Crazy Is the New Normal

author: Tom Tomorrow
name: Wayne
average rating: 3.25
book published:
rating: 3
read at: 2016/10/31
date added: 2016/10/31
shelves: graphic-novels
review:
'Crazy Is The New Normal' by Tom Tomorrow is a collection of recent strips from 2014 into part of 2016. They inclde lots about the recent US Presidential campaigns.

I'm familiar with Tom Tomorrow and I read his comic if I run across it. I don't fully agree with his politics, but I find his humor worthwhile. It is definitely more left-leaning, so if you can't find lots of comics about Donald Trump and pro-gun politics funny, then you probably want to keep moving. There are rednecks and right wing newscasters and climate change deniers.

Current event comics are funnier in the context of when they take place. The fact that the election hasn't happened as I write this still makes this collection current, but if everyone feels the way I do, we are probably all tired of the subject. I've also read Tom Tomorrow in the context of an independent paper. One strip is funny. Many in a row starts to feel a bit overwhelming. I liked this collection, but there are other cartoon collections that I would prefer over this one.

I received a review copy of thsi graphic novel from IDW Publishing, Diamond Book Distributors, and NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. Thank you for allowing me to review this graphic novel.


via Wayne's bookshelf: read http://ift.tt/2fyPfF1

Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, Vol. 12: Vengeance, Part 1 (Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, #12)

author: Tom Waltz
name: Wayne
average rating: 4.38
book published: 2015
rating: 4
read at: 2015/11/09
date added: 2016/10/27
shelves: graphic-novels
review:
'Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles Vol. 12: Vengeance, Part 1' follows in the wake of events of previous issues. I plan on not spoiling things, but that might make some things sound vague.

The Turtles are back from their trip to Burnow Island and the aftermath of their attack on the Technodrome. Big things have happened. The Turtles may never be the same. There is a power void among the bad guys that the Purple Dragons are seeking to fill. Casey is out for a final (?) showdown with Hun. Even the Mutanimals make an appearance. There are a lot of pieces in play. So many that I was sure it wouldn't wrap up in this volume. That's why it's a part 1.

I haven't been keeping up with the Turtles, but I remember the news about the events that led up to this one. I like what I read here. It's got a good feel and the Turtles and their friends are as gritty or grittier than I remember. The family has grown, but so have the enemies. You're better off reading prior issues before this, but this was a pretty satisfying read in my opinion.

I received a review copy of this graphic novel from Diamond Book Distributors, IDW Publishing, and NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. Thank you for allowing me to review this graphic novel.


via Wayne's bookshelf: read http://ift.tt/1RK2dc8

Wonder Woman (2016-) #9

author: Greg Rucka
name: Wayne
average rating: 0.0
book published:
rating: 3
read at: 2016/10/26
date added: 2016/10/26
shelves: graphic-novels
review:
'Wonder Woman #9' by Greg Rucka with art by Liam Sharp. It's kind of a set-up/wrap-up issue, but I liked it.

Wonder Woman, Cheetah and Steve Rogers are back with Urzkartaga in tow. Now that this mission is over, it's time to heal up a bit and relax. Wonder Woman and Cheetah find themselves in a mall (with some hilariously named stores). Then Wonder Woman and Steve are off to meet at the beach, but what Wonder Woman really wants is to get back to Themyscira. That has eluded her up to this point.

Like I said, it's kind of an in-between issue. Not a lot of action happens, but the gears of plot are in motion. The art is solid. The cover seems a bit darkly colored and heavily lined, so it didn't impress me much at first. I like it better now, but every time I look at Steve's tattoo, I think of the rebel forces logo from Star Wars.

I received a review copy of this issue from DC Entertainment and NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. Thank you for allowing me to review this issue.


via Wayne's bookshelf: read http://ift.tt/2eIbPrf

Art Nouveau Architecture

author: R. Beauclair
name: Wayne
average rating: 4.25
book published:
rating: 4
read at: 2016/10/25
date added: 2016/10/25
shelves: non-fiction
review:
'Art Nouveau Architecture' edited by R. Beauclair and M.I. Gradl was originally published in Paris in 1902. It's a wonderful look at how this beautiful style was imagined for buildings.

The book is comprised of 58 full color plates. The contributors are from France, Germany, Austria, England and The Netherlands. The book has full building facades and detail like plaster facades and bulls-eye windows. There are columns and keystones. There are interiors as well. Entry halls and restaurant buffets. Store fronts and wrought iron gates share space with handrails.

It's all gorgeous. This is imaginative and beautiful design. I have seen some of it executed, and it's just as breathtaking in real life, even 80 plus years later. It's an unusual book, but I thoroughly enjoyed poring over it.

I received a review copy of this ebook from Dover Publications and NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. Thank you for allowing me to review this ebook.


via Wayne's bookshelf: read http://ift.tt/2eQzlD0

Dirk Gently's Holistic Detective Agency: A Spoon Too Short

author: Arvind Ethan David
name: Wayne
average rating: 3.44
book published: 2016
rating: 4
read at: 2016/10/25
date added: 2016/10/25
shelves: graphic-novels
review:
'Dirk Gently's Holistic Detective Agency: A Spoon Too Short' by Arvind Ethan David with art by Ilias Kyriazis continues the adventures of the world's strangest detective.

This time around (amid flashbacks of Dirk as a child), Dirk meets a family who have strangely lost their voice. In order to solve the case, and because everything is apparently connected, Dirk follows a random stranger. This random stranger turns out to be a client looking to hire Dirk to investigate a tribe of people living in Africa who apparently have no voice. This leads Dirk to Africa and the world of rhino poaching. How does all of this and an orchestra have anything to do with the poor voiceless family?

I won't divulge that, but if you sense that wacky humor abounds, then you would be correct. Even a bit of humor on the ribald side this time around. The story is fun as is the art. I love the "young Dirk" art as well. It looks like grainy old comics. Another fun romp by Dirk Gently.

I received a review copy of this graphic novel from IDW Publishing, Diamond Book Distributors, and NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. Thank you for allowing me to review this graphic novel.


via Wayne's bookshelf: read http://ift.tt/2eDpnXY

Trinity (2016-) #2

author: Francis Manapul
name: Wayne
average rating: 3.82
book published:
rating: 5
read at: 2016/10/24
date added: 2016/10/24
shelves: graphic-novels
review:
'Trinity #2' with art and script by Francis Manapul is just a great issue. Issue #1 was a dinner party. Issue #2 is a journey to the past.

At the end of the odd dinner party in last month's issue (Wonder woman brought a boar over her shoulder and Batman had to borrow one of Superman's shirts), something strange happened. This time around Superman has an opportunity to speak to his father, but Batman is convinced that this is a bad idea. When younger Clark runs away scared, Jonathan Kent turns to Superman for advice about his young son, little knowing that this is the man that the boy will become. Superman in turn gets some advice from Jonathan and is able to reassure him that he was a great father, but we all know that. The issue ends on one of those abrupt cliffhangers that seem to mark the Rebirth series.

The story and art are just perfect. I love the cover as well. I'm two issues in and not much has happened, but I really, really like this series. It's been mainly Superman's show up to this point, so we'll see what happens, but I'm enjoying this one more than I thought I would.

