Early Book Review: Things in the Basement by Ben Hatke

Things in the Basement by Ben Hatke is a children's graphic novel currently scheduled for release on August 29 2023. It was supposed to just be a normal basement—some storage boxes, dust, you know, the usual basement stuff. But when Milo is sent by his mother to fetch a sock from the basement of the historic home they've moved into, Milo finds a door in the back that he's never seen before. Turns out that the basement of his house is enormous. In fact, there is a whole world down there. As Milo travels ever deeper into the Basement World, he meets the many Things that live in the shadows and gloom...and he learns that to face his fears he must approach even the strangest creatures with kindness.

Things in the Basement is a beautifully drawn graphic novel and imaginative story that kept me guessing what twist might happen next. I loved the idea of Milo exploring his new home, and a mission from his mom made it even more engaging. It took me awhile to get into the swing of the amount of imagination explored here- because the adventure starts of with things that totally could be real. I loved how things slowly got stranger and more intense. Milo's journey covers the idea of courage and bravery, but also friendship and kindness. Hatke and his art style just added extra layers of goodness to this book and I think it will become another favorite for fans of the author. 

Things in the Basement is a wonderful graphic novel that will spark the imagination of many, and make some readers remember days when we more easily explored like Milo. 

Early Book Review: The Bawk-ness Monster by Natalie Riess; Sara Goetter

The Bawk-ness Monster by Natalie Riess and Sara Goetter is a children's graphic novel currently scheduled for release on June 27 2023. Penny swears that when she was a little girl, a creature called the Bawk-ness Monster (half sea serpent, half chicken) saved her from drowning. Now, years later, she’s about to move away to a new city, and before she goes, she needs the help of her best friends, Luc and K, for a vitally important mission: seeing “Bessie” one more time. But in their quest to find Bessie and give Penny the send-off she deserves, the kids stumble into a whole new problem—cryptids are being kidnapped by an evil collector, and only Penny, Luc, and K can save them!

The Bawk-ness Monster was a very fun read. I liked that it worked on several levels. It a great friend adventure with unexpected creatures and twists that kept everything moving quickly. But there was also room for conversation about being different, bullying, guilt, big changes, and friendship. I thought the story flowed very well, considering the amount of great detail that was layered in. I got a kick out of the three very different friends, and could completely understand the mother's protectiveness after Penny's history. They way she want a bit over the top just added to the feel of the story. The art style and color work matched the tone and action of the book and everything came together nicely. I am hoping to see more adventures from this cast of characters.

The Bawk-ness Monster is a fun and engaging graphic novel for young (and some of us older) readers. 

Early Book Review: The Greatest in the World! by Ben Clanton

The Greatest in the World! by Ben Clanton is the first installment of a new and hilariously silly graphic novel chapter book series that is currently scheduled for release on November 8 2022. Rot is a mutant potato who wakes up feeling great, maybe even…the greatest in the world! But that only makes Rot’s brother Snot the grumpiest in the world. The only solution? An epic contest to prove who is the greatest once and for all, judged by the only impartial party they can find—their small fry little sister Tot. But as the stakes get higher through the muddy potato sack race, sacred hot potato roll, and a hilarious laughing contest, their rivalry spirals out of control. Suddenly Rot’s not feeling so spudtacular anymore. Will this tater trio ever be able to determine who the greatest in the world really is?

The Greatest in the World! is a well drawn and written graphic novel for some of the youngest readers, and that will hold appeal to older readers and their adults as well. I thought the relationship between the three wacky potatoes was fairly accurate based on my own childhood (not as a potato) and from what I see in my own kids (also not root vegetables). I thought the illustrations were charming, and will capture the attention and interest of readers. I think the lesson woven in the story about sibling connections and behavior is subtle enough that kids will relate to it, and just maybe see themselves in some of the less stellar moments of behavior in the book and make some adjustments, or at least be more aware of how it makes the other person feel. I also loved the random potato facts and drawing tutorial included at the end of the book. This is an all around fun book for young readers. 

