Early Book Review: The Okay Witch by Emma Steinkellner

The Okay Witch by Emma Steinkellner is a middle grade to young adult graphic novel that is currently scheduled for release on September 3 2019. Thirteen-year-old Moth Hush loves all things witchy. But she’s about to discover that witches aren’t just the stuff of movies, books, and spooky stories. When some eighth-grade bullies try to ruin her Halloween, something really strange happens. It turns out that Founder’s Bluff, Massachusetts, has a centuries-old history of witch drama. And, surprise: Moth’s family is at the center of it all! When Moth’s new powers show up, things get totally out-of-control. She meets a talking cat, falls into an enchanted diary, and unlocks a hidden witch world. Secrets surface from generations past as Moth unravels the complicated legacy at the heart of her town, her family, and herself.

The Okay Witch is a a graphic novel that takes a classic trope- underappreciated and bullied kid turns out to have powers- but magic does not instantly make everything better. I liked the way Moth and her friend CHarlie are written. Neither are perfect but both are trying to be the best people they can, and trying to find themselves in relation to their parents and in spite of them. I liked the larger story- setting their family drama and inner struggles against the history or the town. I liked seeing how history directly affects the present- and the characters in the story. I think the attitudes of the other kids- and a good number of the adults- were spot on with what I have seen in the world. My only complaint with the story is that I wanted to keep going. I want to see Moth and Charlie continue to grow, I want to see more about their families and the possible changes that are made, I just want more. That is not to say that there was anything lacking in the ending- the conclusion wrapped things up nicely- but did leave some room for sequels. I cannot end this without saying how much I loved the art style, I really enjoyed every page visually. Facial expressions and movement were conveyed perfectly and the images just made me happy.

The Okay Witch was an amazing debut graphic novel from Steinkellner and I think it will appeal to middle grade and older audiences. I look forward to seeing more from them in the future!

Early Book Review: The Escape Manual for Introverts by Katie Vaz

The Escape Manual for Introverts by Katie Vaz is currently scheduled for release on August 6 2019. Trapped in an airplane seated next to a chatterbox? Are you hosting a dinner party with people who just won't leave? Katie Vaz has the key to your escape. The Escape Manual for Introverts guides readers through different scenarios with themed chapters ("Friends," "Relatives," "Strangers," etc.). Each chapter covers a range of situations, from an invitation to karaoke night to group lunchtime. And she offers a number of escapes for each scenario: bringing odoriferous foods to lunch for a while, having a pet (real or imagined) that "requires" frequent check-ins, and even investing in a jet pack. This book features Vaz's full-page illustrated spreads, hand-lettering, and spot illustrations. From the silly to the sincere, Vaz's clever, hilarious escape plans and bizarre excuses speak to the introvert in all of us. 

The Escape Manual for Introverts is a funny look at how to avoid social interaction when you really feel the need to be alone and recharge. As an introvert that works with the public, I often seek alone time for my off duty hours. Thankfully those closest to me are well aware, and understand my enjoyment of a cup of tea and a good book rather than getting dressed up and going out on the town. This book offers a variety of situations an introvert might feel the desire to escape from and offers some suggests that will help mitigate the small talk and awkward moments. I like that the situations and responses are organized by who you might be interacting with. Some of the suggestions are standard behavior for some of us already, such as bonding with the pets or "helping" in the kitchen to stay busy and out of the fray. Others are great, and slightly more involved- such as finding a cause to volunteer with to help avoid attending situations all together. I both love and dislike this solution. I love it- because getting out and doing good is fabulous, however it could just get you in more situations you might need to avoid- so choose wisely. I do not want to give away any more of the suggestions- because I might need them. The art style is fun, and matches the voice of the book well. 

The Escape Manual for Introverts was a read that I really enjoyed and identified with on several levels. I think introverts, and those that love them, will all enjoy this book.

