The Bullet Journal Method: Track the Past, Order the Present, Design the Future

author: Ryder Carroll
name: Wayne
average rating: 3.97
book published: 2018
rating: 4
read at: 2019/01/31
date added: 2019/01/31
shelves: non-fiction
review:



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The infographic book of tennis: You Cannot Be Serious!

author: Mark Hodgkinson
name: Wayne
average rating: 4.45
book published:
rating: 4
read at: 2019/01/31
date added: 2019/01/31
shelves: non-fiction
review:
'You Cannot Be Serious!: The Graphic Guide to Tennis' by Mark Hodgkinson is a fun collection of infographics about big time tennis.

Starting with a brief overview of the rules, there then follow pages of graphics on food served at big matches, player serve speeds and more. There are bios of all the big names like Federer and Williams and Connors. There are weird superstitions that players have and the kind of clothes they wear.

I'm not a huge tennis fan, but I'm familiar with the big names. I liked this look into the world of the superfamous and amazingly good players. I also liked the stories of the losses and long matches. The graphics were a fun way to deliver the stats.

I received a review copy of this ebook from Quarto Publishing Group-Aurum Press, and NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. Thank you for allowing me to review this ebook.


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The Undertaker, The Vagrant & The Assassin (Stern, #1)

author: Frédéric Maffre
name: Wayne
average rating: 3.90
book published: 2015
rating: 4
read at: 2018/02/23
date added: 2019/01/29
shelves: graphic-novels
review:
"The Undertaker, The Vagrant & The Assassin (Stern, #1)" by Frédéric Maffre with art by Julien Maffre is a Western story that had some interesting character twists during the course of the story.

The story begins with a bushwacker raid in Lawrence, Kansas in 1863 where we witness a small boy standing over the dead body of his mother. We then move to Morrison, Kansas and the present, 1882. Stern is an undertaker in a small town who wears black and reads literature. He goes to the local madam's house to retrieve a body. The widow asks Stern to do an autopsy to give her teetotaling crusade proof of the ravages of alcohol. What he finds instead sets off a series of investigations into this death.

There is a vagrant who moves in with Stern who is more than he seems. There are a few characters that seem to be stereotypes or caricatures, but end up having more depth than I expected.

This is well written and I liked the art. I liked the grim mood of the story and the main character. I would read more of this series if it were available.

I received a review copy of this graphic novel from Europe Comics and NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. Thank you for allowing me to review this graphic novel.


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In Blossom

author: Cheon Yooju
name: Wayne
average rating: 3.95
book published:
rating: 4
read at: 2019/01/26
date added: 2019/01/26
shelves: childrens
review:
'In Blossom' by Cheon Yooju is a simple picture book, but it's gentle hush sets the tone for my favorite kind of picture books.

Cat and dog meet on a bench. Cat is eating her lunch of sushi. Dog is engrossed in reading his book. A blossom falls between them, and before long, it looks like these two strangers will become friends.

The illustrations are really nice. The color is used sparsely and to great effect. The story is quiet and beautiful in tone. I really liked this picture book for young readers.

I received a review copy of this ebook from Quarto Publishing-Lincoln Children's Books, and NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. Thank you for allowing me to review this ebook.


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Herakles Book 2

author: Édouard Cour
name: Wayne
average rating: 3.89
book published: 2014
rating: 4
read at: 2019/01/26
date added: 2019/01/26
shelves: graphic-novels
review:
'Herakles Book 2' by Edouard Cour brings the cranky Greek hero back in a second volume to complete his labors.

Herakles is still questing, still plowing his way through problems, and still leaving a trail of enemies and allies in his wake. This time around he had to get the belt of Hippolyta, the Cattle of Geryon, some Apples of the Hesperides, and the three-headed dog Cerberus. He does it in the same gruff way that made me love the first volume. In the afterword, the various people and gods that Herakles encounters get short bios.

What works is the simplicity of the whole thing. The art is simple as is the story, which makes this perfect and perfectly accessible. I think I liked the first volume a little bit better, but that may be because the earlier labors are a bit more known to me. I like this version of the character a lot who is blunt of wit and violence.

I received a review copy of this graphic novel from Lion Forge, 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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This Promise of Change: One Girl’s Story in the Fight for School Equality

author: Jo Ann Allen Boyce
name: Wayne
average rating: 4.64
book published: 2019
rating: 5
read at: 2019/01/26
date added: 2019/01/26
shelves: childrens, non-fiction
review:
'This Promise of Change' by Jo Ann Allen Boyce and Debbie Levy tells the heartbreaking story of one girl's fight to integrate with 11 others into a white high school in the 1950s.

In 1956, schools were ordered to fall under the ruling of Brown VS. The Board of Education and integrate their schools. One of the very earliest was in Clinton, Tennessee. Jo Ann Allen was in high school and travelling to another town over to an all black school. She was chosen along with 11 others to be the first black student to attend Clinton's all white school. Things did not go well, but throughout, Jo Ann remains poised and determined. Things go from bad to worse as the town finds itself being influenced by outside white supremacists.

This book is really good. It's told in a variety of forms of poetry which I was afraid might detract from the story, but actually make it even more readable and interesting. The book includes timelines, photos, and clips from newspaper interviews. The story of this era is heartbreaking, but Jo Ann Allen's courage is a shiny example of faith and courage.

I received a review copy of this ebook from Bloomsbury USA Children's Books and NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. Thank you for allowing me to review this ebook.


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The Sound of the World By Heart

author: Giacomo Bevilacqua
name: Wayne
average rating: 3.52
book published: 2016
rating: 3
read at: 2019/01/24
date added: 2019/01/24
shelves: graphic-novels
review:
'The Sound of the World By Heart' by Giacomo Bevilacqua is a graphic novel about an artist's experiment in silence and what that may cost him.

Sam is a photojournalist who has suffered a big loss. He decides to give himself an assignment of living in New York for 60 days without talking to another person. He does this by making sure he always wears headphones and doesn't eat at the same restaraunt too often. His ordered life becomes disordered when he develops his rolls of film and discovers all the pictures feature the same woman. He has been avoiding human contact, but the city has ways of turning Sam's world upside down.

