In the vibrant city of Siannerra, amid ink splatters and the scent of papyrus, lives young printing apprentice Cinzia and her resilient mentor, Mestra Aronne. Cinzia eagerly absorbs Mestra's wisdom on tending to the printing press and seeking truth in everything they write. Mestra Aronne dedicates her life to producing Avvisi, pamphlets bearing the latest town news. Their convictions are tested when Mestra is imprisoned for exposing the corrupt royal family. With newfound friend Elena, Siannerra's Principessa, Cinzia is determined to prove that truth prevails. This captivating adventure, filled with vivid colors and a vibrant sense of location, immerses readers in its golden pages. Nijkamp skillfully addresses topics like disability and censorship in a story that beautifully harmonizes with Bi's warm and expressive artwork. Cinzia, supported by her community, exemplifies the beauty of living truthfully with kindness and unity, a sentiment particularly powerful in our current historical moment marked by an increase in attempts to censor books. A strong, timely choice for fans of Jen Wang's The Prince and the Dressmaker (2018).

Cinzia loves Siannerra, a bustling city of diverse people and stories.She's especially passionate about her job as apprentice to printer Mestra Arrone and dreams of following in her footsteps. When they publish evidence of criminal activity within the royal family, and her mestra is imprisoned, Cinzia flees, encountering young Contessina Elena. The isolated Elena is considered odd and standoffish by her subjects, yet she longs to know her city and its people. The girls become caught in a web of political intrigue and urban corruption as they work to expose treachery and make a better world. They're helped by spirited pirate Carlotta and Aneeqah, a hijabi apprentice papermaker. The star of the show is Siannerra itself: Drawn in warm jewel tones and embellished with charming details, the Renaissance Italy–influenced metropolis is as alive and changeable as any of its people. Bi's meticulous, lively art captures the bustling streets and a sense of adventure around every corner. The character designs are endearing, and there's a dynamic sense of movement, particularly in the way Cinzia navigates her world as a cane user whose disability never excludes her from the action. Elena's neurodivergence is presented as an asset, her unique way of looking at the world a strength. The girls' connection is sweet, but too little time is spent developing it. Cinzia has light-brown skin; Elena has dark-brown skin, and the girls inhabit a racially diverse world.A topical ode to truth-telling and community. (author's note) (Graphic fantasy. 8-12)