Review: The Dumbest Idea Ever! by Jimmy Gownley

 
Title: The Dumbest Idea Ever!
Author: Jimmy Gownley
Illustrator: Jimmy Gownley
Publisher: Scholastic Graphix
Copyright: 2014
Price: $11.99

ISBN: 978-0545453479
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Summary and Quick Thoughts: Being a teenager sucks, but for Jimmy, he's having a tough time. First he gets sick and misses school, then he gets sick AGAIN and misses more school. He stops caring about school and starts focusing on his comics. A friend suggests a comic book idea for him, but he decides it's the dumbest idea. Only when his first idea flops, does he give it a chance and lands on possibly the best idea ever. As Jimmy rise in fame, he's also dealing with normal teenage things like first loves and changing friendships.
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Recommended Audience: Middle School
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Things to be aware of: Nothing.
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Further Thoughts:  Jimmy Gownley is probably best known for his Amelia Rules series, which is very popular (it is in my library), so this will probably be snatched up by readers who love the series. To be honest, readers will probably read this because it's a Scholastic middle school slice of life graphic novel with praises from Jeff Smith (Bone), Raina Telgemeier (Smile, Sisters), and Jeff Kinney.

Take all that away though and you have a great biographical story about how Jimmy Gownley's teen years helped him become a graphic novel artist. He shows how he did research, practiced drawing, and had a good support system, including supportive parents. This graphic novel is perfect for any budding artist, writer, or creator to see how Jimmy survived his teen years and made it.

There are a few fantastical elements that help him. Jimmy talks to the Grim Reaper, showing at least twice how he thinks he wants to die, only to realize he wanted to press on. For me, this was a strong point in the story and helped me become invested in it. When it ended, I didn't want it to end. Thankfully there's an afterward that expands on it.


Overall feeling: Cartoonish art, inspiration, slice of life, and teen years combine for a powerful story that begs to be read multiple times and shared with friends. A must have.
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Bonus: Jimmy Gownley is from PA (according to the bio). He spoke at PaLA in 2008.
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Source: Library/Review copy

Nothing Can Possibly Go Wrong

Title: Nothing Can Possibly Go Wrong
Author: Prudence Shen
Illustrator: Faith Erin Hicks
Publisher: First Second (:01)
Copyright: 2013
Price: $18.99
ISBN: 978-1596436596
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Summary and Quick Thoughts: Nerds versus jocks. Who will win in securing the student body president victory in the name of their own goals? Or will they come together and work toward a compromise? When the school has extra money to allocate, it is the Cheerleaders versus the Robot Team. The Cheerleaders want new outfits. The Robotics Team wants an opportunity to compete. The only way they can get that money is to become friends with the new student body president.

Nate, the Nerd, and Charlie, the Jock, are friends. Neither of them knows exactly why they are friends, but somehow, they keep coming to each other for their problems. Their friendship is tested when Holly, ex-girlfriend to Charlie and head cheerleader, sets Charlie up to run against Nate, who is running for his own team. Can they overcome this issue in their friendship? Is it even worth it for Charlie? He’s not exactly running anyway.

A wrench is thrown into everyone’s plan when politics goes just a little too far and it is up to The Robotics Team and the Cheerleaders to consider a plan of action that will benefit them both. Will it though?
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Recommended Audience: high school
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Things to be aware of: crude humor; mild violence; robot violence; challenge to authority; mild swearing
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Further Thoughts: The eternal struggle between Nerds and Jocks is highlighted in this story as the Robotics Team and Cheerleaders fight for their goals. The strength in this one is that it highlights the idea that sometimes, you need to work together.

The Nerd group is a diverse group of people but none of them ever exactly fit the “stereotype.” They are all aspects of the stereotype but are their own person. It is a fun group to watch interact, even as some characters take a backseat to others (which is highlighted in a surprise twist ending). They are willing to fight for what they believe in and they are pretty level headed. Except Nate. Nate is a bit narrow minded, which helps the story as he only wants a certain end goal and will do anything to achieve it.

The Cheerleaders are everything you think of when it comes to cheerleaders, but again, we’ve got a diverse group of characters. The humor in their characters comes from the fact that they are so regimented and so stuck up. They are also a pretty smart group. Not “nerd smart” but enough that they do have their part in the story.