I liked the art quite a bit. I understand why the entire book is narrated, but it's not my favorite way to read a graphic novel. I wasn't sure about the story at the beginning, but by the end, I realized that I liked where the story went.

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://bit.ly/2CGJVss

All the Light We Cannot See

author: Anthony Doerr
name: Wayne
average rating: 4.32
book published: 2014
rating: 5
read at: 2019/01/23
date added: 2019/01/23
shelves: favorites
review:
I'm a pretty avid reader, but I have to confess that sometimes when people insist I have to read something, I can turn in to a willful child. Such was the case with 'All the Light We Cannot See' by Anthony Doerr. It was (and is) all the talk. It won the Pulitzer Prize. The subject matter was appealing. And yet, I approached it like a stubborn infant. And then I read it.

It's luminous and beautiful. It's meaningful and quiet. It's the kind of book that just about every book I read should be. These are characters and images that will haunt you and stay with you. It's my turn to say it.

You should read it.


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Ballparks: A Journey Through the Fields of the Past, Present, and Future

author: Eric Enders
name: Wayne
average rating: 4.62
book published:
rating: 4
read at: 2019/01/23
date added: 2019/01/23
shelves: non-fiction
review:
'Ballparks: A Journey Through the Fields of the Past, Present, and Future' by Eric Enders is a tour through the MLB ballparks in North America geographically and historically.

Starting with Philadelphia and going through Miami the book discusses the teams and mainly the stadiums that were and are still there. There are pictures of the stadiums, the players, other bits of history. Some chapters end in sidetrips to stadiums made famous by movies, or built for movies. There is a minor league field in the South that feels like an old school stadium. The new stadium retro craze is discussed along with the sometime shady political deals that get made.

As a casual baseball fan, but one who loves history, I loved this look at the past and present. Minor league teams and stadiums are under represented simply because it would add too much to the book, but I was pleased that so much of the Negro leagues and their stadiums were mentioned.

I received a review copy of this ebook from Quarto Publishing Group-Chartwell Books, and NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. Thank you for allowing me to review this ebook.


via Wayne's bookshelf: read http://bit.ly/2HrUF3m

Monster & Madman

author: Steve Niles
name: Wayne
average rating: 3.56
book published: 2014
rating: 4
read at: 2014/09/15
date added: 2019/01/21
shelves: graphic-novels
review:
'Monster & Madman' is a story where Frankenstein's monster comes face to face with Jack the Ripper. That should give you a hint to it's dark nature, but it's the art by Damien Worm that really sells this one for me.

When the monster emerges from the ice, he takes a job on a ship heading back to Europe. Upon arrival, the ship's captain wants him to murder a man, which is against his nature and leads to an interesting twist. Frankenstein's monster is hideous, but he is intelligent and no monster inside.

He finds himself in London, and trying to hide. He is taken in by a doctor who is most intrigued by his construction. He promises that in turn for a thorough examination, this doctor will try to create a new bride for this monster. Will the bride be horrified by her new husband or the circumstances of her construction?

It's a good story that is elevated by the artwork. The art is murky and difficult to discern, but that fits this story completely. My only concern was with the lettering in some of the panels, but I really enjoyed this one.

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 great, gothic graphic novel.


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Miss Mink: Life Lessons for a Cat Countess

author: Janet Hill
name: Wayne
average rating: 4.23
book published: 2019
rating: 3
read at: 2019/01/20
date added: 2019/01/20
shelves: childrens
review:
'Miss Mink: Life Lessons for a Cat Countess' by Janet Hill is a picture book full of advice for young readers.

Miss Marcella Mink lives in a house with 67 cats. This means she can't go out and do things like take a cruise. She has plans to create a feline-friendly cruise company. This still leaves her stuck around the house, but her cats are there to help teach her 20 lessons. They include things like: make your goals bigger than your fears, and chase your dreams.

The illustrations accompanying these lessons are lush and filled with details. Also many cats. The advice is mostly solid and good for young readers. They will also have fun finding all the cats included in the drawings.

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


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Dragons in Love

author: Alexandre Lacroix
name: Wayne
average rating: 2.80
book published:
rating: 2
read at: 2019/01/20
date added: 2019/01/20
shelves: childrens
review:
'Dragons in Love' by Alexandre Lacroix with illustrations by Ronan Badel is a story about a young dragon who doesn't know what to do with his feelings after his first kiss.

Drake is a young dragon who likes to play with other kids. When one of them gives him a kiss, he's not sure what to do. He finds himself using his flame and feeling strangely. After a talk with his dad, things are put back in to perspective.

The illustrations are really great. It's a cute story, but first kisses and young love seem like odd subjects for young reader picture books. I'd like to see more by this team with perhaps a bit more appropriate storyline.

I received a review copy of this ebook from Quarto Publishing-words and pictures, and NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. Thank you for allowing me to review this ebook.


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Tim Burton's The Nightmare Before Christmas: Zero's Journey

author: D.J. Milky
name: Wayne
average rating: 3.86
book published:
rating: 3
read at: 2019/01/20
date added: 2019/01/20
shelves: graphic-novels
review:
'Tim Burton's The Nightmare Before Christmas' from Tokyopop is a continuation of the popular movie starring Jack's dog Zero.

Jack Skellington is busy planning next Halloween, but Zero wants to play. When Jack starts absently playing fetch with Zero, Zero ends up in the grove of holidays and ends up in Christmas Town. He makes new friends like flying reindeer and a friendly elf that takes him in. Jack is worried about his friend, but too busy to go looking so he asks for help from an unlikely group.

This manga collects issues 0-4 of the series. I enjoyed reading this one, and I liked that it was full color. The art and story should appeal to young readers who like the movie.

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


via Wayne's bookshelf: read http://bit.ly/2FPaBdx

How Do You Smoke a Weed?

author: Owlin
name: Wayne
average rating: 0.0
book published:
rating: 3
read at: 2019/01/19
date added: 2019/01/19
shelves: graphic-novels
review:
'How Do You Smoke a Weed' by Owlin, Lin Visel and Joseph Bergin III is a graphic novel guide for newbies to the world of legal marijuana.

