In a Nutshell: A middle-grade fantasy in graphic novel form. Excellent illustrations. Good potential in the story, but leaves a lot of things half-baked. Might work better for young adults than middle-graders. Mine is an outlier review.

Plot Preview:
Rowan is a trainee ranger, protecting the area under them with the help of their Pegasus, Kestrel. The region Rowan monitors hardly has any danger, much to Rowan’s frustration. The only person active and about in the area is Leone, a laidback shepherd who is more interested in playing his violin than in watching his sheep. However, when Rowan’s eagerness to prove their capabilities to the senior rangers results in an injury to Kestrel, Rowan is forced to work on land-based duties with Leone. Can this forced working partnership turn into friendship when both Rowan and Leone are battling personal secrets?


The official blurb gives me a strong YA vibe. However, this is a middle-grade fantasy, and that stumps me a bit. Nothing about the story or the writing approach screams “middle-grade.” (I am not saying this because of the gender dysphoria; that’s a welcome topic in any book.)

The blurb clearly hints at Rowan, the main character, using the they/them pronouns. However, for almost the entire book, we see Rowan referred to by their birth name “Rose” and feminine pronouns. So either that the blurb leaked out a big spoiler about the lead character’s identity conflict, or that the blurb was deliberately misleading. Whatever the reason, this early reveal of a later plot point left me dissatisfied as I learnt the source of Rowan’s struggle even before it was brought up in the story.

I love the existence of a gender identity conflict in a middle-grade work, but I wish Rowan’s struggle hadn’t been restricted to thoughts alone. Their conundrums should have been indicated more strongly on paper. After a point, it was clear that they wished to be known as Rowan, but the transition is almost instant in the story. No clarifications, no contradictions, no questioning. Real life isn't that easy for LGBTQ+ people!

This problem of raising issues in a undeveloped manner is persistent throughout the book. A lot of the conflict is only internalised, without letting us know why or how or what next. Leone’s secret passion gets a tiny mention in a verbal flashback reference; Rowan’s background isn't even brought up. It is tougher to invest in a character we don’t have a backstory for.

The rest of the characters are also inadequately sketched. We get to see who they are at that point of the story, but there’s nothing to make us actually know or understand them or their behaviour. This applies even to Leone, who is only somewhat defined despite being Rowan’s co-lead. There are hardly any parents in the book, which means that the primary relationships are either peers (Rowan’s fellow rangers – a motley group), teachers (the senior rangers; wish some of them had a greater role to play), and local villagers (hardly any substantial depiction.) The ages of the characters are never clarified, but I presume Rowan and Leone to be teens. The only character I absolutely loved was Kestrel, Rowan’s Pegasus. She had strength, courage, grace, and even a temper, making her an ideal animal companion for a fictional work.

The plot itself is decent as far as the rangers’ work-related content goes. But the worldbuilding is utterly vague. The locations are there but I couldn’t *feel* any of them. A good middle-grade book has a strong and well-defined ending, but this one goofs up even on that. The overall story is divided into chapter-like parts, but the last part comes after a time-jump of unknown duration. We see some of the final developments through the illustrations, but almost everything that’s important is left unsaid.

The illustrations are great, probably the best feature of the book. Though not as ethereal as in ‘The Moth Keeper’, the colour scheme, the animals (especially the various Pegasuses) and the nature scenes are all a delight. Quite a few pages have no text bubbles, so this 240-page graphic novel goes by even faster. But this further highlights the issue I had – the text was given much lower priority. As such, the plot feels surface-level and rushed.

There are some good life lessons here, most of which could be valuable for the target readers. No need to focus only on proving yourself to others, live for yourself and not by others’ standards, think before you act, try to ignore judgement, and do what your heart wants – worthy points, all.

Overall, this book was mostly vague in its character development and jumpy in its plot development. I have read this author’s ‘The Moth Keeper’ and really loved it. Thereby, my expectations from this work were quite high. The execution though left me mostly disappointed.

However, the ratings clearly prove that mine is an outlier opinion. So please do take a look through other opinions and take a more informed call on this work.

Recommended mainly to those who read graphic novels for illustrations. With the story being so vague about ages and backgrounds, I think this might work better for older teens/YAs than middle-graders, but the official target age is 10+.

2.5 stars, rounding up for the theme and the illustrations.

