Raise Some Shell: Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles

author: Richard Rosenbaum

name: Wayne

average rating: 3.90

book published: 2014

rating: 4

read at: 2014/04/29

date added: 2014/04/29

shelves: non-fiction

review:

'Raise Some Shell: Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles' by Richard Rosenbaum is part of the Pop Classics series (the first volume was about the movie Showgirls, and I didn't read it). This one comes out during the 30th anniversary of the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles (!) and talks about their significance for a specific generation.



For those not in the know, the Turtles started life as a comic. I'm painfully familiar with this fact because I had a copy of the first issue in my hands and didn't buy it. To my credit, it was oversized (so it wouldn't fit in the bins or bags with my other comics), the comic was black and white, and, at $1.50, it was more expensive, and I put it back down. I believe that issue can go for up to $15,000 these days. Yep. I'm still kicking myself about that one.



But I digress. Mr. Rosenbaum talks about the comics era that spawned the turtles. Frank Miller's work on Daredevil and Ronin had a heavy Japanese influence. Also, comics were beginning to be deconstructed as postmodernism hit the newstands. Into this the turtles were born. Disaffected youth who were unlike other heroes (for one, they couldn't easily blend in with humans), yet they had a strong moral code.



Richard Rosenbaum is a true fan (with his favorite member of the Turtles). He talks about the various iterations of the turtles in print and on screen. He talks about the dark days of the late 1990s when the print and cartoon versions were less than true to the original, and he has a very distinct opinion about the upcoming movie.



It's a fun read and I really enjoyed the discussion at the different levels. It's nice to read something so well informed by such a big fan.



I was given a review copy of this ebook by ECW Press and Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. Thank you for allowing me to read this fun ebook.





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The Rocketeer / The Spirit: Pulp Friction

author: Mark Waid

name: Wayne

average rating: 3.00

book published: 2014

rating: 2

read at: 2014/04/29

date added: 2014/04/29

shelves: graphic-novels

review:

'The Rocketeer/The Spirit: Pulp Friction' is a crossover between two pulp style properties. What happens when these two loners and egos meet? Will they clash or work together.



When a body shows up in California that the Spirit knows about, he packs up his entourage to investigate. Before long, he is in conflict with The Rocketeer, and neither of these guys likes the other one. Complicating things is The Rocketeer's girl Betty flirting with The Spirit. The mystery sometimes takes a backseat to the cracking wise and the flirting. It has to do with a recent invention that will soon be in every home, and the two bad guys who want to use it for something evil.



The writing isn't bad, but I was hoping for a little more noir and mystery and less of the lighter stuff. The book collects 4 issues and in the last 2, the art takes a serious downturn. It never tries to compete with the work of Will Eisner and Dave Sims art, but maybe that's part of the problem. Especially with other books out with these characters that have better art.



I was given a review copy of this graphic novel by Diamond Book Distributors and Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. Thank you for allowing me to review this graphic novel.





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Legends of Oz: Dorothy's Return

author: Denton J. Tipton

name: Wayne

average rating: 3.64

book published: 2014

rating: 3

read at: 2014/04/28

date added: 2014/04/28

shelves: graphic-novels

review:

'Legends of Oz: Dorothy's Return' is a prequel to the upcoming movie. As such, it ends on a bit of a cliff-hanger that is apparently continued in the movie.



When the Jester, the brother of the Wicked Witch of the West, shows up, he is intent on taking over Oz. From floods in Munchkinland to earthquakes in dainty china country, his chaos spreads. The Scarecrow, Tin Man, and Lion decide that they need the help of Dorothy in order to stop him, so they have to find a way to bring her back to Oz from Kansas.



The Jester is powerful, but inept and played for laughs, so he doesn't get to scary for the little ones. The Tin Man is also played for laughs. It seems the heart he was given has made him an emotional coward, and I'm not crazy about that change. The art is good and looks like the characters in the movie.



I was given a review copy of this graphic novel by Diamond Book Distributors in exchange for an honest review. Thank you for allowing me to review this book.





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Avatar: The Last Airbender: The Rift, Part 1

author: Gene Luen Yang

name: Wayne

average rating: 4.28

book published: 2014

rating: 3

read at: 2014/04/28

date added: 2014/04/28

shelves: graphic-novels

review:

'Avatar: The Last Airbender: The Rift, Part 1' sees Avatar Aang being visited by the ghost of Avatar Yangchen. He convinces his friends to take a journey to honor her festival, but when he arrives, he finds that not all is well. There is a noxious factory on sacred land. When Aang tries to get them to move, he finds bigger mysteries.