And then there is Charlie. He straddles the line with his friendship to Nate and his participation in sports (and at one point “dating” Holly). It is his character that is probably the center of this story and the common thread. He’s got his own problems outside of the high school drama that Nate and the Cheerleaders are making with him. He’s mad at his parents and would prefer not to get on anyone’s bad side. In the beginning, he’s still willing to do what he needs to do to not challenge the status quo. By the end though, he’s challenged it and finally found his voice for his problems at home.

Black and white illustrations tell this story in Faith Erin Hicks’s style. If you haven’t read her other work, you’ll recognize this as her style. Ironically, I kept forgetting I wasn’t reading a work by Bryan Lee O'Malley (Scott Pilgrim). Her own style is very close. You could probably say it is part Hope Larson and part O’Malley. It’s definitely great art. The only downside is that the robot actions get a bit confusing, but that’s for only two panels.

Highly recommended and I’ll be picking up a copy.
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Bonus: Did you see my post about the Interesting Marketing Strategy for this one? Faith Erin Hicks was/is a webcomic artist (according to Wikipedia).

Source: Netgalley Request. (Pub date: May 7, 2013)

A Match Made in Heaven (My Boyfriend is a Monster 8)

Title: A Match Made in Heaven (My Boyfriend is a Monster #8)
Author: Trina Robbins
Illustrator: Xian Nu Studio (and others)
Publisher: Graphic Universe (imprint of Lerner)
Copyright: 2013
Price: $29.27
ISBN: 978-0761368571 (library bound)
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Summary and Quick Thoughts: Morning Glory Conroy is a social outcast at her San Francisco high school. Everyone is in a clique and everyone has to come up with some spin on her name. If she had her way, she’d call her parents “mom” and “dad” and stay home to work on her manga. She is an aspiring manga artist. Someday, she’ll show off her work. Maybe at the upcoming comic-con.

Gabriel is a new student who walked out of who-knows-where. Glory and her only friend decide to help him because he is cute and so obviously confused about life. As Glory and Gabriel fall for each other, they meet opposition first from his unseen uncle and then from his cousin, Luci (with a heart over the ‘i’) who is determined to destroy what Gabriel loves. Amongst all of this drama, Glory’s best friend is having problems with her step-father. Oh, and Gabriel turns out to be an angel.
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Recommended Audience: high school
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Things to be aware of: mild violence, crude humor
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Further Thoughts: Something about this volume did not sit well with me. After I read it, I was like “huh.” I enjoyed it, don’t get me wrong, but something about it was…off and I think it was something to do with the angel portion (mind you, my knowledge of angels is limited so I might have missed a lot) or how Gabriel acted.

Glory is a typical teenager in that she believes the world is against her and everyone, but her best friend, hates her (which annoyed me at first, but thinking on it is a very teen thing to do). She lets herself get trampled on by everyone and teased. She comes to terms with it by the end of the book, but possibly not in the best manner (is snapping back really the answer?). Glory is definitely still a “go-getter” in many ways, but not in the ones that matter to her. She’s afraid to share her manga, but it is ultimately Gabriel who helps her out. Thanks to him, her dreams come true. (While his support is nice, should the actual legwork be done by him? Um…)

The side story in this is with Glory’s best friend and her family drama. Her step-dad has crossed a line and her mother has kicked him out. He wants his biological daughter back, but is forced to stay away. This is what causes the drama in the book. It is also this that gives Glory the opportunity to chase after Gabriel and ultimately fall for him. He’s sweet in his naïveté, in a way, but…there is something not quite right here.

Barry and James are back and it is Barry’s reaction to Gabriel that makes me really want to know what is ultimately going on. Mr. James is back to his grouchy self and we hardly see anything of them later in the book. Bummer after how volume 7 went.

Basically, get this to keep the series going. I suspect teens would relate to this (I know I would have hooked into Glory’s view, but maybe not go for Gabriel), but overall, it left me feeling “meh.”
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Bonus: Ok, here’s another publication date issue (number 7 was just as confusing). Netgalley says May 1st and so does Kirkus, but Amazon says the paperback, at least, is available now. What?

Source: Netgalley Request.

He Loves Me, He Loves Me Not (My Boyfriend is a Monster 7)

Title: He Loves Me; He Loves Me Not (My Boyfriend is a Monster #7)
Author: Robin Mayhall
Illustrator: Kristen Cella (with others)
Publisher: Graphic Universe (Imprint of Lerner)
Copyright: 2013
Price: $9.95 paperback
ISBN: 978-0-7613-8548-6
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Summary and Quick Thoughts: Oh football. For the little town of Rojo, Texas, that is everything. When there is a game, the whole town can be found at the game. Rather, most of the town can be found at the game. New student Serena Stevens is not in the mood to watch football. She misses her old town and hates that her family moved her to a small town. Luckily for her, her best friend from her previous school still talks to her, but she’s the one that convinces Serena to go to the football game that changes Serena’s life.