Our guide is a young floral person named Sprout. Sprout wants to partake of pot, but first must be guided in the ways. There are lessons about the various strains and varieties. There are lessons about rolling joints, and using bongs. Sprout meets new friends, and learns new ways to get high. She also learns what it means to be too high and what to do about it.

I live in one of the many states where cannabis is legal. It seemed to be about time for something like this to come along. I was a bit worried that it might look a bit too much like a graphic novle for kids, and it kind of does, but there are warnings in the front and hopefully it stays in the hands of consenting adults.

I received a review copy of this graphic novel from Iron Circus in exchange for an honest review. Thank you for allowing me to review this graphic novel.


via Wayne's bookshelf: read http://bit.ly/2RBv8cN

Secret Elites (The Corsairs of Alcibiades)

author: Éric Liberge
name: Wayne
average rating: 3.25
book published: 2010
rating: 4
read at: 2019/01/19
date added: 2019/01/19
shelves: graphic-novels
review:
'The Corsairs of Alcibiade #1: Secret Elites' by Denis-Pierre Filippi with art by Eric Liberge is a graphic novel about a secret society with a really tough entrance exam.

A group of various people in the early 1800s is captured and are taking place in a very strange admission exam to an elite organization. Before long, the large group is whittle down to 5 people with nothing in common. They are forced to run, solve puzzles, and use their wits to try to escape from a very strange ship.

I really liked this kind of smart story. The characters were interesting, and I like how they had to use different talents and each other to get through things. The art by Eric Liberge works well for this story.

I received a review copy of this graphic novel from Europe Comics and NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. Thank you for allowing me to review this graphic novel.


via Wayne's bookshelf: read http://bit.ly/2RHuivn

Authorised Happiness (Volume 1)

author: Jean Van Hamme
name: Wayne
average rating: 3.50
book published:
rating: 4
read at: 2019/01/18
date added: 2019/01/18
shelves: graphic-novels
review:
'Authorised Happiness' by Jean Van Hamme with art by Griffo is a series of stories told about a dystopian state where happiness is part of the bureaucracy.

In the first story, a man gets a job. He doesn't really understand what the job really is, and all attempts to find this out lead to dead ends. Is having a job and not knowing what you are doing better than the freedom of unemployment?

In the second story, a woman who has her life and diet dictated by the state decides to live outside the norms, but the cost may be too high when someone close to her becomes ill. In the final story, a group of people go on a holiday dictated by the state. Doing well at group participation means you might get a better vacation time next year, but what if you just want to relax and read, or fall in love?

I liked these stories of state controlled happiness taken to extremes. The stories don't seem to be linked, but the situations all seem similarly controlled. The art is pretty good as well.

I received a review copy of this graphic novel from Europe Comics and NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. Thank you for allowing me to review this graphic novel.


via Wayne's bookshelf: read http://bit.ly/2FI43O6

Cellies, Vol. 1

author: Joe Flood
name: Wayne
average rating: 3.14
book published:
rating: 3
read at: 2019/01/17
date added: 2019/01/17
shelves: graphic-novels
review:
'Cellies, Vol. 1' by Joe Flood and Davis Stuart II is a love letter to working in retail hell. It is funny in a sitcom kind of way.

The workers of Jog Mobile have lots of things to deal with. There are new phone releases, irate customers, clueless customers, absentee managers. There is also bonding with strange coworkers and office romance.

The cover might lead you to believe it's a zombie story, but it's more of a story told by someone who has been in the trenches of retail and suffered the ennui of slacking for menial pay. The art works well for the story. Overall, it's a solid effort.

I received a review copy of this graphic novel from Lion Forge, 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://bit.ly/2W3ej99

Noir

author: Łukasz Bogacz
name: Wayne
average rating: 2.50
book published: 2013
rating: 2
read at:
date added: 2019/01/17
shelves: graphic-novels
review:
'Noir' by Lukasz Bogacz with art by Wojciech Stefaniec is an interesting idea for a story, but the execution leaves some things to be desired.

A crime writer writes perfectly narrated stories. His personal life is messy though. Through dark art and strange narration, the story unfolds as the writer finds out his wife is unfaithful.

What he does next makes the story more interesting, but by then, it's too little, too late. The art feels a bit like photocopies that are too dark, and has a zine quality to it that I liked, but it's a bit hard to follow also. I got more interested in the latter half of the story, but the first two thirds were kind of a slog to get through. I've read a similar story told better elsewhere unfortunately.

I received a review copy of this graphic novel from Europe Comics and NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. Thank you for allowing me to review this graphic novel.


via Wayne's bookshelf: read http://bit.ly/2QWUlt0

Big Nate: What's a Little Noogie Between Friends?

author: Lincoln Peirce
name: Wayne
average rating: 4.58
book published:
rating: 4
read at: 2018/04/13
date added: 2019/01/12
shelves: graphic-novels, childrens
review:
'Big Nate: What's a Little Noogie Between Friends?' by Lincoln Peirce is another consistently great entry in this series.

From school picture day to losing to the worst team around, Nate's life isn't easy. There is tabletop football and teaching nerdy little bookworm Peter how to play hockey. This time around, he also has to say goodbye to Jenny as well. Will she finally actually like Nate?

I've enjoyed every one of these collections. The humor is consistent throughout the series. It's a good one for younger readers (and apparently some older ones as well).

I received a review copy of this graphic novel from Andrews McMeel 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://bit.ly/2TJnz0g

Do Androids Dream of Electric Sheep?

author: Philip K. Dick
name: Wayne
average rating: 4.08
book published: 1968
rating: 4
read at: 2014/11/22
date added: 2019/01/12
shelves:
review:
'Do Androids Dream of Electric Sheep?' is the classic novel by Philip K. Dick that was the (sort of) basis for the movie Blade Runner. I'd read this book decades ago and recently revisited it when an online book club I'm in on Goodreads decided to read it.

The plot elements include a strange religion called Mercerism, an obsession with a tv host named Buster Friendly, a need to own real animals which are superior and more expensive than robotic ones, a machine that measures minute responses to moral situations and a machine that allows you to dial in your level of empathy. There is a spider, a toad, a goat and an electric sheep. There is a bounty hunter out to dispatch a group of robots so that he can finally afford a real animal. Along the way, the theme is all about what it means to be truly human.

