The Daughters of Salem: How we sent our children to their deaths: Part 1

author: Thomas Gilbert
name: Wayne
average rating: 3.35
book published: 2018
rating: 2
read at: 2019/11/30
date added: 2019/11/30
shelves: graphic-novels
review:
'The Daughters of Salem: How we sent our children to their deaths: Part 1' with art and script by Thomas Gilbert and translation by Montana Kane is a fictionalized take on the Salem Witch Trials.

A young girl in colonial Massachusets doesn't fit in. There is a young man from the Abenaki tribe that she makes friends with even though there is a language barrier. There is also a lot of misguided fear of him, and the girl has to sneak out to see him. Word gets around and tensions build as the men of the village go out and brutally murder a native. The natives retaliate in a night of fire and murder.

This was supposed to be an updated take on this story for today's troubled times. The author boldly compares his version to Arthur Miller. That is a misstep, as this book seems to be more about being voyeuristic and gory rather than trying to teach us anything. The art is crude and works ok for the story, but is not pleasant to view.

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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Fallen World

author: Dan Abnett
name: Wayne
average rating: 3.25
book published:
rating: 3
read at: 2019/11/30
date added: 2019/11/30
shelves: graphic-novels
review:
'Fallen World' by Dan Abnett with art by Adam Pollina is a graphic novel set in the Valiant 4001 AD universe. There are other volumes before this, so you may want to start with those.

It is 4002 AD. New Japan was a floating city in the sky run by a crazed A.I., but that city has fallen. A cyborg named Rai will face the A.I. in battle, but not without quite a bit of help, including a familiar eternal warrior and an army of evolved animals (led by an elephant with a dirty mouth).
Does it all make sense? I didn't read the previous two volumes, so I started out a bit lost, but I caught on. One thing I seem to notice with Valiant is a nice level of art and I did like much of Adam Pollina's art here. It's a nice epic story, and it makes a bit more sense than a couple others I've read by other publishers.

I received a review copy of this graphic novel from Valiant 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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Redline

author: Neal Holman
name: Wayne
average rating: 2.67
book published:
rating: 2
read at: 2019/11/30
date added: 2019/11/30
shelves: graphic-novels
review:
'Redline' by Neal Holman with art by Clay McCormack and Kelly Fitzpatrick is a graphic novel about an out of control soldier investigating a crime on Mars.

Denton Coyle is a soldier on Mars just trying to get by. Then a bomb goes off in a crowd and Denton and his guys start investigating. They don't have very clean hands, and their methods are a bit unorthodox. Before long, Denton realizes that the bomb is linked to something in the past.

I almost gave up reading this, and perhaps I should have. It's over the top, kind of gross and the main characters are kind of unlikeable. Maybe I'm just tired of this kind of cynical story. The art is passable, the story feels like it doesn't really care.

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


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The Art of Dying

author: Raule
name: Wayne
average rating: 3.33
book published: 2018
rating: 3
read at: 2019/04/13
date added: 2019/11/28
shelves: graphic-novels
review:
'The Art of Dying' by Raule with art by Philippe Berthet is a graphic novel about a man who has been to Barcelona many times, but is seeing things that are new on this trip.

Philippe Martin is a Paris cop who has taken many vacation trips to Barcelona. This time, he is called to Barcelona for the suspicious suicide of a girl. His trip there will take him to new places, and he discovers there may be a link between himself and the missing girl. He finds himself in a world of art forgeries and a gang of criminals that like to tattoo their faces, but Philippe knows how to handle himself in dangerous situations.

As a procedural goes, I liked it. I've seen some criticism of the art, but it's got a nice clean style that I really liked. The story offers few surprises, but was a pleasant enough 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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The Castoffs, V.2: Into The Wastelands

author: M.K. Reed
name: Wayne
average rating: 3.46
book published: 2017
rating: 3
read at: 2019/11/26
date added: 2019/11/26
shelves: graphic-novels
review:
'The Castoffs, V. 2: Into The Wastelands' by M.K. Reed and Brian Smith is the second volume of this clever science fiction fantasy series.