I received a review copy of this issue from DC Entertainment and NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. Thank you for allowing me to review this issue.


via Wayne's bookshelf: read http://ift.tt/2epJQyC

Orbital Decay (Near Space, #1)

author: Allen Steele
name: Wayne
average rating: 3.71
book published: 1989
rating: 3
read at: 2016/10/24
date added: 2016/10/24
shelves:
review:
'Orbital Decay' by Allen Steele is a SF romp on a space station. It was written in the late 1980s and can feel a bit dated.

Beanjacks are the nickname given to the team of people working in space building satellites. Most of them have a pretty blue collar feel to how they interact. One of the main characters is a botanist brought on board. He meets the rest of the crew. People with nicknames like Popeye and Virgin Bruce. They seem to work hard, but tend to party even harder with illegal contraband brought up from Earth. When they discover a government intelligence program that would invade privacy, they have to decide to let it go or rise up and stop it.

It felt long by the time I finished it. I liked some of the characters, and didn't care for others. Some characters have a bigger than life personalities and some feel like bit players, but I guess this is a lot like real life. Life on board the station felt like it might really. This is no Star Trek future where everyone is happy to work and have everyone's best interest at heart. These are like real people you'd run into at work. For that the author gets my kudos. I'd like to read more by this author.

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


via Wayne's bookshelf: read http://ift.tt/2faxdZF

Art and Science

author: Eliane Strosberg
name: Wayne
average rating: 3.58
book published: 2001
rating: 3
read at: 2016/10/23
date added: 2016/10/23
shelves: non-fiction
review:
'Art and Science' by Eliane Strosberg is an overview of the influence that art and science have had on each other. It's filled with lots of examples, but when it's all said and done, it's a pretty basic overview.

With chapter titles like 'Science in Architecture' and 'The art and science dialogue,' each chapter runs a path from the past to the present. From complex Persian calligraphy to the modern microchip, form and function follow. Artists and scientists dabble in each other's worlds, and, of course, we've heard of artist/scientists like Leonardo DaVinci. There are links between patterns in decoration and calculus. Perspective and geometry in art abound. Potters use minerals to get chemical reactions for colors in their glazing.

It's interesting, but I think it's almost too broad of a subject for one single book. There are lots of pictures of mainly art, but when the art was next to a similar picture from science (like the Persian calligraphy and the microchip, for example), I felt like the book really shined. I wish there had been a more deliberate approach in this regard. It's a decent overview to the subject, but it failed to hold my interest over the course of the book.

I received a review copy of this ebook from Abbeville Press and NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. Thank you for allowing me to review this ebook.


via Wayne's bookshelf: read http://ift.tt/2eHS7Lc

The Twilight Zone: The Shadow

author: David Avallone
name: Wayne
average rating: 3.76
book published:
rating: 4
read at: 2016/10/23
date added: 2016/10/23
shelves: graphic-novels
review:
'The Twilight Zone: The Shadow' by David Avallone with art by Dave Acosta had me a little worried at first. I wasn't sure how these two properties could combine. I needn't have worried.

We meet The Shadow as he is breaking up a group of American nazis. His zeal for justice overrides the personal bystanders. He feels they are guilty by association, but Margo sees it differently, since the bystanders are women and children. This event sets The Shadow tumbling into The Twilight Zone.

He is suddenly, Lamont Cranston, his alter ego from the radio show, not Kent Allard. He knows he is The Shadow, but he can't convince those around him. The outward spinning continues as The Shadow moves further away from his true self, and into his fictional portrayals. Will this journey provide the lesson in justice he needs to learn and will he ever get back to his true self?

I liked what was done here. I think it works because the Shadow has had a iterations and lives in print, radio and now comics. The Twilight Zone element is a framing element of each issue, like it should be. The art is okay. I like Francesco Francavilla's work, but the covers on these didn't do much for me. All in all, not a bad story.

I received a review copy of this graphic novel from Dynamite Entertainment, Diamond Book Distributors, and NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. Thank you for allowing me to review this graphic novel.


via Wayne's bookshelf: read http://ift.tt/2ev4lKN

Man, I Hate Cursive: Cartoons for People and Advanced Bears

author: Jim Benton
name: Wayne
average rating: 3.44
book published:
rating: 4
read at: 2016/10/20
date added: 2016/10/20
shelves:
review:
'Man, I Hate Cursive' by Jim Benton is a collection of cartoons that I'm almost embarassed to have found funny. They definitely have a dark side, but along with that, there is occasionally a sentimental side as well.

From the title cartoon, where a wizard summons a lemon instead of a demon thanks to cursive writing, to a man and a woman getting ready for a night out. She transforms into a beauty, he into a chimpanzee. There are comics about art and animals and parenting. There are jokes about God and medical humor.

Some of it is irreverent and a bit gross at times. Some of it is touching and feels like how the world is. I laughed or smiled at all of it. I'm glad I got introduced to this artist through this collection.

I received a review copy of this ebook from Andrews McMeel Publishing and NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. Thank you for allowing me to review this ebook.


via Wayne's bookshelf: read http://ift.tt/2er3w3F

Cave Carson Has a Cybernetic Eye (2016-) #1

author: Gerard Way
name: Wayne
average rating: 3.40
book published:
rating: 3
read at: 2016/10/20
date added: 2016/10/20
shelves: graphic-novels
review:
'Cave Carson Has A Cybernetic Eye' by Gerard Way and Jon Rivera with art by Michael Avon Oeming takes a little known character from DC that was first around in 1960 and gives him a weird twist via DC's Young Animal line.

Young Animal is just a weird imprint. I like Doom Patrol quite a bit. Shade the Changing Girl is something that might grow on me, and now we have this piece. It's just as strange as the other titles from Young Animal. Cave buries his wife and has to deal with his estranged daughter Chloe. He works at EBX which seems to be a corporate gig but includes excavations and cave digging. He's got a weird cybernetic eye (hence the title) which reports strange things to him.

I just read that and it sounds somewhat normal, but this comic is not. Add in the strange art by Michael Avon Oeming. Sometimes the characters look like puppetmation, sometimes things are just skewed and off. There is a really weird backup comic called the Wonder Twins by Tom Scioli included in this issue.

I like weird comics. I don't know how many weird comics I can take, but if you like weird comics, check out this one.

I received a review copy of this issue from DC Entertainment and NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. Thank you for allowing me to review this issue.


via Wayne's bookshelf: read http://ift.tt/2dTfeCD

Superman (2016-) #9

author: Peter Tomasi
name: Wayne
average rating: 3.50
book published:
rating: 4
read at: 2016/10/20
date added: 2016/10/20
shelves: graphic-novels
review:
'Superman #9' by Peter Tomasi and Patrick Gleason continues the 'Return to Dinosaur Island' storyline and also continues the tribute to Darwyn Cooke and his DC:The New Frontier series.

Superman and Jon are trapped on an island full of dinosaurs, and they've found evidence of other people who have been there before them. It turns out that there may be a survivor on the island with them. Someone who has survived all these years. His stories are wild and perhaps a bit too gory according to Jon's father. There are more cool battles with strange creatures, but can they survive and get back home?

I like this storyline. There is some nice remembrance of the past and some crazy fights with huge monsters. I like the person who survives and how Superman wants to protect his young son not only from the horrors of the island, but also the survivor's story. The art was good. I'm not familiar with DC: The New Frontier, but I may have to find it after this. I am familiar with Darwyn Cooke, and I mourn his loss to the field of comics.