If you're familiar with the movie and not the book, the first thing you have to do is realize they are both separate, but both good works. If you've never read the book, it's a classic. It holds up pretty well, and I'm glad I took it for a reread.


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Uncrashable Dakota

author: Andy Marino
name: Wayne
average rating: 3.33
book published: 2013
rating: 4
read at: 2017/05/01
date added: 2019/01/12
shelves: childrens
review:
'Uncrashable Dakota' by Andy Marino is about the maiden flight of a luxury airship considered unable to crash. We all know what happens to things that are considered uncrashable or unsinkable though.

Hollis Dakota, his mother, his new stepfather Jefferson Castor, his step brother Rob Castor and their friend Delia are all on board for the flight of the Wendell Dakota, a new luxury airship. Hollis christens the ship, but something unlucky happens. This is our warning that things may not be going smoothly.

In flashbacks, we learn the history of the airships. Hollis' grandfather discovered some unusual flying beetles and how they were used to help President Lincoln win the Civil War. Along the way, there were some grudges and now that will come to a boil aboard the Wendell Dakota. As Hollis, Rob and Delia find themselves aboard a hijacked airship, can they figure out how to stop the pirates and get down to the ground safely?

I enjoyed this one. I liked the kind of alternate USA that was set up. At one point, it's mentioned in passing that President Lincoln avoided being assassinated. The flying beetles living off a kind of moonshine was kind of a funny detail.

I received a review copy of this ebook from Henry Holt and Co., Macmillian Children's Publishing Group, and NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. Thank you for allowing me to review this ebook.


via Wayne's bookshelf: read http://bit.ly/2TNMGiE

Cloudia and Rex

author: Ulises Fariñas
name: Wayne
average rating: 3.19
book published: 2017
rating: 3
read at: 2018/04/14
date added: 2019/01/12
shelves: graphic-novels
review:
'Cloudia and Rex' by Ulises Farinas with art by Erick Freitas is a weird story with weird art, but I kind of liked it.

Cloudia and Rex are sisters and they are moving to Seattle with their mother. For no given reason, a group of gods trying to stop the end of the world get involved in their lives. Cloudia finds she has super strength, and Rex can turn into any animal she likes (for Rex, this is mostly extinct animals). The opposing gods seem to be easily foiled by technology like Cloudia's smart phone.

The art is strange and strangely colored, but I like the choices that Freitas has made here. The story has some abrupt transitions that felt a little confusing. It's a short story at only 3 included issues, but I liked the story it told.

I received a review copy of this graphic novel from 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://bit.ly/2D5ZIlU

The Speed of Sound: Breaking the Barriers Between Music and Technology

author: Thomas Dolby
name: Wayne
average rating: 4.50
book published:
rating: 5
read at:
date added: 2019/01/12
shelves: non-fiction
review:
'The Speed of Sound: Breaking the Barriers Between Music and Technology' by Thomas Dolby was a well written autobiography.

The book is broken into two parts. In the first part, Thomas Dolby recounts his music career. From the early days of scrounging and building electronic keyboards, to stints in backup bands. He discusses his hits and misses, and the lessons learned along the way from the music industry.

In the second part, Mr. Dolby turns his back on the music industry and ends up in the world of internet startups in the 1990s. He recounts the trials and travails of Beatnik, the company he founded. He talks about the venture capitalists, the attempt at an IPO and the related stress.

It's told in such a gracious style. It felt like sitting down over dinner and hearing stories from a friend. Mr. Dolby is self-effacing, willing to discuss the missteps as well as the successes. It was fun to read and be reminded of the early days of the World Wide Web, a time of great creativity.


via Wayne's bookshelf: read http://bit.ly/2TPZwwV

Teen Titans (2016-) Vol. 2: The Rise of Aqualad

author: Benjamin Percy
name: Wayne
average rating: 3.96
book published: 2018
rating: 3
read at: 2018/04/12
date added: 2019/01/12
shelves: graphic-novels
review:
'Teen Titans Vol. 2: The Rise of Aqualad' by Benjamin Percy tells an origin story of sorts as well as having lots more going on.

Jackson Hyde is a young man with some secrets. He has super powers and a crush on another young man. He wants to use his powers for good, so when he sees an interview with Beast Boy at Titans headquarters, he knows where to go. Which is good, because Beast Boy's interview goes badly when the reporter disappears into the water and the Teen Titans have to fight King Shark. It also turns out that Black Mantis has an interest in Jackson as well.

This collects issues 9-11 and 13-14 of Teen Titans, but somewhere in the story, Kid Flash gets ousted from the team, and it's hard to figure out why. The art style is fairly consistent over the run, but I just had a hard time caring much for these characters, including the new team member.

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


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Project Apollo: The Early Years, 1961-1967

author: Eugen Reichl
name: Wayne
average rating: 4.25
book published:
rating: 4
read at: 2018/02/07
date added: 2019/01/12
shelves: non-fiction
review:
'Project Apollo: The Early Years, 1961-1967' by Eugen Reichl is a short, concise look at the formation of the Apollo project.

From the development of the launch vehicle to the design of the LEM, this book looks at disagreements with contractors, and delayed schedules. There are triumphant tests and terrible disasters. Through it all, there was an ongoing tenacity to see the program through to the end.

The book includes lots of photos from this timeframe. Each mission gets a writeup including the mission number, launch date, launch vehicle type, mission goals and more.

This book fills in the things I didn't know about between the Gemini missions and the manned Apollo spaceflights. I knew there was testing going on, but not how much. I really enjoyed reading this book.

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


via Wayne's bookshelf: read http://bit.ly/2TGs63q

Harry and Clare's Amazing Staycation

author: Ted Staunton
name: Wayne
average rating: 3.32
book published:
rating: 4
read at:
date added: 2019/01/12
shelves: childrens
review:
'Harry and Clare's Amazing Staycation' by Ted Staunton with illustrations by Mika Song is about the power of imagination, and also about the power of kindness.

