COMICS - Young Adult 2024

WINNER

Il racconto della roccia (The Tale of the Stone)

Coconino Press
Italy
Text and Art by BeneDì (Benedetta D'Incau)

What the jury said:
BeneDì’s captivating graphic novel explores the lives of two boys, one Jewish and the other Muslim. The author masterfully portrays their friendship – in early 20th-century Yemen – with remarkable accuracy and deep respect for cultural and historical context. The arrival of a mysterious demon imperils the two communities’ formerly harmonious and tolerant coexistence in a remote village. Il racconto della roccia is as an extraordinary work for its unique stylistic and narrative choices, refined and subtle artwork, and outstanding graphic quality. A debut from a promising author, the book impresses with its mastery of the graphic novel format and keen sensitivity toward the story being told.

Clocki

SPECIAL MENTION

Clocki (Today)

Misma
France
Text and art by Mathias Martinez

What the jury said:

This tale stands out for unique visual intensity. Employing flat, saturated colours, its striking imagery boldly explores forms which may initially seem disturbing and dark. Set against a 1930s American backdrop, the book follows the lead character’s rise and fall, characterized by grotesque deformations reminiscent of Steamboat Willie and dreamlike visions, all in service of the story.

Le Visage de Pavil

SPECIAL MENTION

Le Visage de Pavil (Pavil's Face)

Editions 2024
France
Text and art by Jeremy Perrodeau

What the jury said:
Colour is deployed in a sophisticated way in this beautifully designed comic book. So packed with intrigue and adventure is this exciting, visually narrated story that it’s like a kaleidoscope of stunning images, in a luxurious hardcover edition that boasts a raised title.

Loops

SPECIAL MENTION

Loops

BAO Publishing
Italy
Text by Luca Pozzi
Art by Elisa Macellari

What the jury said:
A visual conversation between a scientist and an artist creatively simplifies apparently complex scientific ideas. The book’s contemporary visual style uses page layout as an effective communicative tool. This unique blend of text and images presents a comic-form story exploring the medium’s artistic and technical boundaries. The jury commends this work for an innovative and accessible approach, and its educational value.