Early Book Review: Poppy and Sam and the Mole Mystery by Cathon

Poppy and Sam and the Mole Mystery by Cathon is a picture book and graphic novel style book currently scheduled for release on August 13 2019.  It’s a new day in the garden, and Poppy and Sam are paying a visit to their friend Snuggles Molesy. But Snuggles is in a pickle, looking for a lost pair of pretty pink glasses! Sleuths Poppy and Sam begin to investigate: all around the garden, along the shore of the creek, and even inside the pies Snuggles had been baking. Along the way, they ask the other critters they encounter. Poppy and Sam don’t have much luck finding the glasses, but they do come across a variety of other treasures: a flowered umbrella, a flute, a yellow spinning top, and more. By the end of the story, they set up a whimsical lost and found with all of these objects—and finally find the rosy specs, while their fellow garden friends find misplaced treasures of their own. 

Poppy and Sam and the Mole Mystery is a cute story about retracing your steps to find something that has been lost. When Sam and Poppy visit Snuggles not only do they get to eat way to much pie- but that start off on an adventure t help their friend find his missing glasses. I like that they use the tried and true method of backtracking to find the missing glasses, and that they look for the owners of the other items they find along the way. I really like the story ending, and how the friends were able to help others that were in similar situations as they were when the story began. Readers can look on each page for hidden creatures and items to see if they can find the glasses, or the other items that they trio ruin across along the way. I liked the art, it was simple and subtle, which is all the story needed. 

Poppy and Sam and the Mole Mystery is a fun and simple story. I think it offers a good beginner foray into graphic novels, and will appeal to animal fans in particular.

Book Review: Mera: Tidebreaker by Danielle Paige, Stephen Byrne

Mera: Tidebreaker is a graphic novel written by Danielle Paige and illustrated by Stephen Byrn. Mera is teenage royalty, heir to the throne of Xebel, the other not-so-lost colony under the sea. But Mera is destined to wear a different crown, that of Atlantis. When the inhabitants of Xebel plot to overthrow their homeland of Atlantis, Mera is sent to kill the heir to the throne, Arthur Curry. As the unrest between their colonies grows, Mera and Arthur unexpectedly fall in love...will Arthur Curry be the king at Mera's side in Atlantis, or will he die under her blade?

Mera: Tidebreaker is a young adult graphic novel, but sometimes feels like it is slanted for a younger audience. Mera is the expected princess that wants more that what she sees ahead of her, she wants to make a difference, so she breaks the rules and breaks away. Things do not go as planned, because they never do. Some of this worked for me, I enjoyed the artwork and thought the colors and style were perfect for this particular story. However, some of the scenes ended abruptly and parts of the relationship buildng of the story just did not flow for me. Perhaps it is because I am so far from the target audience, but I read a good deal of middle grade and young adult materials so I am not sure if that is the problem. I was kind of hoping to get a better understanding of some of these characters, since I am behind on my DC universe lore, and in some ways I did that, but it did not really help me like them any more.

Mera: Tidebreaker was a mixed bag for me. I think there is certainly an audience for it and the art is very well done, but I think I was expecting more.

Book Review: Unicorn Bowling (Phoebe and Her Unicorn) by Dana Simpson

Unicorn Bowling is the ninth book in the Phoebe and Her Unicorn by Dana Simpson. You do not need to have read all the books to enjoy the read.

A unicorn in bowling shoes is quite a STRIKE-ing sight. But for nine-year-old Phoebe Howell, it’s just another fun outing with her best friend, the illustrious unicorn Marigold Heavenly Nostrils. This unique and magical friendship is at the heart of the ninth Phoebe and Her Unicorn collection, which includes adventures such as writing original songs, publishing rival news websites, and making a summer visit to the exclusive Camp Shimmerhorn. Life with a unicorn BFF is not without its challenges, however, and whether it’s homework, friction with classmates, or talent show jitters, Unicorn Bowling is full of amusing, heartwarming reminders that when the going gets tough, the tough get sparkling.