Harry and Clare are on spring break. They are stuck at home. It is raining. What are two kids to do? On Monday, they go exploring the volcanoes of Mars in the living room. Harry carries the luggage, Clare carries the snacks. This happens through the week. Harry has an idea. Will his idea work and will he get to finally eat a snack?

I love books about kids imaginations and this one had lots of that. The kids make the best of being stuck at home and the rain by using their minds to have fun. I love how Harry solves the problem of Clare not sharing snacks. It's not a perfect solution, but it is kind. The illustrations are cute and I think young readers will like this book.

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.


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The Story of Antigone

author: Ali Smith
name: Wayne
average rating: 4.12
book published: 2011
rating: 5
read at: 2017/04/12
date added: 2019/01/12
shelves: childrens
review:
I wouldn't think that the tragedies of Sophocles would make interesting books for younger readers, but I was proven wrong. 'The Story of Antigone' by Ali Smith with illustrations by Laura Paoletti is a very good adaptation of the famous drama.

The story starts on the battlefield in the aftermath of a terrible slaughter. Our narrator is a crow, which is morbid and a perfect choice as a witness to the events. Antigone wants to bury her vanquished brother, but King Creon, the victor, wants no such thing. What follows is a struggle between a headstrong king and a young woman who would stand up to him. The outcome is tragic, but the lesson of being willing to give your all for what you believe in rings true today.

The illustrations are in earth tones and are quite good. It's a pretty dark story, but the narrator and a stray dog have a few moments to lighten things up. There is also a question and answer at the end between Crow and the adapter Ali. This is a very good adaptation for younger readers.

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


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The Hum and the Shiver (Tufa, #1)

author: Alex Bledsoe
name: Wayne
average rating: 3.81
book published: 2011
rating: 3
read at: 2017/07/09
date added: 2019/01/12
shelves: sword-and-laser
review:
'The Hum and the Shiver' by Alex Bledsoe is the first book in a series about the Tufa, a mysterious group of people living in Tennessee. My online book club read it this month.

Private Bronwyn Hyatt is back from the war in the middle East and in need of healing. Her mother Chloe has seen signs that lead her to believe that death is coming for the family, specifically Chloe herself. There is a new minister in town and a reporter sent to do a story about Bronwyn. What they discover instead is a mystery that is older than they know involving these clans of people with their dark hair and muscical abilities.

It's a slow build, like sitting in a rocking chair on the porch. The reader knows there is more to the story, and it's played out slowly and deliberately. There are a couple story elements that seem like they get dropped altogether and that feels frustrating. The characters feel flawed and real, and I love the use of old folk music and an actual painting to underscore the story given. It's not a normal urban fantasy, but I enjoyed it well enough.


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Casa Nostra

author: Chris Sarracini
name: Wayne
average rating: 3.52
book published: 2017
rating: 2
read at: 2018/04/07
date added: 2019/01/12
shelves: graphic-novels
review:
'Casa Nostra' by Chris Sarracini with art by Nick Kilislian had an interesting premise, but has a weird art style to go with such a dark story.

The story starts with way too much exposition to lead us to our main character. Abandoned by her father when she was a child, she now runs a safe house for criminals in the gangster era. When the inevitable violence happens, they have a friendly "cleaner" who can help them dispose of the bodies.

They take in a violent member of Al Capone's mob and offer to give him a new face, but his uncontrolable anger can't be contained. Now the ladies are out for revenge.

The story skips around a bit and it's confusing. The pretty dolly art doesn't fit the grittiness of the story. These are supposedly tough women, but they have to rely on men way too much. I found that disappointing. At the beginning of the story, we learn that the main character is Asian, but we never learn why that matters. It's a fact that is useless to this story. The story and art are both muddied and not friendly to the reader.

I received a review copy of this graphic novel from Udon Entertainment, 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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Batman: Detective Comics, Vol. 5: A Lonely Place of Living

author: James Tynion IV
name: Wayne
average rating: 3.78
book published: 2018
rating: 4
read at: 2018/04/13
date added: 2019/01/12
shelves: graphic-novels
review:
'Batman: Detective Comics, Vol. 5: A Lonely Place of Living' by James Tynion IV is a series of three stories with some interconnection. The theme seems to be how alone you can be, even on a team as amazing as this one.

Tim Drake has been missing and presumed dead. In this volume's main story, we find out what happened in a storyline that spans back and forth through time. Spoiler finds herself intrigued by an idea from Anarky that would build a new type of city underground. Meanwhile, Clayface deals with the monster that he is while trying to find a cure that would return him to being Basil Carlo all the time.

I really enjoyed all three of these stories. This Batman series has a bunch of diverse characters and they are all treated really well. I like the writing that James Tynion IV has done on this series, and I'll be sad to see him go. The art was consistently pretty good too.

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


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Rork, The Ghosts

author: Andreas
name: Wayne
average rating: 4.00
book published:
rating: 4
read at: 2018/04/13
date added: 2019/01/12
shelves: graphic-novels
review:
'Rork, The Ghosts' by Andreas seems to be part of a series. I don't know where this falls in the series, but it seems like previous information is missing. The art is pretty stunning for the most part, though.

The story takes place in the 1800s. A man who can talk to ghosts wants to help find missing people. He finds the ghosts under trees, but now the ghosts aren't helping. He talks to Rork, a white haired stranger, about his problem. From reading the book's description, Rork is a paranormal investigator. Their journey takes them to the American Southwest where there are no trees, but something unusual awaits in the shadows.

It's an odd book that seems to just float, but I can be okay with that. The art, at times, was really beautiful. At other times, it felt a bit rushed. This was a strange journey, but I'm glad I took it.

I received a review copy of this graphic novel from Europe Comics and NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. Thank you for allowing me to review this graphic novel.


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Zodiac #1

author: Stuart Moore
name: Wayne
average rating: 3.67
book published: 2015
rating: 3
read at:
date added: 2019/01/12
shelves: childrens, graphic-novels
review:
'The Zodiac Legacy #1' by Stuart Moore and Stan Lee with art by P.H. Marcondes is a comic book version of the book series. In the series, the Chinese Zodiac is embodied in people, giving them strange powers related to zodiac animals.

