In Aurora and The Orc, There’s something strange about the new kid in class. Maybe it’s because he’s from a faraway country where they practice different customs. Or maybe it’s because his skin is green, he carries a club, and his favorite pastime is slaying elves.
Her teacher and classmates are unfazed, but to Aurora, it’s obvious—the new kid is an orc! As the unofficial chaperone to the new orc kid in class, Aurora realizes it’s on her to teach him about human life and curb his outrageous behavior. But as she travels with him and discovers more of his (completely bonkers) fantasy world, it becomes clear she also has much to learn—about not just him, but some shocking ties to her own family.
This is the set up for Aurora and The Orc, the latest graphic novel from beloved French cartoonist Lewis Trondheim. Trondheim is one of the most celebrated (and prolific) cartoonists of his generation. In recent years, he’s mostly written comics for others to draw such as Infinity 8, his take on Heavy Metal-esque sci-fi. Aurora and The Orc then represents a welcome return to the drawing board for him.
His distinct line work and take on funny animal comics make him one of France’s most recognizable artists. He can seemingly do everything; historical fiction (Bourbon Island 1730), autobiographical comics (Little Nothings) fantasy (Dungeon with Joann Sfar), and of course, kids comics. As always, this latest book shows off his keen wit that makes his work enjoyable for people of all ages.
Aurora and The Orc sees publication from First Second on 6/23/26
Great news! Anything by Lewis Trondheim is a must-buy.