Title: Roller Girl
Author: Victoria Jamieson
Pages: 240
Publisher: Dial Books
ISBN: 9780525429678
Publication Date: March 10, 2015
AR Levels: Book Level - 3.2, Interest Level - 4th-8th, Points - 2.0
Goodreads Link: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/23493697-roller-girl
In a nutshell: Best friends Astrid and Nicole were attached at the hip until the summer Astrid discovered a passion for roller derby that Nicole doesn't share. Feeling abandoned after Nicole signs up for summer dance camp, Astrid enrolls in a roller derby camp and quickly realizes her abilities don't quite live up to her passion. But Astrid throws herself into her new dream of being a derby star, and though there are bumps and bruises along the way (literally!), her summer is definitely a game-changer.
I'd recommend it to grades: 3 to 7
I'd recommend this book to: graphic novel readers and roller derby enthusiasts (obviously) but really anyone who's experienced a curve ball in a friendship or discovered a hobby you adore. Fans of Smile by Raina Telgemeier will also eat this up and so might Wimpy Kid readers.
What I liked most about this book: Sometimes it takes a whole lot of courage to try learning something new...especially when you're trying alone. Astrid discovers that if you are brave enough to stick with something that makes you happy even when none of your friends want to and even if you're not so great at it, you just might find some rocking new friends and develop some mad awesome skills too. It's a wonderful lesson that's taught with rainbow socks, roller skates, and blue hair, and the emotional depth may surprise you. It's my new favorite graphic novel.
Single favorite moment (without getting spoiler-y): I can't say too much, but it takes Astrid a while to figure out what her roller derby name should be, and when she does, it's fantastic and perfect.
Star rating (where 5 stars is awesome and 0 stars is atrocious): 5 stars
Title: March: Book Two
Author: John Lewis (with Andrew Aydin) & illustrated by Nate Powell
Pages: 160
Publisher: Top Shelf Productions
ISBN: 9781603094009
Publication Date: January 27, 2015
AR Levels: TBA
Goodreads Link: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/22487952-march
In a nutshell: Picking up where book one left off, book two follows John Lewis' work as a Freedom Rider and as an organizer of the March on Washington during the Civil Rights Movement.
I'd recommend it to grades: 9 and up
I'd recommend it to: teachers for Black History Month reading lists, fans of biographies, and budding activists
What I liked most about this book: This
second installment of the graphic memoir trilogy took the series to a whole
new level. The way Lewis' presence at Obama's inauguration is weaved
into his memories of his work with SNCC on the Freedom Rides and the
March on Washington is pure genius. Some of the single panel artwork
nearly broke my heart it was so gripping, particularly a darkly sinister one of a group of Klansmen. I
was so moved by this book, and it taught me more about the Civil Rights
Movement than anything else ever has. Lewis' insight into the
behind-the-scenes workings of the movement is fascinating. This is the
perfect format for this true story, and I can't wait for book three.
Single favorite moment (without getting spoiler-y): There's another single panel that made me tear up. During a protest, a police officer asks a small
African-American girl what it is that she wants, and she simply and innocently replies, "f'eedom." It's a quiet yet powerful moment that perfectly sums up the book's themes and tone.
Star rating (where 5 stars is awesome and 0 stars is atrocious): 5 stars
Title: El Deafo
Author: Cece Bell
Pages: 248
Publisher: Harry N. Abrams
ISBN: 9781419710209
Publication Date: September 2, 2014
AR Levels: TBD
Goodreads Link: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/20701984-el-deafo
In a nutshell: As a preschooler, Cece Bell loses most of her hearing after suffering from meningitis. This graphic memoir follows Cece's journey through elementary school as a hearing-impaired child. Along the way, she navigates the ups and downs of friendships, first crushes, and family relationships and comes to discover that her deafness (and her ultra powerful hearing aid, the Phonic Ear) might just be her superpower. It's a delightfully funny snapshot into the life of a hearing-impaired girl that is sure to charm you.
I'd recommend it to grades: 4 to 6
I'd recommend it to: graphic novels fans and anyone who enjoyed Raina Telgemeier's Smile
What I liked most about this book: This book is completely adorable. Not only does it tackle a subject that doesn't get much attention in children's literature, but it's just a fun story too! I learned quite a lot about the deaf community and hearing-impaired people and fell in love with the characters too. The underlying theme of accepting others' differences is woven throughout the plot in a way that will get the point across in an affective but subtle way. Upper elementary kids are going to eat this up for its humor and heart. Fun side note: Cece Bell is married to Tom Angleberger, author of the Origami Yoda series!
