WPL's Graphic Novels, Comics and Manga Blog

Amulet Book 4: The Last Council

2011-11-30T15:16:00.001-05:00

Amulet Book 4: The Last Council
by Kazu Kibuishi
Call #: Jr. Graphic Novels KIBUI

The long awaited fourth volume of The Amulet is here!

Things are not going well for Emily and her friends, family and allies. The mysteries deepen, the danger gets more fraught, and the betrayals are more insidious. The floating city of Cielis is not the haven they had hoped for and everything looks like it's about to fall apart.

Not all is lost, though. Vigo, an old friend of Emily's grandfather, returns to help her, but has he arrived in time?

This series just keeps getting better and better.

The Avengers Volume 1

2011-11-30T11:57:00.000-05:00

The Avengers Volume 1
by Brian Michael Bendis and John Romita Jr.
Call #: Teen Graphic Novels BENDI

No sooner than Steve Rogers (the former Captain America) sets up the Avengers once again then they are thrown into a time altering crisis that could tear the Universe apart.

Half of the team travel to the future due to a warning from time travelling villain, Kang, that their children are responsible for the destruction of time.

The other half are left in New York to defend the city and its inhabitants from the fallout of the time distortions.

Packed full of over the top action and adventure. What more could you ask from Marvel? Great fun.

Avengers Prime

2011-11-18T13:45:00.000-05:00

Avengers Prime
by Brian Michael Bendis and Alan Davis
Call #: Teen Graphic Novels BENDI

Asgard lies in ruins. While surveying the damage Thor, Captain America and Iron Man are swept away to various Asgardian realms. Separated and confused each of them try and find a way back to Earth. Iron Man is stripped of his armour, Thor loses his hammer, and Captain America... well, don't want to give too much away.

This is a fun book. Alan Davis artwork is fantastic. Well worth reading.

Justice League of America: Dark Things

2011-11-16T13:33:00.000-05:00

Justice League of America: Dark Things
by James Robinson, Mark Bagley, Rob Hunter, and Norm Rapmund
Call #: Jr. Graphic Novels ROBIN

The new league, lead by the very new Batman (Dick Grayson the original Robin), are faced with a challenge of a global scale. A challenge that threatens to destroy the Earth.

With the help of The Justice Society they battle a newly sentient Starheart, the mystical crystal that gives Alan Scott, the original Green Lantern, his powers. It's aware and it's cranky and it's going to take it out on the world.

Monster Christmas

2011-11-14T13:24:00.001-05:00

Monster Christmas
by Lewis Trondheim
Call: # Jr. Graphic Novels TROND

A Christmas vacation turns to disaster when Petey, Jean, their parents and their pet monster, Kriss, are stranded in the mountains. Luckily Santa Claus shows up. Unluckily he's being chased by another monster that wants to eat him.

Could this be the end of Christmas?

Cigars of the Pharaoh

2011-11-02T10:55:00.003-04:00

Cigars of the Pharaoh
by Hergé
Call #: Jr. Graphic Novels HERGE

Tintin gets caught up in an international drug smuggling ring while enjoying a relaxing cruise. This is the most complex storyline yet and the most satisfying of the first four volumes.

Of particular interest is how many recurring characters are introduced in Cigars of the Pharaoh. The villainous Roberto Rastapopoulos, the nefarious sailor Allan, the astounding salesman Oliveira da Figueira, and most importantly Thomson and Thompson (although they did make an anonymous cameo appearance in Tintin in the Congo).

Like the first three volumes, Cigars of the Pharaoh was redrawn and rewritten for a variety of reasons, mainly to fit in with Hergé's new ligne claire style. The differences between the 1934 and 1955 versions are quite numerous compared to the other volumes. As well there are significant differences between the English and French versions due to different publishing dates. For a complete description of the differences click here.

The story is continued in The Blue Lotus.

Tintin in America

2011-10-28T13:30:00.000-04:00

Tintin in America
by Hergé
Call #: Jr Graphic Novels HERGE

Following the events in Tintin in the Congo Tintin and Snowy are off to America to clean up organized crime. Set in the time of Prohibition and gangsters like Al Capone Tintin is beset by criminals wherever he goes.

At first glance the Blackfoot tribe seems to be your typical Hollywood representation of a native tribe. However, Hergé seems to have done some research into the clothing and living conditions of the Blackfoot. Still , there is that sense of non-whites being childish, like the Congolese in Tintin in the Congo. Yet there is sympathy here as well. When oil is found on the reservation the natives are driven off the land by the army. Unlike the thousands of dollars offered to Tintin when the oil companies think the land belongs to him.

Tintin in America is the first to have a more cohesive plot than in the previous two volumes. Tintin chases down a gangland boss from Chicago to the plains. Along the way he dons a cowboy outfit, is captured by the natives, almost lynched as a mistaken bank robber, and is tied to the rail road track. All the things associated with America by Europeans during the thirties.

Tintin in the Congo

2011-10-26T13:29:00.001-04:00

Tintin in the Congo
by Hergé
Call #: Jr Graphic Novels HERGE

The second volume in the Tintin library is interesting from a historical point of view but like The Adventures of Tintin, Reporter for "Le Petit Vingtième" In the Land of the Soviets it seems crude in comparison to later volumes. Congo was actually redrawn by Hergé in 1946 to closer match the style he had developed since it first saw publication. He also re-wrote some of the story to appeal to readers outside of Belgium.

Tintin in the Congo also shows the blatant racism of the time. The Congolese are portrayed as being little more than children, needing Belgium to rule them like stern parents. This was the view of the colonial era in much of the West, unfortunately.

As for the story, such as it is, revolves around Tintin's visit to The Congo. There is a sub-plot about gangsters trying to control the diamond trade in Africa. For the most part it's a rather skewed view of a trip through Africa.

Binky Under Pressure

2011-10-22T15:00:00.000-04:00

Binky Under Pressure
by Ashley Spires
Call #: Jr. Graphic Novels SPIRE

Binky is once again being tested...and not by the aliens!

A new cat has moved into Binky's space station and Binky's not too happy about it. Gracie is obviously a robot sent by the aliens to invade and take his humans hostage. Or is she?

Another delightful addition to the Binky series.

The Baby-Sitters Club 3: Mary Anne Saves the Day

2011-10-18T12:14:00.000-04:00

The Baby-Sitters Club 3: Mary Anne Saves the Day
by Raina Telgemeier
Call #: Jr. Graphic Novels MARTI

The Baby-Sitters Club faces their biggest challenge yet, each other. After a big fight threatens to destroy the BSC the girls struggle to keep the business afloat without actually talking to each other.

It's up to Mary Anne to bring the girls back together, but she's not sure how. Mary Anne also has a new friend now, Dawn, and they've just discovered that Mary Anne's father and Dawn's mother used to go out together in high school...could they rekindle that old romance?

Drama at its best. Well worth your time whether your a girl or a boy.

Beauty and the Squat Bears

2011-10-05T11:02:00.000-04:00

Beauty and the Squat Bears
by Emile Bravo
Call #: Jr. Graphic Novels BRAVO

Hilarious! This is one of the funniest all-ages graphic novels I've read in a long time.

One of the squat bears is sent off to find a Prince for Snow White. He finds more than he needs much to his annoyance.

Read it for yourself, read it to someone younger, read it to your grandpa, just read it!

The Adventures of Tintin, Reporter for "Le Petit Vingtième" In the Land of the Soviets

2011-09-22T13:51:00.000-04:00

The Adventures of Tintin, Reporter for "Le Petit Vingtième" In the Land of the Soviets
by Hergé
Call #: Jr. Graphic Novels HERGE

Tintin first appeared in the weekly newspaper supplemental Le Petit Vingtième in 1929 in Belgium.

This is the very first Tintin story. If you've read all the other Tintins then this one will look very odd to you. The artwork seems crude in comparison and is in black and white. While dealing with a serious subject it is also far more lighthearted than later Tintin tales.

In The Land of the Soviets is a product of it's times and the newspaper it ran in. This is not a fair and even handed tour of 1920's Soviet Russia but an attempt to educate young readers about the falseness and dangers of Communism.

Not the best Tintin, to be sure, but interesting to see how it all began.

