‘Across a Field of Starlight’ is as imaginative as it is inclusive
By Rashauna Tunson
“Your perspective is shaped by whatever you’re surrounded by… and it can be hard to break out of that shape.” Have you been yearning for a Young Adult graphic novel filled with cheerful characters, welcoming representation, a splendid color palette and appreciation for humanity? If you answered yes, then turn your attention to Blue Delliquanti’s Across a Field of Starlight.
Enter Lu, who is an effervescent child residing at the edges of space. Their people — The Field Commune — remain neutral towards the Blossom Empire as well as the Fireback rebels. One day, while on a science mission, Lu encounters Fassen, a curly haired war orphan who was marooned on a foreign planet. Instead of alerting their crewmates to the existence of Fassen, Lu graciously hails an enemy ship to help rescue Fassen. Lu then gives them a way to stay in contact, and the pair remain friends and vow to keep in contact no matter where they are in space.
After some time, Fassen grows into their role as a rebel soldier, following endless orders. Lu grows into their role as a science explorer, learning about how each planet supports life. After Fassen’s squadron is engaged in a dramatic battle, Fassen flees with critical enemy technology and unknowingly brings the war right to the Field Commune’s home, threatening everyone’s way of life, as well as Lu and Fassen’s friendship.
Delliquanti’s graphic novel is a joyful treat. I cannot rave enough about how amazingly diverse every individual character is in this book. Characters frequently turn gender norms and typical body standards on their head, such as Sgt. Sertig, who uses she/her pronouns and sports both a thick beard and unibrow. Lu is gorgeously fat and Black with with adorable pink locs floating in the ship’s zero gravity. A prominent character prefers to wear binders and openly talks about it with Fassen. I also really loved the way Across a Field of Starlight dismantles gender norms and lovingly portrays diverse characters, not only in race and gender, but also: body type, bodily ability, and gender expression. Space is limitless, and it is wonderful to see that reflected in how characters express themselves!
Delliquanti does an excellent job at highlighting the dynamics of Lu and Fassen’s relationship. Although they are dedicated to each other, they are still two distinct individuals. Sometimes they don’t see eye to eye, but they always find a way to respect each other’s way of viewing the world. Looking at the universe through each character’s eyes is interesting: Fassen, having grown up in the rebellion, conforms to the role of the obedient soldier without question, causing them to question the idea of usefulness in society and feeling as if their very existence needs to be paid off. Lu, on the other hand, has always known free will, and they act as a staunch protector of human rights. I think that this makes their friendship all the more engaging, and is certainly topical to our current society. Hopefully anyone who reads this book will see the parallels between our world and the world Delliquanti has fleshed out in their graphic novel.
Across a Field of Starlight is an imaginative, inclusive read and a stunning addition to any graphic novel collection — do yourself a favor and pick this book up today!
About the Author
Rashauna Tunson (she/her) is a lifelong resident of Denver, Colorado and is a proud Black Queer. She is passionate about equality, Disco music, quoting ancient memes and petting cats. You can follow Rashauna on Twitter at @sk8tergrrrl666 or — if you’re lucky — you can catch her whipping around town on her roller skates!
