and there were a few moments where I was like, “Wait, what?”—but with a bit of rereading and thought, things started clicking into place. It’s one of those books where the deeper you go, the more rewarding it becomes.
The art? STUNNING. I literally had to pause while reading just to soak in the details of every panel. It’s honestly such a visual feast, and it enhances the emotional beats so beautifully.
And okay… I can’t be the only one rotting away over the tension between Orien and Zuli, right?? Their connection, the way they trust each other, how their bond has grown through every challenge—it’s giving so much. I felt the unspoken moments, the handholds, the subtle dialogue shifts. Like please, I need just a tiny hint of something romantic in the last book, and I’ll be on the floor. Once they grown up!? Okay sorry- Yes, I know I’m delulu—but it’s too late, I’m in deep and I love it here.
But seriously, when I spotted this book on the library shelf, I legit squealed. I had no idea it had come out, and it felt like fate. This series has such heart, adventure, and emotional pull—and even if my memory of book one is hazy, I’m absolutely planning a reread and a potential rating refresh. Until then, I’ll just be here, spiraling over Orien and Zuli <3
February 1, 2025
Liu’s sequel to Wingbearer is an exciting second book.
The book opens with Zuli, Frowly and Orien being held captive on a floating ship. Zuli hopes to escape and continue to search for the stolen bird souls, but now the trio may be released or possibly captured by a different group. As the trio move from escapes to new capturers they travel through several countries. Zuli tries to understand her ties to the Witch Queen, Zara. and the mysterious Siric.
Liu introduces an intriguing collection of new characters to the readers. Some provide clues to this world’s past. Zuli begins to learn bits and pieces of her past and that of the Witch Queen. The plot gets quite complex and moves very quickly. This is not a stand alone novel. I had to reread Wingbearer to make sense of the plot.
This graphic novel is illustrated by a different artist, Grace Kum. While the artwork is beautiful, I found that some panels are so dark that the illustration details are hard so see. This series is a wonderful example of middle grade graphic novels.
Fans of Wingbearer will love this sequel and be eagerly awaiting the next book. I Recommend this series for school and public libraries serving grades four through ten.
M.A.C.
Ret. School Librarian
The book opens with Zuli, Frowly and Orien being held captive on a floating ship. Zuli hopes to escape and continue to search for the stolen bird souls, but now the trio may be released or possibly captured by a different group. As the trio move from escapes to new capturers they travel through several countries. Zuli tries to understand her ties to the Witch Queen, Zara. and the mysterious Siric.
Liu introduces an intriguing collection of new characters to the readers. Some provide clues to this world’s past. Zuli begins to learn bits and pieces of her past and that of the Witch Queen. The plot gets quite complex and moves very quickly. This is not a stand alone novel. I had to reread Wingbearer to make sense of the plot.
This graphic novel is illustrated by a different artist, Grace Kum. While the artwork is beautiful, I found that some panels are so dark that the illustration details are hard so see. This series is a wonderful example of middle grade graphic novels.
Fans of Wingbearer will love this sequel and be eagerly awaiting the next book. I Recommend this series for school and public libraries serving grades four through ten.
M.A.C.
Ret. School Librarian
August 7, 2025
I'm so bummed that this edition of the Wingbearer saga didn't hold the same magic that the first one did. I was so excited for this when I saw the library had it. However, it was a bit of a mess.
1) There were way too many characters to keep track of.
2) Each character that was introduced represented a different set of ideals which were explored mostly through political conflict of factions and groups. This became very dull very quickly and was also so dense that it made my glaze over those parts of the story. Political infighting is not my jam.
3) The art was beautiful, as always. Yet, the speech bubbles were a lot of keep up with and were dense, covering most of the art on the page. It was often hard to figure out the order to read them and which panel needed to be read first.
Ultimately, I didn't leave the story feeling as blown away as I did when I read the first one and this edition didn't have the same spark the first one did. Still, I enjoyed returning to our main trio.
I am looking forward to future editions and hope to see some of the magic return.
1) There were way too many characters to keep track of.