At the football game, Serena meets Cam, epic smart student who occasionally shows up at school. After that, she meets Lance, the captain of the football team. As the story progresses, Serena starts to date Lance, but begins work on a project about Jekyll and Hyde with Cam. Unfortunately, Lance has a “thing” against Cam and as time goes on Lance gets violent and only wants to focus on football, leaving Serena sad and confused.

Serena's love triangle adds another strong entry in this series with the added bonus of more dialogs from Mr. James and Mr. Barry. See my further thoughts below.
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Recommended Audience: high school
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Things to be aware of: emotional abuse; mild violence;
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Further Thoughts: Finally! Another volume with the strong heroines that drew me into this series. I missed the spunk and sharp wit of the girls and something about volume 8 left a bad taste in my mouth after reading it (review forthcoming).

That’s not to say this volume didn’t make me uncomfortable. When I grabbed this book from our “holds-waiting-to-be-filed,” the person processing holds that day made a comment that she was worried this series was all about boyfriends who were horrible to their girlfriends, like emotionally or physically abused. I assured her this was not the case and then read this one at lunch.

WEEEELLLL. It does have emotional abuse it in, which is very interesting, yet it is how this volume handles it that makes this a stronger graphic novel. Serena does continue dating Lance in the story. She wants to get more from him, but he’s upset when she won’t talk about football. As his anger issues come to light, he grows even angrier at her when she doesn’t go to the games. Her parents try to support her, but they ultimately leave her to start figuring this out on her own. I do feel that if a real issue came to light, they would intervene. I did find myself wanting to yell at Serena for putting up with Lance. She should have dumped him. She was smarter than that, but she was smitten with Lance, even if it wasn’t convincing.

This is probably my only issue with this story. Serena seems smart enough to step away, and I couldn’t figure out why she was staying. She seemed to see the signs, but somehow she convinced herself to stay. I think I needed to see more of her thoughts and how she really justified it, but somehow I couldn’t really believe the back and forth between her and Lance.

Now, about Barry and James. Oh boy! They finally do more than just hang out on the sidelines. Mr. James quips about “you girls” which speaks to me in this culminating with a huge event involving the girls and the boys of previous volumes (especially when some disappearing). Barry’s office is shown more with the famous X-Files poster “I want to believe.” That somehow speaks volumes about him to me. His posters are so…mixed. He is definitely traveling around with Mr. James which he hints as much.

If you’ve missed something from the previous volumes (I know I did), its back in this one. An enjoyable read, and I forgot to mention that our girl is a little curvy in this one. Keep the monster loves coming!
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Bonus: Not so much as a bonus, but something confusing. Kirkus has this volume in their reviews, but the publication date says “May 1, 2013.” This is not exactly true as I found it in my library system, on the shelf, and Amazon (sorry, it’s the be-all/end-all on publication dates for me) says it is all ready out, so…maybe a misprint?

Source: Library copy.

An Interesting Marketing Thing

In the age of webcomics, to have a book that is going to be published all ready, but is uploaded like a webcomic is pretty neat. Basically, for some reason I was Googling Nothing Can Possibly Go Wrong, the graphic novel, which I'm currently reading the ARC of. The first result was this: Nothing Can Possibly Go Wrong, the website. Basically, until the book is published, a page will be updated weekly. It is kinda, sorta, similar to Erstwhile and Red String and some other webcomics I read with an overarching plot, but updated weekly. Erstwhile was all ready published in the beginning (and generally, I get the impression the stories are done when they start uploading them) and Red String is an online manga that the author is working on all along.

The only downside to this is that the free version will probably disappear eventually (as what happened to Friends With Boys), which is a shame. I like my webcomics and until I can get my hands on the book, rereading it online will have to do (and I don't get many of those because I do not have extra cash for books).

Debate anyone? Thoughts? Either way, if you want to preview it, there it is.

I Date Dead People (My Boyfriend is a Monster 5)

Title: I Date Dead People (My Boyfriend is a Monster #5)
Author: Ann Kerns

Illustrator: Janina Gorrissen
Publisher: Graphic Universe (Lerner)

Copyright: 2012

Price: $29.27

ISBN: 978-0-7613-6007-0
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Summary and Quick Thoughts: Nora and her siblings see ghosts, but they try not to tell their parents because their parents would freak out, or worse: bring in a ghost hunting show. Each sibling seems to have a ghost that follows them. For Nora, it is Tom Barnes, a teenager who died at the house over one-hundred years ago and could never seem to leave. The two instantly fall for each other, leading Nora to dismiss the attentions of the most popular boy at school.