In the first volume, our heroes Charris, Trinh, and Ursa defeated the evil Priestess and a robot army. Now they are travelling back to their village to report what they found. Along the way, they uncover a secret plot and may have to trust each other in another fight.

I liked the first volume a bit better. This felt like a story that is setting up the next volume. There's nothing wrong with that, and I can't wait to read the third volume, but this one felt a bit flat story-wise. The art, like the first one, is good, and I like the pen-work that kind of looks like woodcut at times.

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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The Loud House: Livin' La Casa Loud!

author: The Loud House Creative Team
name: Wayne
average rating: 4.43
book published:
rating: 3
read at: 2019/11/26
date added: 2019/11/26
shelves: childrens, graphic-novels
review:
'The Loud House #8: Livin' La Casa Loud!' by The Loud House Creative Team is a graphic novel with a lot of characters (just like the cartoon).

This graphic novel has 16 short stories featuring some of the over 20 characters. There are rainy days and pranks. There are dates out and conversations with a ventriloquist dummy. My favorite might be the first story 'Little Big Top' in which Lincoln Loud misses his chance to go to the circus, and totally misses how much like a circus his house really can be.

There are a lot of characters and it's hard to give them all a spotlight this time, which is fine. The gags are fine and the intermingling of the family makes for a good story. The art is by multiple artists, but still feels like it's cohesive.

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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Basquiat: A Graphic Novel

author: Paolo Parisi
name: Wayne
average rating: 3.43
book published:
rating: 4
read at: 2019/11/24
date added: 2019/11/24
shelves: graphic-novels
review:
'Basquiat: A Graphic Novel' written and illustrated by Paolo Parisi is a graphic novel biography of the famous artist.

Told from a few different perspectives, the story begins with Jean-Michel Baquiat's father finding out about his death, then jumping back and forth to tell the story. Basquiat started as a street-art legend known as SAMO. He was involved in a lot of the underground scene of New York in the early 1980s. He rose to fame, and made money, but had a troubled life.

The color palette for this book is very distinct, and I really loved what was done. The story was divided up in to chapters based on articles or incidents. I really liked the changing narrators in the story. The book ends with a bibliography including music and films that Basquiat created.

I received a review copy of this graphic novel from Laurence King Publishing Ltd. in exchange for an honest review. Thank you for allowing me to review this graphic novel.


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The Loud House #6: Loud and Proud

author: The Loud House Creative Team
name: Wayne
average rating: 4.21
book published:
rating: 4
read at: 2019/11/23
date added: 2019/11/23
shelves: childrens, graphic-novels
review:
'The Loud House #6: Loug and Proud' by The Loud House Creative Team is a spinoff comic based on the hit Nickelodeon series.

Lincoln Proud has 10 sisters and is in a van full of siblings who are all off to do different things. One is going to a beauty pageant, one to a music festival, one to buy a hat for her ventriloquist dummy. Lincoln wants to meet up with his friends, but they keep moving around. Will he be the last one to get dropped off?

I've read a couple of these, and they are filled with short gags about each kid. This time around, I really liked the framing story. It helped the book feel like one big story, even though it was made up of shorter adventures. Even though the book has multiple artists, the art felt consistent across the board, which is pretty amazing.

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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Faith: Dreamside

author: Jody Houser
name: Wayne
average rating: 4.01
book published: 2019
rating: 3
read at: 2019/11/22
date added: 2019/11/22
shelves: graphic-novels
review:
'Faith: Dreamside' by Jody Houser with art by MJ Kim is a graphic novel about a couple of heroes in a crisis.

Faith has been accused of murder, so she is letting her inner superhero stay hidden. When her teammate, Animalia, comes to her for help claiming to be haunted, she can't say no. With the help of Doctor Mirage, they will all venture in to the Deadside to try to help out. Along the way, Faith may find her inner hero again.

