A school trip to ancient castle ruins goes horribly wrong for Sara, Arnold, Mei and Driss. Cut short because of an incoming storm, the friends make their way back to the school bus. But someone is waiting for them, ready to spring.

Piero has taunted them all before, calling them nerds and losers, but this time his target is Sara, who is on crutches. In fright, Sara loses her balance and falls down a hole in the ruins, pulling Piero with her. Her friends try to save her but tumble in after her.

They land sore, but safe (or so they think) at the bottom of a tower. The storm has arrived and water is swiftly swirling their ankles. Something in the ruins gives way and they are swept through a hole… and into somewhere strange.

Tensions are high among them as Piero tries to lay blame. They set off, knowing they must do something to try and find a way home. They are surrounded by jungle and monsters lurk and lunge from everywhere. As they flee, teeth are gnashing on their heels. Even the plants want to eat them!

To their relief, a man appears from nowhere and leaps to their rescue. He offers them food, shelter and news of where they are. They learn they are in the future, but it looks medieval to the group. All the while Piero is clashing with the others, making things even harder.

This graphic novel in predominately shades of orange, pinks, purples, and greens is quirky in story and style.

The Storm is the first in a series of four friends and their school nemesis, being transported through a portal to another time. This portal was also used by an ancient society to escape their own persecution.

The anomaly of begin told they are in the future but it looking more medieval than high tech or post apocalyptic (as usual in a jump through time) – is an interesting twist. I’m keen to learn what has happened between 2024 and the future they find themselves in, in the next episode.

A separate thread within the story is Piero and his anger issues. No one understands him, but through events, Piero begins to understand himself.

Be warned – you will be caught up in the action and intrigue and left hanging…. desperately waiting for the next book like me!

Thanks to Papercutz and Net Galley for the ARC of this title

Author / Illustrator – Damián

Age – 9+

Graphic Novel

(2025, Harper Collins, Graphic Novel, Friendship, Bully, Action, Time Travel, Series, Ancient castle Ruins, Knights Templar, Portal, Escape, Monsters, Journey, Trek)