The character we follow is Steven Lee. He finds himself caught in the struggle. Some of the Zodiacs have good motives and some don't. They have divided into two sides. Steven is the tiger and he is with dragon, ram, rooster, rabbit and pig, with skills like invulnerability or teleportation or information processing. Opposing them is dragon (apparently, the dragon power got split in two pieces), dog, horse, monkey, ox, rat and snake. Steven's team is looking for a new base on a place called Tiger Island and they are visiting a city there called Mediterra. It's a beautiful place, but it won't be tranquil for long. The bad guys attack by controlling animals and forcing them to attack innocent people. The team has their hands full subduing the animals and keeping everyone safe.

I think more familiarity with the series is probably needed, but the book starts with a lead in intro. There are also some creator bios at the end. The art is bright and engaging. Since there are so many characters, it can get a bit confusing and a lot of time is spent telling what the superpowers are. That kind of pulled me out of the book a few times, but it's a pretty good young reader graphic novel.

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


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Disney Pixar Manga: Wall-E

author: Shiro Shirai
name: Wayne
average rating: 3.75
book published:
rating: 4
read at: 2018/04/12
date added: 2019/01/12
shelves: childrens, graphic-novels
review:
'Disney Pixar Manga: Wall-E' by Shiro Shirai is an adaptation of the Pixar movie that is pretty faithful to the original.

The story starts with an introduction to the different characters the reader will encounter. Then we meet Wall-E, the lone robot left of his type, whose job is the clean up the Earth after humans trashed it. His lone companion is a cockroach, until he meets EVE and he is instantly attracted. EVE has her own plans and they don't include Wall-E. Their adventures lead them into space where the reader finds out what happened to the humans.

After the story, there is some fun Wall-E trivia. There are also character designs and a short comic. My copy included a bonus story from the Manga: Lilo and Stitch as a back up story. I liked this presentation. The story adaptation and the art were good. The bonuses were a fun addition.

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


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His Name Was Ptirou His Name Was Ptirou

author: Yves Sente
name: Wayne
average rating: 3.25
book published:
rating: 4
read at:
date added: 2019/01/12
shelves: graphic-novels, childrens
review:
'His Name was Ptirou' by Yves Sente with art by Laurent Verron is part of a series, but it's such a grand adventure that I didn't feel like I needed to know much outside of this book.

When Uncle Paul comes over for Christmas dinners, all the kids in the house gather around to hear one of his stories. This year it's about a young acrobat named Ptirou who loses his mother and starts to lose his way until he stows away and becomes a bellboy on an ocean liner. There is intrigue going on with the ship's captain and a group of workers who want to sabotage the ship. One act seems to threaten the captain's daughter and Ptirou has a chance to prove how brave he really is.

I really liked this story in a story from another era. What we learn in the story is that Ptirou was the inspiration for a famous character in Franco-Belgian comics. This was a cool fact, but whether you are familiar with Spirou or not, this is still a fun adventure graphic novel.

I received a review copy of this graphic novel from Europe Comics and NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. Thank you for allowing me to review this graphic novel.


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Green Arrow, Vol. 1: The Death & Life of Oliver Queen

author: Benjamin Percy
name: Wayne
average rating: 3.78
book published: 2017
rating: 4
read at:
date added: 2019/01/12
shelves: graphic-novels
review:
'Green Arrow Vol. 1: The Death and Life of Oliver Queen' by Benjamin Percy with art by Otto Schmidt delivers what the title states, so hopefully that's not a spoiler.

Oliver Queen returns to Seattle. In his role helping the people of Seattle, he finds that the homeless are being preyed on by ghastly looking beings that seem to be burned. It ties in to his very fortune and family. Before he knows it, he is betrayed by those closest to him, and murdered.

But that's not the whole story. He now finds himself without his fortune, but he still has friends and he wants to solve the mystery of the organization that has taken his wealth to use for evil purposes.

I've always liked that Green Arrow is set in Seattle, and I appreciate that they get so many of the details right. It's good to see Black Canary back in the picture, and I look forward to seeing what Green Arrow's sister Emi will do in future issues.

The writing is good and the art is pretty good as well. The book includes some character, and cover sketches. Also included is a cover gallery with art by Green Arrow legend Neal Adams.

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


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El Mesías

author: Mark Bellido
name: Wayne
average rating: 2.00
book published: 2015
rating: 2
read at:
date added: 2019/01/12
shelves: graphic-novels
review:
'El Mesias' by Mark Bellido with art by Wauter Mannaert is a political graphic novel from Spain. The concepts are universal, but one should probably have some inkling of the struggles of the government in Spain.

A wealthy land developer named Jesus Fernandez, aka El Pocero, builds a city that will be named after him, but the housing crisis of 2008 bankrupts him, and sends him in to despair. After a failed suicide attempt, he hears of an idyllic village named Marinaleda where communism seems to be working. He makes his way to this village and the rest of the book is about how Jesus finds himself near the seat of power and sees the powers and struggles of the leader as well as the everyday people.

It's a pretty dry read, and without the Spanish context, I found it not very interesting. The art and writing has satirical quality to it, so that kept things interesting, but I struggled to finish it.

I received a review copy of this graphic novel from Europe Comics and NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. Thank you for allowing me to review this graphic novel.


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On the History Trail with Ariane and Nino: 1. Albert Einstein - Genius Physicist

author: Fabrice Erre
name: Wayne
average rating: 4.00
book published:
rating: 4
read at: 2018/05/31
date added: 2019/01/12
shelves: childrens, graphic-novels, non-fiction
review:
'On the History Trail with Ariane and Nino: 1. Albert Einstein' by Fabrice Erre with art by Sylvain Savoia is a graphic novel for younger readers introducing them to a great scientist.

When young Nino is struggling with his science homework, his sister Fabrice decides to take him on a journey to meet a great scientist and discover his life. We meet Einstein as a young scientist and follow him through his greatest theories. Along the way he moves countries, becomes a pacifist, fights for a new home in Israel, and sees his science used to make weapons of mass destruction. The book finishes with an article about Einstein's early theories that he made in his first marriage. There are also short bios of other scientists of the era and a timeline.

This graphic novel was a lot of fun. I really liked that all the words Einstein speaks in the story were acutally his. The art is good, and I think this is a good introduction the life and major ideas of this scientist.