I received a review copy of this issue from DC Entertainment and NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. Thank you for allowing me to review this issue.


via Wayne's bookshelf: read http://ift.tt/2ds6gA3

Strawberry Shortcake Volume 1: Return of the Purple Pieman

author: Georgia Ball
name: Wayne
average rating: 3.80
book published:
rating: 4
read at: 2016/10/19
date added: 2016/10/19
shelves: children-s, graphic-novels
review:
'Strawberry Shortcake Volume 1: Return of the Purple Pieman' by Georgia Ball is a fun graphic novel for young readers. It's not what I normally would read, but I had a good time reading it.

Strawberry Shortcake owns a cute cafe and is the best baker around. When her cafe has an anniversary, her friends decide to throw her a party, but can they do it as good as Strawberry Shortcake can? And who is the mysterious person who gives her cafe a glowing review?

Next, the poor little Berrykins have lost the tractor that they like to ride on and Strawberry Shortcake's friends decide to enroll her in a baking contest in order to win a prize for the kids. The problem is the mysterious purple man in the contest.

It was a pretty cute story. Although my daughter was never a fan, I could see the appeal for young readers. The baking contest is a good parody of the ones on the food channels. The obsession with social media that the purple pieman has is pretty funny too. Good for young readers.

I received a review copy of this graphic novel from IDW Publishing, Diamond Book Distributors, and NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. Thank you for allowing me to review this graphic novel.


via Wayne's bookshelf: read http://ift.tt/2dBGgAH

The Fireside Grown-Up Guide to the Husband

author: Jason Hazeley
name: Wayne
average rating: 3.00
book published: 2015
rating: 3
read at: 2016/10/19
date added: 2016/10/19
shelves:
review:
'The Fireside Grown-Up Guide to the Husband' by Jason Hazeley and Joel Morris is part of the Ladybird Books for Grown-Ups series. They are all quick reads and I've now read three of them.

This book is about the husband. We are told the husband is not complicated and that he runs on sausages and beer. When he and his wife go out, she has a lot of outfits, but he only has his one favorite suit, which hasn't fit in years.

These are just a few of the facts you will learn. They are simple and written big so they are easy to understand, because being a grown-up can be hard. They are interspersed with vintage pictures. The captions in this one fit the pictures sometimes and sometimes they seem to have missed the mark for me.

My favorite of the three I've read is 'The Fireside Grown-Up Guide to the Hangover.' This one isn't too bad. They are fast reads and meant to be gag gifts. It might be worth a glance through to see if the folks in your life would find them humorous.

I received a review copy of this ebook from Touchstone and NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. Thank you for allowing me to review this ebook.


via Wayne's bookshelf: read http://ift.tt/2euoMnM

The Fireside Grown-Up Guide to the Hangover

author: Jason Hazeley
name: Wayne
average rating: 3.64
book published: 2015
rating: 4
read at: 2016/10/18
date added: 2016/10/18
shelves:
review:
'The Fireside Grown-Up Guide to the Hangover' by Jason Hazeley and Joel Morris is part of a humorous series that gives advice to grown-ups. It uses big words and vintage pictures.

We learn that hangovers are mysterious and they should be when they happen to us. They can be caused by impurities that enter our body along with the alcohol. They cause us lose vital elements in our body which cause us to crave salty breakfast meats. There are other symptoms and cures, but you'll have to read for yourself.

The pages alternate between text and vintage illustrations. Some of the illustrations in this book are just downright odd. I recently read another book in this series and thought that it felt off. Not so with this one. The humor and the illustrations are spot on. I found myself laughing aloud more than once.

I received a review copy of this ebook from Capstone and NetGalley in exchange for an honest reeview. Thank you for allowing me to review this ebook.


via Wayne's bookshelf: read http://ift.tt/2dyZuH6

Little Tails in the Jungle

author: Frédéric Brrémaud
name: Wayne
average rating: 4.30
book published:
rating: 4
read at: 2016/10/18
date added: 2016/10/18
shelves: children-s, graphic-novels
review:
'Little Tails in the Jungle' is by the same team that has done the Love series (The Tiger, The Lion, The Fox, etc.), so I looked forward to reading this. This is an educational comic for younger readers with some of the same high quality animal art of the other series.

Our narrators are a puppy named Chipper and a squirrel named Squizzo. We follow them on a journey to different jungles throughout the world to learn about animals. Their first stop is the African jungle where they see an okapi, bugs, gorillas and others. Then it's off to the Amazon and then to the jungles of Asia.

The drawings of Chipper and Squizzo are comic strips that run along the edge of the page. The jungles and animals are all done in Federico Bertolucci's rich, colorful style. The animals here are a bit more expressive than in the Love series, but these are wonderful paintings. The book finishes with information about the animals in the book. I thought the two-tone comic contrasted strangely with the full color comics, but it's a book for young animal lovers to read and enjoy.

I received a review copy of this graphic novel from Magnetic Press, Diamond Book Distributors, and NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. Thank you for allowing me to review this graphic novel.


via Wayne's bookshelf: read http://ift.tt/2esrRG8

The Fireside Grown-Up Guide to the Mom

author: Jason Hazeley
name: Wayne
average rating: 3.80
book published: 2016
rating: 3
read at: 2016/10/17
date added: 2016/10/17
shelves:
review:
'The Fireside Grown-Up Guide to the Mom' by Jason Hazeley and Joel Morris is a parody series with vintage illustrations. It's not bad for what it is.

The mom has two very important jobs, according to the book: to look after her children and to do everything else well. This book of large type and easy to read information will give hints and tips at excelling at this job. I learned about children moving laundry baskets and how the mom sounds like her own mother. I learned how the mom made a nice cork doll out of all the Pinot Grigio bottles in the house.

You get the picture. The vintage drawings were fun to see. The humor worked sometimes for me and sometimes it fell flat. I feel like sometimes the pictures were mismatched a bit with the captions. But your mileage may vary, and if you need a humorous book for the mom in your life, this might be something she'd like.

I received a review copy of this ebook from Touchstone and NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. Thank you for allowing me to review this ebook.


via Wayne's bookshelf: read http://ift.tt/2e3aZdb

The Lost Boys (2016-) #1

author: Tim Seeley
name: Wayne
average rating: 3.73
book published:
rating: 3
read at: 2016/10/17
date added: 2016/10/17
shelves: graphic-novels
review:
'The Lost Boys #1' by Tim Seeley and art by Scott Godlewski picks up right where the movie left off. It's been quite a long time since I've seen the movie, but there is some lead in text that should bring it right back to others like me who are a bit distant from it.

Santa Carla is not a safe place to live. The story of Sam and Michael moving there is recapped, and now Sam has turned it into a comic book and he's trying to sell it. It also seems like there is a new gang of female vampires in town, so Michael and Sam will have to rely on the Frog Brothers again, especially after an older group of monster hunters is targeted.

This is part one of six. It was fun to see these characters in a book again, and I remembered quite a bit of the movie based on the back story given. The art was ok. Neither awesome nor terrible. I'd be interested enough to read more.

