The Girl From Deja Vu: (The Nightmare Brigade #1) by Franck Thillez and Yomgui Dumont

What worked:

Using dreams as the setting for a story opens up all kinds of possibilities. The book’s exposition introduces an institute designed to help people get rid of their nightmares. Somehow, two teenagers are implanted into the patient’s dreams with materials and a mission to stop the bad thoughts. Tristan and Esteban don’t join mentally, they physically enter the dreams and are subject to whatever dangers they might encounter. On the positive side, Tristan is able to leave his wheelchair while in the dream, Esteban can walk through walls, but the boys face the real possibility that they might fall victim to injury or death.

Tristan’s dad, Professor Angus, runs the clinic, but things get mysterious from there. Esteban can’t remember anything about his past that happened prior to three years ago, and Tristan’s dad clearly knows what happened. Also, the patient at the clinic has the same amnesia, and Professor Angus forbids the boys from meeting her while she’s awake. The questions surrounding Professor Angus, the clinic, and Esteban’s past create an air of uncertainty about the whole situation.

Clues about Esteban’s past are revealed on the final pages, and the professor’s motivations are uncovered through the course of events. The clinic’s ability to treat nightmares provides opportunities for future stories that should also see Esteban and the professor using them to pursue their needs. The author also uses the stories to share worries that can cause serious emotional distress. Tristan and Esteban need to uncover the causes of various nightmares, so the professor can help patients resolve their problems once they’re awake. The stories might provide some comfort to readers with similar problems.

What didn’t work as well:

A graphic novel has fewer words than other books, so there’s less description of the characters and story. However, the lack of detail allows readers to use their imaginations to fill in the gaps to create more personal connections. The concept of the clinic, its purpose, and its dangers is extraordinary and unique.

The Final Verdict:

Where dreams come alive. This graphic novel describes a captivating story of frightful dreams, mysterious adventures, and underlying, suspicious motivations. The quick pace will appeal to most young readers, and I highly recommend you give it a shot.