The UnChosen, Vol. 1

Gr 9 Up–Aida is a very confused 13-year-old girl who has just woken up in the middle of a destroyed wasteland. As she comes to her senses, two important-looking people with combat and magical abilities tell her two things. First, that she has caused the destruction surrounding her. Second, that she needs to come with them immediately. However, Aida only wants the comfort and support of her mother, who is nowhere to be found. As she escapes to The Tower with the strangers, Aida begins a difficult journey steeped in magic, secrets, and lies, where she will have to search within herself to find the best path towards the answers she seeks. This unfolding sci-fi mystery is Marquez’s first creator-owned title as both writer and illustrator, and readers familiar with his work with Marvel Comics will find much to enjoy here. The pacing and the art style flow perfectly with the story elements. The lore is fleshed out but remains veiled enough to keep readers guessing at what might happen next, steadily building to a rewarding payoff. This first volume lays a strong foundation and holds promise for a long series.