Skip to main content

Member Reviews

K. O’Neill always delivers. They’re consistent in their quality, creativity and cozy atmosphere. Like the others, this book is visually a treasure to look at if nothing else. The story is of identity, acceptance, friendship and comfort in self expression. There is a studio ghibli vibe in the scenic beauty of the illustrations and also; in the organic unfolding of the story and characters. What would it be like to have support at every turn? To offer up your vulnerabilities and be met with acceptance? O'Neill shows us.

Would recommend it to middle graders and adults alike. My Ten year old and I both enjoyed it.

Was this review helpful?

Thank you to NetGalley and the publishers for this ARC in exchange for my honest review!!

This was so cute. The end had me tearing up a little. I love this artist and I’m glad that they are making more graphic novels. This is a super short and full of feels. The art is beautiful as always and the story was engaging. Plenty of development and adorable characters. Can’t wait to read more!

Was this review helpful?

Oh my goodness! This was just the cutest Middle-grade graphic novel. The drawings were gorgeous, I loved them so much. The characters were good, and they had amazing growth. I enjoyed this so much, it felt like a warm blanket on a cold winter night.

This is so worth reading if you like graphic novels, and has an amazing message.

Thank you to Netgalley and Random House Children's for this arc in exchange for an honest review!

Was this review helpful?

This cute graphic novel follows young Rowan (formerly Rose) as they come to terms with their queer identity alongside new friend Leone. I was particularly captivated by the art style; it's my favorite thing about this book. Several pages rely solely on visuals to tell the story, and they were some of the most beautiful and impactful moments.

CAWPILE Ratings:
Characters: 7
Art Style: 9
Writing: 7
Plot: 7
Intrigue: 7
Logic: 7
Enjoyment: 7
Overall, this novel beautifully captures an intimate journey of self-discovery with artistry that speaks volumes without a single word.

Was this review helpful?

A Song for You and I is a heartwarming, coming-of-age graphic novel that features K. O'Neill's gorgeous art style and unique storylines. I have enjoyed all of O'Neill's graphic novels, and this one is no different. I love the unique storyline of the rangers and the beautiful (full color!) world they live in. The landscapes are stunning (especially those at the end), and I love the dual-page spreads. This novel has such good casual lgbtq+ representation. I enjoy the relatively sparse text, as it makes the reader rely more heavily on the images - and O'Neill has the superb ability to convey emotion/meaning through expressions. I didn't love the font - it looked out of place, as the speech bubbles and composition borders have a drawn-line quality. A more handwritten-appearing font would have been more cohesive. I also found the plot a bit meandering in the middle, but I didn't mind wandering in such a beautiful world. Cheers to everyone involved in this gorgeous graphic novel.

Was this review helpful?

This one was just as adorable as the Tea Dragon Series. I loved every page and think that readers of all ages would enjoy this beautiful illustrated story!

Was this review helpful?

Another great graphic novel by K. O'Neill. Usually, I'm not a fan of slow paced graphic novels, but K. O'Neill's pace made the story into a sweet lullaby. The author's art and character design is lovely as always. This is a great recommendation for young readers looking for Studio Ghibli-esque books, and most of all young readers who are great fans of The Moth Keeper and The Tea Dragon Society.

Was this review helpful?

So cute! So dreamy! So cozy and comforting and beautiful! Every panel was gorgeous and made this slow-paced story wonderful.

Was this review helpful?

This is a wholesome, heartwarming, beautiful book that I think everyone should read. I would love to see it animated, but it's so well done that I could imagine the art move and the sounds of the story in my head. K. O'Neill is one of my autobuy authors, and it was such an honor to read this book as an ARC. I will definitely be picking this book up for myself, and I can see myself gifting this book to people I love as well.

Was this review helpful?

This was adorable. Everything you would expect from their work. I am a huge fan of everything they create so I had very high hopes for A Song for You and I. It did not disappoint. The art was cute the story was sweet and it had excellent lessons in acceptance. Can't wait to read this again and again.

5 stars

Was this review helpful?

This is a gentle read. There is space on each page free of dialogue but with lovely illustrations full of nature. This is perfect for reluctant readers and those who need a pause from reality. There is a bit of conflict and drama with Rose/Rowan's journey to becoming a ranger and forming a relationship with their horse, but it is not so high stakes that the reader feels anxious. A fantastic read for classrooms and public libraries alike.

Was this review helpful?

I loved this graphic novel. The storyline was fantastic and the art was beautiful. A great portrayal of growth, learning from your mistakes and courage. I did feel like it ended all of a sudden , but that isn't much of a downside, just a surprise.

Was this review helpful?

This was absolutely delightful. I love how soft and cozy K. O’Neill’s art and stories are, and this was no exception. The only thing I can complain about is that I didn’t want it to end.

Was this review helpful?

It's been wonderful following the author, K's, story telling journey through their books. Each previous story has felt so gentle and reassuring and this graphic novel is no exception. I really connect with the characters and like the meandering progression of the story. I also absolutely adore the artwork and story's setting. I am greatly looking forward to purchasing this book when it's released and to reading more of their stories in the future.

Was this review helpful?

No one does gentle graphic novels quite like K. O'Neill and A Song for You and I is no exception. Lovely illustrations pair perfectly with the story of two kids trying to find their places in the world. This is a middle grade graphic novel, so theres a bit more at stake than in some of O'Neill's other works, but it still maintains the same cozy feel that we've grown to expect. I'd love to see a followup to see how the characters thrive on their chosen paths.

Was this review helpful?

K. O'Neill is an amazing graphic novel artist and author. This book is a wonderful young adult coming of age novel and shows character growth. Great for middle school and up collections.

Was this review helpful?

“It gets a bit tirin’ tryin’ to prove yourself to others…I reckon it’s best to please yourself first, and the ones who love you will get it.” As always, anything K. O’Neill writes is magical and meaningful. I loved following Rowan and Leonne on their journey. Just a solid, wholesome graphic novel that readers of all ages will love! I just want to live inside all of O’Neill’s stories, and I loved that they included some of their sketches and what they were inspired by 🩵✨

Was this review helpful?

A Song for You and I is such a positive book! I loved the illustrations and the gentle fantasy vibes. Rowan's growth throughout the book was amazing, and it honestly reminded me while reading to take my time and enjoy the small things. This book is very much in line with the style of the Tea Dragon Society books also by K. O'Neill and is just as lovely.

Thanks to NetGalley, K. O'Neill, and Penguin Random House for the chance to read and review. My opinions are my own.

Was this review helpful?

What a sweet story! The characters are fully fledged with their own complex stories and hurdles, I loved the message of trusting yourself and building strong friendships from that foundation. Rose's journey felt so so familiar to mine, but not one I often come across- which was exciting and it felt great to be represented! Loved the artwork, the setting, and all the messages.

Everyone starts off a bit shallow and annoying, but it doesn't take long for the story and characters to become complex and layered. Beautifully well done example of natural feeling character growth.

Was this review helpful?

I loved this author already, but this graphic novel is amazing. I can't wait to see how much my library loves it as well.

Was this review helpful?