Mapmakers are crucial figures in the world of navigation and discovery. They are responsible for creating accurate and detailed maps that help explorers and travelers navigate unfamiliar territories. These maps not only display geographical features but also provide vital information about landforms, water bodies, and even cultural landmarks. However, there is a hidden aspect of mapmaking that is often overlooked: the lost magic. Throughout history, many maps were not just practical tools but also held a mystical quality. These maps were said to possess a hidden power that could lead adventurers to treasures, mythical creatures, and even the secrets of the universe.
Publisher: Random House Graphic
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. Having grown up inspired by piles of manga, games about friendship and adventure, and the endless wonders of the California outdoors, Amanda went on to study illustration to hone a skill set to tell warm and heartfelt stories that could be enjoyed and remembered by someone like you.
These maps were said to possess a hidden power that could lead adventurers to treasures, mythical creatures, and even the secrets of the universe. The lost magic of mapmaking is deeply rooted in legends and folklore from various cultures. Tales of ancient maps that could guide their owners to hidden realms or unlock the doors to unimaginable riches have captivated people for centuries.
Mapmakers and the Lost Magic: (A Graphic Novel) (Library Binding)
This is book number 1 in the Mapmakers series.
- #2: Mapmakers and the Enchanted Mountain: (A Graphic Novel) (Library Binding): $24.99
- #3: Mapmakers and the Flickering Fortress: (A Graphic Novel) (Paperback): $13.99
Description
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.
For centuries, the Mapmakers kept peace in the Valley, but they’ve long since disappeared. Now the Night Coats hold power with an iron grip—there are only rules, punishments, and consequences. 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. There, she finds a map of her home and accidentally brings to life Blue, a magical creature called a memri who is meant to protect the Valley. Blue needs Alidade’s help to find the Mapmakers and save the Valley from the Night Coats!
But the Mapmakers are long gone.
Alidade has a choice: leave the Valley like she’s always wanted. or become a Mapmaker and save the only home she’s ever known.
This is the first book in a thrilling series of adventures where Alidade discovers the world around her as she goes on a fantastical journey.
About the Author
Cameron Chittock is a writer from northeast Ohio. He grew up surrounded by siblings, wildlife, and comics of all kinds. Cameron’s writing is possible thanks to patient teachers, encouraging friends, and a supportive family. His favorite stories are those of heroes and friendship. 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. He now lives in New England and works in education. When he’s not writing, he enjoys coaching basketball, reading giant fantasy books, and sitting by the pond with his family. Mapmakers and the Lost Magic is his debut graphic novel.
Amanda Castillo is a comic artist, illustrator, and storyteller, born and raised in the Bay Area in California. Having grown up inspired by piles of manga, games about friendship and adventure, and the endless wonders of the California outdoors, Amanda went on to study illustration to hone a skill set to tell warm and heartfelt stories that could be enjoyed and remembered by someone like you! After getting into the comics world through working with Youth in Decline, Amanda has since contributed to publishers such as BOOM! Studios, Lion Forge, and now Random House Graphic. In addition to making comics, Amanda has shown work in galleries domestically and helped judge annual comics awards. When not making comics, Amanda enjoys spending time with friends and loved ones, making warm and hearty meals, learning to tend to plants, and taking in the lovely moments the world has to offer. Mapmakers and the Lost Magic is their debut graphic novel.
Praise For…
"A quaint tale of courage and friendship brimming with a fruitful sense of whims. Intriguingly good." –Kirkus Reviews
"This is a debut graphic novel for both author and artist, and readers will look forward to the continuation of this new series." –Booklist
- Juvenile Fiction / Comics & Graphic Novels
- Juvenile Fiction / Comics & Graphic Novels / Action & Adventure
- Juvenile Fiction / Comics & Graphic Novels / Fantasy
- Paperback (April 26th, 2022): $12.99
- Hardcover (April 26th, 2022): $20.99
For centuries, the Mapmakers kept peace in the Valley, but they’ve long since disappeared. Now the Night Coats hold power with an iron grip—there are only rules, punishments, and consequences. 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. There, she finds a map of her home and accidentally brings to life Blue, a magical creature called a memri who is meant to protect the Valley. Blue needs Alidade’s help to find the Mapmakers and save the Valley from the Night Coats!
From the Lost City of Atlantis to the Fountain of Youth, these maps were believed to hold the key to unlocking these mythical places. In addition to mythical locations, maps with lost magic were also said to possess the ability to guide individuals through uncharted territories. These maps were often imbued with special symbols or markings that could only be deciphered by those worthy enough to possess the map. The idea of hidden knowledge and magical abilities connected to maps added an air of mystery and wonder to the art of mapmaking. Unfortunately, much of this lost magic has faded over time. With advancements in technology and the rise of satellite imagery, maps have become more focused on accuracy and practicality rather than folklore and enchantment. Today, mapmaking is primarily driven by scientific data and precise measurements, leaving little room for the mystical elements that once captivated explorers. While the lost magic may no longer be prevalent in modern mapmaking, it continues to live on in the hearts and imaginations of adventurers and dreamers. The allure of hidden treasures and undiscovered lands still captivates our curiosity, even if we no longer rely on ancient maps to guide us. In conclusion, mapmakers have played a crucial role in navigating the world and documenting its features. While the lost magic of mapmaking may no longer be a prominent aspect of modern maps, it remains a fascinating part of the history of exploration and discovery. The legends and folklore that surround these maps serve as a reminder of the human desire for adventure and the endless possibilities that lie beyond the boundaries of our known world..
Reviews for "Cartographers of Enchantment: Unraveling the Secrets of Lost Magic"
1. Jane - 2/5 stars - I was really disappointed with "Mapmakers and the Lost Magic." The storyline felt predictable and the characters lacked depth. I never really connected with any of them and found myself losing interest as I read on. The magical elements also felt underdeveloped and didn't add much to the overall plot. I was really hoping for a gripping adventure, but it fell flat for me.
2. Michael - 2/5 stars - "Mapmakers and the Lost Magic" was not my cup of tea. The writing style felt disjointed and the pacing was inconsistent, making it hard to follow the plot. The world-building was also lacking, leaving me with more questions than answers. I found it difficult to engage with the characters and their motivations, which made it hard for me to invest in the story. Overall, I was left feeling unsatisfied and wouldn't recommend it.
3. Sarah - 1/5 stars - I couldn't finish "Mapmakers and the Lost Magic." The writing felt amateurish and the dialogue was awkward. The plot lacked originality and the twists were predictable. I found myself skimming through pages in hopes of finding something that would capture my interest, but it never came. The whole reading experience was a chore rather than an enjoyable escape into a fantasy world.
4. David - 2/5 stars - "Mapmakers and the Lost Magic" was a letdown for me. The characters felt flat and the dialogue was forced. The pacing was uneven, with long stretches of dull exposition followed by rushed action scenes. The world-building was lacking, and I couldn't fully immerse myself in the story. There were some interesting ideas, but they were poorly executed. Overall, it didn't live up to my expectations.