Thief of the Heights
On Sale: 10/22/2024
Thief of the Heights
On Sale: 10/22/2024
Format:
About the Book
A Junior Library Guild Gold Standard Selection
Enter the world of Muqadas, where the climb to the top of this vertically stacked city—away from disease-ridden waters of the lower levels—is paved with betrayal, secrets, and rebellion in this debut graphic novel from author Son M. and artist Robin Yao.
Lifelong friends Basem, Mustafa, and Aarfah have carved out a place for themselves in their corner of Muqadas, where they dream of climbing from their place in the city’s lowest level, above the limb-snatching, disease-infested waters, to the very top of their vertical city. Young inventors who’ve seen firsthand the havoc the Habar infection causes set out to dazzle the masses with their innovative prosthetics and escape the dangers of Lake Saha.
When their inventions catch the eye of a scout who is on the hunt for new talent to bring to the higher tiers, their dreams are suddenly within reach. But as the wonders of the upper tiers enchant, Basem, Mustafa, and Aarfah begin to question why the bounty of Muqadas falls short of reaching Lake Saha's inhabitants.
Behind the beauty of the city's upper tiers lie dark and dangerous secrets—ones that threaten not only everything they’ve worked for but everyone they love. And when Mustafa and Aarfah are cast away for their allegiance to Lake Saha, Basem is faced with the difficult choice: Fight to bring justice to all of Muqadas? Or abandon his friends and fall in line to achieve everything he’s ever dreamed of?
Critical Praise
"This story, which features an ethnically diverse cast in a world infused with North African and Islamic cultural elements, as well as meaningful queer and disabled representation, explores complex themes around inequality paired with compelling art. Introspective and insightful, with eclectic characters who burst through the narrative." — Kirkus Reviews (starred review)
"[A] fantastic example of Muslim futurism. Readers will finish this tale wishing to know more about the intriguing world of Muqadas, and perhaps be inspired to bring their own sf world to life in a comic." — Booklist
“A story of perseverance, love, and revolution, this is a book thoroughly needed in our current times.” — Shazleen Khan, award-winning creator of BUUZA!!
“An immersive read with stunning artwork, rich worldbuilding, and a chilling twist.” — Chelsey Furedi, creator of Project Nought
“A profound journey, one that will have us laughing, shedding tears, and longing to be part of the warmth of their friendship.” — Sweeney Boo, author of Over My Dead Body
“A delightful read, masterfully realized by its two creators.” — Michelle Wong, illustrator of The Legend of Korra: Ruins of the Empire
“Science fiction at its best reflects our lives in tangible ways, and Thief of the Heights takes the concerns of real young people seriously.”
— Jessi Zabarsky, author of Witchlight and Coming Back
“Son M. and Robin Yao are a perfect match for this story of friendship, betrayal, and the courage it takes to do what’s right.” — Jasmine Walls, cocreator of Brooms
“A beautifully human story of dreams, loss, and changing a broken system.” — Talia Dutton, author of M Is for Monster
-Product Details
- ISBN: 9780063067332
- ISBN 10: 0063067331
- Imprint: HarperAlley
- On Sale: 10/22/2024
- Pages: 240
- List Price:33.50 CAD
- BISAC1 : YOUNG ADULT FICTION / Comics & Graphic Novels / Fantasy
- BISAC2 : YOUNG ADULT FICTION / Comics & Graphic Novels / Romance
- BISAC3 : YOUNG ADULT FICTION: Comics & Graphic Novels / Dystopian
