No Refuge (a Phoenix Comic Book, and eagerly awaited follow-up to No Country)

No Refuge by Patrice Aggs and Joe Brady is the gripping sequel to the graphic novel No Country. Set in a world not too dissimilar from our own, but in the midst of war, it tells the story of one family’s escape from England when the time comes for them to flee. Separated from their dad, siblings Bea, Hannah and Dom have to run with the hopes of meeting him again and leaving the country. Their tense journey keeps the reader on edge whilst the importance of sibling relationships and the need to survive is clear.

Small details like never having hot water makes you realise the little things we all take for granted. The bravery of the children is extraordinary, despite the frequent reminders of their vulnerability as we follow them through times of desperation and danger. It leads you to ask: who do you trust in a time of crisis? Bea's trail of drawings of bees also provides hope and reminds us that creativity and identity are still important, no matter what the circumstances.

Whilst some of the dialogue is repetitive, it is sensitively written. It is complemented by the bold and detailed illustrations which are a creative way of telling this story of migration during conflict. This graphic novel would be suitable for ages 9+ but is an adventurous story with reminders of our world today that can be read by those of any age.

224 pages / Reviewed by Alice Drury

Suggested Reading Age 9+