I received a review copy of this issue from DC Entertainment and NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. Thank you for allowing me to review this issue.


via Wayne's bookshelf: read http://ift.tt/2eLjKaF

Doom Patrol (2016-) #2

author: Gerard Way
name: Wayne
average rating: 4.12
book published:
rating: 5
read at: 2016/10/16
date added: 2016/10/16
shelves: graphic-novels
review:
'Doom Patrol #2' by Gerard Way with art by Nick Derrington is not as strange as the first issue, but it's still degrees of strangeness away from just about everything else. I like it quite a bit.

We start with panels showing the gruesome death of pilot Larry Trainor, but in this world, does death really mean death? And who is the strange man yelling about finding him? While this odd man yells, We observe an exchange of insults by a couple street toughs, one which seems to be a walking literary insult generator. Meanwhile Casey Brinke's roommate seems to have reconstructed Robotman out of the box of parts that Casey found last issue, but what does that mean and who is Larry Trainor?

This issue felt a bit more coherent, but I didn't mind the screwy start to the issue last time. Things seems to swirling into existence from a very chaotic start and that's ok. Gerard Way's way of looking at things is odd, but cool. Nick Derrington lays down some great art,and Tamra Bonvillain's colors make it all pop off the page in interesting ways. I'm really liking this series so far, even if I couldn't tell you exactly what's happening.

I received a review copy of this issue from DC Entertainment and NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. Thank you for allowing me to review this issue.


via Wayne's bookshelf: read http://ift.tt/2du8pcU

Detective Comics (2016-) #942

author: Steve Orlando
name: Wayne
average rating: 3.22
book published:
rating: 3
read at: 2016/10/16
date added: 2016/10/16
shelves: graphic-novels
review:
'Detective Comics 942' by Steve Orlando and James Tynion IV wraps up Night of the Monster Men storyline with part 6. Even though Nightwing is on the cover and in the issue, I guess he doesn't get credit for being in the story since he's not mentioned on the splash page.

But he is a part of this story and team as he, Batwoman, Spoiler and Orphan attempt to stop the large monster threatening Gotham. Meanwhile, Batman is going straight to the source, a crazy Hugo Strange that thinks he has the drop on Batman. I loved his throne of psychology books. Back at the towers, Nightwing is on to an odd train of thought and makes a risky move to see if he can save the day. Will Gotham stand or fall when it's all done.

This whole event felt long to me. I don't know if it does anything to advance these characters, and I honestly wanted more Hugo Strange. It felt like he had some cameos, then just showed up at the end. The wrap up felt like it brought things together, but this wasn't my favorite Batman storyline.

I received a review copy of this issue from DC Entertainment and NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. Thank you for allowing me to review this issue.


via Wayne's bookshelf: read http://ift.tt/2em67eR

To Burp or Not to Burp: A Guide to Your Body in Space

author: Dr. Dave Williams
name: Wayne
average rating: 4.15
book published:
rating: 4
read at: 2016/10/16
date added: 2016/10/16
shelves: children-s, non-fiction
review:
'To Burp or Not to Burp: A Guide to Your Body in Space' by real astronaut Dr. Dave Williams along with Loredana Cunti and illustrations by Theodore Key answers the really interesting questions about space travel, or at least the ones most kids are likely to ask.

This book sets out to let the reader know about bodily functions in space. When you have less gravity, how do you eat, sleep and poop? What does brushing your teeth look like? Are you taller or shorter in space? What do you do if you're not hungry or you can't get rid of food you've eated? And the most important question: To Burp or Not to Burp? The answer to that one is "no" but I'll let you read the book to find out.

Filled with illustrations and photos of astronauts and cosmonauts in space, it's just the sort of information I would have wanted when I was in 3rd or 4th grade. I still want this kind of information, but I usually read Mary Roach (see 'Packing for Mars'}. For the younger, curious readers, this is filled with all kinds of interesting and gross information. Curiosity leads to adventure and discovery, according to Dr. Dave, and I agree with him.

I received a review copy of this ebook from Annick Press Ltd. and NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. Thank you for allowing me to review this ebook.


via Wayne's bookshelf: read http://ift.tt/2eHhv8f

The Day Santa Stopped Believing in Harold

author: Maureen Fergus
name: Wayne
average rating: 4.33
book published:
rating: 5
read at: 2016/10/15
date added: 2016/10/15
shelves: children-s
review:
I knew from the title that 'The Day Santa Stopped Believing in Harold' by Maureen Fergus with illustrations by Cale Atkinson would be a fun title. I wasn't wrong.

Santa wakes up one day and has a crisis of belief. He doesn't believe in Harold anymore. He wants to, but he has doubts. He is sure that Harold's mom is writing the Santa letter and that Harold's dad is putting the snacks out. This leads Santa to believe that Harold doesn't exist, but Harold is one of the most magical parts of his Christmas. It turns out that Harold is also having his doubts. This leads to a pretty funny ending, but will Santa start believing in Harold again and vice versa?

This is a really fun Christmas picture book. The pictures are very seasonally appropriate and pretty funny. I especially liked one of dad doing a spit take with coffee. Santa seems sad and grouchy about not believing in Santa. I hope Santa never stops believing in me.

I received a review copy of this ebook from Penguin Random House Canada, Tundra Books, and NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. Thank you for allowing me to review this ebook.


via Wayne's bookshelf: read http://ift.tt/2e7BSZp

Ian at Grandma and Grandpa's House

author: Pauline Oud
name: Wayne
average rating: 3.10
book published:
rating: 3
read at: 2016/10/15
date added: 2016/10/15
shelves: children-s
review:
'Ian at Grandma and Granpa's House' by Pauline Oud is an adorable picture book about spending the night with the people who spoil you rotten.

When we meet Ian, he is packing for an overnight trip to his grandparents. He has include his stuffed animal Flappy! When he arrives at their house, they are happy to see him and their is no anxiety about mom going away. Then the adventures begin. There is cake and a walk with the dog and grandpa's special pancakes. The highlight is the mysterious warm bed, which grandma has warmed for him using a hot water bottle. In the morning, he goes home.

The illustrations are precious and colorful. It feels a little wordy for busy toddlers, but I might be wrong about that. The message that it's okay to spend some time with your grandparents and there is no need to be sad is a good one. Ian's grandma and grandpa seem like the kind of people I'd like to hang around with. They are fun and like good food and they are kind.

I received a review copy of this ebook from Clavis Books and NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. Thank you for allowing me to review this ebook.


via Wayne's bookshelf: read http://ift.tt/2djwPTj

Death of Hawkman (2016-) #1

author: Marc Andreyko
name: Wayne
average rating: 3.20
book published:
rating: 5
read at: 2016/10/14
date added: 2016/10/14
shelves: graphic-novels
review:
'Death of Hawkman #1' by Marc Andreyko with art by Aaron Lopresti is a book that I flat out loved. It's a 6 issue miniseries, but it's good to see these characters in action again.

The story starts now on the planet Rann. Adam Strange is trying to help an injured and bleeding Hawkman. You know there will be flashbacks to show how we got here. Those flashbacks belong to Adam Strange this time around. I especially like a series of panels showing just his eyes as images from his life flicker by. He lives on Earth waiting for the call to act, and waiting to hear from his wife Alanna. They live on Rann and Adam is trying to get back to her. Based on the opening panels, what awaits him when he gets there.

There is more Adam Strange than Hawkman in this issue, but I was really okay with that. I loved the inks by Livesay and the colors by Blond over Aaron Lopresti's pencil's. I think this is one of the stronger books I've read lately, and I look forward to reading more.

