Early Book Review: The Graveyard Gift by Fern Forgettable

The Graveyard Gift by Fern Forgettable the the first book in a children's fantasy series. It is currently scheduled for release on October 8 2024. A girl who knows how you die. Her banshee roommate who knows when it happens. And wishes that sometimes, maybe, come true. Rosemary Thorpe has always been a bit different. She has the uncanny and unfortunate ability to foresee people’s deaths, which tends to land her in hot water. Well, not actual hot water—where it lands her is a place between worlds called Fern’s School for Wayward Fae, where Rosemary learns that her powers come from being part fae. At Fern's School, Rosemary meets others who are part fae—including Trym, her banshee roommate whose screams can kill, and Essie, a djinn who grants wishes. But just as Rosemary settles in, a student vanishes in thin air. And it’s up to all the kids to use their curious gifts to find their missing friend.

The Graveyard Gift is a great start to a new series. I liked the character building for Rosemary and the group of students and teachers she meets once at the school. I thought her character was very well written and I think most readers will be able to relate, at least a little, with feeling other or like they are just a little different. I thought the mystery aspect about what is going on at the school and the missing student is well handled., There are a number of significant twists and turns that only serve to make the reader more invested in the eventual outcome. My only complaint is one that I often have with series, that the best twist happens at the very end- just when I felt like I had a handle on what might be going on. I look forward to following this series to see where it goes from here. 

Book Review: Miss Miyazen Would Love to Get Closer to You (Volume 1) by Akitaka

Miss Miyazen Would Love to Get Closer to You (Volume 1) by Akitaka is a manga style graphic novel. Two high school classmates, Sakura Miyazen and Sota Matsubayashi, are polar opposites: Miyazen is a prim and proper young lady, while Matsubayashi is a brusque former troublemaker. They’re secretly dying to talk to each other, but their backgrounds are so different, they can’t seem to strike up a conversation! And why does a simple greeting make the both of them turn red?!

Miss Miyazen Would Love to Get Closer to You is a sweet opposites attract story. I loved that we get the points of view from both our main characters- and they are both so earnest and self doubting. I felt like the inner dialogue was very realistic, especially for the high school age group. Doesn't everyone overthink how the people they want to get closer to take the things they say and do and then get so lost in those thoughts that they miss other things going on arounds them? No, just me?  I thought this was a cute story- and I look forward to following the story as it continues. 

Book Review: I Can't Say No to the Lonely Girl, Volume 1, by Kashikaze

I Can't Say No to the Lonely Girl (Volume 1) by Kashikaze is a manga style graphic novel. Quintessential good girl Sakurai finds herself trapped in the middle of a bribery scheme. Her teacher offers to write a recommendation letter in exchange for luring a truant student into attendance. Sakurai pins down the reclusive transfer student Honda, but there are strings attached. Honda demands that Sakurai grant one wish every day. The first wish is a kiss—and Sakurai finds herself feeling very eager to please.

I Can't Say No to the Lonely Girl is a graphic novel about a budding friendship that did not have the most natural beginning- blackmail. It is nice to see the two girls get to know each other, with the possibility of more than friendship clearly an option. It is well drawn and engaging. My only issue was that I think I might have read this before as a webcomic or something since it all seemed very familiar- and not just because it leans heavily on the tropes of the subgenre. It was cute, fun, and is a great start to a series about figuring out who you are and how you feel about those around you.

Book Review: The Improbable Tales of Baskerville Hall by Ali Standish

The Improbable Tales of Baskerville Hall is the first book in a middle grade series by Ali Standish. What if young Arthur Conan Doyle really went to a secret school for extraordinarily gifted children called Baskerville Hall? When a mysterious man with a pipe notices young Arthur’s incredible deductive skills, Arthur’s offered a spot at the esteemed Baskerville Hall and a chance to lift his family out of poverty. There Arthur makes quick friends with Irene Eagle, a girl who boldly strides into any adventure and Jimmie Moriarty, a boy whose brilliance rivals Arthur’s own. But he makes enemies, too, who want Arthur expelled, or worse. Soon Arthur and his friends (and enemies!) are invited into a powerful secret society called the Clover. In order to be accepted into the illustrious social club, they must pass three tests, but along the way, Arthur uncovers a mystery that will lead to grand adventure and even greater danger. Arthur will need all the help he can get to solve the puzzle and keep a shocking truth from falling into the wrong hands. Meanwhile, he will finally meet the man who becomes his greatest mentor: Professor Sherlock Holmes. 

