One of the things the YA market has been really good at encouraging is graphic novels that actually use the medium for visual storytelling.

The Prince and the Dressmaker has exactly as many words as it needs. It's not trying to impress the world with its prose because that's what the gorgeous artwork is for. It's still good writing, but it's in the service of the whole of the work rather than trying to be the star.

This book was immediately captivating, with characters that remind you just how powerful acting in comics can actually be, and how expressive the medium is. The whole story felt effortless to read and was charming throughout.

And it's an interesting subject to highlight that perhaps some people haven't considered: a fair number of crossdressers are heterosexual men. It's just a reminder that repressive norms are harmful to everyone in a culture.

I would wholeheartedly recommend this to anyone looking for a sweet, earnest comic book story suitable for all ages.