Castle Waiting by Linda Medley

This graphic novel encompasses an array of fascinating, three-dimensional characters: a pregnant woman on the run from her abusive husband, a horse-headed knight looking for a place to rest in between quests, a bearded nun with a surprising past and others from fairy tales and medieval legends. What holds the stories (and stories within stories) together is Caste Waiting itself, the home Sleeping Beauty left behind when she ran off to live with the Prince. Also left behind are her three ladies-in-waiting, the cook and her “slow” son, the castle’s bird-headed steward and others. Although not as fine as in its glory-days, the castle and its inhabitants offer, without judgment, a most welcome refuge to weary frightened visitors. The wonderful artwork, great storytelling, humor and pathos are all reasons to pick up this book. - JEP