The Improbable Tales of Baskerville Hall is an engaging start to a new series. There have been make takes on young detectives over the years, but I am excited to see where this one goes. I thought the blending of historical truths, universal feelings of looking for your place, and mystery about just what might be going on at Baskerville hall blend together seamlessly and make this a fun read. I was concerned for Arthur at many points, and I love the little group that he finds. I also enjoyed the use of names and tidbits of Sherlock lore that are woven into the story, that just might lead younger readers to discover the references for in Doyle's works. I think this is a great read for those that love a good mystery, and those that can still get caught up in the doubts and fears many of us face when trying to find our path and our people. 

Book Review: A Misanthrope Teaches a Class for Demi-Humans, Vol. 1 Story by Kurusu Natsume, Illustration by Sai Izumi

A Misanthrope Teaches a Class for Demi-Humans, Vol. 1 Story by Kurusu Natsume, Illustration by Sai Izumi. Judging by the title and cover I thought this was a graphic novel, fair warning that while there are scattered illustrations, it is not.

I'm Rei Hitoma, a self-professed misanthrope thanks to some past trauma. Just when I thought my new teaching job in the mountains would provide a chill, rejuvenating environment, it turns out that this school is actually for demi-humans who want to become full-fledged human beings! There’s a mermaid, a werewolf, a rabbit, and a bird...all of whom are now my charges. It’s my duty to teach them about humankind—and maybe in the process, I’ll learn a few things myself. This isn't an alternate world or a case of reincarnation. It’s just the story of a teacher at a somewhat peculiar school, and his students who are striving to become human.

A Misanthrope Teaches a Class for Demi-Humans is an interesting read, and deeper than I was looking for or expecting from the title. I was expecting a bit of a fun fish out of water story. There certainly was some of that, but there was also a great deal of insight into how people think and think they are perceived by others. Not only does Hitoma learn about the demi humans that are his students, he grows and matures along the way as well. I think readers get a good understanding of all the major characters and still get surprised a few times along the way. I honestly picked this book up expecting a light, fun read to take a break between some denser reads- and while I did not get what I was looking for I still really enjoyed the ride. 

Early Book Review: School for Extraterrestrial Girls #2 Girls In Flight by Jeremy Whitley, Jamie Noguchi

School for Extraterrestrial Girls, Volume 2, Girls In Flight, written by Jeremy Whitley and illustrated by Jamie Noguchi, is a graphic novel currently scheduled for release on November 28 2023. The extraterrestrial girls are back! With their former school compromised, exposing Tara, Misako, Summer, and Kat, to possible danger from unknown alien forces, they all must relocate to a new hidden school--The School for Extraterrestrial Boys! Located on a hidden island in the arctic north, the new campus has a mysteriously warm summer climate, a beautiful lake, and dozens of sinister mysteries! The girls are staying in what appears to be summer cabins on the lake while going to school in the mysterious castle where the boys stay. This is all under the watchful eye of the boys' headmaster, Headmaster Stokes—an arrogant man with an unknown agenda and an obsession with Tara's people. They may still be in school, but this will be a semester full of blossoming romances, learning to love themselves, and trying to survive the mysteries of both this terrifying island and boys! Romance, magic, and near-death experiences are all part of a regular school day at the School for Extraterrestrial Girls.

Girls In Flight starts with a recap, which honestly I needed. I remembered enjoying the first volume of the story, but the details I was a bit hazy on. I was glad for the little catch up, which I think most readers will agree on. I was glad to read this next chapter of Tara and her circle's adventures and thought it was well planned out and executed. I thought the artwork was well matched to the story, and conveyed a great deal of emotion and action to make the story come alive. There were multiple story lines woven through each other, and it was neat to see threads that I had put to the back of my mind pop up and play an important roll in the story. My only complaint is one I often have with serials like this, and that is I was just feeling like I was deeply invested in the story and had a grasp on all the moving pieces when the volume ended. I am eager to get volume three in my hands. 