What starts out as innocent haunting for the siblings though, takes a dark turn as angry ghosts begin to make themselves known and inhabit the house, forcing the family out of the house. Nora is determined though to bring her family home. Readers return to the series with a ghost love story of Tom and Nora.

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Recommended Audience: high school

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Things to be aware of: Ghosts
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Further Thoughts: Nora prefers to date Tom. Tom is a ghost. This intriguing ghost love story features our continuing recurring characters the guidance counselor and Mr. James. The added bonus is that Mr. James actually knows Nora’s father so we get to learn a little background information on him (and watch him freak out over the ghosts, which looks like a major hint of something).

As I’ve mentioned before, our heroines are pretty strong and know what they want in this series. Although, I find it odd that Nora doesn’t mind having a relationship with a ghost when the most popular guy at school likes her, but there is an appeal to a ghost who can’t leave the house. What makes Nora fantastic though is that she refuses to back down, as previous heroines have, when their love is out fighting. Nora is just as much a part of the solution as Tom is. Once again, the ending to this love story is not exactly what one might expect, which I like because it isn’t exactly a happy ending.

My only complaint is that while the art is fantastic, I swear the one character looks like Dicey from volume 1. This volume is illustrated by the same artist as volume 1, but the character isn’t Dicey. I was actually disappointed because I was hoping I was going to finally see some overlap in stories. It’d be nice to see how our previous characters are doing, but again, I don’t expect anything until a grand finale.

Although, something interesting to note is that between volume 1 and this volume, the town names both begin as “Saint.” Coincidence? Now I’ll have to go back and look at the names and see what kind of connection there is.

Once again, I’m impressed. This volume isn’t as strong as the beginning, but then, I’m still following it and I’m still interested in what is next and still want to know why our two characters keep appearing. Well done!

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Bonus:

Source: Library copy.

Pilot & Huxley: The First Adventure

Title: Pilot & Huxley: The First Adventure
Author: Dan McGuiness

Illustrator: Dan McGuiness
Publisher: Scholastic Graphix

Copyright: 2011

Price: N/A

ISBN: 978-0-545-26504-1 (Paw Prints Edition has no ISBN).
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Summary and Quick Thoughts: Huxley’s parents have disappeared, so what is a kid to do? Go visit his best friend Pilot and threaten that they hate him and have run away. Oh wait, that note was written by Pilot when he found out that Huxley erased over his game data on a video game that he rented. Wait a minute…that game is overdue! Normally, this wouldn’t be a problem, but today, that particular video game from Awesome Video is needed by the aliens because it has the pass code to help them take over the world! In this mad cap adventure, Pilot and Huxley find themselves zapped to another dimension where Huxley is a curse word and Pilot’s crazy Internet theories make sense.

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Recommended Audience: Middle School and up

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Things to be aware of: Mild potty humor
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Further Thoughts: First off, every once in a while, I find when I read that the characters have voices. Oddly enough, I heard Pilot & Huxley as South Park characters. Why do I bring this up? In the fun epilogue, Pilot suggests that Cartman from South Park should play Huxley. How odd I heard them as South Park characters but as the two other kids (not Kenny and not Cartman). The aliens even had a voice, which was the typical grumbly alien voice. Pity Death didn’t sound like Death from The Grim Adventures of Billy and Mandy.

I had a bit too much adventure in this one. There was a bit of potty humor in the story (to get on a “bus” you have to go through its butt, eww), oddball foreshadowing, and just stupidness and sillyness after another. As I looked at where this ended up in my collection (J GN at the moment), I asked myself who is this for?

Middle school boys. I suspect they will eat this title up as it is almost as crazy as a ride as Hitch Hikers Guide or maybe some of the cartoons on TV today (i.e. The Grim Adventures of Billy and Mandy?) where one silly thing ends up being explained by another and it somehow makes sense because you are in a different universe.

As to the art work, it is very (I think) crude and I can tell it was digitally done. On the other hand, when taken in context as to who the audience is, it works. It does lend itself to having a South Park feeling though, which might annoy parents.

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Bonus:

Source: Library copy.