I received a review copy of this graphic novel from Europe Comics and NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.


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The Ghost, The Owl

author: Franco
name: Wayne
average rating: 3.77
book published: 2018
rating: 5
read at: 2018/05/31
date added: 2019/01/12
shelves: childrens, graphic-novels
review:
'The Ghost, The Owl' by Franco with art by Sara Richard is a gorgeous swirling graphic novel of a most unusual friendship.

One cool evening in the swamp, a wispy figure appears. It is the ghost of a young girl. While humans can't see her, the owl and the other animals can. Owl knows she can't rest until she finds peace, even if she doesn't know it, so owl enlists his friends to help out. What they find is a house in shambles, and a very angry man. Could this be where the ghost lived or could it be a further mystery?

The story is really good. It's completely elevated by the art. There are no panels or borders and the story just flows. The color choices reminded me of foggy days in the woods. The story is minimal, but I really liked these characters. It's an appropriate story for younger readers, but just be warned that there is some violence that is appropriate for the story.

I received a review copy of this graphic novel from Action Lab 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://bit.ly/2D8cHnr

The Forbidden Harbour V1

author: Teresa Radic
name: Wayne
average rating: 3.45
book published:
rating: 3
read at: 2018/04/14
date added: 2019/01/12
shelves: graphic-novels
review:
'The Forbidden Harbour V1' by Teresa Radice with illustrations by Stefano Turconi is a really intriguing story, but I felt really let down by the art style.

A young castaway with amnesia named Abel is found and rescued by a Royal Navy ship. He is given jobs on board the ship and seems to have unusual knowledge of ships and sailing, even though his hands are soft. His appearance coincided with the disappearance and treachery of the ship's former captain. When the ship returns home, he finds himself living in the inn owned by the former captain and his three daughters. Because he can read, he makes friends with the owner of the local brothel, and he spends days reading to her. Eventually, she tells him that they share a secret which may help him unlock his past.

The story is very good. It's literate and interesting. It spins off into an interesting direction at one point.

But, the art style has an unfinished quality to it. The style is roughed in storyboards. It looks like it's the pencilled illustrations before ink and color are applied, and this book deserves so much more than that. Black and white inks would have been preferable to what is presented. I'm giving this a 5 for story, but a one for art, so an overall 3.

I received a review copy of this graphic novel from Europe Comics and NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. Thank you for allowing me to review this graphic novel.


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CITY, 1 (CITY, #1)

author: Keiichi Arawi
name: Wayne
average rating: 3.55
book published:
rating: 5
read at: 2018/04/07
date added: 2019/01/12
shelves: graphic-novels
review:
'City, 1' by Keiichi Arawi is the first manga I've read that had me laughing out loud at the strange characters and situations.

It all takes place in a small section of a city. Midori Nagumo owes money for her rent and her elderly landlady is after her. This sets in motion a chain of events including a restaurant punch card, a friendly policeman, a boy wearing a lucky miniskirt, and a surprising martial arts master. When it's all done, I met quite a few characters and lives in this little section of the city.

I loved the humor and the art style of this manga. A lot of times, the humor can kind of go over my head, but the ludicrous situations and the weight put on normal things made for some great comic setups.

I received a review copy of this manga from Vertical Comics, Kodansha Comics, and NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. Thank you for allowing me to review this graphic novel.


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Destination: Space

author: Dr. Dave Williams
name: Wayne
average rating: 2.00
book published:
rating: 3
read at: 2019/01/12
date added: 2019/01/12
shelves: non-fiction, childrens
review:
'Destination: Space' by Dr. Dave Williams and Loredana Cunti with illustrations by Theo Krynauw is a book for young readers about space and exploring other planets.

In this picture-filled book, the main question that gets posed is "Will humans ever be able to live on other planets?" Then the book explores why we might need to and what viable options look like. Terraforming Mars is discussed as well as more Earth-like options further in space. Many uninhabitable options are discussed along the way.

The book is filled with illustrations and pictures. It's a fun exploration of space, if not very deep. I think it might cause further interest in young readers.

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.


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Rage

author: Baru
name: Wayne
average rating: 3.00
book published:
rating: 3
read at: 2019/01/12
date added: 2019/01/12
shelves: graphic-novels
review:
'Rage' with art and story by Baru is a graphic novel about a guy in a working class neighborhood who makes the big time.

Anton Witkowski, nicknamed Witko, grew up in the projects in Europe. He wants out and he wants money. The way out for Witko is through boxing, but that's not what his dad wants for him. Witko does it anyway. This story is about his rise to fame and the scandals that followed. There are deceitful friends and crooked promoters. Witko finally decides to come back to his old neighborhood.

The story and art are garish, but seem suited for the story. Anton is not a likeable character, but I found things I liked about him. The plot felt pretty standard up to a point, then took some interesting turns.

I received a review copy of this graphic novel from Europe Comics and NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. Thank you for allowing me to review this graphic novel.


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The Danes

author: Clarke
name: Wayne
average rating: 3.00
book published:
rating: 4
read at: 2018/07/07
date added: 2019/01/12
shelves: graphic-novels
review:
'The Danes' with art and story by Clarke tells an interesting story about race and genetics and does it in a somewhat thriller based way.

When a very blonde baby is born to a Muslim immigrant family living in Copenhagen, it creates a stir amongst the married couple, but it's proven that she is faithful to her husband. When it starts happening on a wider and wider basis, it creates a crisis. The immunologists and geneticists label the weird outbreak 'the Danes.' A reporter tries to uncover the larger plot which ties in a young unemployed man and a pharmaceutical company. Could this be a racist plot?

I liked this story of race and the lengths that some will go to remove race. The story takes place now, and I liked the ending. The art is also good. This was a thought-provoking read.

I received a review copy of this graphic novel from Europe Comics and NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. Thank you for allowing me to review this graphic novel.


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Red Team Volume 2: Double Tap, Center Mass

author: Garth Ennis
name: Wayne
average rating: 3.77
book published:
rating: 3
read at: 2019/01/11
date added: 2019/01/11
shelves: graphic-novels
review:
'Red Team Volume 2: Double Tap, Center Mass' by Garth Ennis and Craig Cermak is a police procedural graphic novel. I didn't read the first one, but I'm not sure that it's entirely necessary.