Book Review: The Library of Shadows by Rachel Moore

The Library of Shadows by Rachel Moore is a young adult paranormal mystery. Radcliffe Prep is the third most haunted school in the country. A student disappearance isn’t uncommon and no one dares stay in the library after dark. And Este Logano enrolls with the hopes of finding her dead father. Not literally, of course. She doesn’t believe in ghosts. Going to her dad’s school just seems like her best hope at figuring out who he was. But then Este meets Mateo, who is maybe—probably—definitely—a real ghost. And an annoying one at that. When Mateo frames Este for the theft of a rare book from the library’s secret spire and then vanishes, Este will have to track him down or risk being expelled and leaving Radcliffe early just like her father did. Except following her father’s footsteps might be more dangerous than Este ever anticipated. As she investigates the library with its secret passageways, hidden tunnels, and haunted halls, she learns that the student disappearances aren’t just myth. And if she isn’t careful, she’ll be next.

The Library of Shadows is an interesting read. I liked getting to know Este, and thought her thoughts and behaviors were realistic, and I could relate to some of her efforts to stay unconnected to those around her. Her struggles to do everything herself, and do the best she can were completely on point for me. Mateo, the mystery of the book, and her father's connect to it all were revealed in a slow but steady pace, and I think that was done very well. I will admit that I saw certain reveals and aspects of the story coming, but the ride was worth it. I do have to admit that at some point I started to drift from the story, but that could completely be blamed on a busy life and could very well have nothing to do with the read. However, I felt like there was just a little bit of a lull in the story, but it picked back up for the ending. 

The Library of Shadows is an engaging read with a nice balance of mystery, ghosts, and romance.

Early Book Review: unOrdinary (Volume 1) by uru-chan

unOrdinary (Volume 1) by uru-chan is currently scheduled for release on November 7 2023. From WEBTOON, the #1 digital comic platform, comes unOrdinary, the popular, action-packed series about John, an ordinary teen trying to survive high school in a world where superpowers dictate social status, and betrayal and conspiracies make up every turn. Nobody pays much attention to John – just a normal teenager at a high school where the social elite happen to possess unthinkable powers and abilities. John prefers it that way. The more he stays under the radar, and stays close to the Royal’s most powerful Ace, Seraphina, the safer he is in the halls of Wellston High. But John has a secret past that threatens to bring down the school’s whole social order—and much more. And when the other students start to suspect John has something to hide, he becomes their latest target. Suddenly, John is pulled into a world of turf wars, betrayals, and deadly conspiracies. 

unOrdinary is an enjoyable and engaging read. I liked that hints to the personalities and secrets of many characters were given, and there is clearly more going on in the background of the story than the author is sharing with readers thus far. John and those in the story are all so much more than they appear. There are several storylines and important characters that have been well developed, and while there is so much going on the strength of the writing and flow does not suffer for it- which sometimes happens when there are this many threads to follow. I feel like there is a great deal of foreshadowing, and I have many ideas where certain parts of the story might go next, but there are so many story threads that I am doubting myself. My only complaint with this volume is that it ends at the perfect spot. I felt like I had a decent handle on who everyone was and that something big was coming, and then it was over. Perfect way to leave me looking for the next volume- and to explore WEBTOON more. 

Early Book Review: Paper Planes by Jennie Wood

Paper Planes by Jennie Wood is a graphic novel currently scheduled for release on May 16 2023. High schoolers Leighton Worthington and Dylan Render have always been inseparable, but when they’re both shipped off to a summer camp for troubled youth in the aftermath of a tragic event, their lifelong friendship is put to the test. Neither ‘chose’ to be there, but they’ll need a positive evaluation from the camp to avoid being sent away, so they can continue attending high school with their friends. The challenges of camp pushes the once-inseparable Dylan and Leighton onto personal journeys of self-discovery that force them to re-examine the incident that threatens their futures, explore the friendship they have shared for so long, and discover the type of person each of them truly wants to be.