My thanks to A Song for You and I for providing the DRC of “A Song for You and I” via NetGalley. This review is voluntary and contains my honest opinion about the book. Sorry this didn’t work out better.

This sweet book is exactly the story I needed this week. I’ve been a fan of O’Neill’s work for a while, though I still have some books to catch up on. So, when I saw this book coming out this year, I knew I would have to read it.

The gentle pacing and gorgeous landscapes that appear throughout the story swept me away. I’m not sure I’d call this cozy precisely, but maybe cozy-adjacent? There is at least one moment with some real tension, though a lot of the story centers on relationships and personal growth or healing.

The two main characters have really different personalities. Leone is generally positive and optimistic, but struggles with confidence in playing music. Rowan resents the slower pacing that Leone lives life and feels anxious to get out into the world serving as a ranger. As the story progresses, though, they realize that Leone’s way of approaching life offers things they lack.

I honestly couldn’t have read this book at a better time. The color palettes are stunning, the characters made me smile, and the pacing felt like taking a long, full breath after a stressful day. It’s a fabulous book.

If you’re unfamiliar with K. O’Neill’s work and you like cozier fantasy, you definitely do not want to miss this one.

I received this book from TBR and Beyond Tours + the publisher in exchange of an honest review.

5 reasons I would recommend to read this book!

1. The art Always have to start it with that when it is about a K O’Neill book. Their art is just gorgeous, amazing, pretty, and wonderful. It is always my #1 reason to try out their books. I also loved those gorgeous gorgeous illustrations to indicate a new part in the story. I want those on my walls as prints~
2. Gorgeous worldbuilding You will be amazed by the world created by K O’Neill. She has written another world, created another gorgeous place you just want to visit. We see seas, fields, small towns, read about far away places, and more.
3. How the story is mostly told through imagery/illustrations There are plenty of bits with text, but there are also tons of bits told just purely through imagery. We see characters go through their days, get shots of sceneries, see our characters wander as they bring about deliveries and discover the world, see food being made, see other things happening. I love it when a story can also be told through images alone. It is so powerful. It doesn’t always work, sometimes words are needed, but in this one, I wouldn’t even have minded if there had been no words.
4. The characters and their growth. In this one we mainly follow Rose (who wants to be Rowan) and their journey as a ranger. I wasn’t always a fan of her attitude because she thought she was so much better than everyone else, and sure, she did some amazing things, but that is no way to be hurtful or shame others when they don’t have that drive. For instance Leone who just wants to play the fiddle (and keeps a casual eye out for the sheep). But after the accident that has her grounded on the floor and in charge of deliveries you can see her grow. Discovering the plants around her, the sceneries in the place she is designated to do her training, discover new talents and new things to do.
And Leone who loves his music and is practicing hard, but we see that something is holding him back. He acts all lackadaisical and aloof but I could see there is more to him. And I was curious to see him grow. I loved how Rowan (as they wanted that name from that point) encouraged Leone to try out more. I loved seeing both of these characters grow. Not just individually but also get closer together. See them talk. Have fun. Travel.
5. So many emotions This book made me feel all the feels. First that I wanted to shake Rowan for how they acted. Then see that they were just dedicated and inexperienced. Seeing Leone and what he wanted and how he grew. To see Rowan grow, get more comfortable in their skin, find happiness, find belonging. And then so much more. In the end I was just crying tears.

And I could give you more reasons, but I have to keep it to 5. But be sure to check out this book. And all K O’Neills other books as well!

Thank you NetGalley Random House Graphic for the ARC! A Song for You and I is the latest from K. O'Neill (Tea Dragon Society and Moth Keeper) and follows Rowan who longs to be ranger, protectors who ride flying horses. But when Rowan makes a reckless decision and injures Kes (the horse), Rowan worries that they'll be deemed unworthy of being a ranger.
Set on a quest to travel with the sheepherder and musician, Leone, Rowan must learn a different way to travel and protect. Learning to see the beauty of the world around them and perhaps discover more about themselves. A perfect tale of self discovery and friendship with tons of emotional impact.

After reading and enjoying the delight that is The Tea Dragon Society, I knew I wanted to read more from the author. A Song for You and I features was a visual delight as I adore K. O’Neills art style and illustrations. The colour palette really helped bring the cozy and charming world of the book to life. The landscape itself could honestly be described as the third main character. Speaking of main characters, I enjoyed the character growth of Rowan and Leone, as well as the growth of their friendship. However I had hoped for more of an emotional impact from the story and more magical creatures from the world. But with that said, A Song for You and I is a super sweet read that has such a tender way to handle gender identities and self-discovery that is very much needed in today's landscape of negativity regarding non-binary and trans gender identities.

