Far Sector by N.K. Jemisin, Jamal Campbell and Deron Bennet
Young Animal / DC
Publication Date: November 16, 2021
ISBN-13: 9781779512055
Sojourner “Jo” Mullen is a new Green Lantern on a mission far from home, investigating a murder in The City Enduring, a sprawling metropolis that has known peace for 500 years due to the genetic suppression of all emotions. When one murder turns to two, Jo finds herself grasping for answers in a political, ethical, and corrupt quagmire. Can she stay one-step ahead of the forces blocking her path?
Readers entirely new to the Green Lantern universe can jump right into this book. It reads like a short novel and is loaded with all the best elements of good science fiction. Earthborn Jo often reflects on how societies can’t escape corruption and oppression, even light years away in a seemingly advanced alien society. The artwork in this book is fascinatingly detailed, especially the various cityscapes. Coloring, accented by streaks of neon, contributes to the solid outer space atmosphere. Those looking for a refreshing single volume story in a genre crowded with ongoing series will relish this book.
Hand this to teens who enjoy thought-provoking science fiction with heavy political and societal worldbuilding. Far Sector would also make an interesting choice for those who like detective stories. Teens who love Star Wars, The Murderbot Diaries, or comics like Cosmoknights and Across a Field of Starlight will be intrigued by Far Sector.
—Kelley Blue
Other Nominated Titles:
- Mashle: Magic and Muscles, vol. 6 by Hajime Komoto (May 17, 2022)
- Kaiju No. 8, vol. 2 by Naoya Matsumoto (April 5, 2022)
- M Is for Monster by Talia Dutton (June 28, 2022)
- A Quick & Easy Guide to Asexuality by Molly Muldoon (March 29, 2022)
- Shang-chi, vol. 2: Shang-chi Vs. the Marvel Universe by Gene Luen Yang (January 12, 2022)
- Squire by Nadia Shammas and Sara Alfageeh (March 8, 2022)
The Selected Lists teams read throughout the year in search of the best titles published in their respective categories. Once a book is suggested (either internally or through the title suggestion form), it must pass through a review process to be designated an official nomination.
Each week, the teams feature a review of one of the officially nominated titles. Additional titles to receive this designation are listed as well. At year’s end, the team will curate a final list from all nominated titles and select a Top Ten.