The Greatest in the World! is a fun and engaging graphic novel that I think many young readers will enjoy. 

Early Book Review: Frizzy by Claribel A. Ortega, Rose Bousamra

Frizzy is a middle grade graphic novel by Claribel A. Ortega and Rose Bousamra that is currently scheduled for release on October 18 2022.  Marlene loves three things: books, her cool Tía Ruby and hanging out with her best friend Camila. But according to her mother, Paola, the only thing she needs to focus on is school and "growing up." That means straightening her hair every weekend so she could have "presentable", "good hair". But Marlene hates being in the salon and doesn't understand why her curls are not considered pretty by those around her. With a few hiccups, a dash of embarrassment, and the much-needed help of Camila and Tia Ruby—she slowly starts a journey to learn to appreciate and proudly wear her curly hair.

Frizzy is a wonderful graphic novel that had me fighting back tears more than once. While I have never been in Marlene's position regarding something so much a part of me as my hair, I have felt othered and looked down on by those that should have been my safe place. I could understand how she felt when her family made comments about being more lady like and trying harder to fit in. I think just about everyone can think of a time, particularly in our childhood and teen years, when we felt like the world was against us and everything is unfair, and every reader is likely to be able to relate to the story a bit.  I was glad to learn a bit more about how hard it is to take proper care of curly hair, and how it feels to have something that is a part of you have so many connotations and perceptions by just about everyone. I knew about fights about school and work dress codes in regards to hair styles, and I understood on some level about some of the thoughts and feelings surrounding hair, but I was glad to get such a better understanding of it.  I think that the story and art are paired perfectly and tell a highly engaging story. I hope some readers see themselves in this story and have the bravery and support to do what they feel best about in regards to their own self, the willingness to try new things, and the ability to find and have the courage talk to a trusted adult and friend about all the things going on in their heads and hearts. 

Frizzy is a great graphic novel about loving yourself, and being brave enough to make the changes you want. 

Early Book Review: Stick and Stone Explore and More by Beth Ferry

Stick and Stone Explore and More by Beth Ferry is currently scheduled for release on June 7 2022. Two stories in one graphic novel perfect for beginning readers, based on the Stick and Stone series by Beth Ferry and Tom Lichtenheld. Go on a scavenger hunt, set out on a trip for ice cream, and even visit the beach with these lovable best buddies. Join Stick and Stone as they get swept up in scavenger hunt. Accompany them to a campfire calamity. And laugh along with them in this new graphic novel series starring two best buddies and a whole cast of new characters. Each story has a fun activity to make you feel part of the action.

Stick and Stone Explore and More is another set of cute stories of friendship starring fan favorite buddies. In the first story they join a young Nature Girl on a quest to find items that start with each letter in the alphabet.  On the second story Stone wishes for an adventure, but really wants some ice cream, and when he gets his wish things get dangerous. I like that Stone and Stick are different from each other, but that those differences turn out to be what makes them such a great team. I love the quality of the illustrations, and think that the detail in them will capture the attention of many readers. I found the activity tie ins at the end of each story will help further engage readers and have them looking to explore further. The adventures are fun and sweet, and I think many young readers will enjoy reading about these friends.

Early Book Review: Tidesong by Wendy Xu

Tidesong by Wendy Xu is a graphic novel currently scheduled for release on November 16 2021. Sophie is a young witch whose mother and grandmother pressure her to attend the Royal Magic Academy—the best magic school in the realm—even though her magic is shaky at best. To train for her entrance exams, Sophie is sent to relatives she’s never met. Cousin Sage and Great-Aunt Lan seem more interested in giving Sophie chores than in teaching her magic. Frustrated, Sophie attempts magic on her own, but the spell goes wrong, and she accidentally entangles her magic with the magic of a young water dragon named Lir. Lir is trapped on land and can’t remember where he came from. Even so, he’s everything Sophie isn’t—beloved by Sophie’s family and skilled at magic. With his help, Sophie might just ace her entrance exams, but that means standing in the way of Lir’s attempts to regain his memories. Sophie knows what she’s doing is wrong, but without Lir’s help, can she prove herself?

