Mapmakers have a unique and fascinating connection to the lost magic of the world. These talented individuals possess the ability to capture the essence of a place and translate it onto paper, preserving its history and magic for future generations. For centuries, mapmakers have been viewed as the keepers of knowledge. They have delved into unknown lands, charted uncharted territories, and created intricate maps that serve as a window into the past. Through their artistry and skill, they intertwine the physical and metaphysical aspects of a place, capturing not only its geographical features but also the stories, legends, and ancient rituals associated with it. Mapmakers often possess an inherent intuition and understanding of the hidden energies that exist in the world.
But the Mapmakers are long gone.
Cameron previously edited comics, including titles such as Mech Cadet Yu, the Eisner Award nominated graphic novel New World, and Jim Henson s The Power of the Dark Crystal. Until one night, on the run from the Night Coats again , after breaking another rule again , Alidade stumbles upon a secret door leading to a magical hideaway that belongs to the Mapmakers.
Mapmakers often possess an inherent intuition and understanding of the hidden energies that exist in the world. They are keen observers of the natural world, noting the subtle shifts in landscapes, the changing patterns of rivers, and the movement of celestial bodies. This deep connection to the natural world allows them to tap into the lost magic that permeates certain places.
MAPMAKERS AND THE LOST MAGIC
As the oppressive might of the Night Coats befalls the town of Alden, young Alidade must uncover her inner mapmaker to liberate her home and herself.
Trouble comes easily to Alidade, a brown-skinned, black-haired girl who routinely flouts the Night Coats’ rules forbidding anyone from traveling beyond Alden’s boundaries. During one of her prohibited excursions, she spots a tree with a doorknob. Sneaking through the door in the tree’s trunk, Alidade enters the mysterious Mapmakers’ Lodge, where she finds a degraded magical map of the whole Valley as well as Blue, a haughty, birdlike creature, or Memri, who is loyal to the mapmakers’ peace-seeking cause. With help from her best friend, Lewis, who has brown skin and sandy hair, and guided by Blue’s tutelage, Alidade acquires knowledge once celebrated by the now-gone mapmakers, working to restore the map and fight back against the Night Coats. In their debut, Chittock and Castillo weave a quaint tale of courage and friendship brimming with a fruitful sense of whimsy. The artwork—inked in a lovely ramshackle style—boasts a rich and earthy palette, scaled to match the journey that Alidade undertakes as she crosses the magical barrier. Alidade’s arc from eager troublemaker to determined mapmaker chugs along at a nice pace, dependent on a couple of wordless time lapses that prove crucial. Above all, it’s Alidade’s sweetly sketched friendship with Lewis that pulls the most weight in this trilogy starter.
Intriguingly good. (sketches, recipe, drawing lesson) (Graphic fantasy. 8-12)
Pub Date: April 26, 2022
ISBN: 978-0-593-17287-2
Page Count: 256
Publisher: Random House Graphic
Review Posted Online: Jan. 10, 2022
Kirkus Reviews Issue: Feb. 1, 2022
A young girl finds herself faced with an impossible choice—run away from her beloved valley, or unleash a hidden magic and become a Mapmaker to save her home from its new overlords.
The process of creating a map is often a meditative and spiritual practice for mapmakers. They immerse themselves in the history and folklore of a place, consulting ancient texts and consulting with local communities to gather as much information as possible. They then carefully choose symbols, colors, and lines to represent the unique qualities of each location, infusing their maps with the lost magic that they have uncovered. These maps, in turn, hold their own magic. They can guide travelers through treacherous terrains, lead them to hidden treasures, or unlock the secrets of ancient civilizations. Some even possess the power to reveal hidden dimensions or open portals to other realms. The lost magic that mapmakers imbue in their creations is a means for individuals to connect with the past, understand the present, and navigate the future. Sadly, with the advancement of technology and the rise of digital mapping systems, the art of mapmaking is slowly being lost. The connection between mapmakers and the lost magic is growing weaker as people rely more on mass-produced, standardized maps. The subtle energies and intricate details that mapmakers once infused in their creations are being overlooked in favor of convenience and efficiency. However, there is still hope. A new generation of mapmakers is emerging, determined to revive the art and uncover the lost magic of the world. They understand the importance of preserving the stories and traditions that are ingrained in the landscapes we inhabit. They strive to create maps that not only guide but also inspire and connect individuals to the deeper, mystical layers of the world. In conclusion, mapmakers play a crucial role in connecting us to the lost magic of the world. Through their artistry and intuition, they capture the essence of a place, preserving its history and mythology for future generations. The magic of mapmaking lies not only in the physical representation of a place but also in the intricate stories and hidden energies that are woven into the fabric of a map. It is through the maps created by these talented individuals that we can unlock the secrets of the past and navigate the mysteries of the present..
Reviews for "Mapping the Supernatural: Exploring the Lost Magic of Ancient Cartography"
1. Sarah - 2/5 stars - I found "Mapmakers and the Lost Magic" to be incredibly underwhelming. The story seemed to lack depth and complexity, with a predictable plot and uninteresting characters. The world-building was half-baked, and I struggled to become invested in the magical elements of the story. Overall, it felt like a watered-down version of other, more engaging fantasy novels I've read. I wouldn't recommend it to anyone looking for a captivating and immersive reading experience.
2. John - 2/5 stars - I was highly disappointed with "Mapmakers and the Lost Magic". The writing style was dull and lacked any spark of creativity. The pacing was slow, making the already weak plot feel even more lackluster. The characters were flat and unmemorable, making it challenging to connect with their journey. The magical aspects of the story also felt forced and underdeveloped. Overall, I couldn't wait for the book to end and wouldn't recommend it to others.
3. Emma - 3/5 stars - "Mapmakers and the Lost Magic" was an average read for me. Although it had its moments, the overall execution fell short. The story, while intriguing in concept, failed to fully engage me. I found myself losing interest in the plot multiple times. Additionally, the characters lacked depth and could have been better developed. However, the writing style was decent, and there were a few standout scenes that kept my attention. While it may appeal to some readers, it wasn't a book that left a lasting impression on me.