Axelrod, Jadzia. Galaxy: The Prettiest Star. Jess Taylor, Illustrator. Graphic. DC, 05/2022. 190pp. PB $16.99. 978-1-4012-9853-1. HIGH ADDITIONAL. GRADES 9-12.
Packed with action and colorful, compelling art, Galaxy uses the story of a transplanted alien princess growing up as a boy on Earth as an allegory for the transgender experience. Main character Taylor/Taelyr has spent six years living undercover, but when they meet new-girl-in-town Kat Silverberg, the cost of that cover becomes very clear. Sensitively written around themes of sexuality and difference, the exuberant art supports the movement of the story and enhances this graphic novel. The one drawback to the story is that at times it feels the authors are giving us a glimpse into a world they know very well without allowing us quite enough detail to feel the same way.
Lesley Mandros Bell, Unaffiliated