Tidesong gave me exactly what the blurbs recommending it to fans of Studio Ghibli and my knowledge of the author had me hoping for. A coming of age story full  of magic and a young girl figuring out who she is and what is really important. The characters are dynamic and well crafted, even those we do not see for long. The artwork is a perfect match for the characters and story, with some definite influence from anime. It just really worked and I could easily picture this as an animated movie. Sophie's personal struggles in loving herself and dealing with all the challenges that come with the age are on point and I think many readers will relate to her journey. I loved that other characters got to have growth as well, rather than just Sophie, and it shows that no matter how old or set in our ways we may become there is always room for more understanding and personal growth. This is another wonderful book from the author, and I cannot wait to see what she does in the future.  

Tidesong is a lovely graphic novel for middle grade and older readers. Magic, coming of age, and brilliant artwork will make this a favorite for many readers. 

Early Book Review: Lupina Book One: Wax by Li Buszka, James Wright

Lupina Book One: Wax  with cover and interior art by Li Buszka and written by James Wright, is a graphic novel currently scheduled for release on September 14 2021. In the coastal town of Kote, recently brought under the yoke of the Addalian Empire, four-year-old Lupa spends her days getting bullied by her older sister and hiding behind her mother's skirts. But when tragedy strikes, Lupa finds herself alone in a new world, alone until she's found by the she-wolf, Coras, and sets off on a journey of discovery and revenge.

Lupina Book One: Wax is a good graphic novel. I loved the art style, the details and colors used were my favorite part of the book as a whole. I simply enjoyed the style and could see how much effort and talent was involved in the work. I liked Lupa and the general premise of the book. I often had questions about details that were mentioned once or twice in passing but never returned to or further explained. Since it is the first book in the series, I think it fell into the common trap of book one being the set up for stories to come, rather than a story in its own right. There was adventure and growth for Lupa, but it felt like just as things were about to ramp up and things will get really interesting the book was over. This happens all the time, and some people find that they need to read the next volume because of it. Sadly, there was not enough of a hook here to have me looking to continue the series.

Lupina Book One: Wax is a good series starter that will appeal to many. 

Early Book Review: Death & Sparkles by Rob Justus

Death & Sparkles by Rob Justus is a middle grade novel currently scheduled for release on September 7 2021. Being Death isn’t all it’s cracked up to be. Sure, you’re all-powerful, but collecting souls involves a ton of paperwork, and it’s impossible to have friends when everything you touch instantly dies. Being Sparkles the Last Unicorn isn’t as fun as you’d imagine, either. Maybe it seems like the whole world wants to be your bestie, but really people just want you to pose with them for selfies, or use you to help them sell stuff. Everything changes when Death and Sparkles meet, and realize they might just be one another’s first chance at a real friend. But before they can even enjoy the bromance, the whole world starts freaking out about this unlikely pair. Will fame or BFFdom prevail? 

Death & Sparkles is well matched in text, story, and artwork. I liked the way it shows the personalities and perspectives of Death, Sparkles, and the lizard brothers. Their adventures were sometimes very sad, showing how power or fame is not all it is cracked up to be, and sometimes very funny and unexpected. I liked that it was divided into clear chapters, offering the different perspectives and aspects of the larger story. I liked the commentary on greed and fame just as much as the bonding and laughs as Sparkles and Death got to know each other. I really enjoyed this read and look forward to more from the author.

Death & Sparkles is a fun and engaging read that will appeal to a wide range of readers.