Eddie Mellinger and Trudy Giroux are cops and partners. They were on a squad called Red Team and they lost some friends. They are just trying to make it as normal cops when they stumble into a crime involving a very rich kid and some drug dealers. Things go South when they find a couple dead bodies in the rich kids trunk. He lawyers up, and Mellinger and Giroux go in to major cop mode. They also fall for each other even though she's got a boyfriend and he's married.

It was mildly interesting. The story seemed pretty standard. The ending is about where I thought it would go. The art wasn't overly memorable. Based on this, I'm not sure I need to go back and read the first one, but this one was ok.

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.


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Star Trek: Harlan Ellison's The City on the Edge of Forever: The Original Teleplay

author: Harlan Ellison
name: Wayne
average rating: 4.21
book published: 1977
rating: 5
read at: 2015/02/17
date added: 2019/01/09
shelves: graphic-novels
review:
'Star Trek: Harlan Ellison's The City on the Edge of Forever: The Original Teleplay' is a terrific way to present this screenplay. The art is great and it is only helped by being in a graphic novel format.

Anyone who vaguely knows the original Star Trek series has some familiarity with the episode 'The City on the Edge of Forever.' It's an iconic episode that ends in a heartbreaking choice by Kirk. That's all still here at the core, but the framing story is different.

In the original episode, McCoy goes crazy, ends up back in the 1930s and Kirk and Spock go back to stop him. This story has a completely different framing story involving a corrupt crewman, a crew of marauders attacking the Enterprise and a group of aliens known as the Guardians intent on preserving the pathways of time. Maybe the casting budget is what decided the changes, and when it's all said and done, the core story is the same, so it's more interesting just to see this as alternate take on a classic Trek episode.

The script adaptation is solid, and the art by J.K. Woodward is really top notch. My review copy didn't include anything but the comics, but I understand the full version includes an afterword by Harlan Ellison and also artist notes from J.K. Woodward on his process. Highly recommended for Trekkers like me.

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 excellent graphic novel.


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On the Graphic Novel

author: Santiago García
name: Wayne
average rating: 4.00
book published: 2010
rating: 5
read at: 2016/05/25
date added: 2019/01/08
shelves: non-fiction
review:
'On the Graphic Novel' by Santiago Garcia is a serious and scholarly look at the graphic novel. The writer is a comic artist himself. The book was written a few years back, but the information is still relevant.

There is a lot of semantic argument of what a graphic novel is and is not. This book sides with the more literate and underground definition, but doesn't mind including some works from the superhero side of things. I can agree with this definition for the purpose of this work.

The book takes a good look at the evolution of the comic book, from woodcuts to throwaway reprints of newspaper comics to Superman and beyond. The underground comix of the late 1960s have a chapter as well as the alternative movement in the 1980s. From subversive themes to famous autobiographical works. The names discussed include R. Crumb, Chris Ware, Frank Miller, Alan Moore, and many, many others.

Examples of many of the works are included in picture inserts and there is an extensive bibliography at the end of the book. As a fan of comics and graphic novels, I thoroughly enjoyed this wonderful non-fiction look at their history and place in history.

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


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Mister George (Mister George, #1)

author: Serge Le Tendre
name: Wayne
average rating: 0.0
book published: 2003
rating: 4
read at: 2019/01/06
date added: 2019/01/06
shelves: graphic-novels
review:



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Stevenson, The Pirate Within

author: Rodolphe
name: Wayne
average rating: 4.20
book published: 2013
rating: 3
read at: 2019/01/06
date added: 2019/01/06
shelves: graphic-novels
review:
'Stevenson, The Pirate Within' by Rodolphe with art by Rene Follet is a graphic novel biography of the famous writer Robert Louis Stevenson.

We first meet Mr. Stephenson when he is a young man, but the book provides flashbacks to his childhood. Throughout the book he is plagued by illness, which is presented as the spectre of a pirate. There are books he wrote, places he travelled, the woman he loved.

It's presented well, and the book ends with a timeline of his life. There are references to well known and (at least to me) lesser known works. I liked his imagination having a part to play in the story and I assume he had a pretty good one. The art is a painted style and is quite nice.

I received a review copy of this graphic novel from Europe Comics and NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. Thank you for allowing me to review this graphic novel.


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How Rude!

author: Clare Helen Welsh
name: Wayne
average rating: 3.88
book published:
rating: 3
read at: 2019/01/06
date added: 2019/01/06
shelves: childrens
review:
'How Rude!' by Clare Helen Welsh and Olivier Tallec is a picture book about rudeness and how it can escalate.

When Dot invites her friend Duck over, Duck is rude from the outset, not saying hello and tracking mud in to the house. Duck continues to be unapologetic for casting his coat on the floor and sniffing his nose at the food Dot has prepared. When Dot retailiates, they both realize things have gotten out of hand.

It's a pretty silly book that makes its point pretty bluntly. The rude behavior is pretty funny so kids might choose to emulate that rather than having manners. The illustrations are colorful and cute, and I liked this story about how we should choose to be polite.

I received a review copy of this ebook from Quarto Publishing Group-words & pictures, and NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. Thank you for allowing me to review this ebook.


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Super Structures

author: Ian Graham
name: Wayne
average rating: 3.50
book published:
rating: 3
read at: 2019/01/06
date added: 2019/01/06
shelves: childrens, non-fiction
review:
'Super Structures' by Ian Graham with illustrations by Ian Murray takes young readers through a series of structures that make buildings and bridges.

Starting with basic structures like pyramids and colonnades, readers are introduced the ancient and modern structures. Included with the print copy is a bag of cardboard pieces and plastic connectors to readers can build the same structures as the chapters talk about. Readers will learn and build different bridges and towers and big wheels.

My review copy did not include the construction pieces, but I really enjoyed this book of easy engineering principles. The ideas and building projects are accessible, and the reader should get an understanding of the basic physics behind each structure.

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


via Wayne's bookshelf: read http://bit.ly/2GXb8MT