I received a review copy of this issue from DC Entertainment and NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. Thank you for allowing me to review this issue.


via Wayne's bookshelf: read http://ift.tt/2e15l82

He-Man/Thundercats (2016-) #1

author: Rob David
name: Wayne
average rating: 3.86
book published:
rating: 3
read at: 2016/10/14
date added: 2016/10/14
shelves: graphic-novels
review:
'He-Man/ThunderCats #1' by Rob David and Lloyd Goldfine and art y Freddie E. Williams II is a crossover that lots of people have been waiting a long time for. I wasn't one of them, but this first issue seems promising.

The return of Mumm-Ra starts the story off. Then we are off to Eternia where we meet a bumbling young prince who is late to a reception in his honor. He doesn't seem to be anything like the hero that we know him as. He hasn't received the belt of power or his sword yet, but they may come in handy soon. Mumm-Ra is being chased by the ThunderCats and he has chosen this planet at this time. Can Prince Adam become He-Man?

I watched He-Man, but I never really watched the Thunder-Cats. In spite of that, I think this works pretty well as a crossover. I wasn't as crazy about the art in this one, and I seem to be in the minority, so your mileage may vary.

I received a review copy of this issue from DC Entertainment and NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. Thank you for allowing me to review this issue.


via Wayne's bookshelf: read http://ift.tt/2e5jXlY

Everafter: From the Pages of Fables (2016-) #2

author: Dave Justus
name: Wayne
average rating: 4.50
book published:
rating: 4
read at: 2016/10/14
date added: 2016/10/14
shelves: graphic-novels
review:
'Everafter: From the Pages of Fables #2" by Dave Justus and Matt Sturges with art by Travis Moore was probably not a good place for me to start this series. I'm familiar with Fables, but based on the opening panels, a lot has happened.

Hansel has been, well murdered might be an understatement. There is not much of a chance of reconstructive surgery. Peter Piper and Bo Peep seem to have evaded the same fate. Meanwhile, Connor Wolf is showing up for his initiation with Feathertop. He's also showing off since he uses his shapeshifting ability with everyone he meets. He's barely introduced to the team, when he is sent off on a mission to protect a museum. His energetic carelessness and Peter's weary wariness are at odds.

There is a lot at play here and I liked it, but there seems to be more history than just one prior issue. That's fine for fans of the books, but left me a bit lost. That's on me, not the quality of the book or art. Is it wrong for me to say that I'm already a fan of Jordan and Mister Prism?

I received a review copy of this issue from DC Entertainment and NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. Thank you for allowing me to review this issue.


via Wayne's bookshelf: read http://ift.tt/2di7Uzx

Istanbul Letters

author: Elliot Ackerman
name: Wayne
average rating: 4.00
book published:
rating: 4
read at: 2016/10/13
date added: 2016/10/13
shelves: non-fiction
review:
'Istanbul Letters' by Elliot Ackerman is a series of essays, or letters, written from where he lives in Turkey about various topics.

He talks about taking his children to the market, and a life in a country that many of us might fear to live in. He meets a former US soldier who now lives there as well. He discusses foreign policy and the kind of horrific violence that happens in Turkey and Orlando and San Bernardino. Through the course of the book elections are mentioned from the one in Syria to our impending US election.

It's a short book of essays, but packs a lot of thought provoking content in it's 26 pages. I appreciated the approach: personal content along with global reflection. It's well written and I appreciate the chance to read it.

I received a review copy of this ebook from Knopf Doubleday Publishing Group, Vintage, and NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. Thank you for allowing me to review this ebook.


via Wayne's bookshelf: read http://ift.tt/2emq5K5

Shade, The Changing Girl #1

author: Cecil Castellucci
name: Wayne
average rating: 3.84
book published: 2016
rating: 4
read at: 2016/10/13
date added: 2016/10/13
shelves: graphic-novels
review:
If you like your comics weird, have I got a comic for you. 'Shade, The Changing Girl #1' by Cecil Castellucci and Gilbert Hernandez is a bizarre story that could probably only work in this format.

Let's see if I've got this straight: Alien Loma is obsesses and bored. Obessed with the poetry of Rac Shade and so bored that she steals his madness coat and ends up in a young girls body on Earth.

The young girl she takes over is Megan Boyer. The problem is that Megan has been in a coma for a while. Her parents are overjoyed, but some of the kids she knew in school don't seem to be very happy to see her. It turns out Megan was a bully, so now Loma has to deal with high school, a group of people who don't like her, a coat that has it's own madness quirks, and a group of people back home who want the coat back.

This was a trippy comic, with strange art to go right along with it. I liked the out of this world story. It's in strong contrast with the somber life that Megan seems to have had leading up to her coma. I'm curious to know where this will lead.

I received a review copy of this issue from DC Entertainment and NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. Thank you for allowing me to review this issue.


via Wayne's bookshelf: read http://ift.tt/2exH2R5

Superman (2016-) #8

author: Peter Tomasi
name: Wayne
average rating: 4.00
book published:
rating: 4
read at: 2016/10/13
date added: 2016/10/13
shelves: graphic-novels
review:
'Superman #8' by Peter Tomasi and Patrick Gleason with art by Mahnke, Mendoza and Quintana is a fun story with some nostalgia and dinosaurs.

First off, the cover by Mahnke, Mendoza and Quintana is worth just taking a minute to take in. Superman and his son Jon stand between us and a menacing group of prehistoric creatures, including a T-Rex. I loved this cover.

When Jon's science fair project goes haywire, he and his dad Superman end up on a lost island. At every turn they find liv‌ing creatures who haven't been alive on Earth for a very long time. They also find the remains of a fierce battle among soldiers during World War II. There is a nice surprise cameo/tribute that I wouldn't dare spoil here, but it was a nice touch.

This is only part one of the story, which is good, because Superman fighting to stay alive against dinosaurs is a good thing. Another good thing is the dedication to Darwin Cooke who tragically lost his battle with cancer last May. This is the kind of story he would have been great at illustrating, and he is missed by many, I'm sure.

I received a review copy of this issue from DC Entertainment and NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. Thank you for allowing me to review this issue.


via Wayne's bookshelf: read http://ift.tt/2dReYcE

Blue Beetle #1 (Blue Beetle 2016, #1)

author: Keith Giffen
name: Wayne
average rating: 3.00
book published: 2016
rating: 3
read at: 2016/10/12
date added: 2016/10/12
shelves: graphic-novels
review:
'Blue Beetle #1' by Keith Giffen & Scott Kolins find Jaime Reyes back home and being haunted in his dreams by Dr. Fate.

Jaime just wants to get back to normal, but he's having these dreams where Dr. Fate is trying to warn him about the power he now has. Meanwhile, Ted Kord has shown up at career day. Ted also seems to be in cahoots with a street gang, which makes Jaime on edge. Will this posse turn out to be as bad as Jaime thinks?

I like Jaime's relationship with Ted. He's obviously annoyed by him, which is an interesting place for Ted to be in. At the same time, I think Jaime could use what Ted can give him. Ted is all about fun, and Jaime seems to miss that some times. Of course, he is the one getting targeted. I've only read a couple issues of this series, but it seems like a fun one.