The characters are good, and I love the interactions. All the Avatars are friends, but they have differences and friendly disagreements. Avatar Toph is featured in this series, although not at first, and there is more ahead for her since this episode ends on a cliffhanger.



The writing is really good and has an environmental message without being too heavy-handed. A little more heavy-handed is the airbenders being vegetarian, but I think that follows through from the series. The art looks like cels from the cartoon. The story takes place after the series has finished and seems to continue it nicely. This is a part one that does end on a cliffhanger. Now I want to read the next one.



I was given a review copy by Diamond Book Distributors and Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. Thank you for allowing me to read this fun graphic novel.





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Breath of Bones: A Tale of the Golem

author: Steve Niles

name: Wayne

average rating: 3.98

book published: 2014

rating: 4

read at: 2014/04/27

date added: 2014/04/27

shelves: graphic-novels

review:

'Breath of Bones: A Tale of the Golem' reprints the 3-issue mini-series. It takes place in a quiet village during WWII. A young boy lives with his grandfather waiting for his father to come home. His father is off fighting the war, and the grandfather knows he won't be coming home.



An allied plane crash lands outside the village and the disabled pilot seeks refuge. The village is reluctant to harbor a fugitive, fearing reprisals from the Nazis. The grandfather has a plan for that eventuality. He has the children gather mud and build a figure on the ground. It is a golem. Can this golem save the village from the tanks heading it's way?



There isn't much to the story, but I think that only adds to the realism of the tale being told (minus the golem, of course). The story feels mythic, with a slow build. The art is black and white and very well done. I really enjoyed this one.



I was given a review copy of this graphic novel by Diamond Book Distributors and Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. Thank you for allowing me to review this fine graphic novel.





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Zombie War Complete Tp

author: Kevin Eastman

name: Wayne

average rating: 2.33

book published: 2014

rating: 3

read at: 2014/04/26

date added: 2014/04/26

shelves: graphic-novels

review:

'Zombie War Complete' by Kevin Eastman and Eric Talbot is an exploitation comic. The art is reminiscent of 'zines and it's gory, sexist and offensive. It's very much an underground comic from an earlier age. Whether that's a nostalgic homage, or someone stuck in the past is up to interpretation.



A UFO is sighted over Virginia, and a fighter pilot named Jina is sent to stop it. Before she can, the UFO has reanimated corpses which are, strangely, all dressed in various military garb. They go on a vicious rampage because they are zombies and this is what we are expecting (imagine a zombie apocalypse where the zombies all form a book club). Jina makes a strange alliance to try to stop them. Along the way they destroy Washington D.C. and hordes of people.



It falls very much in the post-modern deconstructionist type of comic. It's got a punk feel that I liked. What bothered me is that Jina is the only female character, and the only character who is seen naked. It's written by Kevin Eastman, who co-created The Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles and owned Heavy Metal magazine for awhile, so it was somewhat expected. Eric Talbot's art is very much in the 'zine style and may not be to everyone's liking, but I actually liked the rough style. There are some full page drawings of beleagured humans facing an onslaught of zombies that were pretty cool.



I was given a review copy of this graphic novel by Diamond Book Distributors and Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. Thank you for allowing me to read this graphic novel.





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The Grudge Keeper

author: Mara Rockliff

name: Wayne

average rating: 4.09

book published: 2014

rating: 4

read at: 2014/04/26

date added: 2014/04/26

shelves: children-s

review:

In 'The Grudge Keeper' no one in the town of Bonnyripple, no one holds a grudge because they have a person to hold on to them for them. They each bring there grudge to him on a nicely rolled up scroll and he files them in his house, which is overflowing with grievances. One day, a wind storm comes along and all the grievances become disordered. Will they ever get refiled or does it end up not mattering?



It's written by Mara Rockliff with a lilting language that would make for a fantastic story to read aloud. Think of how fun to read aloud the words minor tiffs, petty snits, dust-ups and imbroglios would be.



The illustrations by Eliza Wheeler are wonderful and fit the lighthearted tone of the book perfectly. The color darkens as the story does, but then lightens for the ending. The line drawings are painted in watercolor and the details are great.



The lessons learned along the way are not too heavy handed, but excellent, both for the begrudged and the person they expect to keep those grudges for them. I was completely charmed by this wonderful children's book.



I was given a review copy of this book by Peachtree Publishers and Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. Thank you for allowing me to read this charming book.