The Baby-Sitters Club 2: the Truth About Stacey

2011-09-20T12:11:00.000-04:00

The Baby-Sitters Club 2: the Truth About Stacey
by Raina Telgemeier
Call #: Jr. Graphic Novels MARTI

The Baby-Sitters Club is in trouble. An older group of girls has started The Baby-Sitting Agency and the BSC is losing clients. The girls try new marketing ideas but nothing seems to help. Can they survive the competition?

Stacey has worse problems on her mind, though. Her parents want her to see another doctor about her diabetes. The appointment is in New York and worst of all they'll be staying at her ex-best friends house. The ex-best friend who turned on her when she found out she had diabetes.

Well worth reading!

Batman: The Brave and the Bold: Emerald Knight

2011-09-15T11:40:00.000-04:00

Batman: The Brave and the Bold: Emerald Knight
by Various
Call #: Jr. Graphic Novels WALKE

Batman is back and he's teaming up with all his friends to keep the world (and beyond) safe from villainy! Batman, along with Wonder Woman, Plastic Man, Aquaman, Green Lantern, Green Arrow, Captain Marvel, The Huntress, and Martian Manhunter, to name just a few, defeat a host of villains from the Joker to the Cyborg Superman.

Fun, exciting, and with a dash of humour, Brave and the Bold is a must read for all superhero fans.

Outrageous!

The Saga of Rex

2011-09-13T11:26:00.000-04:00

The Saga of Rex

by Michel Gagné
Call #: Jr. Graphic Novels GAGNE

Rex is a fox-like alien creature who gets swept up into a series of events that transform his life. He is buffeted from one surreal adventure to the next but his plucky courage gets him through it all.

This wordless comic is a delightful visual feast.

Yeah!

2011-09-10T10:57:00.000-04:00

Yeah!
by Peter Bagge and Gilbert Hernandez
Call #: Jr. Graphic Novels BAGGE

Peter Bagge and Gilbert Hernandez are two of the most well known alternative cartoonists in the comic industry. Their works are definitely of the "adult only" type but here we have them trying their hand at an all-ages comic series. Originally published in the early nineties it is collected here in one volume.

Yeah! is an all girl rock band. Not just any rock band but the most successful and popular band in the whole universe! Except on Earth where they're a struggling garage band. Since they get paid in alien currency it's useless on Earth and so they wait for their big break while travelling the galaxy.

This is a silly and fun comic with over the top humour and visuals.

Hereville: How Mirka Got Her Sword

2011-09-08T10:48:00.001-04:00

Hereville: How Mirka Got Her Sword
by Barry Deutsch
Call #: Jr. Graphic Novel DEUTS

A story of magic realism where Mirka lives in a Hasidic community, goes to school, knits and argues with her siblings, she also meets a witch, a talking pig, and a troll.

Mirka wants nothing more than to become a dragonslayer. She isn't interested in who will be picked to be her husband, or if she drops a stitch while knitting, all that occupies her mind are monsters and how to kill them.

This is the story of how she got her sword.

Highly recommended.

The Marvels Project: Birth of the Super Heroes

2011-06-18T14:50:00.000-04:00

The Marvels Project: Birth of the Super Heroes
by Ed Brubaker and Steve Epting
Call #: Teen Graphic Novels BRUBA

A re-telling of the beginnings of the Marvel Universe by Ed Brubaker. Told through the eyes of the lesser known hero, The Angel, we get a view that is both expansive and intimate. The first appearances of Human Torch, The Sub-Mariner, Captain America, and Nick Fury and their fight against the war in Europe is balanced by The Angel's investigation into Nazi sabotage in New York.

This is a solid and gripping series. Rousing adventure and poignant tragedies keep the reader engaged for page after page.

A Sam & Friends Mystery: Book Four Witches' Brew

2011-06-04T16:18:00.000-04:00

A Sam & Friends Mystery: Book Four Witches' Brew
by Mary Labatt and Jo Rioux
Call #: Jr. Graphic Novels LABAT

Sam (a sheep dog) and the girls are hot on the trail of some evil witches who ahve just moved in across the street. Witches who are now Jennie's babysitters!

It's a mystery that the trio are determined to solve, even if it means being turned into animals and cooked for dinner!

Another fun romp in the Sam and Friends series.

My Milk Toof: The Adventures of Ickle and Lardee

2011-05-30T16:16:00.001-04:00

My Milk Toof: The Adventures of Ickle and Lardee
by Inhae Lee
Call #: Jr. Graphic Novels LEE

What would you do if one of your old baby teeth came for a visit? Let it in of course! And that's just what Inhae Lee does and records it for all to see.

So that's how Ickle came to live with Inhae, but soon the pudgy Lardee comes knocking and the real fun begins.

This is a cute book, half picture book, half graphic novel. Using photography instead of traditional pen and ink adds a dimension of magical realism to it. A whimsical and refreshing book for new and younger readers. Highly recommended.

There's a Princess in the Palace

2011-05-21T15:31:00.001-04:00

There's a Princess in the Palace
Zoë B. Alley and R.W. Alley
Call #: Jr Picturebooks ALLEY

From the creators of There's a Wolf at the Door comes the sequel There's a Princess in the Palace. With the same wit and humour the Alley's bring us the generational story of five princesses starting with Cinderella to Sleeping Beauty, Snow White and the Seven Dwarves, The Frog Prince, and finally The Princess and the Pea.

Each princess is unique and individual. From the humble to the vain, the gentle to the rude. All are funny!

A great follow up! Well worth reading.

Wonder Woman: The Story of the Amazon Princess

2011-05-13T15:02:00.001-04:00

Wonder Woman: The Story of the Amazon Princess
by Ralph Cosentino
Call #: JP COSEN

The trinity of DC Comics is finished with the latest "Story of..." picture books from Ralph Cosentino, Wonder Woman.

This is the story of Princess Diana, daughter of the queen of the Amazons, also known as Wonder Woman. Diana wins a contest to protect the world from the god of war, Ares.

Another great introduction to comics for the very young.

Polo and the Dragon

2011-04-21T15:17:00.009-04:00

Polo and the Dragon
by Régis Faller
Call #: Jr Picturebooks FALLE

Polo decides to take a boat trip on a cold day but is soon trapped by the ice. Making a rather unusual escape he ends up in a dragon's lair. Will the dragon attack our silent hero, or will the always friendly Polo soothe the beast?

Polo continues to warm the heart.

No Girls Allowed

2011-04-14T10:48:00.001-04:00

No Girls Allowed
by Susan Hughes and Willow Dawson
Call #: Jr. Graphic Novels HUGHE

A fascinating book detailing the lives of seven women who pretended to be men in order to make a better life for themselves. Each woman deserves a novel all to themselves but this is a good primer.

Starting with Hatshepsut, the first female pharaoh and ending with Sarah Rosetta Wakeman who fought in the Civil War on the side of the Union this book makes you want to know more. Luckily there is a good bibliography for the inquisitive.

Bravo!

There's a Wolf at the Door

2011-03-28T15:23:00.001-04:00

There's a Wolf at the Door
by Zoë B. Alley and R. W. Alley
Call #: Jr Picturebooks ALLEY

Five stories, one wolf. The big bad wolf of "The Three Little Pigs" fame goes from story to story in search of a meal.

A clever book that ties in the fairy tales The Three Little Pigs, The Boy Who Cried Wolf, Little Red Riding Hood, The Wolf in Sheep's Clothing, and The Wolf and the Seven Goslings with humour and wit.

Highly recommended.

The Amulet of Samarkand

2011-03-25T10:34:00.001-04:00

The Amulet of Samarkand
by Jonathan Stroud, Andrew Donkin, and Lee Sullivan
Call #: Jr. Graphic Novels STROU

Another stellar adaptation from Andrew Donkin who did and amazing job on the Artemis Fowl graphic novels.

Bartimaeus is a 5,000 year old demon, a djinni actually, who has become bound to the apprentice magician Nathaniel. An almost anti-Harry Potter, Nathaniel has only one person in the whole world who cares for him, even his master, the magician Underwood, barely tolerates him. And the magician Lovelace has humiliated him. Nathaniel has a lot to prove.

So an elaborate plan is hatched and Bartimaeus is the key to Nathaniel's revenge. Unfortunately his petty vengeance unearths a much more nefarious plot. A very terrible plot.

A great adaptation.