I received a review copy of this issue from DC Entertainment and NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. Thank you for allowing me to review this issue.


via Wayne's bookshelf: read http://ift.tt/2ddRPdW

Nightwing (2016-) #6

author: Steve Orlando
name: Wayne
average rating: 3.42
book published:
rating: 3
read at: 2016/10/12
date added: 2016/10/12
shelves: graphic-novels
review:
'Nightwing #6' by Tim Seeley and Steve Orlando is 'Night of the Monster Men part 5.' The tide is definitely beginning to turn in the Bat team's favor.

After being turned into a monster (and a great splash page in this issue), Nightwing seems to be back to normal. Gotham Girl is still tenuous so Drake disobeys orders and rushes to her side. Orphan and Spoiler finally get to leave the cave, but their not the only thing to leave the caves as a giant tree monster is heading towards the city. The team finally gets a bit of a breather, so they can look into exactly what Hugo Strange has been doing.

I am finally wanting this story to be over. The monsters have been creative, but now that it's winding down, I think I wanted a quicker ending. Even though the whole team is in this one, Nightwing still gets front and center which is something that didn't seem to happen in part two.

I received a review copy of this issue from DC Entertainment and NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. Thank you for allowing me to review this issue.


via Wayne's bookshelf: read http://ift.tt/2e2ReNX

Batman (2016-) #8

author: Steve Orlando
name: Wayne
average rating: 3.40
book published:
rating: 4
read at: 2016/10/12
date added: 2016/10/12
shelves: graphic-novels
review:
'Batman #8' by Tom King and Steve Orlando with art by Riley Rossmo is 'Night of the Monster Men part 4.' Will the rampaging monsters never cease?

Spoiler and Reboot are in the caves with the monster-ridden citizens of Gotham. They are using flares to hold things off, but they better come up with a plan soon. Nightwing and Gotham Girl have been transformed into monsters and seem to be doing their own thing. Which leaves Batman, Clayface and Batwoman to face the strange multi-headed monster alone.

This has been a fun story. I love Batwoman's unconventional use of the motorcycle she's been using. Even though the team is all over the place, they work together as they can. The art is pretty good. I know this is going to end in a few issues, but I've enjoyed reading it.

I received a review copy of this issue from DC Entertainment and NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. Thank you for allowing me to review this issue.


via Wayne's bookshelf: read http://ift.tt/2dMcJUm

Narwhal: Unicorn of the Sea

author: Ben Clanton
name: Wayne
average rating: 4.33
book published:
rating: 4
read at: 2016/10/11
date added: 2016/10/12
shelves: children-s, graphic-novels
review:
'Narwhal: Unicorn of the Sea' by Ben Clanton is a super fun graphic novel for young readers. I liked the characters and even learned a few things about narwhals.

Narwhal is the kind of joyful character anyone would want to befriend. When jellyfish meets him, they become unusual friends. They don't have a lot in common, but they like waffles. When narwhal starts a narwhal club, he invites everyone but jellyfish. Will jellyfish be invited, or will he be left out of the fun?

The simple drawings and fun situations make for a good early reader graphic novel. I loved the characters and the way they play together. There are even some fun facts about narwhals. This was fun.

I received a review copy of this graphic novel from Penguin Random House Canada, Tundra Books, and NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. Thank you for allowing me to review this graphic novel.


via Wayne's bookshelf: read http://ift.tt/2etKQ5P

Titans #3 (Titans 2016, #3)

author: Dan Abnett
name: Wayne
average rating: 3.50
book published: 2016
rating: 4
read at: 2016/10/11
date added: 2016/10/11
shelves: graphic-novels
review:
I read 'Titans #3' by Dan Abnett with art by Brett Booth, and I confess that I was a little lost, not having read the last issue. I liked what I read though, but my review might be confused.

The story seems to center around Kid Flash/Flash/Wally West and his multiverse versions. The villain Kedavra has been playing off of that, and it seems to be collapsing on him. The Titans have just finished a fight with their younger selves. It appears that Wally West is back, even though Kedavra has done his best to wipe him from people's memories.

I like the alternate versions of these characters, and I should probably read the back issues leading up to this (like maybe the whole 52 run). The art is good and I like the fractured panel structures on some pages. They lend themselves well to the story.

I received a review copy of this issue from DC Entertainment and NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. Thank you for allowing em to review this issue.


via Wayne's bookshelf: read http://ift.tt/2dPlr4G

My First Book of Hockey: A Rookie Book: Mostly Everything Explained About the Game

author: Editors of Sports Illustrated for Kids
name: Wayne
average rating: 4.47
book published:
rating: 5
read at: 2016/10/11
date added: 2016/10/11
shelves: children-s, non-fiction
review:
'My First Book of Hockey: A Rookie Book: Mostly Everything Explained About the Game' by Editors of Sports Illustrated for Kids is a fun introduction to the sport of hockey.

The book is told with photos of NHL players and cartoons. The players think and say funny things as the rules are explained. Hockey is a fast moving game, and this book moves along pretty fast also. Much of the game is condensed and explained really well. The different positions of the players, the rink, and even the Zamboni gets some mention. The basic play and more well known penalties are explained as well as the penalty box and what a power play is.

It's done really well. The book unfolds over the course of a game with a countdown clock on the pages for each period, and even including the breaks between periods. This is a great read aloud book for a little hockey fan. Some of the cartoony stuff was a bit silly, but it works in the context of the book. Its fun to see real players in a kids book.

I received a review copy of this ebook from Time Inc. Books, Sports Illustrated Kids, and NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. Thank you for allowing me to review this ebook.


via Wayne's bookshelf: read http://ift.tt/2e5OWNp

Wonder Woman (2016-) #7

author: Greg Rucka
name: Wayne
average rating: 4.17
book published:
rating: 5
read at: 2016/10/10
date added: 2016/10/10
shelves: graphic-novels
review:
'Wonder Woman #7' by Greg Rucka with art by Liam Sharp is just a gorgeous looking comic book. I also like the setting and what happens.

The aftermath of a fight starts the issue and Wonder Woman frees some captives. She and Barbara Ann, aka Cheetah, are now out to find Steve Trevor. Cheetah is just going along with things because Wonder Woman has promised to help free her from her curse. Then the swamp thing looking monster showed up, and that's all I will say.

The story is good. It feels like classic fantasy from Edgar Rice Burroughs. The art is just amazing. It's the best thing I've seen in recent DC comics I've read and even in some of the graphic novels. I love the style. I've been catching issues as I can, but this is a pretty good comic.

I received a review copy of this issue from DC Entertainment and NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. Thank you for allowing me to review this issue.


via Wayne's bookshelf: read http://ift.tt/2e1SENg

The Fir Tree

author: Hans Christian Andersen
name: Wayne
average rating: 4.00
book published: 1844
rating: 4
read at: 2016/10/10
date added: 2016/10/10
shelves:
review:
'The Fir Tree' by Hans Christian Andersen gets a gorgeous new edition with illustrations by Sanna Annukka. They don't make the story any happier, but they add some beauty to the pages.

The story is of a fir tree living in the woods. At first he is not tall enough to be chosen and resents the rabbits who jump over him. He wants more and yearns for it. Eventually, he grows tall enough and is chosen as a Christmas tree and thinks his life will only get better and better. This is not what happens.

It's a story of dissatisfaction and realizing too late what is lost in the pursuit for what one wants. Hans Christian Andersen can write a sad story, and this one is no exception. I'm glad that this didn't get rewritten in the telling.

