Guardians of Horsa

A powerful prophecy brings an unlikely group of heroes together in this series-starting graphic novel. Divided for centuries into four separate kingdoms, the warring realms of Horsa have not enjoyed harmonious relations. The horses in the Aqua, Solar, Firma, and Derecho herds possess magical powers--related to water, fire, earth, and wind, respectively--which allow them to thrive in their realms. That careful division comes to an end with the uncharacteristic rising of a pink sun, a portent of magic coming to Horsa. Four horses--one from each realm--are tasked with locating the prophesied yearling and bringing them safely back using only a magical map to guide them. Dubbed the Guardians of Horsa, the group must overcome decades of distrust to accomplish their mission. Readers will be forgiven for thinking this sounds reminiscent of the TV series My Little Pony: Friendship Is Magic (talking horses with elemental talents, a plotline and prophecies, the importance of collaboration). Though the tales have some similarities, there is an omnipresent suspicion among the Guardians that adds the possible threat of impending betrayal, the likes of which the MLP gang couldn't imagine. And while the Horsa herds do have fantastical, elemental manes, their bodies have a much more equine trim, which may have some crossover appeal for realistic horse fiction fans. Together, the art and story build a solid foundation for what promises to be a thrilling series. Familiar fare but will hold the attention of fantasy readers and horse lovers alike. (Graphic fantasy. 6-9) Copyright (c) Kirkus Reviews, used with permission.