Masks

Gr 6-8–Set in a world where monsters exist but must remain hidden, this graphic novel tells the story of Poe, a gentle, green-skinned, horned monster, and her found family. Poe lives in an abandoned building with blue-skinned Rice and pink, fang-toothed Shelley, where together they can escape the monster-hunting organization known as the Knights of the Night. When they learn their home is about to be demolished, the trio sets out on Halloween night, when they can pass for costumed humans, to search for a rumored sanctuary called Haven. As they navigate the journey, Poe wrestles with fear and caution, while Rice longs to live more openly. Young Shelley adds comic relief by eating everything in sight, including street signs. Along the way, they meet Vaughn, a kind human outcast with tan skin and brown hair who is teased for his love of a nerdy game and who agrees to help them. This touching graphic novel uses monsters as a metaphor for any marginalized community seeking safety and acceptance. The monsters are feared not for their actions but how they look, and the story highlights themes of identity, chosen family, and resistance. It also thoughtfully explores why some people are drawn to hateful groups like the Knights. The muted illustrations reflect the characters’ emotional lives with appealing subtlety.