Unicorn Bowling is another lovely graphic novel. Before I get to the actual story though, I have to say that I love that in the very beginning of the book there is mention of the glossary at the end of the book (page number included) to encourage kids to look up the meaning of words unfamiliar to them. This not only encourages them to use it, but helps them know that they will not be the only one unsure of certain words. This can go a long way in helping struggling readers feel more comfortable facing new words. This will help less confident readers keep going, with no bad feelings or shame about wanting to look up words. 

Okay, now for the story. As usual the artwork does a good job portraying the emotion and extra details of the story. The quality has been consistent through the series, and I expect that to continue. I was a little disappointed that the book was a collection of day to day or small adventures of Phoebe, rather than there being any larger story arc. I was kind of hoping for more of the conflicts between Phoebe and Dakota, and by the title I was rather expecting more bowling. Unicorn Bowling is a book that fans of the series will enjoy, but is not likely to win over new readers.

Early Book Review: The Wolf in Underpants by Wilfrid Lupano, Mayana Itoïz, Paul Cauuet

The Wolf in Underpants is a children's graphic novel written by Wilfrid Lupano and illustrated by Mayana Itoïz and Paul Cauuet. It is currently scheduled for release on March 5 2019. A community of forest animals trades scary rumors about a nearby wolf. Some critters have even gone into business selling wolf traps and anti-wolf fences. But when the wolf appears in a pair of striped underpants, everyone rethinks their fears. This is a heartwarming story about understanding differences, told with an oddball sense of humor.

The Wolf in Underpants is a young readers graphic novel, that could be read as a picturebook. I loved the story, and the twists. Close readers will see clue through the story that relate to the couple surprises they will run across, and there are lots of small details to find on each page. I think readers could go through the book several times and still find something they had missed before. The forest creatures being in a panic over a wolf, and spending all their time and resources on the fear, and talking about it, parallels the news and adult world far too well. I like how simple and rational the explanation for the wolf's past appearance and current state are, and how one simple act of kindness helped make it happen. I really liked the giggle I got at the end, which might bother some sensitive readers, to the remaining mystery of missing pigs. 

The Wolf in Underpants is an entertaining read, and I think it will work for a large range of reading ages and abilities. I really enjoyed the read and will be looking for more like this from the team.

Book Review: Ghost Friends Forever #2, Witches Get Things Done by Monica Gallagher, Kata Kane

Witches Get Things Done is the second issue in the Ghost Friends Forever graphic novel series written by Monica Gallagher and illustrated by Kata Kane. I would recommend reading the series in order, but if you are determined to start here I think readers could catch up with the major points quickly.

Magic is the only thing that will help Sophia Greene-Campos reunite with Whitney, her ghost girl crush who died in the 1990s. Frustrated, Sophia is determined to find Witney. Soon Sophia befriends a witch named Charlotte who quickly becomes a trusted friend. While Sophia is busy disobeying her parents, her ex-boyfriend Jake is struggling between expressing his romantic feelings for her and helping her to get Whitney back. And Felix is suffering the nightmarish after effects of creating a Banishment Portal at such a young age. In order to help him, their parents Joanne and Oscar might be forced to reveal more of their knowledge about portals, two-headed poltergeists, and other secrets about The Paranormal Incident that split the family.

Witches Get Things Done is an entertaining read, and I was glad to see what come next for Sophia, Felix, Jake, and Whitney. I really liked getting to see some new characters, and that neither new or old characters seemed to be neglected or left behind in the story telling- which sometimes happens when the field gets crowded. I liked the development of the new and changing relationships, partial because it was as unsure, complicated, and messy as real life. I felt like some of the ghostly and science based paranormal aspects were glossed over or secondary to the angst Sophia has about her relationships. Even the danger is not really focused on as much as I thought it could have been. However, I enjoyed the story and only wish I got a little more from each issue. 

Witches Get Things Done is a nice continuation to the story. I enjoyed the read and the art. It was nice, but did not wow me, although I do plan on continuing the story.