MangaMan

Title: MangaMan
Author: Barry Lyga

Illustrator: Colleen Doran
Publisher: Houghton Mifflin

Copyright:  2011

Price: $19.99

ISBN: 978-0-547-42315-9
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Summary and Quick Thoughts: Comic book worlds unite when a rift in one comic book world is opened and that rift grabs a character from the other comic book world. Manga character Ryoko is brought into the American style comic, a “real world” that doesn’t realize it is even in a comic book. Ryoko knows better though, although, he spends time adjusting to the new rules. Marissa, once a popular queen bee, now a questionable freak who goes around in costumes, is the love interest of this tale and learns from Ryoko the secrets of comic books. An intriguing premise, a great diversion, MangaMan is certainly a fun read, but this reader found she had conflicting emotions about this book.

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Recommended Audience: high school, teens, anime/manga fans, comic book fans

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Things to be aware of: a sex scene that, after the fact, seems pointless except for humor
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Further Thoughts: Let me address the sex scene first. You know it is coming when they kiss first the “real world way” then “the manga way.” A lovely two page, manga-spread, shows them kissing then quickly undressing, then BAM, a point is made and we move on. O…k…? Felt kind of pointless.

I like the premise. I like the idea, but I found myself in a multiple reader situation.

My comic book loving self (the part of me that enjoys Batman) loved the idea. It was fun, quirky, enjoyable, and for some reason hopes for more in that we find out what the rift is about.

My manga self (the part of me that enjoys a variety of manga) was offended. Every manga trope was thrown in, but the tropes, to me, seem to be from the 1970s: boys with long hair, boys who look like girls, mecha*, fighting (see Dragon Ball, seriously, the art is SO similar). Not exactly tropes I’ve seen recently, but I’m realizing I’ve been sort of out of touch. Either way, that is what is holding me back from really enjoying this story. Oh, not to mention that at first glance, please pardon this, it looks like references to tentacle porn (Wikipedia it…at home). There is of course a reference by a character about the manga porn and tentacles, but that’s not a large portion of mainstream manga and I’d like to think Ryoko isn’t from one of those books. In fact, he seems to come from a manga that has everything from giant monsters to magic to fighting to on and on.

So, I had The Philosopher Musician read it and after some thought and seeing his reaction, this book is better suited to guys. Girls want to know why Marissa is acting that way. Guys just want to be entertained. There is certainly a little of everything for both groups to enjoy the story.

Overall, Barry Lyga seems to be doing what he does well: taking stereotypes and overdoing it (Fanboy and Goth Girl) to the extent it may make some readers cringe. Looking at the catalog, this isn’t a wildly popular book, even with an endorsement on the cover from Jeff Smith (Bone). If you are looking to add more, interesting one-shots to your collection, go for it, but this is better suited for readers who like their super hero comics or Barry Lyga. Basically, save your money if you need to (although, if you do want it, wait for paperback as it may just have a better chance in paper back instead of hard cover).

*Mecha – Giant robots. Larger than life robots, piloted by humans. Animes like Gundam, Escaflowne, Neon Genesis. (Mom: my high school obsession, the anime Big O. Roger Smith piloted a Mecha).

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Bonus: I saw Barry Lyga speak at WildCat Comic Con a few weeks ago. While I still have some mixed feelings about the book, I have a slightly new respect for it. If money is tight, wait for the paperback. I'm curious to see what the formatting of that will be because I do sort of think the hardcover doesn't work.

Source: Library copy.

The Wallflower, Vol. 1

Title: The Wallflower vol. 1
Author: Tomoko Hayakawa

Illustrator: Tomoko Hayakawa
Publisher: Del Rey Ballentine Books

Copyright: 2004

Price: $10.95

ISBN: 0-345-47912-2
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Summary and Quick Thoughts: In a gorgeous, English-style mansion in Japan, four tall, gorgeous fifteen year old boys rent rooms. Why? They can get free rent, under the condition that they change the land lady’s niece into a beautiful creature, just like the house. Sounds easy right? Well, these four heroes soon discover that Sunako Nakahara is unkempt, dark, and loves horror movies as much as she loves her three mysterious anatomy dolls. There is no way she’ll let these four “creatures of light” as she calls them come near her and let her change her ways. In this quirky story, reminiscent of “My Fair Lady,” comedy and drama ensue as a battle of beauty, beast, and brains begins.

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Recommended Audience: Teens.