The illustrations that accompany this edition are really good. Sanna Annukka's style seems to be geometric shapes and interesting contrasting colors. There are trees in the forest, and fish swimming below a harbor. There are mice and ornaments and even the final pages of the book have beautiful images of the tree's final moments. I'm not sure it's a Christmas classic like I know them, but I love this edition of the story.

I received a review copy of this ebook from Ten Speed Press and NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. Thank you for allowing me to review this ebook.


via Wayne's bookshelf: read http://ift.tt/2elGKMT

Batgirl #3 (Batgirl 2016, #3)

author: Hope Larson
name: Wayne
average rating: 3.40
book published:
rating: 2
read at: 2016/10/10
date added: 2016/10/10
shelves: graphic-novels
review:
'Batgirl #3' by Hope Larson with art by Rafael Albuquerque is part three of the 'Beyond Burnside' storyline.

Batgirl is still in Asia. She is still with Kai. She starts the issue at the end of a fight after getting beat up pretty good. During the fight, she finds out more information that leads her to Korea.

The whole thing feels like we are getting strung along. I don't care about Kai at this point, and he should just go away. Batgirl seems to be handling herself in Asia ok, but even after 3 issues, I'm tired of this storyline. I still like the character, and the covers are pretty cool. I just want something that feels like something at this point.

I received a review copy of this issue from DC Entertainment and NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. Thank you for allowing me to review this issue.


via Wayne's bookshelf: read http://ift.tt/2e9Mdrd

The Adventures of Wally Fresh: Cupid's Arrow

author: Turner Lange
name: Wayne
average rating: 2.20
book published:
rating: 2
read at: 2016/10/09
date added: 2016/10/09
shelves: graphic-novels
review:



via Wayne's bookshelf: read http://ift.tt/2d5VkmM

Warship Jolly Roger Book 1: No Turning Back

author: Sylvain Runberg
name: Wayne
average rating: 3.82
book published: 2014
rating: 4
read at: 2016/10/09
date added: 2016/10/09
shelves: graphic-novels
review:
'Warship Jolly Roger' by Sylvain Runberg with art by Miquel Montllo is just the kind of space opera story I like to read. A story of people fighting against the odds.

After a prison outbreak on the planet Tullanium, four escapees who don't know each other decide to band together to evade recapture. One is Jon Tiberius Munro, a disgraced confederation captain serving a life sentence for a war crime he was forced to commit. One is Alisa Rinaldi who fought against the confederation. One is a smuggler named Nikolai Kowalski. The last is a teenager known only as Thirteen, who doesn't talk, but has a cool owl drone that he flies with his mind.

The plan is to capture Munro's old ship, but things don't always go the way they are planned. Along the way, they kidnap the confederation president, have a few close calls, and learn to get along. Maybe not so much on that last one.

The setting is interesting, if not too original. The familiarity works in it's favor perhaps. The art is also interesting. It's got a certain anime look, and in the notes afterword, I learned that it was treated as if it were an animated feature. Perhaps if the book does well, that can happen. The few extras include have some atmospheric drawings and the original story pitch, which I didn't read, since it is in French. I enjoyed the ride this story took me on.

I received a review copy of this graphic novel from Diamond Book Distributors, Magnetic Press, and NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. Thank you for allowing me to review this graphic novel.


via Wayne's bookshelf: read http://ift.tt/2dMoYQu

Teen Titans: Rebirth #1 (Teen Titans) (2016-)

author: Benjamin Percy
name: Wayne
average rating: 3.95
book published: 2016
rating: 3
read at: 2016/10/09
date added: 2016/10/09
shelves: graphic-novels
review:
'Teen Titans: Rebirth #1' by Benjamin Percy with art by Jonboy Meyers is a chance to get the team together again.

The story has individual stories of what some of the former members have been doing. Beast Boy is partying and spending his uncle's money. Starfire is looking into human trafficking. Raven is checking out an art museum after hours. Kid Flash is stopping a thief (if he doesn't get suspected of the crime first). They will all come together at the end of the issue, but how is for you to find out.

I liked the individual stories. They fit the characters pretty well. The art and the cover by Jonboy Meyers is especially good. How this plays out may be interesting.

I received a review copy of this issue from DC Entertainment and NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. Thank you for allowing me to review this issue.


via Wayne's bookshelf: read http://ift.tt/2dUTgzv

The Hellblazer #2 (The Hellblazer 2016, #2)

author: Simon Oliver
name: Wayne
average rating: 3.50
book published:
rating: 4
read at: 2016/10/09
date added: 2016/10/09
shelves: graphic-novels
review:
'The Hellblazer #2' by Simon Oliver with art by Moritat continues John Constantine's return to England. I liked the first issue, and this one builds a bit more.

The Swamp Thing is looking for Abigail Arcane, and he still believes in John. Meanwhile John seems to only be looking out for himself (which is per usual). He weasels Chas for a ride and for Chas to place a bet for him. He then begins to look into a new underworld kingpin, but ends up picking up a tail with a couple strange human looking creatures he refers to as muppets.

At this point, I don't know how the Swamp Thing story and the John Constantine story connect, but they are certainly a study in contrasts. The Swamp Thing is quiet and powerful, and John is chaotic and frenzied.

I like the art by Moritat. It has a cartoonish look to it, so John's expressions tend to squash and stretch. The color is good and panels have nice background details. I like this book so far.

I received a review copy of this issue from DC Entertainment and NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. Thank you for allowing me to review this issue.


via Wayne's bookshelf: read http://ift.tt/2dDWRHf

Deadman: Dark Mansion of Forbidden Love (2016-) #1

author: Sarah Vaughn
name: Wayne
average rating: 3.43
book published: 2017
rating: 2
read at: 2016/10/08
date added: 2016/10/08
shelves: graphic-novels
review:
'Deadman: Dark Mansion of Forbidden Love #1' by Sarah Vaughn with art by Lan Medina stars one of my favorite characters in the DC Universe, but the story felt intent on telling a story that seemed to take away from the one I wanted.

Berenice lives in a creepy old house and like antiques. She and her friend Sam come home from shopping and Berenice seems to be able to see Deadman in her house, which should be impossible since Deadman is dead. At some point in the story the perspective shifts and we see how Deadman sees th‌ings. He is puzzled that he can be seen and when he tries to take over Berenice, she resists. Also, he can't seem to phase through some things in the house. He and Berenice team up to find out what is going on.

There is a whole other aspect of the story, which might lead in to the title. Berenice is married, but seems to be attracted to Sam, who is a they (neither he nor she). It just felt like the story spent a lot of time in this vague zone and it felt secondary. Perhaps it's set up for future plot in this book, but for now, it just felt extraneous to the story I thought I was reading.

I received a review copy of this issue from DC Entertainment and NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. Thank you for allowing me to review this issue.


via Wayne's bookshelf: read http://ift.tt/2e3CCCa

Batman Beyond Rebirth (2016-) #1

author: Dan Jurgens
name: Wayne
average rating: 3.75
book published:
rating: 4
read at: 2016/10/08
date added: 2016/10/08
shelves: graphic-novels
review:
'Batman Beyond Rebirth #1' by Dan Jurgens with art by Ryan Sook feels a bit like a new beginning, and kind of feels like a continuation at the same time. I think I'm ok with that.

