Early Book Review: Billy Johnson And His Duck Are Explorers by Mathew New

Billy Johnson And His Duck Are Explorers by Mathew New is a children's graphic novel that is currently scheduled for release on August 1 2020. Billy Johnson, the son of two world-famous explorers (who mysteriously disappeared eight years ago) has big dreams. The teenager may be a part-time janitor now, but exploring is in his blood. He just needs one big discovery to prove to the Explorers League that he’s worthy of the rank of Ace Explorer. Luckily, Billy has an ally in his best friend, Barrace. Not only is Barrace a college professor of linguistics, but he’s also a duck! Together, these boon companions brave hidden jungle kingdoms, haunted tombs, deadly deserts, and treacherous mythological trials to uncover the mysteries of the world. But will they discover that the biggest mystery of all may be following them every step of the way?

Billy Johnson And His Duck Are Explorers is a fun and accessible for some of the youngest graphic novel readers. I felt like the story was fast and fun, with some neat twists and moments but that it never got too intense or deep. The colors and artwork were bold and bright with a good sense of movement to help keep everything moving forward. The art did seem a little childish to me, but considering the target audience I do not think it will be an issue for most. The action and conversations came in small, digestible pieces. Enough to keep young readers interested and engaged without being too much all at once and allowing for breaks if needed. I think the book was exactly what it was intended to be, a fun and fast moving graphic novel for young readers, but I rather felt that it could have done that and still been even more. While it sometimes seems like it wants the Adventure Time crowd, and sometimes the motion of the art feels like it, it does not match the smooth and more in depth humor that fans of that will want. It is fun, and it can entertain, but I do not think it reached its full potential.

Billy Johnson And His Duck Are Explorers is a cute graphic novel that is vaguely reminiscent of Adventure Time the will appeal to young readers.

Book Review: The Adventures of Fede and Tomato #1: Tomato Must Be Saved! by Luciano Saracino, Gerardo Baró

The Adventures of Fede and Tomato #1: Tomato Must Be Saved! is a children's graphic novel written by Luciano Saracino, with art by Gerardo Baró. One morning, the circus arrives in Fede’s town. What a thrill! Now he has a chance to be a circus star! And there he goes, with his cat Tomato, avoiding any streets where he might run into Florencia (because Florencia is his girlfriend, but she doesn’t know it yet). Of course, things get complicated when the lion looks at Tomato with hungry eyes! 

Tomato Must Be Saved! is a fun and cute comic that focuses on one adventurous boy and his view of the world. He sneaks into a circus before opening and is caught taking pictures of the lion without permission. The ringmasters attempts to disuad Fede go a bit awry and misunderstandings lead to jining in the circus act, dodging the girl he likes, and trying to save his cat Tomato from becoming the lion's lunch. I liked the artwork- the colors really worked and there was a good amount of detail on each page.  I think I might have left a couple clues about the misunderstandings on the page, but I understand why they might not have in such a short work. I enjoyed the read and think many young readers will as well. 

Tomato Must Be Saved! is a short, cute graphic novel. I liked the art and the story and think others will enjoy the quick read as well.

Book Review: Tiny Fox and Great Boar by Berenika Kotomycka

Tiny Fox and Great Boar is a children's graphic novel written and illustrated by Berenika Kotomycka, and translated into English by Natalia Kreczmar. Tiny Fox lives alone beneath his apple tree in the distant hills. He is a happy little animal, busy looking after himself and his foxy things. Then one day, a Great Boar appears and moves in under the apple tree, bringing with him a time of change and adventure. Is Tiny Fox ready?

Tiny Fox and Great Boar is a nice early graphic novel about friendship, doing new things, and bravery. Tiny Fox and Great Boar are an odd couple, in the best way possible. They do things a little differently. and occasionally clash. However, when push comes to shove they are there for each other. As they explore the world in search of food Fox needs to step out of his comfort zone, and Boar is there for him. I liked the story, and the art was cute, but not really my style. It seemed a little sloppy, but that could be because I was reading a digital galley via Netgalley. It was cute, and told the story well, but it just did not impress me. I will admit to being a graphic novel fan, but having preferred art styles, and while it was nice it just did not  fit my particular preferences. 

Early Book Review: Peanut Butter and Jelly (Narwhal and Jelly) by Ben Clanton

Peanut Butter and Jelly is the third book in the Narwhal and Jelly series of easy reader level graphic novels by Ben Clanton. Each of this adorable books is able to stand on their own, but they are so cute that you will want to read them all. This volume is currently scheduled for release on March 27 2018.

Narwhal and Jelly are back and Narwhal has a new obsession, peanut butter! He's so obsessed he even wants to change his name to Peanut Butter! Ever-sensible Jelly isn't so sure that's the best idea, but is all for Narwhal trying new things (instead of just eating waffles all the time, no matter how delicious waffles are). In this third book, Narwhal and Jelly star in three new stories about trying new things, favorite foods and accepting who we are. Always funny and never didactic, this underwater duo charms again through their powerful combination of positive thinking, imagination and joyfulness.

Peanut Butter and Jelly is another fun collection of stories by Clanton. What kid (or adult) has not become a little too interested in a new food, hobby, or fandom? Narwhal takes it a bit to the extreme, as usual, but that is what makes the story so entertaining. I loved the interaction between Narwhal and Jelly (as usual) and the combination of learning about finding new things and moderation along side the wacky and fun ways Narwhal goes about things. It is a fun and delightful read that is never overwhelming or preachy despite the lessons inherent to the story.