Coven

'Coven' is a young adult graphic novel written by Soman Chaniani and illustrated by Joel Gennari which takes place in the same universe as Chaniani’s series 'The School for Good and Evil'.

The three witches Hester, Anadil and Dot are called to the mysterious and distant Red Isle to mediate between Light and Dark as their long-standing truce is crumbling. The country is on the brink of war with both sides believing the other is at fault.

I enjoyed the characterisation of the three witches and their constant bickering of who was the ’first witch’ and leader of the coven, and understood the motivations of the supporting characters, even if they generally fulfilled stock roles.

While the messaging of the text is powerful (to quote Hester, “the other end of the word and it’s still the same. Two sides thinking their way is the right way.”) the pacing is at times a bit quick. This is the kind of world building and narrative I would have liked to see explored in a novel or over a series of graphic novels, however for reluctant readers this pacing is likely to hold engagement.

The artwork was beautiful and the colour symbolism throughout was clear. The visual presentation of the characters was distinct making it easier to follow the narrative. The mythological and fantastical elements were visually stunning (especially the creatures like the water dragon and the raaka monsters).

Overall, this was a quick and enjoyable read which offers readers the chance to dip their toe into Chainani’s fantasy world.