Book Review :: Nimona by N.D. Stephenson

Nimona by N.D. Stevenson
ISBN: 0062278223
Published by HarperTeen
on 12 May 2015
Genres: Comics & Graphic Novels
Pages: 266
Goodreads

Nemeses! Dragons! Science! Symbolism! All these and more await in this brilliantly subversive, sharply irreverent epic from Noelle Stevenson. Featuring an exclusive epilogue not seen in the web comic, along with bonus conceptual sketches and revised pages throughout, this gorgeous full-color graphic novel is perfect for the legions of fans of the web comic and is sure to win Noelle many new ones.

Nimona is an impulsive young shapeshifter with a knack for villainy. Lord Ballister Blackheart is a villain with a vendetta. As sidekick and supervillain, Nimona and Lord Blackheart are about to wreak some serious havoc. Their mission: prove to the kingdom that Sir Ambrosius Goldenloin and his buddies at the Institution of Law Enforcement and Heroics aren't the heroes everyone thinks they are.

But as small acts of mischief escalate into a vicious battle, Lord Blackheart realizes that Nimona's powers are as murky and mysterious as her past. And her unpredictable wild side might be more dangerous than he is willing to admit.

Last updated on 27 June 2023

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What is Nimona by N.D. Stevenson about?

Nimona by N.D. Stevenson is one of the best graphic novels I’ve ever read. It tells the story of Nimona, a shapeshifting whiz who just wants to be Lord Blackheart’s sidekick and help him do evil things.

“You can’t just go round murdering people. There are rules, Nimona.”

The story follows the pair as they plot against Sir Ambrosius Goldenloin and rat him and the so-called ‘goodies’ out and show the world that they’re not so flash-hot. There’s plotting and scheming, brash decisions, a lot of epic animals and kicking-butt fight scenes, there are old friendships that resurface, and some old good vs evil (and questioning those labels as well).

And it’s just as chaotic and somehow wonderful as it sounds. I’ve only read this once so far, but really want to read it again before the movie comes out on Netflix in June 2023.

N.D. Stevenson is an incredible illustrator; you might recognise his drawings from the covers of books like Fangirl by Rainbow Rowell, Six Feet Over It by Jennifer Longo or the comic series, Lumberjanes. His artwork in Nimona is just as fantastic, and you get so much more of it than just a book cover. It’s a whole book of stunning colourful illustrations, and it was a JOY to read.

I often find that with graphic novels if I don’t like the art very much then it doesn’t matter if the story is epic – it just won’t grip me as much. Luckily, Stevenson’s art is brilliant and a style that I really love.

“Of course… I still wonder about every stranger who gives me a knowing look. About every cat who watched me too closely. I can only hope I reached her in some small way. I can only hope that if she does come back, she’ll know me for who I am. A friend.”

Even if you’re not into graphic novels (as I said, I’ve only read a handful so am not really a connoisseur of the genre), Nimona is an adorable read with beautiful images that will definitely have you craving more.

Have you read Nimona yet? What did you think? Are you looking forward to the movie?