Paper Planes is honest and engaging graphic novel that I think many young readers will be able to connect to. I like that the entire book shows that no one person is all good, all bad, or really all one way or another. Everyone is different, and can change. I thought that the dynamic nature of the characters, both the main characters and secondary ones, was very true to life. I loved that readers got to understand the reasoning and pressures that influence both Dylan and Leighton into making the choices that they do. I thought that they each when through some soul searching, and came closer to understanding themselves and what they really want and need from life. I also like that we get to see some of the motivation behind things we as readers might see as disagreeable or disappointing. Not that the intention makes them right or wrong, but it is good practice for all of us to look for the whys and feelings behind other people's choices, and our own.  I found this to be a very engaging and emotional read and think it could be an important read from many  tween and older readers.

Paper Planes is a highly engaging and emotionally intelligent graphic novel. I think it will speak to many readers on several levels.

Early Book Review: The Dog Knight by Jeremy Whitley, Bre Indigo

The Dog Knight by Jeremy Whitley and Bre Indigo is a middle grade graphic novel currently scheduled for release on May 16 2023. Frankie knows who they are. They’re a drummer, they’re nonbinary, and they’re… the Dog Knight? One day Frankie is a relatively normal middle schooler, with relatively normal challenges, like finding the perfect outfit to wear during their drum solo during the upcoming band concert. The next, they save a friendly golden retriever from bullies and suddenly find themselves in a giant magical doghouse, with a funny looking helmet, talking to a group of dog superheroes called the Pawtheon about a job offer. If Frankie can prove that they possess the six dog virtues of loyalty, kindness, honesty, justice, stubbornness, and smell, they will be named the Dog Knight and be given the power to fight alongside the Pawtheon and save the world from the forces of chaos. Maybe there is more to Frankie than they thought?

The Dog Knight takes on some serious topics, nd I think that many middle school readers will relate to much of the book. Frankie is non-binary and just trying to figure out what clothes, sports, friends, and so on really make them happy and feely fully themselves. Even as a fully grown adult, I still change up my style and am always looking for things that make me feel more me, and I know most kids are spending a good deal of their thought and energy trying to figure all that out for the first time. Add in the fantasy, danger, and adventure of a secret dog society and gremlins and you get a read that will keep young readers (and adults) engaged and eager to see how everything turns out. The aspects of bullying, friendship, and family relationships are very well done in this book, but more than anything I love that at the heart of it the whole story is about Frankie being the best Frankie they can be, and continuing to work at being the honest and loyal person that they want to be. I look forward to continuing this series and think it has great potential to be a favorite for many. 

The Dog Knight is a well written, ad beautifully illustrated, graphic novel that I found to be engaging and enjoyable to read. 

Early Book Review: Sunbeams in the Sky, Vol. 1 by Monika Kaname

Sunbeams in the Sky, Volume 1, by Monika Kaname is a manga style graphic novel that is currently scheduled for release on April 18 2023. Himari Akeno can’t wait to start high school! Even though she’s parting ways with her twin sister, Mio, Himari’s enthusiasm to start this new chapter of her life is palpable—that is, until a traumatic incident sends her home to hide in her room. Watching Himari’s dreams shatter is more than Mio can bear, especially when her sister still longs for an ordinary student life. Determined to see her twin get back out into the world, Mio “catches a cold” and convinces her sister to fill in until she “recovers.” As long as the shy, introverted Himari can pull off impersonating the bubbly, energetic Mio, nothing could go wrong…right?

The first volume of Sunbeams in the Sky did exactly what it was supposed to. It made me care about the characters and become heavily invested in them and their relationships. I liked the story, and thought the characters were well written and introduced. I would have liked to see more development with a couple of the characters, I fully suspect that will be coming as the story unfolds in later installments. While much of the story is fairly typical family and high school drama style there is certainly more going on here. I do have to admit that I keep thinking the characters are more than they appear, and am waiting for some of my suspicions to be proven wrong or right in future volumes. 

Book Review: Sorceline by Sylvia Douyé, Paola Antista

Sorceline, written by Sylvia Douyé and illustrated by Paola Antista, is a middle grade graphic novel that is the first in a series. Welcome to the Island of Vorn, where mythical creatures roam free and only the brightest students are invited to study them. For as long as she can remember, Sorceline has had a knack for the study of mythical creatures. Now a student at Professor Archibald Balzar’s prestigious school of cryptozoology, she’s eager to test her skills and earn a spot as one of Balzar’s apprentices. But for all her knowledge of gorgons, vampires, and griffins, Sorceline is mystified by her fellow humans. While she excels in her studies, she quickly clashes with her classmates, revealing her fiery temper. When one of her rivals suddenly disappears, Sorceline must set aside her anger and join the quest to find her. But the mystery only deepens, leading Sorceline on a journey far darker and more personal than she expected. 