Book Review: Petit: The Ogre Gods Book One by Hubert Boulard, Bertrand Gatignol

Petit: The Ogre Gods Book One is a blend of graphic novel and novel written by Hubert Boulard, with design and artwork by Bertrand Gatignol. Parts of the story are fully in graphic novel format, while other sections are in text with the occasional image. 

Petit is the son of the Ogre King, and the littlest giant in the royal clan. Scarcely larger than a mere human, he is the latest sign of the family's rapid degeneration, which makes each generation smaller than the one before.His father wants him killed as an embarrassment, but his mother sees in him the possible regeneration of the family lineage, since he could mate with a human, just as the Founder of their lineage once did. Confused, she confides in great Aunt Desdee, the oldest of their clan, who was once dishonored because of her love for the humans, whom the Ogres consider little more than labor and food. But contrary to her guidance, she decides to raise Petit in the family traditions, including the violent impulses that this entails. So Petit grows into manhood, torn by the hunger he inherited from his upbringing and the sympathetic education he received from Aunt Desdee. Can he find his place in this world divided between humans and giants, neither of which truly accept him? And will he survive the voracious appetite of his own monstrous family?

Petit: The Ogre Gods Book One is as dark as the description promised, and a read that mirrored some of the real world a little too closely for my tastes. Petit has seen the horror his family has become and the way they treat others, he also has an aunt that shows him the arts and gentler side of life. He is toward between the two worlds. I did get a solid sense of his characters through the book, and I liked that while readers can tell he really wants to be a good person he is not perfect, and makes his share of mistakes. However, he continues trying to do right, even when it is not easy. I liked the character of his aunt, Desdee is still caught by the trappings of the family but rises above the violence and cruelty. Petit's mother, the queen, is a mix between the two. There are moments when readers can almost think well of her, then she does something cruel or violent with no thought to how it affects others, and clearly puts power and her wants about just about anything. Even when she seems to be doing something good, it quickly twists into something much different. The art style is very interesting, and I found the giants to be suitably horrifying, and they actually reminded me a bit of the REd Queen in Alice in Wonderland- both in personality and appearance. The black and white art lent itself to the dark mood of the story, and the lne work was very well done. I found the text backstories to be a good break in the story, both explaining the history and giving readers a break from the danger and horror of the main story. I found these brief interludes gave me a much better understanding of the culture, history, and power struggles between the giants. I did find one or two characters to be a little much, and the romantic hints to the story really did not add anything to the story for me, rather I found them distracting even though I know it did serve a purpose. So, that was just something that did not work for me, but might not be an issue for anyone else. 

Petit: The Ogre Gods Book One is a gothic, horror graphic novel full of characters that are unnerving through their appearance and their actions. THe art and the story are engaging and I just might pick up the next volume. I am not certain yet and think it will decide on my mood when I see that it is available. 

Book Review: Gillbert #1 by Art Baltazar

Gillbert: The Little Merman by Art Baltazar is the first issue in a children's graphic novel series. A message in a bottle? A fiery asteroid from space? A sea of magical mystical mermaids? This is the world of Gillbert. In the deepest part of the ocean, unexplored by man and too deep for humans to swim, lives a little sea creature named Gillbert. He is the son of King Nauticus, king of all the oceans. One day, Gillbert will be king. But in the meantime, his playful curiosity takes him away from the kingdom on a journey of discovery. Gillbert meets an amphibious mermaid and follows her into unknown parts of the ocean. Where he meets many unknown and undiscovered species of underwater creatures. He didn’t know these things existed so close to home. Gillbert’s world just got a whole lot bigger!

Gillbert: The Little Merman is an adventure that takes a little merman and has him exploring new places and making new friends, while the adults also get to learn something and make a new acquaintance of their own. I like that new and strange is shown to be interesting and important to learn about rather than being something worthy of fear or judgement. Learning new languages and skills is shown to be work, but well worth the effort. The art is bright and colorful, added extra emotion and humor to the story that might otherwise get missed. I liked the combination of text and art, and think it will capture and hold the interest of readers. It was a cute, entertaining story. 

