Rebel: The Graphic Novel out now from Roaring Brook Press; 224 pages
Content Warning: Violence, death
About the Author: “Hi there! I’m an author of mostly sci-fi/fantasy YA novels, like Legend, Warcross, The Young Elites, Skyhunter, and Stars & Smoke. My adult fantasy debut, Red City, releases this October 14, 2025. I graduated from the University of Southern California and currently live in LA with my family. Before becoming a full-time writer, I was an Art Director at a video game company. Now I spend most of my time writing, trying to keep my plants alive, and getting stuck in traffic. I feel very honored that I get to tell you stories, and my deepest wish is always that my books can offer you some joy, solace, entertainment, and/or escape. With all my heart, thank you for reading” (Bio from author’s Goodreads profile).
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About the Adaptor: “Kyla Vanderklugt is a writer and illustrator based in Ontario, Canada. Her recent comics work includes Science Comics: Crows and script adaptations for Leigh Bardugo’s Demon in the Wood and Jim Henson’s Labyrinth” (Bio from Macmillan Publishers).
Find Kyla Vanderklugt on the following platforms:
About the Illustrator: “Karina Kusuma, known as Kaari, is an Indonesian illustrator and comic artist who likes drawing strong ladies. Previously she has worked on various comics, games and illustrations, such as D&D Young Adventurer’s Guide. She is known for the Legend trilogy graphic novels” (Bio from Macmillan Publishers).
Eden Wing has always been overshadowed by his older brother, Day’s, past. Despite being a gifted scholar nearing an early graduation from Ross University of the Sciences, Eden is still primarily recognized as Day’s little brother. A decade earlier, Day became a symbol of rebellion after helping overthrow the Republic of America. Since then, he has lived in isolation, struggling to uncover the memories he lost and staying away from June, the woman he never stopped loving. Their paths cross again, bringing old feelings back. Together, they journey into the dangerous underworld of Ross City to find Eden after he becomes entangled in its criminal world. But saving him may prove more complicated than expected, as Eden’s true ambitions, alliances, and determination come to light.
Rebel: The Graphic Novel did a wonderful job translating the original story into a visual format. The adaptation stays close to the novel while preserving its pace and sense of urgency—Vanderklugt did a spectacular job with this. The story moves incredibly quickly and could easily be finished in one sitting, which is how I read it. Even though I’ve read the original story, I didn’t find it predictable; there’s enough action, romance, political tension, and social commentary to keep things fast paced. I also thought the conclusion worked especially well as an ending to the entire series.While I enjoyed many parts of the graphic novel, the characters were probably my favorite aspect of the adaptation. The focus on Day and Eden as adults was refreshing. Kaari’s artwork was another strong suit of the story. I loved the color choices, panel layouts, and overall visual style: all of which fit how I’ve been imagining the characters since I read the original series when it came out. Overall, Rebel: The Graphic Novel was an enjoyable return to the Legend universe. I’m generally hesitant about sequels or additions to series that already had a completed ending, but I think Rebel successfully expands the world and gives these characters a worthwhile continuation. I’d definitely recommend it to fans of the original series, especially anyone who wants more time with Day, June, and Eden.
Pine Reads Review would like to thank Roaring Brook Press and NetGalley for sending us an ARC in exchange for an honest review. Any quotes are taken from an advanced copy and may be subject to change before final publication.
Vanshikha Vij, Pine Reads Review Writer