I liked this story about having the heart of a superhero and doing what it takes to help out friends. Faith is a nerdy character and there are some fun pop culture references for those looking. The art worked well for the book.

I received a review copy of this graphic novel from Valiant 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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High Moon Vol. 1

author: David Gallaher
name: Wayne
average rating: 3.44
book published: 2017
rating: 2
read at: 2019/11/20
date added: 2019/11/20
shelves: graphic-novels
review:
'High Moon Vol. 1' by David Gallagher with art by Steve Ellis is a graphic novel set in the weird West.

Ex-Pinkerton agent turned bounty hunter, Matthew Macgregor has been summoned to a sleepy, dusty town. What he finds there defies imagination as he is attacked by....vampires. Then a new character appears to assume his identity, known now as Edward McGregor, and movea on to another town to fight werewolves.

The art was pretty cool. The story kept losing me with things that seemed to skip around without explanation. I really didn't understand the main character switching in the middle of the story. Things like that just didn't seem to make sense.

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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Moth & Whisper Vol. 1

author: Ted Anderson
name: Wayne
average rating: 3.90
book published:
rating: 3
read at: 2019/11/18
date added: 2019/11/18
shelves: graphic-novels
review:
'Moth & Whisper Vol 1' by Ted Anderson with art by Jen Hickman is a fun ride in the world of very capable thieves.

The Moth and the Whisper are legends in the city they live in. Sometimes at odds, sometimes partners, and never caught. When they go missing, their capable child Niki tries to find out what happened by assuming both identities and using tech left behind.

It's an interesting premise with interesting characters, but the story sort of starts to feel pretty standard, and there are interesting world-building things that just kind of get looked over. The main character binary queer. This didn't really add anything to the story, but apparently it was important enough to state twice. Perhaps that becomes a story point going forward. It does add to the character being comfortable posing as either sex in disguises. Maybe that's all that needed to be shown?

The art isn't bad and the plot does move along at a brisk pace.

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


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The Book of Big Science Ideas: From the clever people who bring you AQUILA magazine

author: Freya Hardy
name: Wayne
average rating: 4.25
book published:
rating: 4
read at: 2019/11/17
date added: 2019/11/17
shelves: childrens, non-fiction
review:
'The Book of Big Science Ideas: From Atoms to AI and from Gravity to Genes: How Science Shapes Our World' by Freya Hardy with illustrations by Sara Mulvanny is a science book for young readers looking at some big ideas and how they have formed over many, many years.

The 15 ideas in this book are each presented on 4 pages. The first two define and talk about the idea, then explain why it's important, so for atoms, we learn what an atom is and the structure of atoms. The next two pages talk about the big thinkers behind the ideas. These thinkers are taken from throughout time, and the reader can see how ideas evolved over time. The book ends with some ideas and thinkers who didn't make the book and a timeline for each of the 15 ideas.

I liked the structure of the book. The design is engaging. The concepts are explained very well. There is a lot of information given in just a few pages. There is even a glossary at the end for many of the words used.

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


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Gillbert the Little Merman

author: Art Baltazar
name: Wayne
average rating: 3.12
book published:
rating: 3
read at: 2019/11/17
date added: 2019/11/17
shelves: childrens, graphic-novels
review:
'Gillbert the Little Merman #1' with story and art by Art Baltazar is a graphic novel for young readers about a group of fun creatures living under the sea.

One day, Gillbert was swimming along under the sea when he finds a note in a bottle. before he can look at the note, he is drawn in to another part of the ocean by a mermaid. Meanwhile, there is a possible invasion from outer space as sentient meteorites start heating the ocean. What will Gillbert do?

There is a lot of plot laid out here, and fortunately, it's an ongoing series. The art is classic Baltazar, meaning it's lots of fun. The story will hopefully tighten up over time.