A Song for You and I follows Rowan on the journey to becoming a ranger. They make a reckless choice and their horse gets hurt. And they are set on a path of examining if they have what it takes to be a ranger.

While their horse is recovering, Rowan has to help a local, Leone, with some of their wool deliveries. Both Rowan and Leone have their own struggles, and as they become friends, they help each other work through them.

I love K. O'Neill's graphic novels so much. They are beautifully illustrated and the worlds are idyllic. The characters have very real struggles but they find belonging and acceptance by the end. I always turn to them when I'm feeling down. A Song For You And I has definitely lived up to my expectations and more. I highly recommend it.

Thanks to NetGalley, Random House, and K. O'Neill for the advance copy in exchange for my honest review.

absolutely stunning illustrations as always!!! not my favorite from this author but I still really enjoyed it. the artwork is SO gorgeous, I am obsessed with the art style and how it was done! I just wasn’t quite as interested in the plot of this one. K. O’Neill is definitely one of my absolute favorite graphic novel authors :)

At this point, I will read any story that O’Neill puts down in whatever medium or format they decide. Without fail, their stories are always full of heart, warmth, and kindness. Their stories always include big life lessons told in such a gentle and nurturing way, and their latest graphic novel is no different.

A Song for You and I is about self-acceptance, growth, and courage. It’s about learning what fits best for you, allowing yourself to be vulnerable with others to grow, and having the courage to do it all regardless of how terrifying it is but also acknowledging that it’s okay to do so at your own pace. There is wonderful representation in these pages. Rowan and Leone are lovely characters whose stories will make many readers feel seen and heard. I loved their journeys of healing and acceptance and both characters filled my heart with a calming sense of joy. This isn’t a story full of action rather it’s a quiet and wholesome tale that takes place over several parts and across multiple locations. I loved everyone they met and everywhere they went!

It goes without saying that the accompanying artwork is just as amazing as the writing. I’m a huge fan of O’Neill’s artwork because even though their illustrations aren’t the most complex, they have a brilliant way of conveying so much through the character's expressions that it leaves readers with no doubt about the story's emotional depth. It’s fantastic and the way the art matches the story so well in terms of softness and peacefulness creates this perfectly magical and whimsical blend that readers can easily get lost in. I loved the colour palette in this graphic novel so much, as well as the close-ups and wide shots of the places Rowan and Leone travel through and to.

Overall, you don’t need to belong to a certain group or even believe a certain thing to understand, appreciate and connect to the stories that O’Neill crafts—you simply need to be human. 💜

I love the worlds this author creates, and this one was magical. Just so cozy. I liked the coming of age part just as much, the connections between people and nature, rangers and their winged horses, and the unexpected friendship who accepts you just as you are and want to be. Perfect ending, too.

K. O'Neill's books are a force to reckon with! This graphic novel is so fun, cozy, and queer, I truly enjoyed it. There's a depth to the story, portrayed so well in a few pages. Not to mention the fact that the art is absolutely gorgeous! I've said this time and again,.I would love to become a character in their novel, pretty please 🥺

With gorgeous art that does so much visual storytelling “A Song For You and I” brings a fantasy story filled with self-discovery and acceptance. It’s been a while since I read something that made me cry, but this story was so beautiful I couldn’t help but tear up. For me it is the relief from pain and inner turmoil that makes me cry. The ending pages of this graphic novel are filled with that hope.

I loved this little story so much. I hope one day when I am older and have children that I have this among the stories that my children read. It teaches the understanding of differences. To turn inward and truly understand yourself and who you are. As well as, the beauty and joy of pure acceptance. It is the most beautifully hopeful stories I’ve read in a long time.

As a restless trainee wanting to prove their worth as a ranger before the final tests, Rowan winds up putting themselves and their flying horse, Kes, in danger and getting Kes hurt. Their chance to prove their capability after that comes as an assignment to accompany lackadaisical sheep herder Leone across the land to deliver his family's wool. Leone seems like the total opposite of Rowan in his carefree personality, but the fiddle-playing youngster hides a lot behind his carefree smile. It will be a journey of discoveries and revelations for both.

