From Publishers Weekly
Gothic horror, New England ghost stories and Loli fashion, along with traditional Japanese manga, are all reflected in this English-language manga. LeGrow's intricate backgrounds, fabulous costumes, architectural fantasias and painterly set pieces introducing each chapter make this book a delectable visual treat. The writing, unfortunately, doesn't rise to the same level. Unconvincingly written newspaper dispatches provide backstory and plot, while dialogue gets across the bare minimum. Dinah, the well-dressed heroine, is troubled by visions of ghosts in the empty buildings of the boarding school where she's been sent to live with an aunt, following the deaths of her parents. Decaying buildings and abandoned graveyards, rendered in a German expressionistic style, provide an impressive background to the low-key story. Dinah and her suitably slender and big-eyed companion, Vincent, meet a variety of creatures who give them a series of clunky riddles to solve. Along their way, they meet several tragically inclined ghosts. The book offers an unsatisfying ending, relying too heavily on its closing "to –be continued." The flimsy narrative will most likely be forgiven by many who will simply see it as an excuse to enjoy some very impressive art. (Aug.)
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From School Library Journal
Grade 7 Up–Dinah, a teen who lost her parents in a car accident, lives with her aunt in a decrepit house in a run-down mill town in Bizenghast, MA. Dinah, who was also in the car, suffers from fits that keep her on the brink of madness and allow her to see ghosts. Her only friend is Vincent, a dreamy blond boy, and together they sneak out of the oppressiveness of the house for adventures. On one such excursion they come upon Bizenghast's biggest secret–an abandoned church and graveyard that no one can prove is really there. The teens disturb the inhabitants, and the consequence for Dinah is either to help the otherworldly creatures to release lost souls or to become one herself. Dinah is an interesting character with a quirky sense of style that will appeal to followers of the burgeoning gothic Lolita look. The story has a dreamlike quality, and the hint of possible romance with Vincent adds to the suspense. This first volume is chillingly spooky and fans will look forward to the next installment.–Melissa T. Jenvey, New York Public Library
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