Book Review: ParaNorthern and the Chaos Bunny A-hop-calypse by Stephanie Cooke, Mari Costa

ParaNorthern and the Chaos Bunny A-hop-calypse is a middle grade graphic novel written by Stephanie Cooke  and illustrated by Mari Costa. It’s fall break in the supernatural town of North Haven, and young witch Abby’s plans include pitching in at her mom’s magical coffee shop, practicing her potion making, and playing board games with her best friends—a pumpkinhead, a wolf-girl, and a ghost. But when Abby finds her younger sister being picked on by some speed demons, she lets out a burst of magic so strong, it opens a portal to a realm of chaos bunnies. And while these bunnies may look cute, they’re about to bring the a-hop-ocalypse (and get Abby in a cauldronful of trouble) unless she figures out a way to reverse the powerful magic she unwittingly released. What’s a witch to do?

ParaNorthern and the Chaos Bunny A-hop-calypse is a wonderful graphic novel about figuring out what is most important in your life ad using that as your strength. I thought the town and magical world building was nicely done, giving enough to have the story make sense but not dumping too much extra information. I liked the diversity, magical and otherwise, and think it felt like part of the story rather than something on a checklist which I have seen too much of lately. I thought the story and character development was well written and engaging. The art was well done- and I liked the color, depicted emotion and movement, and bold design. I do with the faces had had a bit more detail, in some cases it was very well defined but in others less so. Of course, this could be because I read a galley rather than a final version. Regardless I really enjoyed the book and think many readers from many age groups will as well. 

ParaNorthern and the Chaos Bunny A-hop-calypse is a charming coming of age graphic novel full of magic and friendship.

Early Book Review: Jonna and the Unpossible Monsters Vol. 1 by Chris Samnee; Laura Samnee

Jonna and the Unpossible Monsters Vol. 1 by Chris Samnee; Laura Samnee is a graphic novel currently scheduled for release on August 17 2021. Rainbow has been looking for her younger sister, Jonna, for over a year--since the monsters appeared and the world began to dry up. Going from settlement to settlement, Rainbow asks every survivor she meets: Have you seen my sister?Then, one day, Jonna's spotted out in the wild: filthy, but strong. Strong enough to knock back a towering monster with one punch. All this time, she's been surviving. On her own. Without Rainbow. Without anyone. But there are more dangers in the world than monsters, and when the two sisters reunite, they'll discover the secrets of this new and terrifying world firsthand.

Jonna and the Unpossible Monsters is an enjoyable read. I really liked the artwork and think the style was perfectly suited for the story. I liked the story of Rainbow looking for her sister and surviving. The story was well told, and there was great interest on every page. There were a number of little bits of backstory and hints of possible things to come throughout the book, like finding the still missing family members and more information on Jonna. I did wish some of it was more fleshed out in this first volume, I think more could have been revealed without lessening the reader's need to search out the second volume for more. It felt a bit like i was just getting invested in the story, and wanting more, when the volume ended. However, I love the fact that coloring pages and a maze were included at the end- even though I can see this being an issue in library copies. 

As a whole I think Jonna and the Unpossible Monsters is a fun read and many readers will enjoy it. 

Book Review: Brindille by Frederic Brremaud, Federico Bertolucci

Brindille is a graphic novel written by Frederic Brremaud and illustrated by Federico Bertolucci. A frail young girl flees a roaring forest fire in the middle of the night desperately taking refuge in a cave where she quickly loses consciousness. She wakes up in a strange, tiny village populated by fairy-like creatures. Her hosts seem intrigued by the sparkles of light that seem to surround her. The village chieftain explains that one of their hunters found her passed out in the forest and brought her back here for treatment. He asks who she is, but she remembers nothing except for a wall and flames. The chief is baffled by her tale as there has not been any fire in the forest lately, and yet the young woman does indeed show signs of burns. Somewhat recovered and dressed in woodland clothes made by the villagers, the young lady asks to meet the hunter who found her in the forest. She asks her savior to take her to where he found her, hoping that seeing the place will restore her memory. But Meliss refuses -- the rules of the village say that only hunters can enter the forest, and all of the sparkles surrounding the girl would catch the eyes of predators living in these woods. What follows is a tale of discovery, magic, tragedy, and adventure, as the girl discovers powers that may or may not be borne of an ancient evil. She befriends a cunning, talking wolf along the way, and together the two set out on a journey.