Single favorite moment (without getting spoiler-y): Cece's Phonic Ear hearing aid has a microphone for her teachers to wear so that Cece can understand their words better. When Cece realizes just how powerful the microphone is, it makes for some hilarious moments involving her teachers. Let's just say, they think they're out of earshot, but they're not, and Cece overhears some private moments that would mortify them if they found out. All good fun. :)
Star rating (where 5 stars is awesome and 0 stars is atrocious): 5 stars
Title: March: Book One
Authors: John Lewis and Andrew Aydin (Illustrated by Nate Powell*)
Pages: 128
Publisher: Top Shelf Productions
ISBN: 9781603093002
Publication Date: August 13, 2013
AR Levels: Book Level - 4.6, Interest Level - 4th-8th grades, Points: 1.0
Goodreads Link: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/17346698-march
In a nutshell: This 2014 Coretta Scott King Honor Book is the first of a trilogy chronicling the life of Congressman John Lewis, the Civil Rights Movement hero, in graphic novel format. Book one highlights his childhood and the beginning of his involvement with the Civil Rights Movement, including his participation in the non-violent movement and the sit-in demonstrations.
I'd recommend it to grades: 8 and up (for intense situations and use of the "n" word in context)
I'd recommend it to: American history teachers, students who love graphic novels and history, and fans of Marjane Satrapi's Persepolis
What I liked most about this book: I'll be honest; I'm not a huge fan of non-fiction, which is mostly why we don't review a lot of it here, but I am always up for reading graphic non-fiction, especially biographies, and this one impressed me greatly. There's something about seeing a person's life illustrated on the page that brings it alive, and this one is an excellent example of how artwork can make someone's life story so much more engaging and impactful. By seeing images of these sit-ins and not just reading about them, you can truly feel the tension and the courage it took for Lewis and his fellow protestors to stay true to their non-violent commitment. I was moved in more ways than one, and I even learned a few new things I had never known about the Civil Rights Movement. I can't wait for the other two books.
Single favorite moment (without getting spoiler-y): Lewis notes that his librarian played a large role in his life and encouraged him to read whatever he could get his hands on. :) Yay, libraries!
Star rating (where 5 stars is awesome and 0 stars is atrocious): 4 stars
*It also noted in the back of this book that Nate Powell is currently working on the graphic novel adaptation of Rick Riordan's The Lost Hero! Get excited!
Title: Will O' the Wisp
Author: Tom Hammock (with illustrations by Megan Hutchison)
Pages: 216
Publisher: Archaia Entertainment
Publication Date: January 28, 2014
AR Levels: TBD
Goodreads Link: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/18125353-will-o-the-wisp
In a nutshell: When Aurora's parents die from accidentally ingesting poisonous mushrooms, she moves to the swamps of Louisiana to live with her strange grandfather in his dilapidated mansion on a mysterious, foggy island, which holds more than a few secrets. Can Aurora use her newly-acquired hoodoo talents to save the island from a deadly threat?
I'd recommend it for grades: 8th and up
I'd recommend it to: fans of the Beautiful Creatures series or Coraline
What I liked most about this book: The illustrations are just gorgeous; they're equally enchanting and eerie, and the entire cast of characters is a loveable group. Aurora's a strong female lead; she's both curious and clever, and she's extremely brave. I'm a big fan of hers...even if she doesn't like grits. (WHAT?!!! *shaking my head*) Missy the pet raccoon has to be my favorite supporting character too. Who doesn't want a pet raccoon?
Single favorite moment (without getting spoiler-y): I told you I loved Missy the raccoon, and it's hilarious how it takes her a while to warm up to Aurora. The moment when she finally does, you see her curled up on Aurora's bed, and it's adorable. :) I hope Aurora, Missy, and the gang will be back for more!