2) Each character that was introduced represented a different set of ideals which were explored mostly through political conflict of factions and groups. This became very dull very quickly and was also so dense that it made my glaze over those parts of the story. Political infighting is not my jam.
3) The art was beautiful, as always. Yet, the speech bubbles were a lot of keep up with and were dense, covering most of the art on the page. It was often hard to figure out the order to read them and which panel needed to be read first.
Ultimately, I didn't leave the story feeling as blown away as I did when I read the first one and this edition didn't have the same spark the first one did. Still, I enjoyed returning to our main trio.
I am looking forward to future editions and hope to see some of the magic return.
November 8, 2024
Zuli and friends are now prisoners of the griffins, after learning that the Witch-Queen is actually Zuli’s sister. Zuli is still determined to save the souls of birds, though, so they escape onto a merchant airship, and then even further with help from a dragon. But the griffins are still after Zuli, because they believe she can help them stop the Witch-Queen from stealing the souls. But the Witch-Queen knows that it’s the long-lost Siric who are stealing the souls, and she wants Zuli and her magic to fight against them. But Zuli thinks there is a different way to save the souls and stop the Siric, one that doesn’t involve hurting others.
An excellent continuation to this mid-grade fantasy series. The world-building is excellent, the characters are very relatable, and there is lots of fun action. Only complaint is that there is so much happening, it’s sometimes hard to keep it all straight.
An excellent continuation to this mid-grade fantasy series. The world-building is excellent, the characters are very relatable, and there is lots of fun action. Only complaint is that there is so much happening, it’s sometimes hard to keep it all straight.
July 10, 2025
This book was a much different experience for me than the first.
It took me quite a while to get through as I found myself often becoming bored and setting it down, and/or confused by both the characters and the text. More so than in other graphic novels I’ve read, the text bubbles crisscrossed across one another, making it hard to determine who was saying what. The lines from the text bubbles to the characters are also often kinked or curlicued, adding to the confusion and interrupting the flow/pace of the story.
There were a number of pages where the zoomed out illustrations made it hard to tell who was on the page, and I found the griffins very hard to tell apart/keep track of.
While I appreciated new characters being added to help on Zuli‘s quest to save souls, it became a lot of characters & their motives to keep track of!
The art is beautiful, the storyline exciting, & the messages are great, but overall I didn’t enjoy reading this book, unfortunately :(
It took me quite a while to get through as I found myself often becoming bored and setting it down, and/or confused by both the characters and the text. More so than in other graphic novels I’ve read, the text bubbles crisscrossed across one another, making it hard to determine who was saying what. The lines from the text bubbles to the characters are also often kinked or curlicued, adding to the confusion and interrupting the flow/pace of the story.
There were a number of pages where the zoomed out illustrations made it hard to tell who was on the page, and I found the griffins very hard to tell apart/keep track of.
While I appreciated new characters being added to help on Zuli‘s quest to save souls, it became a lot of characters & their motives to keep track of!
The art is beautiful, the storyline exciting, & the messages are great, but overall I didn’t enjoy reading this book, unfortunately :(
August 16, 2025
So wingbearer was extremely strong and had some super creative ideas and I absolutely loved it!!!
Wingborn however does lose some of that strength…tho still super cute art style and neat ideas and a compelling story I found the second book to be extremely dense and harder to get threw
I found there to maybe be to much dialogue, having read many books in the same or similar genre I think it’s better to show instead of tell which unfortunately this book almost ONLY tells and never shows which is sad cuz it’ll trip over its self on occasion and get muddle up a tad.
I am not the target demographic that’s for sure I am much older then the intended audience and so I can’t only imagine how it would be a lot harder for someone younger to comprehend everything 100%
Regardless I’m still looking forward for another book hopefully and hoping to end on a strong point!!
Still some fantastic ideas!!
Wingborn however does lose some of that strength…tho still super cute art style and neat ideas and a compelling story I found the second book to be extremely dense and harder to get threw
I found there to maybe be to much dialogue, having read many books in the same or similar genre I think it’s better to show instead of tell which unfortunately this book almost ONLY tells and never shows which is sad cuz it’ll trip over its self on occasion and get muddle up a tad.
