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What Happens When We Can’t Let Go
Snowlands follows a banished wolf on a dangerous quest to help a snow leopard find her missing cub. What was the inspiration for the setup to your story?
The initial spark for the idea came while watching an episode of Planet Earth and learning about the life cycle of the snow leopard. I found them fascinating and saw a lot of story potential there. I also loved the setting of the snowy mountains of the Himalayas. After many iterations, that spark evolved into the story of the white wolf cub Feba, and her adventure with Usha, the snow leopard.
The art in this book is fantastic. What was the art collaboration process like with illustrator Collin Fogel and colorist Davi Comodo?
The collaboration with the art team was smooth and enjoyable. The artist received a detailed script to work from, but he certainly added his own angle to the direction of the piece and made it so much better than anything I could have thought of. I constantly encourage him to do what he feels worked best and trusted his skill. Not trying to micromanage the art was I think, the best thing I could have done since it make things move faster, but also let him express himself in the best way possible.
What were some themes that were important for you to explore in this book?
The theme that guided me through the writing was what happens when we can’t let go. That theme manifested in many of the characters, both the good ones and the bad ones. But I think the theme that might stand out the most for readers is the one of finding your own family, and what it means to belong. That is what Feba’s journey is all about.
What is the next book in the Snowlands series that you are working on about, and when will it be available?
There will be 2 more books in that particular series (with more different series in the Snowlands world to come after). The second book is currently in the writing stage and we have no date set for release, but I would estimate it will be ready sometime around 2024.
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An orphaned white wolf cub exiled from her pack.
A lone snow leopard searching for her missing cub.
A bumbling wild cat who can’t hold a tune.
In the midst of a brutal winter in the unforgiving Snowlands, famine plague the wolf pack. As the pack goes hungry, blame falls on Feba, an orphaned wolf cub whose white fur many elders believe is a bad omen. When the wolf pack’s cubs vanish into thin air, the pack leaders vote to banish Feba, and perhaps worse. She escapes her fate and runs off into the icy wilderness of the Snowlands.
Lost in the treacherous mountains, Feba stumbles upon Usha, a cold and unfriendly snow leopard mother on a personal quest. While Usha wants nothing more than to continue her journey alone, she grudgingly allows Feba and a skittish young mountain cat, Batu, to follow her.
With a snowy trail full of deadly obstacles ahead, the unlikely trio sets out to find the Seeress, a magical being Usha hopes can find her missing son. Each step takes Usha, Feba, and Batu deeper into danger where they encounter other creatures-some helpful, some deceitful-and uncover a widespread peril in the mountains, the fate of the missing cubs, and what having a family truly means.
Snowlands is an epic tale of survival and friendship full of wild creatures, magical mysteries, and dangerous terrain perfect for middle-grade fans of Erin Hunter’s Braveland and Warriors series.
Snowlands
Feba, the white wolf cub, is constantly shunned by her pack. Believed to be a symbol of ill fortune, Feba finds herself at the edge of doom. Her only option is to flee her homeland and hope for a brighter tomorrow. But endless danger surrounds Feba, as she hurtles headlong into an adventure that will mean life or death for all she loves. Joined by new companions of all kinds, Feba must use her wits and wisdom to survive in the harsh, unforgiving prehistoric world in which she lives.
A graphic novel that takes place in the snowy mountains of the Snowlands, a setting clearly inspired by the Himalayas, Snowlands: A Blood Moon by Morr Meroz and Collin Fogel is an exceptional adventure. No humans appear in the harsh landscape formed of stone and cold; this is the era where the wild reigns supreme. The story is intense, gripping, and fast-moving, with a solid message of cooperation and forgiveness while finding a way to survive. The characters, Feba the courageous; Usha, the regal; and even Myo, the exceptionally disturbing, each have a level of depth that is impressive. I found myself forming a deep connection with this circle of friends, all searching for a place they could truly call home.
The art of Collin Fogel is nothing short of incredible, as each animal, including every single member of the wolf pack, is distinctive and full of life. Add gorgeous colors by Davi Comodo and a satisfying ending; there’s a lot to love in this action-packed graphic novel.
There are not any detractions to speak of at all in this amazing story of survival. There is, however, quite a bit of violence, fatalities, and blood on the panel, showcasing the harsh environment in which Feba and her friends live. Perfect for readers 13 and up who love stories of survival, courage, and wit.
Snowlands: A Blood Moon has a perfect balance of incredible storytelling, rich artwork, and a stunning conclusion. A tale of the true value of friendship in a world where survival is key is the thrilling start to what I hope will be a long-term series full of exceptional adventure.
Pages: 210 | ASIN : B09KVDSJDQ
LITERARY TITAN 