In this stand-alone comic, Lumberjanes Jo, April, Molly, Mal, and Ripley are off on an orienteering adventure in order to get the Mappy-Go-Lucky badge. As each member of the team eventually gets lost from scout leader Jen and the rest of the group, they must learn to conquer their fears in order to get back to the others and save the day. Though separate from the main canon, the story's focus on humor and girl-powered adventure seamlessly folds into the overall story line. Noticeably different in Infernal Compass, however, is the drawing style, as illustrator Polterink replaces the long-running, beloved series art style of cheery, madcap cartoons with a more realistic style rendered in a minimal, soft-color palette. Though the tone certainly feels different, thanks to this change, the story's focus on campers Mal and Molly's relationship and their anxieties about moving forward and alienating their friends makes the switch a positive one. Simply wonderful.

Gr 7 Up-amp}ndash; In this first original graphic novel set in the acclaimed "Lumberjanes" world, the friends encounter obstacles during an outing. Molly, who is feeling insecure about how her relationship with Mal might be affecting the other girls, gets distracted by a possibly sinister compass. One by one the Janes get separated from each other in the forest, where they're met by fastidious and ultra-proper robot servants. This series continues to explore the layers and nuances of relationships among girls, with fierce protagonists, adventurous story lines, hilarious dialogue, and lots of heart. Polterink's muted green and gray palette establishes the perfect tone for the earthy setting. The volume concludes with an excerpt from the first issue of the comic. An appendix with character designs, concept art, pencils, and glimpses of the storyboard will fascinate fans and aspiring comic writers and artists. Series newcomers may have a difficult time keeping track of the characters, as most of the scenes focus on Mal and Molly's relationship. But, the kooky interactions with the automaton butlers and the complex depiction of feeling left behind by your peers will resonate with many teens. Fans will appreciate the familiar references to strong female historical figures. VERDICT Purchase where "Lumberjanes" comics and novels are popular.{amp}mdash; Shelley M. Diaz, School Library Journal