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Sherlock Holmes and the Vampires of London

author: Sylvain Cordurié

name: Wayne

average rating: 3.29

book published: 2014

rating: 3

read at: 2014/04/25

date added: 2014/04/25

shelves: graphic-novels

review:

In 'Sherlock Holmes and the Vampires of London' it's been a while since Reichenbach Falls and Sherlock Holmes is dead, or at least that's what he'd like everyone to believe. He is brought back to London for a series of gruesome murders committed by vampires.



He is abducted by a powerful vampire who uses someone from Sherlock's past as a lure. This vampire wants Sherlock to track down another vampire. As incentive, Watson's wife Mary is threatened. Sherlock is on the case, to stop all the vampires, and to protect his friends.



It's an interesting premise. I'm not sure it's completely true to Sherlock's character (besides the vampires, of course). Sherlock seems to be foundering and not doing his trademark detecting. There are some good twists and turns and when it was all said and done I enjoyed it and the art by Laci was really quite good.



I was given a review copy of this graphic novel by Diamond Book Distributors and Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. Thank you for allowing me to review this graphic novel.





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The World Trade Center Remembered

author: Sonja Bullaty

name: Wayne

average rating: 4.40

book published: 2001

rating: 4

read at: 2014/04/24

date added: 2014/04/24

shelves: non-fiction

review:

'The World Trade Center Remembered' is an interesting and moving book. It almost plays as a memorial to the buildings, something that is referred to by Paul Goldberger in his excellent essay. The 72 photos in the book by Sonja Bullaty and Angelo Lomeo show the building intact and from all surrounding directions. That they dominated the skyline, even for city dwellers, is evident. That their lack is felt is unspoken, but also evident.



In Paul Goldberger's text, he gives a history of the building. He tells of the bid for construction and what it meant to Radio Row. How it was briefly the tallest building in the world, and among the last tallest buildings we have built in the United States. He talks about the criticism, inluding his, of the stark and bland architecture of these two imposing monoliths. But architecture, especially large buildings, is not an artform that can be chosen to be ignored, and, over time, these buildings became part of the skyline. Their destruction on 9/11 left a hole. This book attempts to show the building in earlier and happier times.



The photos are arranged by the direction they are taken in and they show the buildings in all sorts of light. There is a somberness to this even all these years later. Perhaps there always will be for those of us who associate these buildings with the skyline of New York.



I was given a review copy of this ebook by Abbeville Press and Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. Thank you for allowing me to review this book.





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V-Wars

author: Jonathan Maberry

name: Wayne

average rating: 3.71

book published: 2012

rating: 3

read at: 2014/04/24

date added: 2014/04/24

shelves:

review:

'V-Wars' edited by Jonathan Maberry is a series of shared universe stories in which a vampire virus outbreak has occurred. There are some shared events, and a couple shared characters, a patient zero and a vampire expert. The nice twist is that the virus resides in our dna in what is known as junk dna. How it manifests depends on your ethnic heritage. So, some become Chinese hopping ghosts, or werewolves, or european vampires.



The stories feature a wide range of characters in this strange new world. From an undercover law enforcement agent travelling the US borders with a gang of vampire killing vipers to a talk show host who has to figure out how to quell her hunger. There is also the story of a vampire enforcer trying to track his sister down and a local politician who finds that being a vampire might hamper his election.



There are a wide range of authors, including Maberry. John Everson, Keith R. A. DeCandido, Scott Nicholson, Nancy Holder, Yvonne Navarro, James A. Moore and Gregory Frost all contribute stories. The stories intertwine throughout the book. I liked some of the stories better than others, but the stories are short enough to read and move through.



I was given a review copy of this ebook by Open Road Integrated Media and Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. Thank you for allowing me to review this ebook.





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Henry and the Incredibly Incorrigible, Inconveniently Intelligent Smart Human

author: Lynn Messina

name: Wayne

average rating: 4.12

book published: 2012

rating: 3

read at: 2014/04/23

date added: 2014/04/23

shelves: young-adult

review:

Henry Jacobsen is a robot in the 13th upgrade. He's trying to fit in, but every time he tries to make a calculation, he makes a lot of noise, which has gotten him the nickname "Hank Crank." He helps his mother out in her robot beauty parlor, The Shine Bar. When a human goes berserker in the store one day, Henry becomes pretty leary of these strange inventions.



One night, Henry's father's boss shows up and wants the family to test out the company's new model, the ETC-420-GX-2. When it turns out to be a boy the same basic age as Henry, will they become friends or rivals? What happens when the human starts making up words and thinking for himself (most humans are thick-headed and walk around drooling)? Could this new invention be more than Henry or his family are aware?