Polo and the Magician

2011-03-21T15:17:00.004-04:00

Polo and the Magician
by Régis Faller
Call #: Jr Picturebooks FALLE

The surreal adventures of Polo continues as our silent hero is swept out to sea while reading a book at home. He ends up at a circus where a monkey magician makes him the star of the show.

Delightful as usual!

Bryan Hitch's Ultimate Comics Studio

2011-03-15T15:35:00.003-04:00

Bryan Hitch's Ultimate Comics Studio
by Bryan Hitch
Call #: 741.5352 Hit

Bryan Hitch is a superstar in the comic industry. He's worked for Marvel and DC to rave reviews. Now you can get his insights on how to create your own comics in this terrific book.

This is more than a simple "how to draw" book. It teaches the subtle art of storytelling, that which makes comics one of the most difficult artforms ever created.

A great introduction for someone considering a career in comics.

Clive Barker's The Thief of Always

2011-03-10T15:19:00.000-05:00

Clive Barker's The Thief of Always
by Clive Barker, Kris Oprisko, and Gabriel Hernandez
Call #: Teen Graphic Novels OPRIS

As I write this the great gray beast of February is threatening to eat me alive. And so it is with Harvey Swick, the hero of The Thief of Always. Harvey is bored. He's bored of school, he's bored at home. And he's definitely bored of the winter. Death by boredom seems a likely fate to him. That is until Rictus shows up in his room offering to take him to Mr. Hood's Holiday House where all his wishes will come true. A place where it's Halloween every night, Christmas every morning, and Thanksgiving every night. Where all the fun of Summer, Spring, Autumn, and even Winter happen all in one day.

Seems like paradise, doesn't it? Don't be so sure.

A creepy look at the old adage: "Be careful what you wish for, you may just get it."

Three Thieves - Book One: Tower of Treasure

2011-03-05T15:04:00.001-05:00

Three Thieves - Book One: Tower of Treasure
by Scott Chantler
Call #: Jr. Graphic Novels CHANT

A much different book from Scott Chantler. I reviewed his The Northwest Passage last summer and was very impressed. Tower of Treasure is a fantasy adventure. It lacks some of the subtlety of The Northwest Passage and The Two Generals. That's okay, though, Tower is a rollicking ride that leaves more questions unanswered than a one-headed ettin can carry!

I'm very much looking forward to the sequels. A great read for anyone who's finished Bone, Amulet, or The Elsewhere Chronicles.

Archie: Archie Firsts

2011-02-28T15:12:00.001-05:00

Archie: Archie Firsts
by various
Call #: Jr. Graphic Novels ARCHI

A collection of the first issues and appearances of Archie, Jughead, Betty, Veronica and Reggie (even Moose, but the object of his jealous affections is Lottie Little and not Midge Klump). This is also the first in a series of collections from Dark Horse that will bring us the earliest Archie comics.

A few of the stories in this collection have appeared in the Archie Americana Series. Most haven't so you're in for a treat. They range from the typical to the unbelievable. All are funny.

A must read for all Archie fans.

Captain America Reborn

2011-02-25T14:33:00.003-05:00

Captain America Reborn
by Ed Brubaker, Bryan Hitch, Butch Guice
Call #: Teen Graphic Novels

I mentioned awhile ago that Captain America was dead. Turns out - are you ready for this? - he's NOT dead! How can this be? Superheroes never return from the dead! (And just in time for his movie!)

Okay, enough sarcasm.

See, Cap isn't really dead, well...he is but he isn't. He's been floating back and forth through his own time line. (As an aside, its interesting that a certain pointy-eared hero who everyone thought was dead was actually lost in time,too.) It's all the master plan of the Red Skull, one that's been disrupted by Sharon Carter, Cap's old girlfriend. Now everyone, the good and the bad, is racing to be the first to bring Cap back.

A great ending to an interesting story.

Binky To The Rescue

2011-02-23T14:33:00.000-05:00

Binky To The Rescue
by Ashley Spires
Call #: Jr. Graphic Novels SPIRE

Binky is back! The intrepid space cat once again fills his days protecting his humans from the dreaded alien invasion.

In this tale of kitty bravery Binky accidentally finds himself stranded in outer space. Can he save himself and his loyal co-pilot Ted? Will the aliens get them first?!

There's only one way to find out!

The Binky books are among some of the best for new to intermediate readers. Highly recommended.

The Incredibles: Secrets & Lies

2011-02-20T17:00:00.000-05:00

The Incredibles: Secrets & Lies
by Landry Walker and Marcio Takara
Call #: Jr. Graphic Novels WALKE

Everyone has a secret, or so it seems, in this aptly named collection of The Incredibles. Mrs. Incredible is on a secret mission with Mirage, whom she can't stand. Mr. Incredible is taking Dash on secret training missions. And Violet is hiding her boyfriend from her father.

Can all these secrets be kept? Will the Eiffel Tower be returned? Can it all be done before Jack Jack needs a diaper change?

Castle Waiting Volumes 1 and 2

2011-01-28T13:38:00.000-05:00

Castle Waiting Volumes 1 and 2
by Linda Medley
Call #: Teen Graphic Novels MEDLE

I first recommended Castle Waiting in this post two years ago. Now we have an extended Volume 1 and a new volume 2. It's well worth a second look.

This is one of my favourite books, has been since I read the first issue. It's a pity it's never been very popular since it's so charming, witty and engaging. You are missing out if you don't give it a chance.

With these collections we find out more about Lady Jain, but still not the whole story, Sister Peace and her bearded past, Doctor Fell and Iron Henry. We are shown bits and pieces of their lives while the day to day running of the castle make up the rest of the story.

Linda Medley's work is warm and comforting and one feels satisfied after a reading. That's a rare talent. I hope to see more but rumours abound that this may be the last we see of Castle Waiting. Only time will tell if she'll return to this wonderful book.

Let's keep our fingers crossed.

The Incredibles: Revenge From Below

2011-01-25T16:48:00.003-05:00

The Incredibles: Revenge From Below
by Mark Waid, Landry Walker, Marcio Takara, and Ramana Kamarga
Call #: Jr. Graphic Novels WAID

If ever there was a Disney product that would be perfect for a comic book adaptation it's The Incredibles. With veteran comic writer Mark Waid this becomes a well told and gripping superhero tale.

Dash is punished by his parents by having his super-speed powers taken from him. Which is unfortunate because Dash soon discovers that his teachers are actually aliens looking to enslave the world. Having his powers taken from him won't stop Dash Parr from being a hero, though!

Or are things not quite what they seem to be?

A great series.

Superman: Secret Origin

2011-01-20T14:24:00.000-05:00

Superman: Secret Origin
by Geoff Johns, Gary Frank, and Jon Sibal
Call #: Teen Graphic Novels JOHNS

Not days after recommending Superman: Earth One then Superman: Secret Origin came into the library. Further showing how popular re-telling Superman's origins is.

This time around we have the very talented Geoff Johns and Gary Frank at the helm. Gary draws Superman exactly like Christopher Reeve and that warms my heart. Unlike Earth One Johns gives us a more traditional re-telling with more of a looking back at the silver age of Superman. Yet he also mixes aspects from the movies and other incarnations of Supes. In a scene showing Kryptonian life Frank draws the Kryptonians with clothing from the different re-toolings.

Johns and Frank breathe such life into Superman, especially as a young boy. The look on a pre-teen Clark's face when he first wears the Super costume is priceless. Reminds me of the scene in A Christmas Story when Ralphy wears the bunny costume. Another favourite moment is how Clark discovers he has heat vision...when Lana Lang kisses him for the first time. It's these moments, and many more, that make this such a fantastic (dare I say "super") book.

This may be my favourite origin re-telling. Bravo!

The Heroic Age

2011-01-15T14:01:00.000-05:00

The Heroic Age
by Various
Call #: Teen Graphic Novels HEROI

What we have here with The Heroic Age is a primer for the new Marvel Universe. A collection of starts with no finish it's a great overview of what's going on in Marvel for the uninitiated. From the reforming of The Avengers (and their branch offices) to the aftermath of the War With Asgard. A solid mixture of stories and art.

Spider-Man: Fever

2011-01-12T14:23:00.000-05:00

Spider-Man: Fever
by Brendan McCarthy
Call #: Teen Graphic Novels MCCAR

An odd story, even for a Spider-Man/Dr. Strange team-up.