Brindille is a graphic novel that is suitable for middle grade and older readers, including adults of course. I liked the detail, movement, and expression in the art work. I thought it showed great skill and talent. I thought some of the color choices could have been different, to help clarify some of the differences of characters and meanings in the story- but it is very possible that I messed some significance there. There were some really good moments where I thought I had it all figured out and a grasp of what exactly was happening, but more often than not I was a little lost. I liked the book, and saw great skill in both the story and the art, but wonder if there is a bit of folklore I do not know or something of the story that I either missed or was lost in translation, because even when the story was over I was still confused about some of what happened. 

Early Book Review: Scaredy Squirrel in a Nutshell by Melanie Watt

Scaredy Squirrel in a Nutshell by Melanie Watt takes a beloved picturebook character (one of my favorites to be honest) and lets him branch (ha!) into a new graphic novel series. It is currently scheduled for release on June 15 2021.

Scaredy is happy to stay in his nut tree. Why would he ever leave? The outside is filled with dangers. Like aliens! And dust! And a certain fluffy bunny who likes to pop up! But things don't always go as planned, even for a super-prepared squirrel. When he has to venture out of his tree and onto the ground, Scaredy panics and plays dead but maybe the fluffy bunny's not so scary after all? In a nutshell, Scaredy might just make a new friend, if he is brave enough.

Fans of Scaredy Squirrel will be gratified to see this collection of stories featuring or risk adverse friend, and newcomers will get a thorough introduction to the joy of his antics. Scaredy Squirrel in a Nutshell is not really anything new or surprising for those of us that loved the picturebooks- Scaredy is still scared of just about everything and makes some interesting choices to keep everything clean and safe. However, like with most long time favorites, a new twist is not necessarily what readers are looking for. The book looks just like I expect, with the same charming illustrations and and page layouts that I have always loved. The story is fun, sweet, and thoughtful- again just what I have come to expect from the author. I think that new and returning readers in the young and early reader groups will greatly enjoy the book, and it might be helpful for them in facing the worries people of all ages are having about going outside and facing the world again as things start to reopen.

Early Book Review: Ham Helsing #1: Vampire Hunter by Rich Moyer

Ham Helsing: Vampire Hunter is the first volume of a new graphic novel series by Rich Moyer. It is currently scheduled for release on June 1 2021. Ham Helsing is the descendant of a long line of adventurers and monster hunters--who don't often live to rest on their laurels. Ham has always been the odd pig out, preferring to paint or write poetry instead of inventing dangerous (dumb) new ways to catch dangerous creatures. His brother Chad was the daredevil carrying on the family legacy of leaping before looking, but after his death, it's down to Ham. Reluctantly, he sets out on his first assignment, to hunt a vampire. But Ham soon learns that people aren't always what they seem and that you need a good team around you to help save your bacon!

Ham Helsing is a well drawn and written graphic novel for young readers. I loved the humor and fun in the story,as well as the lessons woven in about being different and judging by appearance. At first I was not sure I was going to like where the story was going- but once I was introduced to Ham Helsing, the vampire, the chicken, and especially the tree pig I was eager for more. I really enjoy the twists of the story and thought it was well paced. I can think of many readers that will greatly enjoy this book and will be looking for more, myself included.

Book Review: Secrets of Camp Whatever, Vol. 1, by Chris Grine

Secrets of Camp Whatever, Vol. 1, by Chris Grine is a middle grade graphic novel. Eleven year-old Willow doesn't want to go to her dad's weird old summer camp any more than she wants her family to move to the weird old town where that camp is located. But her family—and fate itself—seem to have plans of their own. Soon Willow finds herself neck-deep in a confounding mystery involving stolen snacks, suspected vampires, and missing campers, all shrouded in the sinister fog that hides a generation of secrets at Camp ... Whatever it's called. 