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Things to be aware of: Constant nose bleeds, horror references, violence, sexual innuendos
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Further Thoughts: This first volume sets the stage for an intriguing plot line as four well-meaning, hot guys try to turn the scary chick into a gorgeous girl. Each boy has his “quirk”: Ranmaru is an all-around playboy falling for both married and older women, Yukinojo is well-meaning, bumbling, and androgonous; Takenaga is a deep thinking, poet type; Kyohei is the ultimate, hotty bad boy (and as you’ll figure out eventually, the one who actually has a thing for Sunako). Sunako’s angle is that she was turned down by a boy she had a crush on in middle school for “being ugly,” a fact that she took to heart and decided to become, despite her obvious beauty. It is obvious she hates her housemates, and knows what they are up to. On the other hand, when push comes to shove, she is there, stronger than Kyohei to save the day. In one particular side story, she rescues Kyohei and you can’t help but think, “Awesome!” as she reveals a military get-up and, basically, kicks butt. An intriguing story with fantastic, wispy art.

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Bonus:

Source: Library copy.

Under His Spell (My Boyfriend is a Monster #4)

Title: Under His Spell (My Boyfriend is Monster #4)
Author: Marie P. Croall

Illustrator: Hyeondo Park
Publisher: Lerner Publishing Group: Graphic Universe

Copyright: 2011

Price: $21.95

ISBN: 978-0-7613-5602-8
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Summary and Quick Thoughts: Bethany is down to Earth. She is so down to Earth that she doesn’t let boys distract her from the important things in life: school and soccer. Her coach even suggests to her teammates they should be more like her. Her friends think she’s crazy for not being interested in boys, at least, that is until “foreign exchange student” (with pointy ears), Allein, shows up in her class. There is something about him that attracts her to him and she’s different enough that he notices her. Romance blossoms, but their first date could be their last. On a side note, our teacher from previous volumes is here (in case you were wondering), and the guidance counselor is up to something if he has most of the first page devoted to him.

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Recommended Audience: high school

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Things to be aware of: mild violence
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Further Thoughts: I’m worried we’ve hit that point in the series where it is going downhill. My first reaction to this one (volume 4) is “elves? Really? Come on!” Elves. Yes. Elves of the “Lord of the Rings” (movie) variety: flowing clothing, pointed ears, natural over the top furnishings, and ticked off daddy. More on that in a bit.

Actually, aside from my initial reaction, this series is still holding up, somewhat.

The series isn’t tripping on the one part that has made this fantastic so far: strong heroines. Bethany is still as strong as her fellow heroines. She refuses to sit low during a fight. If her life is threatened (which it was), she will fight for that and she’ll fight for what she loves: Allein (who has a bad habit of launching into speeches which give his attackers a chance to go after him, after their own speeches). She’s also very down to Earth about her future with Allein which is a nice change of pace and a nice reminder.

Now, Allein, the elf and love interest and, of course, the monster boyfriend. Simply, he’s kind of flat. He’s in that story line of “I’m an exiled prince and people want to kill me for the throne.” Bethany ends up prompting him into action a lot, but at least he was willing to see her for her and love her as she is, faults and all. It’s just a little creepy (when I think about it) about how he always has the right thing to say. Although, it’d be nice if boys really did work that way, huh? Simply, love/hate on that issue. (The Philosopher Musician is yanking at his collar at the moment.)

What makes this volume different from the others so far is that it includes full color spreads while they are visiting the elf world. There is the usual “we got kicked out of our homeland” speech, but seriously, they have color while the real world is black and white. The bit of the story that takes place in the elf land is sweet and a great explanation as to what is going on. It also gives Bethany a chance to prove to Allein’s Dad that they need to save the humans, no matter how horrible they are. I didn’t want the color spreads to end. They were just that much more of a treat.

Frankly, looking at this title, I have to debate whether it is worth continuing. If there has been interest in the first three, please do. If there hasn’t been, you can stop getting it now or, if you really like the strong heroines, consider switching over to the $10 paperbacks. Despite the elves and despite the art, it seems that the series is still holding true to the goals, but if I don’t get even a teaser of information on our beloved teacher and guidance counselor soon, I’m going to go nuts (unless it is like looking for Alfred Hitchcock in his movies, then fine, but make that clear sooooooon!).

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Bonus: Information on the elf world and the fae, with edits in the back of the book.