It's a really clever book that switches the role of humans and technology. There is a lot of funny stuff that kids should like a lot. At times it felt like a book that a kid would write, so I'm sure they'd like it as well. I felt like the story lagged in a few places, but I found Henry and his human, E, to be likeable enough characters. Imaginative and fun.



I was given a review copy of this book by Tater Tot Books and Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. Thank you for allowing me to read this fun book.





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Mass Effect: Foundation Volume 1

author: Mac Walters

name: Wayne

average rating: 3.19

book published: 2014

rating: 3

read at: 2014/04/23

date added: 2014/04/23

shelves: graphic-novels

review:

Mass Effect: Foundation Volume 1 is related to the Mass Effect video game. In addition, it's written by the lead writer of the Mass Effect 2 and 3 games. It introduces some characters, provides some backstory, but it's a little short and a bit confusing.



It's a volume 1, and it introduces a character named Rasa and gives her backstory. She's an interesting story and works for the shadowy Illusive Man. Just as her story seems to be making sense, she runs across Wrex and Ashley Williams, from the game. Wrex is a great character, but it seems to derail the story about Rasa so that we can see how Ashley ends up on Eden Prime, where the game character Commander Shepard (the character you play in the first Mass Effect game) rescues her. The story transition is a bit choppy and sudden. I realize that this is because it's an ongoing series, but I was hoping for a more coherent story arc for the first few issues.



I liked seeing the characters from the game from different perspectives, or following them in parallel events. I like the Rasa character and hope there is more character development in further issues. I've got volume 2 to read, so keep your eyes peeled for a review in the near future.



I was given a review copy of this graphic novel by Diamond Book Distributors and Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. Thank you for allowing me to review this graphic novel.





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A Portrait of the Artist as a Young Man

author: James Joyce

name: Wayne

average rating: 3.56

book published: 1916

rating: 2

read at: 2014/04/22

date added: 2014/04/22

shelves: classics

review:

It's one of those books you're supposed to read. It's also on all those lists of books you're supposed to read before you die. Sometimes those are books that can change your life or change your perspective. Sometimes they make you wonder if the people who make the lists have actually read the books or just heard about them. Maybe it just means I'm dense and this book was too deep for me.



It's got a rambling narrative, filled mostly with conversation. Stephen Daedalus is a student, having a crisis of faith. He's also young and jovial and has a bunch of friends that he has conversations with. It's a pretty dry read. On the plus side, I'd rather spend a day with Stephen Daedalus than with Holden Caulfield. That guy I just wanted to slap.



Even worse, I'm supposed to love this book because I'm Irish. I feel like a total race traitor. Perhaps your mileage will greatly vary and you will love the book dearly. You can call me an obtuse philistine, and I will just remind you that there are lots of books, and not every book is for every reader.





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Indispensable! How to Be More Effective, Productive and Promotable

author: David Cottrell

name: Wayne

average rating: 2.40

book published: 2013

rating: 2

read at: 2014/04/15

date added: 2014/04/20

shelves: non-fiction-business

review:

'Indispensable' dispenses basic business information on how to become more important to your company. The advice is good, but perhaps a bit basic, but maybe that's okay. Maybe there should be an entry level guide for those just starting out in a company.



With tips like dressing the part, and how to behave at business meals, the tips are well presented. There are sections on proper humor and speaking and writing.



It's no nonsense and probably the advice you'd like to give your kids joining the workforce if they'd only just listen to you.



I was given a review copy of this ebook by McGraw-Hill Professional and Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. Thank you for allowing me to review this book.





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Hotel on the Corner of Bitter and Sweet

author: Jamie Ford

name: Wayne

average rating: 3.94

book published: 2009

rating: 5

read at: 2014/04/20

date added: 2014/04/20

shelves: favorites

review:

I had heard that 'Hotel on the Corner of Bitter and Sweet' was a good book, but I resisted. Maybe something about the cover made me think it would be a sappy romance novel. While it does have a romantic relationship at it's heart, it was a much better novel than I anticipated. Relationships are at the heart of the novel, but they are more complex.



The main character is Henry Lee. In the present, 1986, he is recently widowed. In the past, 1942, he is a boy living in the International District in Seattle with his Chinese family. At the core is Henry's relationship with Keiko, a Japanese girl he goes to school with. There are many other relationships. Henry's dysfunctional relationship with his father, and with his son. Henry's relationship with Sheldon, the street musician that defends and understands him.