Gillbert: The Little Merman is another great, kid friendly graphic novel from the team at Papercutz. The style and quality is consistent, and a makes for a fun and engaging read for young and emerging readers while not boring older or more proficient readers that might pick it up.

Book Review: Super Chill: A Year of Living Anxiously by Adam Ellis

Super Chill: A Year of Living Anxiously by Adam Ellis is a collection of comics that handle some tough

topics like seasonal affective disorder and struggles with self-esteem, while also touching on the silly and absurd—like his brief, but intense obsession with crystals. 

Super Chill is both funny and poignant. Those of us that are more introverted can relate to to his need to recharge at home, and his desire to avoid large groups of people. I could see a bit of myself in a good number of his comics, aside from the ones about drinking or being high- unless you count how I feel after a dose of cold or allergy medication. I enjoy his art style and think that anyone that has dealt with depression, anxiety, or just not wanting to go out in the world to deal with people will enjoy the read. All of the included comics are ones I had not seen, so I found it to be doubly entertaining and it inspired me to go out and follow Adam on more than just Facebook.

Super Chill is exactly what I was hoping for when I requested the title on Netgalley. I like Adam's art style and sense of humor- and can relate to most of his experiences. I have seen some of his work before, and was not disappointed in this collection.

Book Review: Sharky Malarkey: A Sketchbook Collection by Megan Nicole Dong

Sharky Malarkey: A Sketchbook Collection by Megan Nicole Dong follows the adventures of Bruce, a washed-up shark actor, and a colorful assortment of dysfunctional people, animals, and inanimate objects. Bruce is vain but insecure; hotheaded but cowardly; craves attention but fears intimacy—his over-the-top antics are all too human. Based on Megan Nicole Dong’s popular webcomic, Sketchshark, her debut print collection mines the absurd in everyday life. 

Sharky Malarkey: A Sketchbook Collection is not what I was expecting, but I have never seen the webcomic from the artist so I was coming in fresh. The description says the book is about Bruce, a Hollywood shark, with some moments about the artist. However, the book is the opposite- mostly about the artist and everyday life with just a sprinkle of Bruce.  There were plenty of relatable moments, but I was distracted by the art style which felt a little sloppy and undetailed. I think those that already are fans, and know they enjoy the artists work will want to take a look at the collection. Unfortunately it just did nothing for me.

Early Book Review: Tiger vs. Nightmare by Emily Tetri

Tiger vs. Nightmare by Emily Tetri is a children's graphic novel currently scheduled for release on November 6 2018.  Tiger is a very lucky kid: she has a monster living under her bed. Every night, Tiger and Monster play games until it’s time for lights out. Of course, Monster would never try to scare Tiger—that’s not what best friends do. But Monster needs to scare someone…it’s a monster, after all. So while Tiger sleeps, Monster scares all of her nightmares away. Thanks to her friend, Tiger has nothing but good dreams. But waiting in the darkness is a nightmare so big and mean that Monster can’t fight it alone. Only teamwork and a lot of bravery can chase this nightmare away.

Tiger vs. Nightmare is a cute graphic novel about friendship. The artwork is cute, but I was not a huge fan. It looked a little unfinished, but I think that was more because I was looking at an electronic, early galley rather than the final copy. I fully expect that in the final version the artwork will be crisper. Tiger is friends with the monster under her bed, but of course everyone thinks the monster is her imagination. I love that the monster decided not to scare Tiger, but to scare away nightmares instead.However, eventually there is a nightmare too powerful for the monster to fight alone, and feels terrible when it slips by, but cannot admit what happened and becomes more determined to take care of Tiger. He dedication and guilt are things that most of us can relate to. The desire not to admit or failings, or ask for help when we need it is something adults struggle with just as much as kids. I like that Tiger is paying attention to Monster and is ready to help her friend. Friendship, support, and teamwork between the friends, along with the understanding that the nightmare is coming from Tiger's mind, are key lessons of the story, and wonderfully told. Facing your fears and dealing with nightmares like Tiger is a wonderful example to follow, and something even the most outwardly brave child can stand to hear.  I like that her parents do not try to talk away the monster, but support Tiger in her connection and imagination. The supportive family is nice to see in a world of kidlit that often has clueless or unhelpful adults. 