Source: Library copy (Publishing info from Netgalley. Didn’t get to Netgalley copy in time to read that version)

I Love Him to Pieces (My Boyfriend is a Monster #1)

Title: I Love Him to Pieces (My Boyfriend is a Monster #1)
Author: Evonne Tsang

Illustrator: Janina Gorrissen
Publisher: Graphic Universe (Division of Lerner)

Copyright: 2011

Price: $29.26

ISBN:978-0-7613-6004-9
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Summary and Quick Thoughts: The worst has happened. Jack Chen, ultra science nerd is the father of jock girl Dicey Bell’s baby egg. What’s worse is that after the two week period the two start to date (ok, not so bad). The end is neigh, Jack accidentally predicts. How true it is because after a baseball game, the deadly flesh eating fungus his parents have been trying so hard to contain, hits their town of St. Petersburg, Florida. So begins Jack and Dicey’s relationship and the zombie apocalypse. Together, jock and nerd (although, she’s more like the Honor Society Jock type I went to school with) work to save the town, but what happens when Jack gets bit?

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Recommended Audience: high school

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Things to be aware of: mild violence
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Further Thoughts: The kick off to the series My Boyfriend is a Monster starts with a strong punch and an interesting message: appearances can be deceiving. Dicey happens to be the only girl on the baseball team. Jack happens to be tied into what is going on and knows what is happening. They are quite the pairing. They both probably liked each other from the start, but it took a little adventure and an egg to get them to realize it.

The humor that is prevalent in the series* is still there as there are moments of seriousness broken by some slight humor. The Zombie apocalypse is serious and remains that way, but the positive attitude keeps the story fresh and moving. Dicey and Jack are determined to make it out alive.

*(As a side note, yes you can read this series out of order, I read this after book 2&3).

Here’s another good point to the series: strong, determined heroines. Dicey is determined and doesn’t let boys stop her from being in baseball. She’s one of the guys, yet she is obviously feminine. In the series, you see the strong heroines who take charge and I enjoy that as it is hard to find strong women who have guys, but still have their identities.

The illustrations are black and white, and consistent with the rest of the series, despite a different artist. The recurring character of Mr. James is introduced in this volume, only slightly, and now I really want to know what his role will be.

Simply enjoyable. A good one from Graphic Universe.

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Bonus:

Source: Library copy.

Made for Each Other (My Boyfriend is a Monster #2)

Title: Made For Each Other (My Boyfriend is a Monster #2)
Author: Paul D. Storrie

Illustrator: Eldon Cowgur
Publisher: Graphic Universe (Lerner)

Copyright: 2011

Price: $29.27 ($21.95 for libraries)

ISBN: 978-0-7613-5601-1 (Lib Binding)
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Summary and Quick Thoughts: Nothing interesting happens in Persephone Falls (Alaska), although, right from the start we learn Gary Barry, the Guidance Counselor is worried about Maria McBride and how she might react to the recent loss of three of her classmates (who all happened to be cheerleaders and named Erica). She’s fine and with that, she runs into new kid Tom, on her way to class. Mysterious Tom will be joining her in three of her classes. It isn’t until 6^th period that day that Tom finds Maria, alone, practicing her violin. Entranced, Tom sneaks up on her and discovers her amazing talent also goes with her amazing looks. What follows is a crazy story about Tom and Maria’s courtship as they try to navigate the fact that he’s, well, Frankenstein’s Monster’s son.

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Recommended Audience: High School

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Things to be aware of: Mild violence.
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Further Thoughts: Yep. That’s right, this volume tackles Frankenstein’s creation, who in this story is Franklin Stone, the town’s new funeral director. The town suddenly has a rash of accidents that does make the town suspicious of what is going on, because something just isn’t right, especially with Tom B. Stone (yep, you read that right), Franklin’s son. Do the accidents have something to do with Heddy Graves (who was supposed to be Heddy Stone)?

It is quirky bits like the characters’ names that make this volume so enjoyable. My favorite scene in the book is straight from a horror movie spoof. Tom is ripping his shirt off during a loud crack of thunder to show Maria who he is. This panel takes up a full page. On the next page, you see Maria covering her eye and complaining about a button that hit her. The smirk on Tom’s face is ADORABLE, and you know then, that Maria and Tom are meant for each other for sure.

Even though this is number 2, this is the first one I read (cover to cover). From glancing at book one and after reading book 3 (review coming), the art is consistent despite the change in artists. The plot is solid and, for a Graphic Universe title, fantastic. With the zombie, vampire, werewolf crazes going on right now, these books fit right in, and more. There is very little involving technology in this book that won’t make it dated (even fashions are plain enough to withstand time). The outrageous plot is believable enough to enjoy, and it reads like a movie, a spoof and updated horror movie. For a Graphic Universe title, this one deserves shelf space and since it is from a group that markets mostly to libraries, this is a worthwhile title to make room for on your shelf. You might be able to push the classic Frankenstein onto lovers of this book. Knowledge of the book certainly makes this more fun, but even if you haven’t read the classic, it is enjoyable.