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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Lucy the Octopus

author: Richy K. Chandler
name: Wayne
average rating: 2.67
book published:
rating: 3
read at: 2019/11/17
date added: 2019/11/17
shelves: graphic-novels
review:
'Lucy the Octopus' by Richy K. Chandler is a series of comic strips about a very unpopular octopus.

Lucy is considered uncool by everyone in her life, even her siblings and parents. Her attempts to change that seem to fail, but Lucy just seems to roll with it. When her favorite band needs a new guitarist, Lucy ends up with the job, but only hafter wearing a watermelon over her head. But Lucy has her own ways of winning others over.

I really liked this story of an outsider. I liked how the story built over the course of the book. The art is bright and fun, and there are even some different art styles along the way.

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


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A Little Piece of Her (African Trilogy, #3)

author: Zidrou
name: Wayne
average rating: 4.38
book published: 2016
rating: 4
read at: 2019/11/17
date added: 2019/11/17
shelves: graphic-novels
review:
'A Little Piece of Her' by Zidrou with art by Raphael Beuchot is a daring graphic novel about a subject I didn't think I'd ever run across.

Yu Kiang is Chinese and works for a lumber company in the Congo. He is in love with Antoinette and this is a problem since he can be deported by his company. Then the story takes a pretty sharp twist as Yu Kiang discovers that Antoinette is a victim of female genital mutilation. He seeks to stop this from happening to Antoinette's young daughter, Marie Leontine, but will he be able to do anything in time?

This is a very rough subject, and a very serious one for a graphic novel to take on. There are a few articles in the back to further education. The art is also pretty good in this one.

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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TAMBA, Child Soldier

author: Marion Achard
name: Wayne
average rating: 4.15
book published:
rating: 3
read at: 2019/11/17
date added: 2019/11/17
shelves: graphic-novels
review:
'TAMBA, Child Soldier' by Marion Achard and Yann Degruel is the story of a young child soldier and what happens to him.

The book opens with a hearing. On the stand is Tamba Cisso who is being asked questions about his life as a child soldier. When he was 8, his village was overthrown and he was kidnapped. He learned to fight and trick opponents. He made friends in the group, and decides to escape. He makes it to a refugee camp, but his troubles are far from over.

This is a composite story of things happening in the world. The story has some pretty terrible things in it, but the main character is trying to find some redemption. The art is a bit weak at times, but it's a decent story. The graphic novel ends with some essays about child soldiers.

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


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Shadowman, Vol. 3: Rag and Bone

author: Andy Diggle
name: Wayne
average rating: 3.42
book published:
rating: 4
read at: 2019/11/16
date added: 2019/11/16
shelves: graphic-novels
review:
'Shadowman, Vol. 3: Rag and Bone' with story by Andy Diggle and art by Renato Guedes is a continuation of the recent reboot of the series.

Shadowman is back from being recently dead. He barely has a chance to get his feet under him and finds he's in a war. Master Darque is gone, but Shadowman and Angela are on a mission to take hold of the remains. There is danger and treachery everywhere on this one, and Shadowman barely has control of his loa.

This has been a pretty good series and I like the largeness of the story. I also like the textured looking art that Renato Guedes gives here. It's interesting how it changes style at particular moments, too.

I received a review copy of this graphic novel from Valiant 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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Johnny's Pheasant

author: Cheryl Minnema
name: Wayne
average rating: 3.80
book published:
rating: 4
read at: 2019/11/16
date added: 2019/11/16
shelves: childrens
review:
'Johnny's Pheasant' by Cheryl Minnema with illustrations by Julie Flett is a picture book about a boy, his grandmother and a pheasant.

When Johnny and his grandmother are driving back from the store, Johnny spots a pheasant lying in the grass. Johnny wants to care for it, grandmother thinks it is dead, but the feathers can be used for her crafts, so they take it home. When the pheasant surprises them both, there is humor and respect for living creatures.