It's all set against the background of Seattle in 1942. Jazz music, segregation, internment camps, a world at war and unexpected friendships all weave a tapestry. There is love and loss that is both bitter and sweet. I really loved the story and felt it was pitch perfect and never heavy handed in it's subject matter.





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Half Past Danger

author: Stephen Mooney

name: Wayne

average rating: 3.83

book published: 2014

rating: 4

read at: 2014/04/20

date added: 2014/04/20

shelves: graphic-novels

review:

Three words: dinosaurs and Nazis. If that already has you, then there's no reason to keep reading this. Just run to your local comic shop and pick this up. For the rest of you, I get why you might hesitate.



Take your typical drunken Irish G.I. Put him with a squad of soldiers on an island in the Pacific. First they run across a secret Nazi base with Panzers (in the Pacific!), then they run across some dinosaurs, which do the kinds of things dinosaurs tend to do.



Typical drunken Irish G.I. now has a reason to drink and he's back home. He gets approached by a strange team who want him to go back and face the terrors on the island to stop the Nazis from whatever they are planning. The team is comprised of a British intelligent agent, a kind of ninja Japanese deserter and an American super soldier (reminiscent of another well known super soldier).



It's a lot of fun and it never takes itself too seriously. Why should it? There are twists and turns along the way, but most of them were fairly well telegraphed, but you're reading this for the dinosaurs, right? And they do all the great dinosaur stuff. Head biting, gory, frightening. It's a fun book, and I had a great time reading it.



I was given a review copy of this graphic novel by Diamond Bood Distributors and Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. Thank you for allowing me to review this adventure packed graphic novel.





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Managing Projects (20-Minute Manager Series)

author: Harvard Business Review

name: Wayne

average rating: 3.50

book published: 2014

rating: 4

read at: 2014/04/18

date added: 2014/04/18

shelves: non-fiction-business

review:

'Managing Projects' from the 20-Minute Manager series is a concise, easy to follow overview for project management. It's one of the stronger short overview books I've read. I felt like there was enough reference here to attempt and run certain projects.



Key concepts include discovering what key stakeholders want from the project, how to schedule realistically, how to bring together the right team (and what to do with team conflicts), and how to assess the project. Projects in the real world are rarely without hiccups and the book also addresses these with good sections on scope creep and how to address budget overruns.



Included are some practical charts and tables for many segments of a project. It packs a lot into a short volume and would make a handy quick reference.



I was given a review copy of this ebook by Harvard Business Review Press and Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. Thank you for allowing me to review this book.





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Amala’s Blade: Spirits of Naamaron

author: Steve Horton

name: Wayne

average rating: 3.86

book published: 2014

rating: 4

read at: 2014/04/15

date added: 2014/04/15

shelves: graphic-novels

review:

I'm used to getting review copies in the middle of series and having to puzzle out what is going on with the series. Sometimes this is easier than other times. 'Amala's Blade: Spirits of Naamaron' feels like it's something other than the first book in a series. I can't find a reference to any earlier books. The story starts out and leaves the reader trying to figure things out as they go along. The answers are there and I don't mind this approach, but it's worth noting for those interested in reading the book. Be patient. You'll figure it out.



Amala lives in a split kingdom divided by the Purifiers and the Modifiers, a sort of SF versus fantasy world. Amala is a deadly assassin with a singular purpose and a growing problem. She is haunted by the ghosts of those who have died around her and at her own hands. Along the way, she takes over a pirate ship, gains a ghost monkey as a pet, survives an encounter with a pit monster and finds out about her past. There are still questions at the end of the book, but that just leaves things open for welcome sequels.



Amala is a very likely heroine. I like her steely gaze, her unwavering devotion to duty and her deadly skill. The story by Steve Horton is quite good and was different enough that I really liked it. The art by Michael Dialynas is really good and I look forward to reading more adventures starring Amala.



I was given a review copy of this graphic novel by Diamond Book Distributors and Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. Thank you for allowing me to review this interesting graphic novel.





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Attack on Area 51

author: Mack Maloney

name: Wayne

average rating: 3.80

book published: 2013

rating: 2

read at: 2013/12/10

date added: 2014/04/15

shelves:

review:

The Wingman series of books started in the late 1980s with a premise of a war started with the Soviet Union and only a handful of survivors. The series falls squarely in with other men's fiction series like The Destroyer or The Executioner. The hero is a man's man as well as a ladies man. These kind of pulp adventures are always fun for a quick read. This is the 17th book in the series and what looks like an attempt to restart the series.