Horror, romance, a little comedy and poking fun. Who could ask for more?

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Bonus: Fun little question and answer about dating someone like Frankenstein’s Monster.

Source: Library copy.

Ready for a Treat?

No Sunday review today, but I have a good reason (aside from it is a Holiday). Are you ready to hear it?

This week, I'm giving you a special treat: a week's worth of reviews (rather, 5 days worth). If you've been wondering about the series "My Boyfriend is a Monster" published by Lerner Publishing's Graphic Universe, you'll get to see my take on the series here, all week (rather, the next 5 days). I'll be reviewing all 5 volumes that are out at this point. I will admit though, that the review for volume two will be first, but you'll see why when I review it Monday.

Enjoy!

Meanwhile

Title: Meanwhile
Author: Jason Shiga
Illustrator: Jason Shiga
Publisher: Amulet Books (Abrams)
Copyright: 2010
Price: $15.95
ISBN: 978-0-8109-8423-3
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Summary and Quick Thoughts: For Jimmy, the story starts with a simple question: should he order chocolate or vanilla ice cream. After this simple choice the reader is launched into a topsy-turvy story as Jimmy discovers a professor and his gadgets. After that, there are even MORE options and story paths to travel. Each variant could take the reader just a minute to read or close to a half an hour to read as you explore options, try something again, or go in circles. Simply put, this is a graphic novel style, Choose Your Own Adventure but on an epic and crazy scale. Fantastic.
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Recommended Audience: Middle school and up.
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Things to be aware of: Cartoon death and destruction.
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Further Thoughts: Oh how do I describe this book? I still think it is something like “Choose Your Own Adventures on steroids.” This is one awesome book and honestly, I think perfect for reluctant readers (if they figure out how it works). The Philosopher Musician and I spent about two hours reading this title after I heard a librarian say she only got 4 pages into it and was proud of herself. I spent two hours reading this book out loud to him and more as I picked it up, followed the story line and decided “I want to do this differently” or “what about this?” The entire time I had this checked out I flipped through it and looked at panels and endings and decided to see if I could land there or just wanted to follow a favorite plot line. Either way, this is a must have and with 3,856 story possibilities, how could you go wrong?
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Bonus: ALA Great Graphic Novel 2011. Pages are not typical paper. These can handle multiple readings (I bet with 3,856 story lines!).

Source: Library copy.

Manga Shakespeare: The Merchant of Venice

Title: Manga Shakespeare: The Merchant of Venice
Author: William Shakespeare (Adapter: Richard Appignanesi)
Illustrator: Faye Yong
Publisher: Amulet Books
Copyright: 2011
Price:  $10.95
ISBN: 978-0-8109-9717-2
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Summary and Quick Thoughts: I’m not going into a summary on this one. Simply: The Merchant of Venice told in a manga style…with elves. Dark haired and eye lined elves are Jews, blonde haired elves are Christians. This is more confusing and oddly disconcerting compared to seeing the play live (I think).
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Recommended Audience: High School
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Things to be aware of: Shakespeare?
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Further Thoughts: First, I adore the art, aside from what certain people represent. The art is flowy, entertaining and in a lovely manga style which drew me to this title in the first place. Yong does a lovely job representing the story, but it is a shame I was more confused in this story than anything else.

The adaptation is another story. While original Shakespeare language, and I assume lines, were used in the story, there are moments where the flow is interrupted and something is missed. I have not actually seen The Merchant of Venice yet, at all, and oddly, without the background knowledge, this is a confusing story. I understand that so-and-so is in love with so-and-so and this guy (well, the dark haired Jew) is the bad guy. So scary [/sarcasm]. The “opening credits,” in color, illustrated by Yong, easily told me who was who and introduced “the cast.” On the other hand, this is supposed to be a comedy and not a tragedy? Looking at the cover you’d think it was going to end badly.

What is disconcerting to me is how the difference between the Christians and Jews is night and day. I was informed by my mom and The Philosopher Musician that this is an anti-Semitic play. Ok, but why does this have to look like an issue of race?

I know there are better graphic novel adaptations out there and I keep wondering why these (Manga Shakespeare) keep coming out. I don't enjoy them when I read them and I need to learn that these titles are a pass, no matter what the review journals say.
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Bonus:

Source: Library copy.