I am not the target demographic that’s for sure I am much older then the intended audience and so I can’t only imagine how it would be a lot harder for someone younger to comprehend everything 100%
Regardless I’m still looking forward for another book hopefully and hoping to end on a strong point!!
Still some fantastic ideas!!
October 4, 2024
I absolutely loved Wingbearer, the first book in this series, and Wingborn does not disappoint as a sequel. I cannot keep Wingbearer on the shelf in my library, and I am confident that Wingborn will be just as popular. The story of Zuli and her friends as they search to find out what’s happening to the bird spirits and solve the mysteries of her identity are rich and compelling. The illustrations are lush and atmospheric, depicting complex characters in a dazzling array of magical races. Everything about this gorgeous graphic novel makes me wish I had my own wings and could get lost in the world that Marjorie Liu and Grace Kum have created.
In addition, I shared this book with my 10-year-old daughter who is a voracious reader and adored Wingbearer. She emphatically gave it 5 stars, saying it was “Amazing! Amazing! Amazing!” I could not agree more.
In addition, I shared this book with my 10-year-old daughter who is a voracious reader and adored Wingbearer. She emphatically gave it 5 stars, saying it was “Amazing! Amazing! Amazing!” I could not agree more.
March 15, 2025
This story is so good! I love all the reveals and how much more of the crazy, imaginative world we are getting to explore!
Zuli is such a fun character; she is constantly doing things that seem, cynically, very foolish, but her ernest good intentions have a way of surprising goodness out people who would otherwise have been against her.
I must admit, I wasnt vibing as much with the illustrator on this one; I get that when you have a change like this, characters can be tough to personalize while maintaining continuity, but I found some of thenpage layouts to be non intuitive and also, there was a lot of darkness on some of the panels that made it difficult to decipher what was going on.
But really, the worst thing about this book is that Book 3 doesn't even have a release date yet! So who knows how long I'll be waiting...
Zuli is such a fun character; she is constantly doing things that seem, cynically, very foolish, but her ernest good intentions have a way of surprising goodness out people who would otherwise have been against her.
I must admit, I wasnt vibing as much with the illustrator on this one; I get that when you have a change like this, characters can be tough to personalize while maintaining continuity, but I found some of thenpage layouts to be non intuitive and also, there was a lot of darkness on some of the panels that made it difficult to decipher what was going on.
But really, the worst thing about this book is that Book 3 doesn't even have a release date yet! So who knows how long I'll be waiting...
December 19, 2025
Wingbearer was instantly one of my favourite graphic novels and I still loved it upon the reread. Sadly, the sequel has not lived up to the standard of the first volume. While I always struggle when the art style changes, here I really had trouble following the visual language. I didn't mind that the characters looked slightly different, but in many panels I just couldn't understand what was going on, the colours were murky, it took me too long to figure out who the speech bubbles belonged to. This is not the fault of the artist, there is an entire design team that should have done a better job. I also went into the story expecting it to conclude the story, which was my fault for not reading the blurb properly. I'm still intrigued by the story and want to learn more about the world, but I really hope the art will be better in the next volumes.
Read
October 14, 2024I lucked into a copy of this on Friday, but didn't have access to our library collection over the weekend, and I will say, this was hard to read without referring to the original installment. It's been a few years! A map and some quick definitions (who are the Siric again?) would have been really, really handy. The art is still stunning, however, and the world building both comforting (goblins and manticores!) and original, and though it took a while to pull it all together I did feel like I figured all the intersecting plots and alliances in the end. And what a jaw-dropping ending!
In other words, good stuff. Gorgeous and unusual and appealing, even though the story-telling could be a bit more clear. Or they could just add some ancillary materials for the sequel?
In other words, good stuff. Gorgeous and unusual and appealing, even though the story-telling could be a bit more clear. Or they could just add some ancillary materials for the sequel?
April 21, 2025
Make sure you’ve read the first in the series because this one jumps straight in without a recap. Zuli and her goblin friend Orien leap onto a trader ship to escape the Griffins. They are determined to travel North to find the cause of the missing souls. They find that other creatures are also affected with no new births in the last few years. Many blame the war mongering witch-queen. But Zuli doesn’t agree.
