Common Sense Media Review
By Michael Berry
,
based on child development research. How do we rate?
Brash shape-shifting hero soars in graphic-novel fantasy.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 13+?
Any Positive Content?
Where to Read
What's the Story?
Shape-shifting NIMONA wants nothing more than to be the faithful and adventurous sidekick of supervillain Lord Ballister Blackheart. Nimona is full of bold ideas, but most of them involve lots of casualties. Blackheart wants Nimona to be a bit less rash and bloodthirsty, and they develop a plan to discredit Blackheart's nemesis, Sir Ambrosius Goldenloin, and the Institute of Law Enforcement and Heroics. In doing so, they learn what it means to be a hero, what kind of legacy they want to leave behind, and who their real allies are.
Is It Any Good?
It's hard to resist the brash audacity of the title character of this well-constructed, fast-moving, funny, and touching fantasy. Nimona is the first to rush off to battle in the name of supervillainy, but there are times when it's better for her to be more discreet. With a loose drawing style that facilitates both big action sequences and quieter character interactions, writer-illustrator ND Stevenson knows how to construct and execute each scene for maximum humor, even when the story takes a more serious turn. Nimona's shapeshifting is a powerful metaphor for identity and how it can be frustrating to be expected to fit into roles that just don't work for who you are. This story will speak deeply to any reader who's ever felt different or misunderstood. Nimona is a dazzling debut, a graphic novel to be savored by young and old alike.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about the appeal of graphic novels and comics like Nimona. What kinds of stories do you think are best suited for the medium?
How do people decide whether someone is a hero or a villain? Is it possible to fit both roles at the same time?
How can you repair a broken friendship? What makes for a good apology?
Do you think Nimona develops compassion and empathy over the course of the story? If yes, what are some examples of this? If no, why not?
Book Details
- Author :
- Illustrator : Noelle Stevenson
- Genre : Fantasy
- Topics : Fantasy ( Magic ) , Adventures , Friendship
- Character Strengths : Compassion , Empathy
- Book type : Fiction
- Publisher : HarperTeen
- Publication date : May 12, 2015
- Publisher's recommended age(s) : 13 - 18
- Number of pages : 272
- Available on : Paperback, Nook, Hardback, Apple Books, Kindle
- Last updated : September 30, 2025
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