Spidey is minding his own business when he's attacked by the Vulture. After being sprayed by a rather potent (and magical) insecticide Peter is thrown into a fever-induced hallucination while hiding in Dr. Strange's bath tub.

Or is it a hallucination?! The Doc finds Spider-Man and soon follows him into a weird other dimension where...um, it's too weird, you'll just have to read it yourself.

A wonderfully weird tale full of oddities and laughs.

Marvel Her-oes

2011-01-05T15:27:00.000-05:00

Marvel Her-oes
by Grace Randolph and Craig Rousseau
Call #: Jr Graphic Novels RANDO

Her-oes takes place in an alternate Marvel universe where superheroes are kept secret from the world. So far the series focuses mainly on Janet Van Dyne AKA The Wasp, who due to a science experiment gone bad has the ability to shrink her size, fly, and shoot "stingers" (energy bolts) from her hands. She is allowed to go to school as long as she keeps her powers a secret.

It doesn't stay a secret for long.

Namora (cousin of the Sub Mariner, Namor, King of Atlantis) is a bit peeved with Janet for reasons concerning a boy. Namora's anger reveals her true nature when she throws a set of lockers at Janet.

Then Janet finds out her friend Jenny is a She-Hulk!

The girls team up to protect themselves from some super-powered kidnappers and thus a new super-team is formed!

Great fun. This collection also includes the first She-Hulk comic from 1979.

Superman/Batman: Big Noise

2010-12-27T15:24:00.001-05:00

Superman/Batman: Big Noise
by Joe Casey, Adrian Syaf, and Scott Kolins
Call #: Teen Graphic Novels CASEY

A shape shifting enemy from Krypton's distant past threatens the Earth and only Superman and Batman can stop him.

Another great team up of the world's finest superheroes!

Superman: Earth One

2010-12-22T16:03:00.001-05:00

Superman: Earth One
by J. Michael Straczynski and Shane Davis
Call #: Teen Graphic Novels STRAC

Batman's origin story is pretty straight forward. We really don't care how Bruce Wayne became Batman we just want to see him be Batman. His origin is seldom retold.

But Superman...Now that's another story. We keep going back to his beginnings, over, and over, and over again. His origin taps into the same mythic vein as Harry Potter, King Arthur, and Luke Skywalker. The orphaned boy who discovers he has incredible powers and must learn how to deal with them. Often ridiculed and ostracized the orphan overcomes his own inner doubts to become the hero he is meant to be.

That's what we have here with Superman: Earth One. A twenty-something Clark Kent is trying to find his place in the world. Alone in Metropolis he goes from job interviews to college to sports try outs. He could easily excel at each yet nothing seems to grab his attention. He knows what his adopted parents want him to do, but like most young men he balks at it...until he has no choice but to take on the red, blue and yellow suit.

This is one of the most innovative and unique looks at Superman's early years. From the reasons why Krypton explodes to a Daily Planet struggling in today's cyber world, Straczynski has created a masterpiece.

Amulet Book Three: The Cloud Searchers

2010-12-20T16:30:00.006-05:00

Amulet Book Three: The Cloud Searchers
by Kazu Kibuishi
Call #: Jr Graphic Novels KIBUI

Emily's path to becoming a Stonekeeper continues as she and her brother are faced with even greater challenges. Along the way they are forced into strange alliances and seemingly impossible tasks.

This has fast become one of my favourite series. I can't wait for volume four!

A Wish For Elves

2010-12-15T14:05:00.000-05:00

A Wish For Elves
by Mark Gonyea
Call #: J Picturebook GONYE

Be careful what you wish for, you may just get it.

What happens when all of Santa's elves go to work for a lazy kid? And what about poor Santa?

Ideal for the very young with bright simple pictures and very few words this is a great holiday story.

Batman: The Brave and the Bold

2010-12-03T15:26:00.000-05:00

Batman: The Brave and the Bold
by Matt Wayne, J Torres, Andy Suriano, Phil Moy, Carlo Barberi, Dan Davis, and Terry Beatty
Call #: Jr. Grpahic Novels WAYNE

I really enjoy the Batman Brave and the Bold animated series. It's mixture of 60's camp with solid storytelling is wonderful. This edition of the first six comic adaptations is almost as good. There have always been comic adaptations of animated DC shows. The best were the Batman Adventures books.

This series does give us something the animated series doesn't, though. Superman and Wonder Woman, both of whom have been missing from the animated version.

If you like the show you'll like the comics. Read it and learn of JUSTICE.

Archie Americana Series: Best of the Sixties Vol. 2

2010-11-28T16:46:00.000-05:00

Archie Americana Series: Best of the Sixties Vol. 2
by Various
Call #: Jr. Graphic Novels BEST

Dan DeCarlo may be the most famous Archie artist, helping to establish the house style of all Archie Comics, but in my opinion the 1960's belonged to my favourite Archie artist, Harry Lucey. This collection is full of Lucey stories with perhaps his most famous one, "The Line".

The sixties, I think, was the high point for Archie and the gang. With the books the writing was fresh and topical, the artwork, as I've said, was at it's best. Outside the comics there were several Archie cartoons and the hit single "Sugar, Sugar" was on the radio. Quite a decade.

This collection is groovy!

Archie in "Will You Marry Me?"

2010-11-25T14:30:00.001-05:00

Archie in "Will You Marry Me?"
by Michael Uslan, Stan Goldberg, and Bob Smith
Call #: Jr Graphic Novels USLAN

It's graduation time at good ol' Riverdale High for Archie and the gang. Taking a walk to decide what he wants for the future he decides to walk a different way up "Memory Lane". Magically it's four years later and Archie is now graduating from college. He decides to ask Veronica to marry him. And so it begins.

This series was a big marketing ploy by Archie's editors (much like the Death of Superman many years ago). They proclaimed that Archie was getting married. Of course it's all just a fantasy and he ends up marrying both Veronica and Betty...not at the same time!

Marketing aside this has been done before in Archie's past but not as well as this. It's not by chance that Archie marries Veronica first, I think most of us feel that's what Archie would choose. Betty has always been second fiddle and so her story is second, and to me it seems the more forced of the two.

The one thing the Betty story does is give more details into what the other characters are doing after school. I love Dilton Doiley's bald head and Amish beard!

So for the romantics out there be sure to pick this up. No matter who you think carrot top should have married.

The Desperate Dog Writes Again

2010-11-22T14:01:00.002-05:00

The Desperate Dog Writes Again
by Eileen Christelow
Call #: JP CHRIS

Emma has a happy life, with her human, George, and the cat. Until a stranger and her dog start intruding on her cozy life. There's only on thing to do! Write to the dog adivce columnist, Queenie.

A great graphic novel style picture book to read to your young readers.

Ghostopolis

2010-11-20T14:20:00.008-05:00

Ghostopolis
by Doug TenNapel
Call #: Jr. Graphic Novels TENNA

Garth Hale is a young boy. And he's going to die. Frank Gallows is a ghost wrangler, sending the dead back to the afterlife. Unfortunately Frank sends Garth back by mistake.

Sounds pretty bleak, and the opening of this book is. But then the adventure and humour kick in and it becomes a fun ride through a very odd afterlife.

Definitely worth reading. The artwork is just as fun as the writing. It's (ahem) to die for.

Magic Pickle

2010-11-17T14:20:00.000-05:00

Magic Pickle
by Scott Morse
Call #: Jr. Graphic Novels MORSE

A freak accident in a science lab gives a pickle superhuman abilities. Attempts to duplicate the experiment results in the creation of evil super-powered vegetables. Now Magic Pickle (AKA Weapon Kosher) does battle against the evil veggies.

A goofy silly story and send up of silver age superheroes. Fun and excellently drawn.

Archie Americana Series: Best of the Fifties Vol. 2

2010-10-28T16:42:00.000-04:00

Archie Americana Series: Best of the Fifties Vol. 2
by Various
Call #: Jr. Graphic Novels BEST

While the forties established the Archie formula it wasn't until the 1950's that writers and artists (none of which are credited anywhere in the Americana Series, shame, shame) hit their stride. The stories steer away from the heavy handed slapstick of the previous decade and become more sophisticated.

The eternal love triangle of Archie, Betty, and Veronica are the focus of most of the stories here. The girls do their best to outdo each other through back stabbing, conniving, and scheming. The sweet gentle Betty we know today was much more underhanded way back when.