Tiger vs. Nightmare is  graphic novel for young readers that tells a wonderful story about friendship, facing your fears, and supporting others.  

Book Review: Dad: Daddy's Girls #1 by Nob

Dad: Daddy's Girls #1 by Nob is a graphic novel. Being a single dad is a full-time job, as Dad knows only too well! Especially with four headstrong daughters to whom obedience doesn't exactly come naturally. There is bookish Pandora, emotional Ondine, mischievous Roxanne and, the latest addition, baby Bella. Dad is an unemployed actor who has landed himself the role of a lifetime: looking after his family!

Dad: Daddy's Girls #1 is a well drawn and written graphic novel that tells the story of a single dad of four girls, all with different mothers. I like that the problems the dad and his girls face are real- boys, privacy, getting along. I also like that while they all tease and give each other grief it is obvious that not only does the dad love his girls and sacrifice everything for them, they love him just as much. The varied personalities and day in the life situations, with glimpses of the past, made for a sweet read. I like that their lives are not perfect, but they find a way to make it work, and despite the bickering all love each other and keep moving forward. I liked the art, and found that it matched the tone and added the right amount of emotion and humor on every page.

Early Book Review: The Brain: The Ultimate Thinking Machine (Science Comics) by Tory Woollcott, Alex Graudins

The Brain: The Ultimate Thinking Machine is another installment to the Science Comics series. It was written by Tory Woollcot, illustrated by Alex Graudins, and is currently scheduled for release on October 16 2018. Nour wants to sell the most cookies for her Woodland Adventure Troop. Her sister Fahama is helping her, not necessarily by choice. When they split up, Fahama ends up in a old mansion with a mad scientist and his sidekick who want to take her brain to study. In an attempt to stall them, she asks a lot of questions about the brain. Along with Fahama reader learn all about the brain: what it does, how it does things, what it is made of, the role of the various parts, and so on. Meanwhile her sister is busy selling cookies, and looking for her sister.

The Brain: The Ultimate Thinking Machine is both entertaining and education- as I fully expected from this series. I like the fun and touch of adventure in the set up story. Sisters selling cookies, one of which is a little controlling, and then the search for the missing sister. I liked that Fahama is smart enough to keep the scientist and his henchman talking and explaining the brain and nervous system. The brain is described in great detail, and I will admit that it might be too much in a single sitting for some. I had to reread a few bits to make sure I fully understood it, and there is just so much information that it could be overwhelming for some readers. That being said, the information is well presented, the framing story well told, and the artwork was wonderful. Readers interested in learning about the brain will get a lot out of the book, and even those not looking for this amount of information can enjoy the story and learn some of the information along the way. This series offers a wonderful balance of information and entertainment, and I have yet to be disappointed. 

The Brain: The Ultimate Thinking Machine is another Science Comic installment that combines entertainment with information. It is packed with information and vocabulary, and might be a little overwhelming for some readers, but if they take it in small doses and persevere in reading they will enjoy learning from this book quite a bit. 

Early Book Review: Last Pick by Jason Walz

Last Pick by Jason Walz is the first volume of Jason Walz's dystopian graphic novel trilogy. It is currently scheduled for release on October 9 2018. The kids last picked are humanity's last hope. Three years ago, aliens invaded Earth and abducted everyone they deemed useful. The only ones spared were those too young, too old, or too “disabled” to be of value. Living on Earth under the aliens’ harsh authoritarian rule, humanity’s rejects do their best to survive. Their captors never considered them a threat—until now. Twins Sam and Wyatt are ready to chuck their labels and start a revolution. It’s time for the kids last picked to step into the game.