Secrets of Camp Whatever is a story that I think readers from a wide range of ages will enjoy. The art is very well done, and captures the mood of the characters, the setting, and the underlying mysteries very well. I liked the personalities of the kids, and I found their reluctance and curiosity to be very realistic in spite of the things they discover. The way they deal with each other, the adults around them, and the mysteries of the island only made me interested to learn more.Willow's independence, and the way some people treated her, was key in her personality but not the story development.  I really enjoyed the read, and am looking forward to this series continuing. 

Secrets of Camp Whatever is a fun and engaging graphic novel that left me eager to see what volume two might have in store. 

Early Book Review: Girl Haven by Lilah Sturges, Meaghan Carter

Girl Haven, written by Lilah Sturges and illustrated by Meaghan Carter, is a graphic novel currently scheduled for release on February 9 2021. Three years ago, Ash’s mom left home and never returned, leaving behind a husband and child and a shed full of mystical curiosities related to the all-girl fantasy world she’d created as a child—Koretris. One day Ash invites a new group of friends from Pride Club over, and they try one of the spells to enter Koretris. To their amazement, they’re all transported to a magical realm filled with human-sized talking animals who are fiercely protective of their world and are ready to fight to protect it. But if Koretris is real, why is Ash there? Everyone has always called Ash a boy—shouldn’t the spell have kept Ash out? And what does it mean if it let Ash in?

Girl Haven is a middle grade fantasy that holds appeal for older readers as well. Ash is trying to figure life out, find a friend group, and figure out how to keep moving forward after their mother disappeared. Making inroads with a new group is hard enough, but when you are still reeling with the loss of your mother and not quite comfortable in your own skin it is even harder. Add in a trip to a magical world with the journey of finding your own path and emotions, fear, and uncertainty can take over. I really liked the character and world building. I thin Ash and the Pride Group and are well built characters with room to grow both individually and together. I loved the world building of Koretis, and the story line surrounding is creation and troubles. I hope to see this continue on in a fun, lengthy series and plan on following it. The art style fits with the story, but I will admit is not my personal favorite style. However, it is a style found in many very popular graphic novels and cartoons, and I think it will appeal greatly to the target audience. There was great skill in the artwork, motion, emotion, and detail was well done. It is much more a matter of personal preference than anything else.

Girl Haven is a solid graphic novel for middle grade, and older, audiences that is entertain and encourages readers to find their own truth and their own story.

Book Review: Sarah's Dream (Grémillet Sisters) Script by Giovanni Di Gregorio & Art by Alessandro Barbucci

 Sarah's Dream is the first book in the Grémillet Sisters graphic novel series, the script is by Giovanni Di Gregorio and art by Alessandro Barbucci. Being sisters is never easy. But when you’re as different as Sarah, Cassiopeia, and Lucille, it’s even harder! The first is haunted by recurring dreams, the second lives with her head in the clouds, and the last spends most of her time with her cat. Then one day they discover a mysterious photo of their mother pregnant. Where was it taken, and who is the baby? And most importantly, why was this photo hidden away in the depths of the attic? To find out, they’ll have to venture into the tangled forest of the Grémillet family secrets!

Sarah's Dream is a story about family, siblings in particular. I liked the mysterious elements of the dreams of jellyfish. I think the pages really had an ethereal feel and made the story otherworldly.  The color work and art style greatly appealed to me, and I enjoyed the art as much as the story. The emotion and mood of each page was well captured, with details that I did not always catch at first glance. The dynamic between the sisters was very real to me, as siblings often have that struggle of love and annoyance going at all times. I will say that the story was not quite what I was expecting. I was really expecting more magic, mythical, or paranormal twist to rise up in the story. The story is well written and drawn, it was just not the story that I expected. That's not always a bad thing, especially when it is well done, as it is here. I was just really in the mood for magical mayhem, and did not get that. 

Sarah's Dream is a beautiful graphic novel, both emotionally and artistically.