(Pst! Can anyone tell me what they see in Archie?)

A great collection of classics. A must read just to see Jughead in a bikini!

Ultimate Comics Spider-Man: The World According to Peter Parker

2010-10-15T16:00:00.001-04:00

Ultimate Comics Spider-Man: The World According to Peter Parker
by Brian Michael Bendis, David Lafuente
Call #: Teen Graphic Novels BENDI

This is the Ultimate Universe where Peter Parker is still in high school, where Mary Jane Watson, Gwen Stacy, and Aunt May all know he's Spider-Man, where he ISN'T hated by everyone in New York city (and it's freaking him out a bit), and where the villains tend to be a whole lot nastier.

New York is healing from the recent events of Ultimatum and Spider-Man is the hero of NYC after helping to save the city. Aunt May has opened her home as a sanctuary for young superheroes with nowhere to go, including Peter's ex-girlfriend Kitty Pryde, and his present girlfriend Gwen Stacy.

This is a fun series, even if the rest of the Ultimate titles are very, very dark. Watching Peter deal with working a fast food job, his complicated romantic life, and the new found admiration of NYPD is truly entertaining. I enjoyed it immensely.

Lunch Lady and the Summer Camp Shakedown

2010-10-12T16:15:00.000-04:00

Lunch Lady and the Summer Camp Shakedown
by Jarrett J. Krosoczka
Call #: Jr. Graphic Novels KROSO

Lunch Lady is back!

Summer is here and Lunch Lady is working at the Summer Camp. Only this year there's a swamp monster on the loose. Can Lunch Lady and her trusty sidekick, Betty, discover who is behind the swamp monster mystery?

You bet she will!

Superman/Batman: Night and Day

2010-10-10T15:56:00.002-04:00

Superman/Batman: Night and Day
by Michael Green, Mike Johnson, Scott Kolins, Francis Manapul, and Rafael Albuquerque
Call #: Teen Graphic Novels SUPER

Several Super / Bats stories, not all necessarily with Superman and Batman.

Supes and Bats spend time in dream land not once but twice. The first time it's part of Doctor Destiny's plans to take over the minds of everyone on Earth. Then it's the Scarecrow's turn to warp the dreams of not only Superman and Batman but the Joker and Lex Luthor. I love how Lex's worse nightmare is being Jimmy Olsen.

Supergirl and Robin reminisce on their first meeting and team-up. It's also Supergirl's first trip to Arkham Asylum. And the answer is, yes, of course she can move faster than Zsasz can cut. What a silly question, but it adds to the drama.

And finally we have the oddest superbat team-ups: Bizarro and Man-Bat. I'll leave it at that.

This collection isn't as epic and emotionally charged as the other Superman Batman collections but it offers some impressive stories and artwork nonetheless.

Team-Ups of the Brave and the Bold

2010-10-05T15:51:00.001-04:00

Team-Ups of the Brave and the Bold
by J. Michael Straczynski and Jesus Saiz
Call #: Teen Graphic Novels STRAC

A collection of one issue stories featuring a team up of various DC superheroes. We start with a meeting of Batman and Dial H For Hero and the question: What defines a hero?

The Flash travels back in time to WW2 and becomes a soldier fighting along side the Blackhawks.

Batman is back, this time working with one of the weirdest heroes of all time, Brother Power, the Geek. A Pinnochio/Frankenstein Monster creation of the 1960's, reawakened in the 2000's he is disillusioned by what he sees.

Green Lantern gets a helping hand from the past in the form of Doctor Fate.

The Atom takes a journey through the brain and mind of the Joker. (Not really a team-up, but what the hey!)

Aquaman and Etrigan The Demon take on the forces of Hell in the depths of the ocean.

And finally Wonder Woman, Zatanna, and Batgirl AKA Barara Gordon spend a night on the town. A very specific and meaningful night.

A satisfying delight.

Batgirl: Batgirl Rising

2010-10-01T14:56:00.003-04:00

Batgirl: Batgirl Rising
by Bryan Q. Miller, Lee Garbett, and Trevor Scott
Call #: Teen Graphic Novels MILLE

There have been several women to claim the title Batgirl since the 1960's. Betty Kane was the first but it was Barbara Gordon, daughter of Commissioner James Gordon, who's most closely associated with the cape and cowl. Barbara was shot by the Joker (in the famous Killing Joke by Alan Moore) and was paralyzed from the waist down. She became Oracle, the super-hacker/information expert for the DC superhero community, and she became the founder of the Birds of Prey organization.

Cassandra Cain became the next most recognizable Batgirl, with the mask covering her eyes and mouth. She had a tumultuous time as Batgirl and eventually, disillusioned by Bruce Wayne's apparent death, she relinquished her role and costume to Stephanie Brown.

Stephanie is no stranger to the bat-family. She was Spoiler, a masked vigilante trying to spoil her father's, the villain Cluemaster, plans. She was also Tim Drake's, once Robin now Red Robin, girlfriend. She briefly became the new Robin when Tim hung up the mask and cape. She made a terrible mistake while trying to prove herself to Batman which sent Gotham spiralling into a gang war. During which she apparently died.

But what's this? She didn't die? It was all a set-up?! How shocking! (Sarcasm, by the way.)

So Stephanie becomes Batgirl, but no one's happy about it. Not Tim, or the new Batman and Robin (Dick Grayson and Damian Wayne), and especially not Barbara Gordon. Stephanie has a lot to prove to them and to redeem herself in their eyes. She goes a long way in this collection. This is a family without direction, mourning the death of the "father", and it shows.

Well worth reading.

Archie Americana Series: Best of the Forties Vol. 2

2010-09-28T15:55:00.000-04:00

Archie Americana Series: Best of the Forties Vol. 2
by Various
Call #: Jr. Graphic Novels BEST

A second hilarious collection of Archie comics from the 1940's.

Archie has troubles. Boy! Does he have troubles! His father is mad at him for...well, everything. It seems half the stories in here are about Archie ruining his Father's day (except when his bumbling actually saves his dad from a crooked land developer).

He has girl trouble. With Betty, Veronica, and two new twins at Riverdale High. (The twin storyline would be reused several times over the decades.) This collection also sees Archie on a date with...Miss Grundy!

And he has school trouble...but he was only trying to help. Honest.

The forties were all about the slapstick and this collection showcases the best.

The Elsewhere Chronicles: Books 1 to 4

2010-09-25T14:52:00.000-04:00

The Elsewhere Chronicles: Books 1 to 4
by Bannister and Nykko
Call #: Jr Graphic Novels BANNI

I'm going to take a look at the first four books in The Elsewhere Chronicles, The Shadow Door, The Shadow Spies, The Master of Shadows, and The Calling.

This is a great series. A translation of a french comic, it has a very European feel to it, like Tintin. A beautifully drawn comic with an equally compelling storyline.

Like The Lion, The Witch and The Wardrobe or Pendragon, this is the story of children drawn into another world. In this case it's Rebecca, Max, Noah, and Theo, who soon discover that this new world is very dangerous (even the butterflies bite). The Master of Shadow has wreaked havoc on the peoples of this un-named world. It's a land where the only weapon is light and the night truly is something to fear.

Book 4 ends on a cliffhanger, I can hardly wait for book 5!

The Unsinkable Walker Bean

2010-09-20T14:30:00.000-04:00

The Unsinkable Walker Bean
by Aaron Renier
Call #: Jr Graphic Novels RENIE

Wow! I loved this book!

Walker Bean lives in an alternate late 18th century Earth. His beloved grandfather lies dying thanks to a cursed skull. A skull that everyone wants, Walker's greedy ambitious father, a group of blood thirsty pirates, very strange "doctor", and two giant lobster-women. Walker is the only one who can save his grandfather by returning the skull to the depths of the ocean.

A wonderful story full of twists and turns and wildly fantastic ideas. This is the first in a proposed trilogy so we're sure to see more Walker Bean soon.

Lila & Ecco's Do-It-Yourself Comics Club

2010-09-17T10:47:00.000-04:00

Lila & Ecco's Do-It-Yourself Comics Club
by Willow Dawson
Call #: J 741.51 Daw

Read a comic to learn how to make a comic! This is a fantastic how to book for anyone looking to start making their own comics and graphic novels. We learn as we follow Lila and Ecco as they create their own comic step by step. From idea creation to publishing we learn the most important aspects of comic creation.