When a wrecked space shuttle is investigated, a body is found. When the body is found to still be alive and revived, it turns out to be Hawk Hunter. Hawk was last known to be travelling into space to battle his nemesis and feared lost. After a pretty brief recovery, Hawk is out to find out what might have happened to him. He thinks the answers lie at Area 51. Getting there means battling lots of nameless, faceless bad guys, but Hawk can seemingly fly any sort of plane, so this is no problem.



It's best not to take this type of story that seriously. There are ludicrous displays of action and plot holes abound. The novella ends with enough open questions that there could easily be more in the series.



I was given a review copy of this book by Open Road Media and Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. Thank you for letting me review this book.





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Doctor Who: Salt of the Earth (Time Trips)

author: Trudi Canavan

name: Wayne

average rating: 3.52

book published: 2014

rating: 4

read at: 2014/04/14

date added: 2014/04/14

shelves:

review:

'Doctor Who: Salt Of The Earth' is a short novella featuring the Third Doctor and his companion Jo Grant. The Doctor promises Jo a vacation and she thinks she is going to a beach resort. She is understandably upset to find herself in the sandy Australian outback of 2028 to go 'blokarting,' a type of windsurfing on sand.



The discovery of mysterious figures carved from salt halts the vacation and starts the mystery. Who created these statues that seem to look like missing people from town and why do they look like they are in pain?



This is part of the Time Trips series and it's written by Trudi Canavan, who is better known for The Black Magicial Trilogy. This is the first of the Time Trips series I've read, but I really liked it and it captured the nuance of the Third Doctor and Jo very well.



I was given a review copy of this ebook by Random House UK, Ebury Publishing and Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. Thank you for allowing me to review this fun ebook.





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Kiss Kids

author: Chris Ryall

name: Wayne

average rating: 3.50

book published: 2014

rating: 3

read at: 2014/04/14

date added: 2014/04/14

shelves: graphic-novels

review:

Kiss Kids would seem to be a strange idea for a kids comic, but it actually works well for that age range. Plus, there are lots of in-jokes and lyric nods for the older fans as well. As the title indicates, the band members are just kids. We have Li'l Demon, Starchild, Catkid and Spacey.



The graphic novel collects the first four issues of the comic. There isn't really an overarching storyline, although there is a battle of the bands that kind of leads up to a finale in issue 4. Instead, what you get is a series of stories ranging from one to four or so pages long. The one pagers reminded me of the ones I remember from Harvey comics. The gags are kind of hit and miss. I think sometimes the need to put an in-joke in for the Kiss fans made the payoffs a stretch. But it's still fun. I love Li'l Demon's shoes that eat the other shoes and Spacey's far off looks during school. It's pretty cute and definitely aimed at a young audience.



The art's pretty cute. The in-jokes are fun. If you're not a fan, or you don't want your kids to be, then it's probably a pass. But if you are a fan, and you've got some little rockers in the house, then this is a lot of fun.



I was given a review copy of this graphic novel by Diamond Book Distributors and Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. Thank you for allowing me to review this graphic novel.





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Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: New Animated Adventures, Volume 1

author: Kenny Byerly

name: Wayne

average rating: 3.94

book published: 2014

rating: 3

read at: 2014/04/13

date added: 2014/04/13

shelves: graphic-novels

review:

Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: New Animated Adventures, Volume 1 is right out of the new animated series on Nickelodeon. I'm not familiar with the new series, but it's the same wise-cracking turtles looking for ways to fight evil. The difference in this series that was new to me is that April O'Neil is quite a bit younger. Again, it's not a big deal and they have fun making in jokes about her future career.



This graphic novel pulls together four issues from the series. The boys fight some new villains and some familiar ones. Mikey goes crazy after watching a zombie marathon and then spotting what he thinks is one in the streets. Splinter, Krang, Dogpound and Snakeweek show up. Master Splinter seems to be training April in the arts of the ninja as well.



These are 4 standalone issues. Each one tells a complete story with no lead in or continuation in other issues, much like an animated series would be. Obviously, you would need to be a fan since there is no explanation given as to why there are large turtles wielding weapons and eating pizza running around, but we should all be familiar by now, right?



Good writing and art keep it lively and moving along and perfect for young turtle fans.



I was given a review copy of this graphic novel by Diamond Book Distributors and Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. Thank you for allowing me to review this graphic novel.