Good world building and themes of loyalty and courage.
I didn’t enjoy the illustrations as much as the first book. I was reading on a kobo and the desaturated colours were more difficult to see.
Still looking forward to the next instalment.
Good world building and themes of loyalty and courage.
I didn’t enjoy the illustrations as much as the first book. I was reading on a kobo and the desaturated colours were more difficult to see.
Still looking forward to the next instalment.
January 1, 2026
This one is okay, but it isn't the end, so I hope future installments will get back to some of the brilliance of #1. The artist did her best to recreate the original. I found it very difficult to see what was going on, which may have been the inker and colorist, not just the artist. Also, this script was filled with info dumps—way too much introduction to just ditch most of the stuff we learned in order to move the story forward. I felt like it got complex, but not layered. All in all, I would rather have re-read Wingbearer. There was one reveal waaaay near the end that made me very happy regarding one of the characters—VERY happy. So cool.
June 6, 2024
Thank you, HarperCollins Children's Books | Quill Tree Books and NetGalley for the early access! Here is my honest review!
Once again, this series delivers on the most beautiful, magical, creative, and diverse storytelling in a graphic novel.
The amount of mystical creatures and compelling yet complicated characters was done so well because people are not black and white morally -perpective matters, and that is proved especially between the sisters.
Once again, I highly recommend it!
Once again, this series delivers on the most beautiful, magical, creative, and diverse storytelling in a graphic novel.
The amount of mystical creatures and compelling yet complicated characters was done so well because people are not black and white morally -perpective matters, and that is proved especially between the sisters.
Once again, I highly recommend it!
July 10, 2024
I loved this book. I feel like this story was definitely shows that there is more than one way to deal with the problems that you face and not everyone will see what you see. This story showed this so well not only with how it was written but with the artwork and the characters that filled the story. I am glad I continued this series and I am excited to see where it goes from here.
** I received this book as an arc from NetGalley for review and read a digital copy of the book**
** I received this book as an arc from NetGalley for review and read a digital copy of the book**
September 9, 2025
Really disappointed in this sequel - Wingbearer was so wonderful and this one falls flat in so many ways. It was very difficult to pick up without revisiting the first book (you get thrown right back into the action). While the art is beautiful, there is just too much going on and the plot is very difficult to follow. Finally, it ends on a giant cliffhanger. Bah.
This series might be good to read all at once when it is complete. Until then, I'd say hold your (winged) horses.
This series might be good to read all at once when it is complete. Until then, I'd say hold your (winged) horses.
October 7, 2025
Really really love the plot and the world, that alone gives it 4 stars.
The art in this one just simply is not as good, rushed and not as crisp.
Second half got kinda convoluted.
So many new characters introduced in this one, was hard to keep them all straight.
Was much faster paced than the first book, which I think was not a good thing.
Really hope there's a third book, very interesting where this one left off.
The art in this one just simply is not as good, rushed and not as crisp.
Second half got kinda convoluted.
So many new characters introduced in this one, was hard to keep them all straight.
Was much faster paced than the first book, which I think was not a good thing.
Really hope there's a third book, very interesting where this one left off.
July 18, 2024
Thank you to the publisher for this free eARC! All opinions are my own.
Zuli and friends continue to try to find out why souls are not being reborn. They escape from one captor to be taken by another. Zuli's sister the Witch-Queen tries to get Zuli on her side by telling her about their past, but Zuli sees that she is too full of hate. Will Zuli find what she's looking for? #Edelweiss+
Zuli and friends continue to try to find out why souls are not being reborn. They escape from one captor to be taken by another. Zuli's sister the Witch-Queen tries to get Zuli on her side by telling her about their past, but Zuli sees that she is too full of hate. Will Zuli find what she's looking for? #Edelweiss+
July 30, 2024
Thank you HarperCollins Children's Books, Quill Tree Books, and NetGalley for the advanced electronic review copy of this fabulous book. This is a sequel to the Wingbearer series and it’s just as wonderful as the first one. Same great characters, nonstop action, adventure, magic, and gorgeous artwork. Can’t wait to see how the story continues!
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