A very nice introduction to the art of comics.

Pendragon Graphic Novel, Book One: The Merchant of Death

2010-09-15T14:07:00.000-04:00

Pendragon Graphic Novel, Book One: The Merchant of Death
by D. J. MacHale, adapted by Carla Speed McNeil
Call #: Jr Graphic Novels MACHA

A good adaptation of The Merchant of Death which, like the Artemis Fowl graphic novels, stands well on it's own.

This is the story of Bobby Pendragon. A boy who happens to be a traveller, someone who can move between dimensions to alternate Earths. He'd rather be at home playing basketball, or kissing his new girlfriend, but he has little choice as he's thrown headlong into a war. A war he unwittingly made happen.

A solid story and illustrated very well. I would have liked to have seen it in colour, though.

Lunch Lady and the Author Visit Vendetta

2010-09-12T11:02:00.000-04:00

Lunch Lady and the Author Visit Vendetta
by Jarrett J. Krosoczka
Call #: Jr. Graphic Novels KROSO

Lunch Lady and Betty take on an evil author...and his vicious flippy bunnies!!!

More black, white and yellow goodness from Jarrett J. Krosoczka.

Jonah Hex, Classic Tales: Welcome to Paradise

2010-09-08T15:40:00.000-04:00

Jonah Hex, Classic Tales: Welcome to Paradise
by John Albano, Michael Fleisher, Tony DeZuniga, and José Luis Garcia-López
Call #: Teen Graphic Novels JONAH

Jonah Hex was one of the odder creations to come out of the DC offices in the 70's. He was an anti-hero through and through. A bounty hunter who'd just as likely shoot you as save you, and yet he had moments of heroism that helped redeem him.

Here we have the very first stories featuring the disfigured gunslinger. These are complex stories of the old west with Fleisher and Albano avoiding the usual stereotypes. The stories brutal and unforgiving, yet at times subtle and thought provoking.

A classic that is as good today as it was thirty years ago.

Superboy: The Boy Of Steel

2010-09-05T15:10:00.003-04:00

Superboy: The Boy Of Steel
by Geoff Johns and Francis Manapul
Call #: Jr. Graphic Novels JOHNS

Like Superman, Superboy died (see in this version of the DC Universe Superboy isn't just a younger version of Superman but a clone). And Like Superman he isn't dead anymore.

Superboy has a problem though, a couple problems really. He's a clone sharing the DNA of both Superman and Lex Luthor. So who is he more like? SB is hoping for Superman, of course. And if you want to see Lex at his most evil then look no further than this book.

Add to that Superboy repairing his relationships with Wonder Girl and Robin (now Red Robin) and this makes for an engaging series. Which is no surprise with Geoff Johns at the writing helm.

Mr. Badger and Mrs. Fox #1: The Meeting

2010-09-02T15:59:00.001-04:00

Mr. Badger and Mrs. Fox #1: The Meeting
by Brigitte Luciani and Eve Tharlet
Call #: Jr Graphic Novels LUCIA

Bristle and Grub Badger were happy living in their hole with their father and baby brother. Then Ginger Fox and her mother move in and tensions rise amongst the children. Can they ever live together peacefully?

A wonderful new series for beginning readers. It's especially of interest for newly blended families.

Hyperactive

2010-08-29T15:43:00.001-04:00

Hyperactive
by Scott Christian Sava and Joseph Bergin III
Call #: Jr Graphic Novels SAVA

Joey is a hyperactive kid. Everything moves too slow for him, except summer that is, and he just can't sit still. He's not only hyperactive he's Hyperactive! Able to move faster than the eye can see. This all seems great to Joey until he's kidnapped. Now only his sidekick Freddy can save the day.

A fun book if a bit lacking in details.

Copper

2010-08-26T15:28:00.002-04:00

Copper
by Kazu Kibuishi
Call #: Jr Graphic Novels KIBUI

From the creator of The Amulet comes an earlier work, Copper. I had seen Copper a few times online at Kibuishi's website but hadn't read the entire run of this one-time web comic. I should have paid better attention. This is a wonderful comic.

Copper is a boy of indeterminate age who lives alone with his dog Fred. Together they explore their odd fantastic world which at times seems so familiar to ours and at others totally alien.

Copper is an eternal optimist, Fred the perpetual worrier. It's as if the two halves of Kibuishi's mind come to life on the page, those two halves that are always arguing with each other (or is that just me?). In Copper the glass isn't half-full or half-empty, it's both.

There is no one on-going story here, but a series of vignettes told in one to several pages. Each page is a piece of art, both visual and written. A tour de force.

Meanwhile

2010-08-23T15:16:00.000-04:00

Meanwhile
by Jason Shiga
Call #: Jr Graphic Novels SHIGA

The cover of Meanwhile boasts: "Pick any path. 3,856 story possibilities." That's quite a boast! While I haven't reached that number in my readings of it, I can easily see it's true.

This is truly one of the most unique and experimental comics I've ever seen. It all starts with a simple choice, chocolate or vanilla. After that the paths you chose can lead to any number of endings and spaghetti-like (literally) plots lines. Time travel, mind reading, destruction of the planet. All from choosing either chocolate or vanilla.

I won't give much away. All I'll say is chose chocolate (or don't it's all up to you).

Benny and Penny

2010-08-20T14:50:00.001-04:00

Benny and Penny (Just Pretend, The Big No-No!, and The Toy Breaker)
by Geoffrey Hayes
Call #: Jr Graphic Novels HAYES

Benny and Penny are two small mice, brother and sister, who learn how to play well with each other; with the new neighbour; and with their troublemaking cousin. The series evokes childhood very well and the artwork is colourful and engaging.

This is a tremendously good series for young readers, as are all the Toon Books. Benny and Penny in the Big No-No! won the Theodore Seuss Geisel Award in 2010.

Bone: Tall Tales

2010-08-16T14:35:00.004-04:00

Bone: Tall Tales
by Jeff Smith and Tom Sniegoski
Call #: Jr Graphic Novels SMITH

Smiley Bone takes a group of Bone Scouts, including the rat creature Bartleby, on a camping trip. Once the campfire is lit the storytelling begins. The first is the tale of laundry day at Gran'ma Bens farm. (Who knew doing laundry could be so dangerous?) The bulk of the tales revolve around Big Johnson Bone and his unbelievable adventures.

If you've ever wondered why the rat creatures have no tails then read this wonderful addition to the Bone library.

Great fun!

Iron Man: Enter the Dragon

2010-08-05T15:45:00.000-04:00

Iron Man: Enter the Dragon
by Fred Van Lente, James Cordeiro, Scott Koblish
Call #: Jr. Graphic Novels LENTE

Iron Man has flown to China to discover what has happened to Tony Stark's missing employees at his factory near the Mongolian border. What he finds out threaten not only his workers but all of China.

These Marvel Age books are a great introduction to reading for reluctant readers.

Batman: Long Shadows

2010-07-30T15:21:00.000-04:00

Batman: Long Shadows
by Judd Winick, Mark Bagley, Ed Benes, and Rob Hunter
Call #: Teen Graphic Novels WINIC

Batman is dead. (Or so everyone thinks.) But Dick Grayson, the original Robin, decides that while Bruce Wayne may be dead, Batman can never die. So he takes up the cape and cowl and everyone believes Batman is back.

Did I say everyone? James Gordon knows it's not his old friend, but he's not saying anything. Someone else knows and he's not going to just let it slide. Harvey Dent, Two Face, is determined to bring down the impostor.

Well done!

Mercury

2010-07-25T14:34:00.000-04:00

Mercury
by Hope Larson
Call #: Teen Graphic Novels

The story of two young women from fictional French Hill, Nova Scotia. One from 2009, the other from 1859. Their lives are intertwined in subtle and mystical ways. I don't want to give to much away so let's leave it at that.

Hope Larson does magic realism very well. The mystical and mysterious is found in both the mundane and the unusual. As in Chiggers, we have here a unique and compelling story of young adulthood. Well worth reading.