Star rating (where 5 stars is awesome and 0 stars is atrocious): 4 stars
*I received a copy of this title from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
Title: Jane, the Fox & Me
Author: Fanny Britt (translated by Christine Morelli and illustrated by Isabelle Arsenault)
Pages: 104
Publisher: Groundwood Books
Publication Date: September 1, 2013
AR Levels: Book Level - 4.1, Interest Level - K to 3rd (although I disagree), Points - 0.5
Goodreads Link: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/17214302-jane-the-fox-and-me
In a nutshell: When Helene's friends turn their backs on her and begin to ruthlessly make fun of her, she escapes into Jane Eyre and finds hope and solace in its tale of an outcast like herself.
I'd recommend it for grades: 3 to 7
I'd recommend it to: tween girls, anyone who's ever used literature as an escape, and anyone who's ever felt like an outcast
What I liked most about this book: It's
hard to find a book that deals with bullying, low self-esteem, and
weight issues that's realistic and doesn't shy away from the issues
while still being uplifting in a creative way. From page one, I could
relate to Helene, and I enjoyed this immensely. The use of black and
white and color is genius. In Helene's world, everything is black and white, and everything in Jane's world is in color, but as Helene begins to come out of her fog, color begins to bleed into her world, ushered in by a new friendship. It's beautiful.
Single favorite moment (without getting spoiler-y): In one scene, Helene goes swimsuit shopping with her mother and sees herself as a sausage in a cute suit; the illustration is of a personified sausage in a bathing suit and not of Helene looking plump in any way, and by illustrating it that way, it shows what Helene is seeing and not what's really reflected in the mirror. It's an incredibly realistic scene that I completely related to, and I'm sure many other girls will too.
Star rating (where 5 stars is awesome and 0 stars is atrocious): 5 stars
Title: Northanger Abbey
Author: Jane Austen (adapted by Nancy Butler)
Pages: 112
Publisher: Marvel
ISBN: 9780785164401
Publication Date: September 19, 2012
AR Levels: TBD
Goodreads Link: http://www.goodreads.com/book/show/12828567-northanger-abbey
In a nutshell: Catherine Morland lives a life of adventure but only vicariously through her cherished gothic novels, so when she gets a chance to go to Bath to accompany some wealthy family friends, she jumps at the hope of a real adventure of her own. Adventure does indeed find Catherine, and the biggest adventures come in the form of Henry Tilney, a charming young clergyman, and John and Isabella Thorpe, a brother and sister pair who take a quick liking to Catherine. Can sweet, imaginative Catherine push past her childish naivete, find her way in the world, and maybe fall in love along the way? Austen's most satirical (and I'd say funniest), novel is beautifully illustrated in this graphic novel adaptation.
I'd recommend it for grades: 8 and up
I'd recommend it to: Jane Austen fans, romance fans, and graphic novel fans
What I liked most about this book: I've mentioned before how much I love graphic novels, but this is a particularly good example of how a beloved classic can easily and artfully translate to graphic format. This is sure to introduce new generations to Austen. It's my second favorite Austen Marvel adaptation (Pride and Prejudice still holds the top spot.).
Single favorite moment (without getting spoiler-y): Catherine's gothic romance notions get the best of her, and she goes exploring in the Abbey and happens upon a mysterious paper, which turns out to be...a packing list. I love that Jane really pumps up the comedy in this novel. Catherine's overactive imagination is hilarious at times.
Star rating (where 5 stars is awesome and 0 stars is atrocious): 4 stars
It's no secret that I love graphic novels. Honestly, they are some of my favorite books to read, but I'm aware that some parents and teachers have their concerns about the format. Far too many times I've seen a child in my library thrilled to check out a stack of graphic novels only to be told by a parent to put them back and get a "real book." After discussing the merits of graphic novels with co-workers and parents two or three times in the last week or so, I thought it might be helpful to give you the short version of why I think it's more than okay for your child or your student to read and love graphic novels.
1. Anything that gets them reading is a good thing.
If your child can find something they enjoy reading that is age-appropriate, then please don't take it away from them. I'm convinced that one of the biggest hurdles a child faces in their education is the learning-to-like-reading hurdle. If they find a graphic novel they love, they just might take the first step into become a lifelong reader. Should you only let your child read graphic novels? Probably not (Do you let your child eat only ice cream?), but the range of content in this format will probably surprise you, which leads me to...