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The Tyrant's Daughter

author: J.C. Carleson

name: Wayne

average rating: 3.97

book published: 2014

rating: 5

read at: 2014/04/13

date added: 2014/04/13

shelves: young-adult

review:

I've been saying that we are living in a golden age of young adult books. Amidst the overwhelming paranormal, dystopian, teen drama bookshelves, there are some real gems. 'The Tyrant's Daughter' by former CIA officer J.C. Carlson is such a book. This is timely and so incredibly well written.



Laila finds herself exiled to Washington D.C. with her mother and her brother, the heir apparent to her countries throne. They have fled when Laila's father was killed, and Laila finds herself living and adapting to a world much different than she knows. Along the way, she learns things about who her father may have actually been, and she learns who she might be in light of that. Too tell you more would likely ruin the wonderful discovery of this character. I felt so deeply for Laila, the main character, and her struggle to find a place in the world.



There is no specific background given for Laila's family. We don't know where they are from, but the details ring so very familiar. The perspective from this character's point of view is not one we get in the news and it tells a compelling and compassionate story. There is a note about the author's past and a really great article by Dr. Cheryl Benard as a commentary at the end. Recommendations for further reading are also given. Timely, raw and emotional and I can't recommend it highly enough. My favorite book so far this year.



I was given a review copy of this book by Random House Children's and Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. Thank you for allowing me to review this incredible book.





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A Study in Silks (The Baskerville Affair, #1)

author: Emma Jane Holloway

name: Wayne

average rating: 3.67

book published: 2013

rating: 2

read at: 2014/04/12

date added: 2014/04/12

shelves: young-adult

review:

'A Study In Silks' is the first in a new young adult trilogy. It involves Evelina Cooper, the niece of Sherlock Holmes. In this London, there is magic and a bit of a steampunk feel.



Evelina Cooper was raised in a circus by her grandmother, but her grandmother thinks Evelina is due for a better life. She is taken in by a friend of hers and is living a life quite different than the one she's known. She finds herself in her first London Season, competing for the hand of wealthy young men. But there is also menace afoot. A series of murders in the house and cryptic clues have her trying to solve the crimes. She is torn between her old life and her new one.



It's a long book. Actually a little too long. There are also so many competing elements and more interesting characters than Evelina that the book tends to drag. I really wanted to like this character, but against her famous uncle, and her friend's brother Tobias, and the menacing Magnus, and the shadowy steam guild, it's just tough for her to rise above it. I'm hoping that changes as the series progresses. I did like it better towards the end of the book, but the first couple hundred pages found me wanting to skip ahead. I'm planning on reading the next book. I really want this to be an interesting character.



I was given a review copy of this book by Random House Publishing Group - Del Rey Spectra and Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. Thank you for allowing me to review this book.





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The Legacy Builder: Five Timeless Principles for 21st Century Leaders

author: Rod Olson

name: Wayne

average rating: 4.00

book published: 2003

rating: 3

read at: 2014/04/12

date added: 2014/04/12

shelves: non-fiction-business

review:

'The Legacy Builder' by Rod Olson is a business book told in story form. The foundation of the book are what the author considers non-negotiable approaches to leadership. They are presented simply and the principles could be transformative if acted on to restore a life balance.



When former high school quarterback Lance Marshall is confronted by his wife about his life being out of balance, she presents him with an airline ticket to go visit his old coach and an ultimatum. Of course, Lance doesn't see things as so out of balance, but over the course of the book there is definite course correction that takes place. His approach to business is winner takes all, but this is taking a toll on his employees and his family. His old coach acts as a mentor and guide, and the lessons are taught by other former students of the coach. Most of the lessons are reinforced with physical objects that Lance can take with him.



Many of these business parable books can feel a bit contrived. There is a crisis and people intervening. During the lesson, there is usually another crisis at the midpoint to test the main character, but the story reinforces the lessons and makes it less dry to read. The addition of the objects given to Lance give this book even more of an mnemonic as a takeaway. The 5 lessons are thought provoking, easy to understand and very actionable. I enjoyed this a little more than similar type business books I've read.



I was given a review copy of this book by David C. Cook and Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. Thank you for allowing me to review this book.





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Wonderland Volume 3 (Grimm Fairy Tales Presents...)

author: Raven Gregory

name: Wayne

average rating: 4.18

book published: 2013

rating: 3

read at: 2014/04/04

date added: 2014/04/04

shelves: graphic-novels

review:

Wonderland Volume 3 is good and advances the story, but it feels like a lot of set up for what's to come after this graphic novel is over. It's still likeable enough. It just feels less than complete. It's an ongoing series, so I guess that's the way things are sometimes.