Sorceline is a beautifully drawn graphic novel with some fun twists and turns, layers of mystery, and characters with potential for great growth and challenges. I enjoyed the story on several levels. First off the art work is wonderful, and I thought the use of cursive writing for Soceline's thoughts was very well done, but might throw some readers that have had less exposure to it. I thought the school themes of friendship and rivalry, and relationships in general was well done, but left many loose threads that will need to be looked at again in upcoming volumes. I liked Sorceline's personal journey of trying to figure out the mysteries surrounding her, and her own story and skills. II did think there could have been a bit more character development and world building, just a bit more set up, but I think it all still came together well and I trust there will be some questions answered along the way.  thought everything was well balanced and highly engaging. I was left wanting more, and will be on the look out for future volumes. 

Sorceline is a stunning read, both in artwork and story. I think many readers middle grade and older will greatly enjoy it. 

Early Book Review: Can You Believe It? How to Spot Fake News and Find the Facts by Joyce Grant, Kathleen Marcotte

Can You Believe It? How to Spot Fake News and Find the Facts is a children's book written by Joyce Grant and illustrated by Kathleen Marcotte. It is currently scheduled for release on June 7 2022. This book explores in depth how real journalism is made, what “fake news” is and, most importantly, how to spot the difference. It has practical advice, thought-provoking examples and tons of relevant information on subjects that range from bylines and credible sources to influencers and clickbait. It gives readers context they can use, such as how bias can creep into news reporting, why celebrity posts may not be truthful, and why they should be suspicious of anything that makes them feel super smart. This guide helps readers decide which information they can trust (and which they can't), encouraging readers to approach what they find online with skepticism and to hone their critical thinking skills. to make good choices about what to believe and share. 

Can You Believe It? is a well written and organized book that would fit perfectly into a social studies or library curriculum at the elementary school level. This topic is something we covered when I worked in an elementary school library, in our unit about evaluating sources, and think it only becomes more important as the amount of time spent online continues to increase. I thought the text was simple to follow and understand, explained things well, and did not talk down to the readers. I thought that the text and fun illustrations came together well in a nice balance to keep engagement high. The text is broken down into reasonable chunks, and I found the breakdown of the news examples to be helpful and accessible. All of this combined with the valuable endmatter made this book a must have for school libraries, classrooms, and homeschool families. 

Book Review: In the Clear Moonlit Dusk, Volume 1, by Mika Yamamori

In the Clear Moonlit Dusk, Volume 1, by Mika Yamamori is a manga style graphic novel. Yoi Takiguchi has long legs, a deep voice, and a handsome face. In other words, Yoi is such a good-looking guy that most people don't notice or care that she is, in fact, a girl. Indeed, she's had the nickname "Prince" as long as she can remember. That is, until she met Ichimura-senpai, the only person who's really seemed to see her for herself. To her surprise, she's not sure how to handle this new relationship, especially when her newfound friend is a prince himself (and a guy prince, at that). The story of the two high school princes starts here!

In the Clear Moonlit Dusk is a well written and drawn graphic novel. I liked that even though Yoi is cast as a prince, she really does not do anything that marks her as different or masculine. People are just judging her on looks and how she carries herself rather than any actual 'I'm different from other girls' action. She is just trying to get through life being successful in school and with her family's restaurant. Because oft his she has no dating experience and has no idea how to react to Ichimura- which most awkward teens and adult can relate to. Many of us have trouble with compliments and whatnot, which makes the whole awkward dance between the two so relatable and fun. I would have liked a little more of them developing a friendship, or more interaction with friend groups, but I think that the book did give enough that will keep many readers interested and looking for the next volume.  

