Omnis 1: Beginnings, authored by Nelda Bedford Gaydou, is a captivating middle-grade graphic novel that packs a powerful punch. The story centers around Isabella and her family, who are living a contented life in Argentina, despite the challenges posed by the dreaded quarantine of 2020. With the hope that things will return to normal soon, the siblings eagerly anticipate the end of the lockdown. However, as the quarantine finally comes to an end, they are faced with an unexpected move to the United States to live with their grandparents. Here, they must navigate a new school and environment, all while dealing with the intolerance, mean-spirited peers, and prejudice that threaten their existence.

The narrative deftly weaves in the story of the Omnis, a mysterious group of heroes who help Isabella and her siblings find their inner strength and courage. The author’s use of English and Spanish makes this a bilingual masterpiece, ideal for anyone looking to learn or reinforce their Spanish skills. The graphic novel is engaging and offers a positive message of acceptance, which is particularly relevant in today’s world. As someone who was raised to celebrate diversity, I found the book to be an inspiring and impactful reminder that small acts of kindness can make a big difference in the world. Sabrina’s exceptional artwork complements the story perfectly, making for an enjoyable read that is sure to resonate with readers of all ages. The book concludes at an ideal place to introduce the second installment, leaving readers eagerly anticipating more from this talented author-illustrator duo.

Omnis 1: Beginnings is a remarkable graphic novel that has great cultural representation, an engaging storyline, and a profound message of tolerance and positivity. It is a heartwarming tale that speaks to the core of what it means to be human and the power of family, friendship, and community. Suitable for readers aged seven and above, this graphic novel is a must-read for anyone who loves world culture, graphic novels, and gentle superhero stories. In addition, it is an excellent resource for language learning and cultural studies, and I highly recommend it to all.

Pages: 106 | ISBN : 1950560880