SCHOOL LIBRARY JOURNAL -- Gr 7 Up-Phillips (<i>Harley
Quinn, Butcher of Paris</i>) and Johnson (<i>Batman: Black and White</i>) have
created a Black Mirror-esque world where the app Ranked uses computer algorithms
to score every citizen on popularity and social standing. Those with high ranks
enjoy life to the fullest, while those who don't score as well find it difficult
to obtain employment, entertainment, or even friends. High schooler Averee reaps
the benefits of her family's good fortune until their rank suddenly plummets.
After Averee experiences how the other half lives, she, her friend Zoe, and her
crush Luke resolve to find and talk to PrettyKitty, the green-haired, cat
ear-wearing, adorable Ranked spokesperson. As they learn more about the app's
nefarious machinations, however, the teens realize that they must end it for
good. The plot moves quickly, carried by engaging, dynamic characters; Averee
and Zoe's relationship becomes complicated as Averee accuses her friend, who's
long been skeptical of Ranked, of secretly bringing Averee's family's rank down.
The dramatic, realistic art is fantastic, with vivid coloring and details that
bring to life a seemingly beautiful world whose dark side is slowly revealed.
Averee and Zoe are Asian, while Luke is white. VERDICT Though fans of
speculative tales in the vein of Black Mirror will appreciate this one, so will
anyone who loves friendship stories, such as Faith Erin Hicks's One Year at
Ellsmere. A good entry point for those unfamiliar with comics,
too.<br />