2. There are some high quality graphic novels in all genres out there.
Graphic novels are a format...not a genre. You can find well-reviewed and well-loved graphic novels about anything under the sun, and I don't just mean fiction. Some of my favorite graphic novels are non-fiction titles and biographies (such as Satrapi's Persepolis and To Dance by Siena Siegel), and I adore reading graphic adaptations of classic novels (like Marvel's Jane Austen series). These classic books adaptations are especially great for reluctant readers because they are getting exposed to the original work (often with the original text) in a way that's fun for them. It's a wonderful way to ease them into a love of classic literature. If you give a reluctant reader a copy of Pride and Prejudice, he or she may initially get too bogged down in the language to like it, but give a reluctant reader a graphic novel of Pride and Prejudice, and he or she may like it. And once they like it, they will probably want to read the original, and since they're already familiar with the plot and the characters and a lot of the original dialogue, they may like that too...and they'll probably want a cookie to go with it (couldn't resist the Numeroff joke). ;)
3. Contrary to popular belief, graphic novels are "real books" and can actually make your kids smarter.
Okay...I say that a bit cheekily, but graphic novels do include many higher-level vocabulary words, and they help kids develop visual literacy. What is this "visual literacy" I speak of? It's the ability to "read" images. It's how we follow movies and television shows. By using images in comic strip format, graphic novels teach us how to create narratives frame by frame and understand what's happening in the story when there aren't any words. The old adage is still true; a picture can be worth 1,000 words, and in our increasingly-digital and visual society, it's important for students to be able to interpret and comprehend visual arts as well as the written word, and graphic novels allow them to do both! One of my absolute favorite examples of this is a book that's a quasi-graphic novel - Wonderstruck by Brian Selznick. This tale alternates between a boy's perspective told in words and a girl's perspective told entirely in beautiful charcoal illustrations, and when the stories begin to intersect, it blows your mind!
So that's my two cents on the subject, and I'll leave you with a short list of a few more of my favorite graphic novels with the Goodreads links:
Title: Darth Vader and Son
Author: Jeffrey Brown
Pages: 64
Publisher: Chronicle Books
ISBN: 9781452106557
Publication Date: April 18, 2012
AR Levels: TBD
Goodreads Link: http://www.goodreads.com/book/show/13163846-darth-vader-and-son
In a nutshell: What if Anakin Skywalker hadn't turned to the Dark Side and instead got to raise his son?* This collection of single-frame comics attempts to answer that question. The zany antics of Darth Vader and Luke are sure to charm you.
I'd recommend it for grades: 2 and up! Even adults will love this one.
I'd recommend it to: Star Wars fans young and old!
What I liked most about this book: What isn't there to love about a humorous Star Wars-inspired graphic novel? Even those who are not huge Star Wars fans will enjoy this one, but for the hardcore fan, there are tons of inside jokes that literally made me laugh out loud.
Single favorite moment (without getting spoiler-y): I won't give away too many of the jokes, but one of my favorites was when Luke tried to hit a baseball with a lightsaber. Not so successful but very funny!
Star rating (where 5 stars is awesome and 0 stars is atrocious): 5 Death Stars ;)
*P.S.: The companion book, Vader's Little Princess, will feature young Princess Leia. It hits shelves April 23, 2013!
Title: Extreme Babymouse
Author: Jennifer Holm and Matthew Holm
Pages: 96
Publisher: Random House Books for Young Readers
ISBN: 9780375970965
Publication Date: January 22, 2013
AR Levels: TBD
Goodreads Link: http://www.goodreads.com/book/show/13642635-extreme-babymouse
In a nutshell: In this 17th book of the wildly popular Babymouse series, our heroine finds herself wanting to start a new hobby - snowboarding! Apparently it's what all the cool kids are doing, so of course Babymouse wants to learn! There's just one problem...she's not exactly good at it.
I'd recommend it for grades: 2nd to 7th grades
I'd recommend it to: fans of the series, graphic novel fans, and kids who like to pull for the underdog
What I liked most about this book: Babymouse books are always adorably hilarious, and this one is no different. What I especially liked about this book was the great lesson about standing up to negative peer pressure. It's presented in way that's funny and not preachy, but it still makes a great point.
Single favorite moment (without getting spoiler-y): One of my favorite characters is Babymouse's troublesome locker, and I won't say much, but apparently it's not the only one of its kind. :)
Star rating (where 5 stars is awesome and 0 stars is atrocious): 4 stars