Early Book Review: Narwhal's School of Awesomeness (Narwhal and Jelly) by Ben Clanton

Narwhal's School of Awesomeness is the sixth Narwhal and Jelly easy reader book by Ben Clanton. It is currently scheduled for release on September 7 2021. Dive into four new stories about Narwhal and Jelly becoming substitute teachers! The two best friends come across an enthusiastic school of fish one morning. Unfortunately, Mr. Blowfish, their teacher, has come down with a cold, and class will have to be cancelled until Professor Knowell (Narwhal) and Super Teacher (Jelly) volunteer to help out! The first subject is Wafflematics, in which Narwhal and Jelly calculate the number of waffles needed to feed the class. That's what we're chalking about! Next up is a super-fun science scavenger hunt, followed by a game of "Tag! You're Awesome!" at recess. Narwhal's teaching methods may be unconventional, but with Jelly's help, the two teach (and learn) with their trademark positivity and humor. Before they know it, the day is over, but what grade will Narwhal receive from Jelly?

Narwhal's School of Awesomeness is exactly what I wanted and expected from this book. As always, the story is clever and fun, an enjoyable read for emerging readers and those reading the book with younger readers or groups. I like that the story is about positivity, helping, and fun while learning. I also like that I learned a few things, because there were a couple names for animal collectives included that I had not known before. The artwork is consistent with previous installment of this series, and a perfect match to the characters and story. I still recommend this series for those looking for easy readers (particularly to fans of Mo Willems) and this book has encouraged me to continue on with that, and say it a bit louder for those that might not have discovered it yet.

Early Book Review: Ghost Girl by Ally Malinenko

Ghost Girl by Ally Malinenko is currently scheduled for release on August 10 2021.  Zee Puckett loves ghost stories. She just never expected to be living one. It all starts with a dark and stormy night. When the skies clear, everything is different. People are missing. There’s a creepy new principal who seems to know everyone’s darkest dreams. And Zee is seeing frightening things: large, scary dogs that talk and maybe even a ghost. When she tells her classmates, only her best friend Elijah believes her. Worse, mean girl Nellie gives Zee a cruel nickname: Ghost Girl. But whatever the storm washed up isn’t going away. Everyone’s most selfish wishes start coming true in creepy ways. To fight for what’s right, Zee will have to embrace what makes her different and what makes her Ghost Girl. And all three of them—Zee, Elijah, and Nellie—will have to work together if they want to give their ghost story a happy ending.

Ghost Girl is a story that did a great job of showing the main character's growth with keeping readers on the edge of their seat. Zee is at that crossroads that just about everyone suffers through. They are not really little kids anymore, not quite a teen, and every thing feels huge and important. This is even harder when you, and others, perceive yourself as different. School, family, and peer relationships are hard even when things are typical, but when you are not it get even harder. Add in some disappearances,  scary looking dogs, ghosts, and a odd new principal and things are really going to get worse. I liked the balance of the supernatural and coming of age aspects of the story. The character development and growth for Zee, Nellie, and Elijah is very well done and I loved the path that they took. I also thought most of the mystical aspects of the story were very well done, and I liked that there were some unexpected things included.  I will say that I rather anticipated the big bad, and when they hit the page was even more clear that they were the root cause, but I enjoyed the path the story took us on and the lessons learned along the way.

Ghost Girl is a middle grade novel with a good blend of spooky and character growth. I will be looking for more from the author. 

Book Review: Hematite 1. Serenade by Script by Victoria Maderna, Federico Piatti and art by Victoria Maderna, Federico Piatti

Hematite, Volume 1, Serenade is written by Victoria Maderna, Federico Piatti and art by Victoria Maderna, Federico Piatti is a graphic novel. Hematite is a young vampire who is trying to find her way. As a member of the illustrious Blackwood family, she faces pressure to conform to high society standards, but such grandstanding isn’t for her. And neither is drinking blood—she’d rather have vegetable soup! So it is that she opts for the more diverse Wolven School, rather than joining the ranks of her fellow vampires at the Diaemus Academy. Being different can be hard, though, and doesn’t always help to make friends. Luckily for Hematite, she has her poetry, as well as Drunela—a draugr who won’t let their differences keep them apart—and Emile, a human boy fascinated by the occult who would just love to take a peek at the Blackwoods’ private library. Unfortunately, bridging societal divides isn’t always easy, and can lead to terrible consequences.