The suit Queens back in Wonderland are trying to keep things stable and the Queen of Spades secretly starts gathering people from our world to fill in her army. She gathers a creepy serial killer among others (here's a tip: don't accept a water bottle from a stranger, even if it seems sealed). And that crazy Jabberwocky is still out there.



Meanwhile, in our world, Calie and Violet Lidle, descendants of Alice Lidle are looking for answers while they are on the run. The trip takes them to Calie's father and all kinds of weirdness ensues.



The story is good and fills in a lot of backstory as details are revealed. There is definitely a heightening in tension in Wonderland, and then it ends. The story by Raven Gregory and Pat Shand is good. The art is good and other than the covers, not too ridiculously overly anatomized. This remains my favorite in the Grimm Fairy Tales line and the only one I regularly seek out.



I was given a review copy of this graphic novel by Diamond Book Distributors and Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. Thank you for allowing me to review this graphic novel.





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Robin Hood

author: Neil Smith

name: Wayne

average rating: 3.70

book published: 2014

rating: 4

read at: 2014/04/04

date added: 2014/04/04

shelves: non-fiction

review:

Robin Hood by Neil Smith is another great Osprey Publishing short intro title. This time around the origins of the Robin Hood stories are discussed. From the early ballads to the introduction of characters in the Romantic era that weren't part of the original ballads, like Friar Tuck and Maid Marian.



These books pack a lot into a short 80 pages (that also include illustrations!). The first chapter goes through all the original ballads and tells their origin. The second section tells more about Robin Hood's world. The addition of characters like the Bishop, Little John, Allan-a-Dale, Maid Marian, etc. The death of Robin Hood is discussed. The final section talks about who Robin Hood might have been and where he might have actually been. Although Sherwood Forest is where we think, there are other locations in the stories. It finishes with how the modern era has further shaped the story.



The illustrations by Peter Dennis are really great. My review copy only had black and white illustrations, but I'll be heading out to a bookstore to see what the full color ones look like. Neil Smith has definitely done his research. There is a short bibliography in the back. I've been a huge fan of the Robin Hood mythos since I was young and this would be a great addition to my Robin Hood book collection.



I was given a review copy of this ebook by Osprey Publishing and Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. Thank you for allowing me to review this ebook.





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Vampirella Strikes Tp

author: Thomas E. Sniegoski

name: Wayne

average rating: 3.21

book published: 2013

rating: 3

read at: 2014/04/01

date added: 2014/04/01

shelves: graphic-novels

review:

Vampirella Strikes finds Vampirella finishing up a fight in Boston. When she gets home for a rest, she gets an interesting visit by some angels who want to hire her to find a missing angel. The catch is she has to team up with a fallen angel named Janus who seems to play both sides.



They find themselves in a bar known as Switzerland, a sort of neutral ground where supposedly everyone is safe. Except they then find themselves targeted and end up fighting large demonic dogs in an arena. It turns out that there is a black market for the organs and blood of angels, and an angel can't return home without all of their organs. Sound confusing? It kind of was.



The story by Thomas E. Sniegoski was pretty good and got better as it went along. I liked the relationship between Vampirella and Janus as they tried to solve the case. Art by Johnny Desjardins was a little bland at times. The angels and demons were kind of colorless. This might have been a design choice but I wasn't impressed. Good story, so-so art. Included is a cover gallery for all 6 issues represented here.



I was given a review copy of this graphic novel by Diamond Book Distributors and Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. Thank you for allowing me to review this graphic novel.





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The X-Files: Season 10, Vol. 1

author: Joe Harris

name: Wayne

average rating: 4.14

book published: 2014

rating: 4

read at: 2014/04/01

date added: 2014/04/01

shelves: graphic-novels

review:

The X-Files: Season 10, Vol. 1 is a graphic novel 10th season of the television series (which had a less than interesting 9th season). Favorite characters are back (even ones thought completely gone). The graphic novel feels like a complete episode. For fans of the show, like me, it's a welcome return.



This story takes place about 10 years after the series ended. Scully and Mulder have retired from the FBI, but Agent Skinner shows up with a new threat. It seems that the child Dana Scully secretly put up for adoption is in danger. Although that storyline gets a little muddled, there are enough interesting and familiar plot developments to keep the ardent fans happy. There is even the mysterious appearance of a particular smoking man.



I liked the art and story and look forward to more stories in this series. Welcome back Scully and Mulder. I've missed you.



I was given a review copy of this graphic novel by Diamond Book Distributors and Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. Thank you for allowing me to review this graphic novel.





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