This book takes place 6 months after Batman Beyond #16. There is a bit of an origin story that gets retold for those not familiar with the characters. Gotham is being threatened by the Jokerz. Terry reconnects with Commissioner Gordon, Barbara, but the question still remains, where is Bruce Wayne? The other question is who is behind this sudden resurgence of the Jokerz? And why do all the Rebirth books end on such cliffhangers?

I liked the story well enough. It's a title I would probably regularly read. I did really like Ryan Sook's art. I was only familiar with this character from the long ago cartoon series, so it's nice to see him in print and doing fine.

I received a review copy of this issue from DC Entertainment and NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. Thank you for allowing me to review this comic book.


via Wayne's bookshelf: read http://ift.tt/2dFjvLX

Dayblack #6

author: Keef Cross
name: Wayne
average rating: 4.00
book published:
rating: 4
read at: 2016/10/08
date added: 2016/10/08
shelves: graphic-novels
review:
'Dayblack #6' by Keef Cross continues the strange adventures of a vampire, but has unusual and very cool art.

Bryce and Nell are back from the dead, and Nell is especially getting in to her new role as vampire. We also learn vampires hang out in an abandoned hotel and drink blood out of coffee makers. We also discover that Merce may not want to be too curious.

The comic has a strange way of telling a story that I can't seem to follow, but the real reason I keep reading these is the gorgeous art by Keef Cross. If you like the covers like I do, I can guarantee there is more inside just like it. The full color pages look like woodcuts. Merce owns a tattoo parlor, so maybe the intent is to look like tattoos. Regardless, the artwork is what keeps me coming back.

I received a review copy of this issue from Rosarium Publishing and NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. Thank you for allowing me to review this comic book.


via Wayne's bookshelf: read http://ift.tt/2dJXgDG

Frostbite #1

author: Joshua Williamson
name: Wayne
average rating: 3.57
book published:
rating: 4
read at: 2016/10/08
date added: 2016/10/08
shelves: graphic-novels
review:
'Frostbite #1' by Joshua Williamson with art by Luis Nict and Jason Alexander takes place in a future where a second ice age has hit the planet. I got cold just reading it.

Keaton and her gang live in Mexico City, where along with extreme cold, there is a disease called frostbite that seems to be contagious. People have to pay for heat with credits and Keaton's gang is looking for a way to make credits and stay warm. They get the chance when a doctor and his daughter need a ride up North to Alcatraz. What they don't tell Keaton is they are being hunted by a dangerous group of people who want to stop the doctor and his daughter.

I like the premise and it gets off to a fast start. I like the world and premise that is set up by this issue. I didn't feel like I got an info dump or felt like I was missing anything. The story and art work for this story. Overall it's not bad and I'd like to read more.

I received a review copy of this issue from DC Entertainment and NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. Thank you for allowing me to review this comic book.


via Wayne's bookshelf: read http://ift.tt/2eeHW4K

Diablo III: Book of Cain

author: Flint Dille
name: Wayne
average rating: 4.09
book published: 2011
rating: 3
read at: 2016/10/08
date added: 2016/10/08
shelves:
review:
'Diablo III' by Insight Editions came to me as an ebook that was releasing this month. My review is based on the review copy they gave me which is only 23 pages long. I think it's enough to give me an idea of what the rest of book contains.

The book is told by Diablo III's narrators, Deckard Cain. The book has the feel of a journey with notes and drawings from the game. The chapter I was giving discussed the greater evils (Diablo, Baal, Mephisto) and lesser evils (Duriel, Andariel, Azmodan, and Belial) that one encounters in the game.

It would have been helpful in such a short snippet to have a table of contents so that other content was something I could see. What I got was a decent read, and the illustrations were really good. The book is hued in sepia tone. It looks like it was previously released when Diablo III was new, so I'm unsure why this is releasing again, but it is a great game. A fun add on for fans of the game.

I received a review copy of this ebook from Insight Editions and NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. Thank you for allowing me to review this ebook.


via Wayne's bookshelf: read http://ift.tt/2dJND8h

DC Rebirth: Trinity #1

author: Francis Manapul
name: Wayne
average rating: 4.35
book published: 2016
rating: 5
read at: 2016/10/08
date added: 2016/10/08
shelves: graphic-novels
review:
'Trinity #1' with script and art by Francis Manapul is a thing of quiet beauty. It's also a risk that I think pays off very well.

While most times, a first issue would launch with a big battle, this one starts with a dinner party. Lois has invited Wonder Woman and Batman over to their house, unbeknownst to Superman, for a chance for a friendship to build. Jon is so surprised over the visitors (Diana shows up with a dead boar on her shoulders as a gift) that he acts before thinking. This sets up some fun banter between Batman and Superman about training the young. There is also some tension between Lois and Wonder Woman. The issue ends on a weird note, but it's not enough to ruin the issue for me.

The cover to this issue is great, with our three prominent heroes in front and Diana's sword reflecting their greatest villains. I'm also blown away by someone who writes and illustrates their own work so deftly. The art fits the story very well. This was a good story.

I received a review copy of this issue from DC Entertainment and NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. Thank you for allowing me to review this comic book.


via Wayne's bookshelf: read http://ift.tt/2dSW3Jv

The Sea King's Daughter: A Russian Legend

author: Aaron Shepard
name: Wayne
average rating: 3.94
book published: 1997
rating: 5
read at: 2016/10/08
date added: 2016/10/08
shelves: children-s
review:
'The Sea King's Daughter: A Russian Legend' by Aaron Shepard and illustrated by Gennady Spirin is a wonderfully told and illustrated story from another time and place.

Sadko loves to play his twelve-strig gusli. He's good so he gets invited to play at feasts. He also like to play beside the River Vokhov that runs through his town of Novgorod. This is what leads him to meet the Kind of the Sea, and eventually his daughter. The rest you will have to find out for yourself.

It's a beautiful story told very well. The illustrations are sumptuous and carry the reader away to far off places. The book was first published in the late 90s, and won quite a few awards. It deserves to be a classic. I'm glad to see it reprinted here for a new audience.

I received a review copy of this ebook from Skyhook Press and NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. Thank you for allowing me to review this ebook.


via Wayne's bookshelf: read http://ift.tt/2dCDJFz

The Liszts

author: Kyo Maclear
name: Wayne
average rating: 4.00
book published:
rating: 5
read at: 2016/10/08
date added: 2016/10/08
shelves: children-s
review:
'The Liszts' by Kyo Maclear with art by Julia Sarda is about a most unusual family. It's a good story, but the art is amazing!

The Liszts are a family that makes lists. They make ordinary lists (soccer players, dreaded chores, etc.) and unusual lists (ghastly illnesses and fearsome enemies). Their lists fill the house, and fill their lives. Until one day, a mysterious visitor comes into their house through the unlocked front door and into their lives.

The subtle lesson of the book is that it's okay to make plans, but it's good to leave room for the unexpected. The art is perfect for a rainy October day. The characters tend toward the gloomy (think Addams Family perhaps), but there is enough color to keep things lively. The visitor who shows up seems a little creepy at first, especially because the middle child befriends him, but he turns out to be harmless, and I realize that is the fear that gets put upon us over strangers and children. I really liked this picture book and it's amazing illustrations.

I received a review copy of this ebook from Penguin Random House Canada and NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. Thank you for allowing me to review this ebook.


via Wayne's bookshelf: read http://ift.tt/2dSMHha