It's amazing how relaxing and cozy a story about a kid who wants to become a defender and go on adventures can be. Rowan being grounded and forced to walk with Leone on their travels gives the story a more grounded feel that helps put both characters' journey of discovery on the forefront. Them slowly opening up and pushing each other to go after what they want and to be who they want to be is lovely. Not a whole lot happens, but that's what makes it so cozy, that it's just about Rowan and Leone finding the will to be themselves.

The art is cute and fits the story perfectly. It flows from adorable moments of fun to slightly darker situations without ever feeling like the change is jarring. Some of the panels are downright art print worthy in the amount of emotion they can express.

Very happy thanks to NetGalley and Random House Graphic for the sweet read!

O'Neil has done it again. I fell in love with the Tea Dragon series because even though it was fantastical it felt somehow safe and homey. A Song for You and I is about finding yourself and learning to accept and love who you truly are. It felt like a warm hug. I read it in one sitting and I'll definitely be buying a copy.

A Song for You and I is a graphic novel that follows Rowan, a ranger-in-training that is paired with the laid back shepherd Leone after Rowan’s desire to prove themself causes their flying horse to become injured. In traveling together, both Rowan and Leone gain more confidence in who they want to be.
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K O’Neill has done it again! I loved The Tea Dragon Society and A Song for You and I has just made me into an even bigger fan of O’Neill’s work. I wish I had a book like this when I was younger. The ART is gorgeous!! Every page is a feast for the eyes. The characters feel unique and interesting. This coming-of-age story touched my heart in unexpected ways, almost bringing me to tears at times with its sweet message. I enjoyed seeing Rowan and Leone find confidence in being themselves and pursuing their passions. This is a great addition to the realm of queer cozy fantasy. Fans of The Prince and the Dressmaker and The Tea Dragon Society will love this book!
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Thank you Random House Graphic for providing this eARC via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.

A lovely, gentle story about finding yourself and your way. K. O'Neill's art is delightful - soft, enchanting, and full of color. The landscapes, people, and animals are all lovingly drawn, creating an immersive world. I enjoyed how the characters developed over the story as they went on journeys, met new people, and opened up. A perfect book for fans of cozy fantasy! Bonus if you love flying horses!

Another fantastic work by K O'Neill! I will always read anything they come out with. Their art and world building is so wonderfully whimsical, and this was no exception.

Rowan's story felt like a familiar one and I teared up more than once. And Leone's too felt familiar.

And though horses might be hard to draw, I loved the illustrations of Kestrel. They were so soft and light, it wasn't a stretch to imagine a real Kestrel taking flight.

Thank you to NetGalley for making this available in exchange for an honest review!

First off, thank you to K O'Neill and NetGalley for allowing me to review this advanced reader copy.

This book was like a warm hug. I love K's art style and it bursts through in this one. I was amazed at the amount of information and emotion that was absorbed by the reader in the pictures alone. I definitely recommend this one and frankly all of K's works.

To say K. O’Neill is a must read is an understatement. Once again, they have beautifully captured the challenges of finding oneself and the joy that comes from doing just that. A Song for You and I also shows how even the seemingly mundane contains beauty and peace. Even more important, O’Neill shows how these unexpected places are often exactly what we need to find what we’re looking for…even within ourselves. This is the kind of “you’ll find people who love and support you just as you are” book I could have used in middle grade and I’m sure will be a comfort to many readers today.

The art in this story was so whimsical and beautiful. It gave everything such a soft and sweet feeling, which I think paired with the story perfectly. I loved the message here of learning to be okay with who you are and how you feel about yourself, even if that changes through time.

K. O’Neil knocked it out of the park once again with this graphic novel, and, frankly, this is my favorite one they’ve created thus far. It feels like such an honor to read this kind of vulnerable story, and I’m so glad it exists for younger readers. This is the kind of story I wish I had when I was younger and still questioning my trans identity.

I felt such a connection to both Rowan and Leone, as I have had many of the same fears as these two. Being afraid of expressing yourself around others, being truthful to who you are and what you want for yourself, self discovery, how to work with others- it’s all done with heart, and a beautiful art style to go along with it. Thank you to K. O’Neil for writing this story, as I can tell it will touch so many people as deeply as it touched me. It’s always an incredible feeling to be seen so concisely in a book, and I will cherish this story for years to come.