  | Nameless City (Nameless City) Author: Hicks, Faith Erin | |
| Price: $21.88 | ||
Summary:
Book 1--Every time it is invaded the City gets a new name, but to the natives it is the Nameless City, and they survive by not letting themselves get involved--but now the fate of the City rests in the hands of Rat, a native, and Kaidu, one of the Dao, the latest occupiers, and the two must somehow work together if the City is to survive. In graphic novel format.
| Illustrator: | Bellaire, Jordie |
| Accelerated Reader Information: Interest Level: MG Reading Level: 2.80 Points: 1.0 Quiz: 186420 | Reading Counts Information: Interest Level: 3-5 Reading Level: 3.30 Points: 4.0 Quiz: 70069 | |
Reviews:
Booklist (+) (03/15/16)
Full Text Reviews:
Booklist - 03/15/2016 *Starred Review* The titular city of Hicks’ series opener goes by many names. Set in a highly desirable location, the city, which resembles thirteenth-century China, has cycled through conquerors, all of whom call it something new. Its permanent residents watch those rulers come and go and call it the Nameless City. Kai, son of a general in the current conquering army, the Dao, has just arrived, and he is dazzled by the place, especially the girl he sees racing across the rooftops. That girl—Rat—is one of the conquered, and through their friendship, Hicks teases out the city’s complex dynamics. Resentments toward the Dao are simmering, and privileged Kai is mostly oblivious until Rat starts training him in her parkourlike moves. Remarkably, Hicks conveys these dynamics without much exposition, relying instead on visual cues, expressive faces and gestures, and subtext. Meanwhile, the primary story—fueled by cinematic action, some well-timed comical stumbles, and a nefarious plot against the Dao—is just as compelling. All of these elements are brilliantly integrated in Hicks’ detailed, expansive, beautifully colored artwork, which handles dense cityscapes filled with tiled roofs just as handily as it does meaningful glances. With comprehensive world building, well-rounded characters, and entertaining action, this expertly executed story will find a home with a wide variety of readers, all of whom will be eagerly awaiting the next installment. - Copyright 2016 Booklist.
