Common Sense Media Review
By Lucinda Dyer
,
based on child development research. How do we rate?
Medieval girl power rules in this inspiring graphic novel.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 8+?
Any Positive Content?
Where to Read
Parent and Kid Reviews
What's the Story?
INK GIRLS begins as printer Maestra Aronne and her 11-year-old apprentice, Cinzia, are getting ready to publish an avvisi (pamphlet) that accuses Siannerra's Lord Magistrate of stealing money from merchants and guild members. It's a huge risk for them to accuse a powerful man, but Maestra Aronne tells Cinzia it's important to tell the truth even if it's scary. And it becomes very scary when she and Cinzia are arrested and taken to the palace, where they're accused of treason by the principessa. Cinzia manages to escape and finds an unexpected ally in the principessa's daughter, Elena. When Cinzia tells Elena what her uncle, the Lord Magistrate, has been doing, Elena decides to help Cinzia find proof that will back up Maestra Aronne's claims. Pursued by palace guards, the girls search the city for anyone who has evidence against Elena's uncle. They're lost and hungry when they meet Carlotta, who introduces herself as a pirate and offers them food and a place to stay. With help from Carlotta and Cinzia's friend Aneeqah, they finally have the evidence they need. But how can they let the city know what they've found, and can it save Maestra Aronne?
Is It Any Good?
A colorful plot that unfolds at a run, diverse characters, a bit of history, and important lessons about friendship and truth make for a fun and uplifting read. While the Ink Girls characters and storylines are designed for middle grade readers, the story also has mature themes about political censorship and the real dangers of speaking truth to power. Marieke Nijkamp's fast-paced story keeps readers engaged on every page, while Sylvia Bi's boldly colored illustrations bring medieval Italy and the memorable characters to vibrant life. Tweens on up who love graphic novels and empowering reads are sure to enjoy this book.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about what Ink Girls showed them about the courage it can take to stand up and tell the truth. Have you ever done something like this, even if it was on a much smaller scale? What happened?
Cinzia, Carlotta, Elena, Aneeqah, and a whole "flock of girls" came together to work as a team. What part do you think diversity plays in making a team stronger?
How do you think it changes a story when all the brave and resourceful characters are girls?
Book Details
- Author :
- Illustrator : Sylvia Bi
- Genre : Graphic Novel
- Topics : Activism , Friendship
- Character Strengths : Courage , Teamwork
- Book type : Fiction
- Publisher : Greenwillow Books
- Publication date : November 21, 2023
- Publisher's recommended age(s) : 8 - 12
- Number of pages : 288
- Available on : Paperback, Hardback, Apple Books, Kindle
- Last updated : September 18, 2025
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