Star Wars The Clone Wars: The Wind Riders of Taloraan

2010-07-21T15:09:00.000-04:00

Star Wars The Clone Wars: The Wind Riders of Taloraan
by John Ostrander and The Filbach Brothers
Call #: Jr. Graphic Novels STARW

Padawan Ahsoka Tano is getting a crash lesson in diplomacy. She's not enjoying it very much, that is until she's abducted. Masters Obi Wan and Anakin, meanwhile, are finding it rather dangerous.

Can they stop the federation from with diplomacy alone? Or will there be need for some lightsabre action? you'll have to read it to find out.

Smile

2010-07-17T13:02:00.004-04:00

Smile
by Raina Telgemeier
Call #: Jr Graphic Novels TELGE

"Wait, it gets worse!" That's what Raina Telgemeier says in her Author's Note at the end of Smile. And it does. From the moment she damages her teeth to the day she finally gets her braces off it's one disaster after another.

This is more than just a simple tale of crooked teeth, it's a slice of adolescence which we have all (or soon will) experienced. The heartbreaks, embarrassments, betrayals, and struggles with self image are all seen and displayed expertly here.

A wonderfully touching and engaging book.

The Northwest Passage

2010-07-15T15:37:00.001-04:00

The Northwest Passage
by Scott Chantler
Call #: Graphic Novels CHANT

I can't say that when you talk about historical adventure stories the northern fur trade of the 18th century springs to mind. It did to Scott Chantler, thank goodness.

The Northwest Passage is fantastic. A great adventure story with subtle characterizations; beautiful, deceptively simple artwork; and a rich varied plot.

I don't want to say too much about the book for fear of over-selling it. Simply read it and be swept away.

(Scott Chantler is a local cartoonist living in Waterloo.)

Missile Mouse: The Star Crusher

2010-07-10T15:24:00.000-04:00

Missile Mouse: The Star Crusher
by Jake Parker
Call #: Jr. Graphic Novels PARKE

We've had medieval mice. We've had mice learning to get dressed. We've had adventuring journalist rats (kinda like mice). Now we have a swashbuckling space-faring mouse.

Missile Mouse is a bit like James Bond meets Star Trek meets Mighty Mouse. A rip roaring space opera that never slows down. A great page turner that offers thrills and excitement galore.

Really well worth reading.

Zig and Wikki in Something Ate My Homework

2010-07-08T15:33:00.000-04:00

Zig and Wikki in Something Ate My Homework
by Nadja Spiegelman and Trade Loeffler
Call #: Jr. Graphic Novels SPIEG

Homework isn't easy no mater what part of the galaxy you're from. For Zig that means learning about some of the weird creatures (like frogs) that live on an oddly named planet, Earth.

Of all the Toon Books I've reviewed so far this is the one that overtly teaches something to the reader. In this case some zoology. But it's not distracting and is very informative.

Batman: The Story of the Dark Knight

2010-07-05T14:25:00.000-04:00

Batman: The Story of the Dark Knight
by Ralph Cosentino
Call #: JP COSEN

Ralph Cosentino once again brings us a children's version of a classic superhero, Batman. The yin to Superman's yang he has been fighting for justice cloaked by the night for over sixty some years.

Another great introduction to comics for young children.

Stinky

2010-07-03T15:29:00.000-04:00

Stinky
by Eleanor Davis
Call #: Jr. Graphic Novels DAVIS

Stinky is a swamp loving monster who is scared of humans. His life is a good one until Nick builds a treehouse in the swamp. Nick is a human boy and Stinky wants him gone!

Another great book for young readers from Toon Books. (A Theodore Seuss Geisel Honor book.)

Billy Batson and the Magic of Shazam!

2010-06-30T15:12:00.001-04:00

Billy Batson and the Magic of Shazam!
by Mike Kunkel,Art Balthazar, Franco, Byron Vaughns, Ken Branch, and Stephen Destefano
Call #: Jr. Graphic Novels KUNKE

This series continues where Jeff Smith left off in Shazam! The Monster Society of Evil. However, it has a much lighter tone and "fun factor" than the Smith re-telling. The artwork is far more cartoonish and the stories are aimed at a younger audience. That doesn't mean it's bad, in fact I quite enjoyed it.

The first major story arc in this collection deals with the re-introduction of Teth Adam, AKA Black Adam, Captain Marvel's greatest foe. Billy and Mary are hard put to deal with both him and the Seven Deadly Evils.

In the last two stories first we have a giant rampaging robot courtesy of Doctor Sivana. And seondly the intelligent caveman Kull tries to take over the world.

Fun stuff!

Archie Americana Series: Best of the Forties Vol. 1

2010-06-27T15:52:00.000-04:00

Archie Americana Series: Best of the Forties Vol. 1
by Various
Call #: Jr. Graphic Novels BEST

Here we have it. The beginning of the legend. The only non-superhero comic to not only survive since the 1940's but thrive. Archie and the gang have lived through it all and have remained relatively unchanged.

This Americana Series collects some of the best Archie stories from the forties. From his very first appearance in Pep Comics #22 (although if you read the panel left to right Betty is the very first character to appear in an Archie comic). Throughout the collection Archie goes from one mishap to another. The early Archies were pure slapstick and comedy of errors.

Let's take a moment to look at some of the evolution of Archie and the gang. In the first story Archie, Betty and Jughead all appear much younger than we know them now. They are probably around 13 or 14 years-old. Archies father is bald and moustached but much thinner. Without Mr. Lodge around it's Betty's father, although he looks more like her grandfather, who gets the brunt of Archie's enthusiastic clumsiness.

It's not long before Archie and the gang are at their usual ages of between 16 and 17. Archie's famous red jalopy joins the mythos a few issues later with Pep #25.

Veronica Lodge is oddly introduced twice. First in Pep #26 and again in Archie Comics #1.

Lastly I'd like to point out the first appearance of Reggie Mantle in Jackpot Comics #5. On the first page we have someone who looks and acts like Reggie but is named Scotty. Later in the same story another character is briefly introduced, a snobbish rich boy named Reggie Mantle driving Veronica to school. After that issue the two merged together into the Reggie we know.

Still a great read 60 years later. Enjoy!

Star Wars Adventures: Princess Leia and the Royal Ransom

2010-06-25T15:04:00.000-04:00

Star Wars Adventures: Princess Leia and the Royal Ransom
by Jeremy Barlow and Carlo Soriano
Call #L Jr. Graphic Novels BARLO

Han Solo is on a top secret mission for the rebellion with Princess Leia, but he figures it wouldn't hurt to make a little side trip to make a few credits. They are soon embroiled in a kidnapping scheme with Han caught between two princesses.

Poor Han.

But Chewie thinks it's all very amusing.

Tiny Titans Volume 3: Side Kickin' It

2010-06-18T14:55:00.000-04:00

Tiny Titans Volume 3: Side Kickin' It
by Art Baltazar and Franco
Call #: Jr. Graphic Novels BALTA

More cute adventures.

More DC inside jokes.

More laughs (Darkseid as the lunch lady! ha, ha!)

More recommendations.

Calamity Jack

2010-06-05T14:56:00.001-04:00

Calamity Jack
by Shannon Hale, Dean Hale, and Nathan Hale
Call #: Jr. Graphic Novels

The sequel to Rapunzel's Revenge. This time we focus on Calamity Jack from his days as a young thief/con man to his flight from Shyport and his return with Rapunzel. Now Jack has to come up with his greatest scheme ever to save his mother and the people of Shyport from the giants.

I thoroughly enjoyed Rapunzel's Revenge and Calamity Jack is no different. The Hale's know how to tell an exciting tale and Nathan Hale (no relation) is an excellent artist. Highly recommended.

Batman International

2010-05-30T14:44:00.000-04:00

Batman International
by Alan Grant, Mark Waid, Frank Quietly, and Diego Olmos
Call #: Jr. Teen Graphic Novels BATMA

Three tales of Batman's adventures outside the United States. A generations old vendetta in Scotland; hunting Killer Croc in Barcelona; and an old enemy from Bruce Wayne's past in Tibet turns up in Gotham.

An interesting trilogy. The first two are fish out of water stories with Batman struggling in unfamiliar territory. The last one gives an intriguing look into Bruce's early years of training.

Well worth reading.

Binky The Space Cat

2010-05-26T14:35:00.004-04:00

Binky The Space Cat
by Ashley Spires
Call #: Jr. Graphic Novels SPIRE

Binky is a cat who's never been outside his house (otherwise known as outer space). He's brave and fearless as he fights the alien attacks (they look a lot like bugs) against his humans. Yet, he feels he can do more.