Last Pick is a very well written and drawn graphic novel. Sam and Wyat are a team, the twins only have each other since the aliens took their parents. They are focused on survival, and the hope that Wyatt's skills will help them find their parents. Sam goes out on scavenging trips to find what they need, but she also helps others get food and whatnot along the way. They end up facing bigger challenges as more aliens appear and their actions make the aliens look weak.They need to stay free, find their parents, and help the others that remain with them find and keep hope. Tall order for two newly minted sixteen-year-olds, but they might have the skills, intelligence, and more that they need. I like that the relationship between the twins, and their natures, is shown. I like that while Wyatt is different, and his sister has struggled with that, she has his back and sees his good qualities as greater than her own 'normalcy'.  The aliens are also not all the same, or all powerful and evil, I liked the use of one that is more like use in mentality than different. I liked the action, and the introduction and building of the world and characters. I am engaged and still thinking about the world and characters, and eager to see what will happen next. Although, I am not thrilled with the level of cliffhanger.

Last Pick is a great start to a series. My biggest issue with the book is that it left me with too many questions and not enough answers. I wanted some kind of resolution, and felt like ?I was left we a bigger question than the one that started the story. 

Early Book Review: The Divided Earth (The Nameless City) by Faith Eric Hicks

The Divided Earth is the third (and final) book in The Nameless City series by Faith Eric Hicks. It is currently schedule for release on September 25 2018. The book begins where the second book in the trilogy, The Stone Heart, left off. Readers do need to read this series in order to understand and enjoy the story fully.

Kai and Rat might need to sacrifice everything for peace. The city is under new rule, and if they cannot stop the tragic events that are in motion the cycle of war, death, and violence will continue. The added challenge of treachery inside the palace and an army quickly approaching the outer walls raise the stakes and the likely-hood of everything ending badly. 

The Divided Earth is a solid graphic novel, and a good conclusion to a trilogy. As always, her art work is stunning and adds a great deal to the story and character development. I simply love the style and coloring. In the story itself, I liked the efforts that Kai, his parents, Rat, and many of the characters went through to do what they thought best for the greater good, and the city specifically. Like in real life, people's ideas of what is best, what is right, and what should happen is always varied and sometimes quite different. I like the development and tension built around what would happen with the city, and our major players, come the final conflict. It was very well done, but I felt like I could have gotten to know a few of the secondary characters a little more (like Kai's mother) but got more that I expected with the return of some younger characters from the earlier books. I enjoyed the adventure and he danger, I think the political and military posturing was very well build and explored.  I was fully engaged with the read, and kind of want an epilogue to see what might happen well after this story ended, what does the future hold in the long term for Kai and Rat, does peace last, and where do Kai's parents end up. The conclusion tied up all the necessary loose ends, but I was invested enough to still be curious. 

The Divided Earth is  a solid conclusion to the trilogy. although I will admit to wanting to see what might happen in the Nameless City in the years to come. I was satisfied, but still want more.

Early Book Review: Science Comics: Solar System: Our Place in Space by Rosemary Mosco, John Chad

Solar System: Our Place in Space, written by Rosemary Mosco and illustrated by John Chad, is another grand installment of the Science Comics series and is currently scheduled for release on September 18 2018. In this book readers start with a Big Bang and learn about space and the solar system in this volume of Science Comics, an action-packed nonfiction graphic novel series for middle-grade readers!

Solar System: Our Place in Space is another addition to the Science comic series. I still like the combination of amusing story and science information. The set up story of a friend trying to entertain a sick and home bound friend with a story that also teaches them about space is good. The information included is well paced and interesting.  However, I did not enjoy this one as much as I have some of the others. I liked the set up and the ideas. I just could not get as engaged with the space exploration story as much as I did the story in the Brain or Bats books. The art does a good job of capturing the story and adding details, it just is not a style that I enjoy as much as those utilized in the series previously. There is nothing wrong with it, this is just personal preference rather than anything related to quality. 