Hematite, Volume 1, Serenade is well written start to a series. Hermatite is a vampire that wants the same things other teenagers want. She wants to be different from expectations, her crush to notice her, to experience things, and get through school with good friends and adventures. As someone whose school years are well behind them I admit to chuckling a bit at the melodramatic poetry, battles with parents, and the struggles with friend group dynamics. I remember everything feeling that life or death at that age- and when the characters are vampires and other creatures that just get turned up a bit. I did enjoy seeing some character and friendship growth, and the story moving forward a bit. I know serialized graphic novels need to stay reasonably short and hook the readers to keep them going, but I felt like I had just gotten to where things were going to shift from setting the stage into the meat of the story when it ended. I am not sure I am hooked enough to go looking for the next volume. However, if I run across it I will gladly pick it up to see what happens next.

Book Review: The Ghoul Next Door by Cullen Bunn, Cat Farris

The Ghoul Next Door, with text by Cullen Bunn and illustrations by Cat Farris, is a middle grade graphic novel. Eleven-year-old Grey lives in the legend-haunted New England town of Ander’s Landing, and he can’t help but feel like a pair of eyes is watching his every move. He discovers odd, gruesome bits and pieces from the graveyard that are left for him as gifts like art carved from bones or jewelry made from (hopefully not human) remains. Soon Grey is caught up in something bigger than he could ever have imagined.He finds himself drawn into a strange mystery involving a race of reclusive subterranean creatures—ghouls, the eaters of the dead! Turns out, his secret admirer is a ghoul named Lavinia. An unlikely friendship forms between them. The only problem is, their friendship breaks traditions—and the punishment is a fate worse than death.

The Ghoul Next Door is an entertaining graphic novel. The art style was nice, and I liked the lines but was not a big fan of the water color style for the coloring. The details were nicely done, and I thought the faces and highlights on hair and eyes for depth and dimension were very well done. I personally prefer a bolder, more solid style over the watercolor, but that is a matter of personal preference and not anything to do with the skill of the artwork involved, which I could still appreciate. I thought the story was well written, school and family moments were well done and I thought they felt realistic and true to character. There was a nice dose of creep, adventure, and mystery through the entire book. I liked it, and I think there are many middle grade and older readers that will really enjoy it. I had a little trouble getting invested in the story- but I think that was more because of the state of the world and some technical difficulties rather than anything lacking in the story.

Book Review: And Yet, You Are So Sweet by Kujira Anan

And Yet, You Are So Sweet (Volume 1) by Kujira Anan is a manga style graphic novel. Maaya Kisaragi, 16 years old, finally confessed to her crush...only to be flatly rejected and ridiculed on social media after. To make matters worse, the most popular guy in her grade, Chigira-kun, overheard her despondent muttering about the whole thing. But instead of making fun of her, he comforts her...and proposes an odd solution to her heartbreak!

And Yet, You Are So Sweet is a sweet graphic novel about crushes and figuring out what you really want. Maaya usually has a crush, and does the stalker like actions to find out more about them and get to see them more. Being a fan of another is fairly low risk, and that is how she likes it. Chigira is popular, with his share of girls crushing on him, but he seems to have no interest in them, but plenty in Maaya. I love romance when both characters are good people, but clueless about how the other feels about them. I enjoyed getting to know both characters, and seeing them dance around their feelings as they struggle to come to terms with them. I really enjoyed the story, and will be on the look out for volume two. 

Book Review: She's My Knight, Volume 1, by Saisou

She's My Knight, Volume 1, by Saisou is a manga style graphic novel. Haruma Ichinose, 17, has been popular since he was born. So popular, in fact, that he figured no one could even come close, until he met Yuki Mogami. She's tall, cool, collected, and totally makes him crazy. He may just be in love, but can he deal with falling for someone even more dashing than himself?

She's My Knight is a cute middle school to young adult manga, while other age groups can enjoy it as well. On the surface this is simply the story of two popular kids getting to know each other, and coming to like each other, while dealing with the idea that they have unconventional prince/princess roles with each other. Sometimes that role reversal comes off as completely misogynistic and off putting, but I felt like it was done here with a nod to all the other anime and manga that have made use of this idea. I thought the various nods to different tropes often used in romantic  manga was well done and fun. I would have liked to have seen more of Mogami's thoughts- as we seem to get more from even the secondary characters than from her.  I liked the story and art, and would certainly pick up the next volume if I found it- but I would not go hunting for it.