Binky is accepted into F.U.R.S.T. (Felines of the Universe Ready for Space Travel) and begins his training to become a Space Cat!

This is a charming story with delightful drawings. A wonderful book for first time readers (and cats).

Mouse Guard: Winter 1152

2010-05-20T14:47:00.001-04:00

Mouse Guard: Winter 1152
by David Petersen
Call #: Graphic Novels PETER

When last we left the mice of Lockhaven the traitorous Midnight and his rebellion was stopped by the Mouse Guard; the legendary hero Black Axe was found; and winter was on its way.

Winter is now here and the mice have had little time to prepare due to the rebellion. Food and medical shortages threaten Lockhaven so eleven of the best guards are sent out to find help. Facing an owl, mysterious tunnels and the cold the mice struggle to return before it is too late.

This is a tremendously good series. I highly recommend it.

Chiggers

2010-05-18T14:47:00.000-04:00

Chiggers
by Hope Larson
Call #: Jr. Graphic Novels LARSO

Summer camps are fun. Swimming, hiking, games, crafts. They can also be the settings for friendships, misunderstandings, first loves, and jealousies. We find it all here in Chiggers.

Abby is excited to be returning to camp this summer. She's especially excited to see her old camp friends again. But a year is a long time and people change, even more so for teen-aged girls. The reunion isn't a smooth one as Abby feels more and more uncomfortable. Then she meets Shasta and everything grows just a bit more complicated.

A great graphic novel, just in time for summer.

Atomic Robo and the Fighting Scientists of Tesladyne, Volume 1

2010-05-15T14:59:00.000-04:00

Atomic Robo and the Fighting Scientists of Tesladyne, Volume 1
by Brian Clevnger, Scott Wegener, Ronda Pattison and Jeff Powell
Call #: Teen Graphic Novels CLEVI

Fun.

That's the word that best sums up Atomic Robo. Fun. It's a bit like Hellboy meets Indiana Jones meets Wall-E. (Okay, maybe not the last one.)

The story is told in fragments jumping back and forth in time as Robo remembers past events (created by Nikola Tesla he's been around since at least the Thirties). Certain details are left unanswered while huge cliffhangers are left dangling. It's an interesting way of telling the story.

But what I really want to know is why do Robo and Stephen Hawking hate each other?

Tiny Titans Volume 2: Adventures in Awesomeness

2010-05-12T11:36:00.002-04:00

Tiny Titans Volume 2: Adventures in Awesomeness
by Art Baltazar and Franco
Call #: Jr. Graphic Novels BALTA

This series continues to amaze me. While it may be marketed for children it can be enjoyed by adults (just read it in private if you're worried about being laughed at). I mean, Blue Beetle's parents are The Beatles? C'mon! That's funny!

So if you're over the age of 10, grab this book, sneak to the smallest room in your house (you know which one I mean), kick your feet up and enjoy!

JSA: Strange Adventures

2010-05-10T14:35:00.000-04:00

JSA: Strange Adventures
by Kevin J. Anderson, Barry Kitson, and Gary Erskine
Call #: Teen Graphic Novels

It's WWII and Johnny Thunder wants to be a pulp science fiction writer. Johnny Thunder also happens to be a member of The Justice Society of America. He has control over a djinn, an almost limitless powered magical being. Using the adventures of the JSA for the basis of his stories he tries to get them published. The problem is Johnny's not a very good writer.

The JSA face a threat unlike any they've met before. A good read.

Bone Handbook

2010-05-07T14:52:00.001-04:00

Bone Handbook
by Jeff Smith
Call #: Teen Graphic Novels SMITH

An interesting book for the true Bone fan. A collection of information, interviews and a hilarious comic featuring another one of Phoney Bone's schemes.

Any Bone is better than no Bone so sign it out already!

Superman: The Story of the Man of Steel

2010-05-05T14:14:00.002-04:00

Superman: The Story of the Man of Steel
by Ralph Cosentino
Call #: JP COSEN

He was the first and he can still thrill young children. Superman has been an American icon for over sixty years and continues to stand for all that is good and right.

In this colourful picture book Ralph Cosentino introduces the Last Son of Krypton, as well as comics in general, to a new generation of readers.

Find someone little and read it to them. Up, up, and away!

Sgt. Rock: The Lost Battalion

2010-04-20T14:33:00.000-04:00

Sgt. Rock: The Lost Battalion
by Billy Tucci
Call #: Teen Graphic Novels TUCCI

As I mentioned in an earlier post I have fond memories of DC's war comics: Unknown Soldier, Haunted Tank, and of course Sgt. Rock.

In this collection by the multi-talented Billy Tucci we see a fictionalized account of the The Lost Battalion. One the most unique battles of WW II. It's a story of heroism, overcoming the odds, loyalty, race, and the ironic stupidity of war.

A very highly recommended read.

Amelia Rules!: Superheroes

2010-04-17T15:14:00.000-04:00

Amelia Rules!: Superheroes
by Jimmy Gownley
Call #: Jr. Graphic Novels GOWNL

Volume three of Amelia Rules! brings us more of the introspective observations of Amelia Louise McBride.

Amelia regales us with tales about the very real pain of childhood crushes, the very scary reality of childhood disease, and the very vicious ugly truth of childhood cruelty. But, y'know, with humour.

Oh, and the maniacal Legion of Steves is introduced.

Read it. Now.

Batman: King Tut's Tomb

2010-04-13T14:35:00.001-04:00

Batman: King Tut's Tomb
By Various
Call #: Teen Graphic Novels BATMA

One of the odder villains to appear on the campy 60's Batman T.V. show was King Tut. (Egghead probably being the most odd.) Tut was a college professor of Egyptology who became the villain King Tut when he hit his head. After Batman and Robin stopped his crime spree, and hitting his head again, he had no memory of his nefarious adventures.

He's never appeared in the comic versions. Until now. The basic premise is here of an insane Egyptologist but that's where the similarities end. This Tut is bloodthirsty and he's out for revenge!

(Okay, a little rant here. No matter how crazed his opponent, how can Tut beat Bats at hand to hand combat. He's trained as a scholar not a fighter. He shouldn't be able to take out the Dark Knight as easily as he does! Rant over.)

Other than that it's a good Batman tale.

Half of the collection brings us three classic Batman stories. Filler for the most part they are fun.

Enjoy!

Adventures of Rabbit and Bear Paws: The Voyageurs

2010-04-10T17:15:00.000-04:00

Adventures of Rabbit and Bear Paws: The Voyageurs
by Chad Soloman and Christopher Meyer
Call #: Jr. Graphic Novels SOLOM

Rabbit and Bear Paws are back and funnier than ever. This time around the boys find themselves part of a voyageur band on their way to Montreal. Along the way they encounter bandits, flying canoes, and lacrosse (where Rabbit goes head to head against a young Joseph Brant).

Once again a very heartily recommended!

Archie and Friends All-Stars Vol 2: The Best of Betty's Diary

2010-04-07T14:19:00.001-04:00

Archie and Friends All-Stars Vol 2: The Best of Betty's Diary
by Various
Call #: Jr. Graphic Novels VERON

Betty Cooper was introduced to readers on the very first page and panel of Archie's first appearance in Pep Comics #22, 1941. (Jughead would appear a few panels later.) Eternally chasing after Archie's affection she has been portrayed from ditzy to conniving and finally to innocent, pure and good (some would say boring).

Betty has been pouring her heart to her diary for decades and here we have some of the best of those diary entries. The stories tend to be a bit sentimental compared to the other Archie Publications. They usually end with some sort of moral. Of course most of them revolve around Archie.

Still, this is a fine collection and well worth reading.

Skeleton Key: The Graphic Novel

2010-03-25T16:19:00.003-04:00

Skeleton Key: The Graphic Novel
by Anthony Horowitz, Antony Johnston, Kanako, and Yuzuru
Call #: Jr Graphic Novels JOHNS

This was a real page-turner. An exciting adaptation of the third Alex Rider novel. Alex is once again coerced into risking his life for MI-6, this time saving the world from an ex-U.S.S.R. general with a nuclear bomb.

Nail-biting.

If you're a fan of Alex Rider, or even of James Bond movies, then you'll enjoy this adaptation of Skeleton Key.