Early Book Review: Julia's House Moves On by Ben Hatke

Julia's House Moves On by Ben Hatke is a follow up to Julia’s House for Lost Creatures, and is currently scheduled for release on September 29 2020. Julia's house is restless. Julia and her family of lost creatures are ready to move on. But where will they go? And how will they get there? Don’t worry—Julia has a plan for that! Julia always has a plan. But when Julia's plans all fail what's left for her?

Julia's House Moves On is another charming graphic novel from Hatke. Some might consider this series picturebooks, others might consider them graphic novels. It does not matter what labels you want to slap on them, they are wonderful. Julia has a plan for everything. She wants to help and care for all creatures that need her and her house, and struggles when things do not fit into any plan and when plans go awry. Her angst is palpable, and understandable, to just about every reader. And the artwork, Hatke does not disappoint. I'll admit it- I have never seen a art from Hatke that I have not loved, so I might be a wee bit biased. However, I think all early graphic novel readers and picturebook lovers will find something worth a second and third read here.

Early Book Review: Black Heroes of the Wild West: Featuring Stagecoach Mary, Bass Reeves, and Bob Lemmons by James Otis Smith

Black Heroes of the Wild West: Featuring Stagecoach Mary, Bass Reeves, and Bob Lemmons by James Otis Smith is a nonfiction graphic novel currently scheduled for release on September 15 2020. This book celebrates the extraordinary true tales of three black heroes who took control of their destinies and stood up for their communities in the Old West. Born into slavery in Tennessee, Mary Fields became famous as “Stagecoach Mary,” a cigar-chomping, card playing coach driver who never missed a delivery. Bass Reeves, the first black Deputy US Marshal west of the Mississippi, was one of the wiliest lawmen in the territories, bringing thousands of outlaws to justice with his smarts. Bob Lemmons lived to be 99 years old and was so good with horses that the wild mustangs on the plains of Texas took him for one of their own.

Black Heroes of the Wild West is a great start, or continuation, of learning the diverse history of he United States. Much of the history that includes people of color has been ignored or twisted, leaving us with an incomplete and sometimes very incorrect vision of what our past really looked like. I had read bits and pieces of the history included in this book before, but I found the information and artwork to be very well done and engaging for readers of all ages. It was inspiring to read about the odds these three people faced, and how they persevered and exceeded the expectations of those around them, particularly those that judged them based on race, gender, or both. I also liked the time line and further information about the history of cowboys and how people from a variety of heritages and cultures made a huge difference, and have been left out of much of the history we get taught in school and the most readily available texts. 

Black Heroes of the Wild West is a graphic novel that I highly recommend for public, school, and classroom libraries. It is very well done, and offers a look at real history that often gets ignored. I will be looking for more books like this for myself and my children. 

Book Review: Be Wary of the Silent Woods (The Weirn Books) by Svetlana Chmakova

Be Wary of the Silent Woods is the first volume in The Weirn Books series of graphic novels by Svetlana Chmakova. In the Night Realm, shifters, vampires, weirns, and other night things passing for human may prowl the streets, but school is still in session-and you still have to do your homework!

Be Wary of the Silent Woods is a middle grade graphic novel that has a nice blend of 'normal' middle school angst with magic and wonder. Ailis is a weirn (witch born with a guardian spirit, going to Night School with other paranormal children dealing with friendships, crushes, families, and all of the typical concerns of the age group. Her family and group of friends were a nice mix of personalities- and the background and important aspects of them were delivered at a near perfect pace. I liked Ailis and her cousins together, and how the small circle of friends were a team and balanced each other nicely, even if they would not want to admit it. The magic and mystery components were very nicely done, and I liked the creativity of the story along side the elements that most every reader can relate to on some level. I also really enjoyed the art style, and the amount of movement and detail that the art added to every page. I look forward to seeing more of this series, and will be taking a closer look at Chmakova's other work, which looks very interesting as well. 

Be Wary of the Silent Woods is a fun start to a new series. I think the series will capture the imagination of middle grade and middle school readers. 

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.