Review: Wild: Or So I Was Born To Be

Author/Artist: Cristian Castelo
Publisher: Oni Press
Released: November 22, 2022
Received: NetGalley

If you promise me a graphic novel that is a merger between roller derby and coming-of-age, you better believe I will read it! And that is exactly what Wild: Or So I Was Born To Be promises readers.

Wild Rodriguez and her friends always have cherished roller derby, and this year marks a highlight in their obsession – they’re finally trying out for the Rocket Rollers. Will they have what it takes to enter the roller derby world?

Anyone who understands roller derby knows exactly what sacrifices will need to be made, including accepting pain and punishment. Not to mention the risk of joining a feud…or two.

There’s something about the combination of roller derby and coming-of-age that feels so…right. Perhaps it’s because both roller derby and life can beat the shit out of you. Or perhaps it’s just me wanting to like this graphic novel! Either way.

Overall, I would have to say that Wild is a pretty interesting graphic novel. I think I liked the artwork more than the plot itself, but that isn’t a bad thing. To be honest, the monochromatic art style probably would have stolen the show, regardless.

There’s a lot of potential peaking through the pages, though I think the plot could have used a bit of tightening up. Even though I didn’t love every moment of this read, something about it made me wish it was a series. I think that’s the potential (and the artwork) speaking.

Thanks to Oni Press and #NetGalley for making this book available for review. All opinions expressed are my own.

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