Solar System: Our Place in Space is part of a well done series, and I would recommend the series as a whole for school and public libraries. I think purchases for personal libraries should depended on the interests and favorite topics of the readers. 

Early Book Review: Check Please!: #Hockey by Ngozi Ukazu

Check Please!: #Hockey by Ngozi Ukazu is the first graphic novel in a two volume series for new and young adults, and older readers of course. It is currently scheduled for release on September 18 2018. 

Bitty may be a former junior figure skating champion, vlogger extraordinaire, and very talented pie maker, but being a freshman on the Samwell University hockey team is a whole new challenge. It’s nothing like co-ed club hockey back in Georgia! First of all? There’s checking. And then, there is there is Jack—our very attractive but moody captain. This volume is a collection of the first half of the webcomic series of the same name. It is a coming-of-age story about hockey, bros, and trying to find yourself during what could be the best four years of your life.

Check Please!: #Hockey is a graphic novel that tackles the fears of fitting in, especially when you are different, or do not conform to gender expectations. Bitty is not just gay, he also bakes like a dream, has a video blog, was a figure skater, and faints at the thought of getting checked on the ice rink. I worried that the character was going to be too stereotypical, but I was glad to get the story from his perspective, and was easily lost in his story. I felt like his journey toward being comfortable with himself, and sharing that with his team when he was ready. There were places I wanted more information, or a peek at someone else's mindset. However, the story was well done and captured my attention while leaving me wanting more. I thought the artwork was a great match to the story. I thought it did a good job of covering some of the good and bad of college life without getting too caught up in any one aspect. 

Check Please!: #Hockey is a fun and heart warming story, with a nice variety of characters and challenges that are tackled with light-hearted, hopeful, and realistic. My only complaint is that While left hopeful, I was left with a bit of a cliffhanger, wondering how things will work out. I will be checking out the next volume. 

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: Creepy Case Files of Margo Maloo: The Monster Mall by Drew Weing

Creepy Case Files of Margo Maloo: The Monster Mall by Drew Weing is a children's graphic novel currently scheduled for release on September 11 2018. It is the second book in a series, but I have not read the first. I feel like I caught on to the story pretty quickly, and think that while those that are reading in order will get more out of the series, newcomers will be able to enjoy the story as well.

Charles Thompson meets a lot of monsters in his line of work. While assisting Margo Maloo on her assignments, he’s had close encounters with trolls, ghosts, imps, and ogres. And lately, they’re all saying the same thing: living in Echo City is getting harder. As the human population of the city is grows, monsters are being forced to abandon their homes. Teenagers are creeping into their territory, smartphones in hand, eager to photograph paranormal activity. Some monsters are tired of hiding and ready to fight. How can Margo and Charles keep Echo City’s monster community a secret, when it’s teetering in the brink of war?

The Monster Mall is a monster story with a twist. The monsters' very existence is in danger as teenagers,  modern world of technology, and progress creeps into all the places they used to live and hide. Margo teams up with Thompson to inform kids about monsters and to save both people and monsters from a war that would impact everyone negatively. 

The Monster Mall is not quite all I hoped for. I liked the concept, kid trying to solve the monster and human issues and keep everyone safe in her own creepy and mysterious ways. Almost goofy, a little naive friend trying to do his part and still a little excited by the whole thing. While that was good, and the introductions to imps, vampires, and some of the other monsters hidden almost in plain sight, with impending crisis, is well done I was hoping for more. No part of this story really gets a conclusion, it is all just building towards something bigger. While I get that this is part of a series, there should still be some small resolutions to make the reader feel like the issue has a complete story, even with larger story arches still looming. I really liked what was here- but I want more rather than just teasers about what will come in later issues.