Tiffany's Griffon

Cartoonists Gonzalez (Welcome to Wonderland) and Porter Siddell turn the tables on familiar tropes in this crackling fantasy graphic novel. Blond, bespectacled Marnie Plummer yearns for adventure. When elements from her cherished book series the Griffon Riders of Crystalfall seemingly come to life, a messenger appears and tells her that they are looking for the Chosen One, upon whom they will bestow a mythical griffon egg. Marnie seems delighted that she will be the redeemer of her favorite series, until the messenger informs her that the prophesied hero's name is Tiffany Rodriguez, a popular brown-skinned girl whom Marnie detests. Though not pleased with this reality, Marnie befriends Tiffany, hoping to still be included in her magical duty (and maybe usurp her Chosen One status). Stylized art underscores a broad yet energetic narrative; visual fantasy elements leap off the page, while grounded storytelling chronicles Marnie's journey in learning how to be more empathetic and shedding her bitterness and envy of Tiffany. The girls' dynamic provides verisimilitude and buoyant humor to Marnie's complicated feelings and the simple messaging about the lessons learned on both make-believe quests and in the bonds forged with others IRL. Ages 10-14.Agent: Susan Graham, Einstein Literary Management. (Aug.)

Copyright 2024 Publishers Weekly, LLC Used with permission.

Gr 6-8--Fantasy becomes reality when preteen Marnie is gifted a griffon egg. However, the egg is really meant for someone else--The Chosen One, who it turns out is actually a girl named Tiffany. Marnie is a dedicated reader while Tiffany is a sports-loving social butterfly, but the two girls form an unlikely friendship. Readers will delight in the adventure as Marnie's favorite story "Griffon Riders" goes from fiction to fact, but their friendship is tested when Tiffany discovers the truth that Marnie was never The Chosen One. At its core, this quest-filled story is about friendship and integrity. Fans of The Witch's Throne by Cedric Caballes and Magical Boy by The Kao will find lots to love in Gonzalez and Porter Siddell's graphic novel. VERDICT A good addition to any middle grade graphic novel collection.--Meaghan Nichols

Copyright 2024 School Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.

This fantastical graphic novel--a blend of the modern world with fantasy (including witches and flying griffons)--touches on realities that all young Earthlings have to contend with.

An emotionally affecting work that explores the power of stories.

Equal parts hilarious and heartfelt, Tiffany's Griffon is an unforgettable story about isolation, creativity, and the power of human connection. Absolutely magical! —Gale Galligan, adapter and artist for the Baby-sitters Club 5-8

Brilliant, expressive cartooning and fantastic artwork drew me right into Marnie & Tiffany's story—a hilarious, compelling, and heartfelt adventure that I couldn't put down! —Carey Pietch, cartoonist & co-adaptor on The Adventure Zone graphic novel series

Gorgeously drawn and raucously funny, Tiffany's Griffon is a brilliant love letter to the magic inherent in stories, and a vital reminder to nurture the most sincere (and cringe) parts of ourselves. —Ariel Ries, author of Witchy

Built-in meta-humor compounds the laughs as fantasy and reality collide... An emotionally affecting work that explores the power of stories. —Kirkus, starred review