I really enjoyed this gentle story about a boy and his grandmother and the creature they encounter. I liked the story of respecting nature and the surprising humor found within. The illustrations are really very nice.

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


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Schomburg: The Man Who Built a Library

author: Carole Boston Weatherford
name: Wayne
average rating: 4.07
book published: 2017
rating: 3
read at: 2019/11/16
date added: 2019/11/16
shelves: childrens, non-fiction
review:
'Schomburg: The Man Who Built a Library' by Carole Boston Weatherford with illustrations by Eric Velasquez is the true story of a man who wanted to make sure the history of his people was not lost to time.

Arturo Schomburg lived during the time of the Harlem Renaissance and was a scholar with a mission to correct history. He did this by acquiring books and documents and art showing the contributions of the African diaspora. His collection was eventually too big for his house, so it is now part of the New York Public Library.

This is a very text heavy book for a picture book. While I enjoyed reading about the people that Arturo discovered along the way, I feel like much of that had been vastly shortened and the focus kept of Schomburg. His story alone is so interesting that it should have carried the entire book. The illustrations are rich and beautiful.

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


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These Savage Shores

author: Ram V
name: Wayne
average rating: 4.44
book published:
rating: 4
read at: 2019/11/16
date added: 2019/11/16
shelves: graphic-novels
review:
'These Savage Shores Vol. 1' by Ram V with art by Sumit Kumar is a story of monsters in an India that is in conflict with Europe in the mid-1700s.

When an English vampire goes too far in England, he is sent to Calicut by ship. Once there, he meets his death at the hands of a creature that is sworn to protect his land. The conflict for this land shows that we are all capable of being monsters, but this particular tale takes on the shape of a tragedy in the poignant ending.

I didn't think we needed another vampire tale, but the setting and time period brings a real freshness to the story. The inherent tragedy of these sort of stories is ramped up nicely here. The art by Sumit Kumar is a standout.

I received a review copy of this graphic novel from Vault Comics, 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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Hubert Reeves Explains Biodiversity

author: Hubert Reeves
name: Wayne
average rating: 3.40
book published: 2019
rating: 2
read at: 2019/08/24
date added: 2019/11/15
shelves: childrens, graphic-novels
review:
'Hubert Reeves Explains Biodiversity' by Hubert Reeves and Boutinot Nelly with art by Daniel Casanave is a lecture on biodiversity for younger readers told in a graphic novel format.

Hubert Reeves takes a family on a field trip and teaches the kids the important of biodiversity. Along the way things like the importance of earthworms and how invasive species are introduced are discussed. The importance of maintaining food chains is illustrated with imbalances seen recently.

The illustrations make it more fun, but it still reads kind of like a one sided lecture. Other characters speak, but they are just saying what the main character is saying. I suppose it would be a way to learn about the subject, but there was at least one glaring science error I ran across (iron oxide does not actually contain water).

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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Snug Harbor Stories: A Wallace the Brave Collection!

author: Will Henry
name: Wayne
average rating: 4.25
book published: 2019
rating: 5
read at: 2019/11/14
date added: 2019/11/14
shelves: childrens, graphic-novels
review:
'Snug Harbor Stories: A Wallace the Brave Collection!' by Will Henry is the second collection of strips in this series, and I loved it just as much as the first.

Wallace and his friends live a kind of idyllic childhood that I really hope is still a reality for children. They are free to roam and imagine. Wallace has parents that parent, but you can see where Wallace gets his whimsy and wonder. Wallace's friends are odd without excuse. They are friends because they are.

Wallace the Brave is fast becoming a favorite. I love the nostalgic feeling I get of the kind of antics I remember from childhood. I like the non-cynical approach to the children in these strips. I also think many are quite funny.

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.


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The Cloud Lasso

author: Stephanie Schlaifer
name: Wayne
average rating: 3.06
book published:
rating: 3
read at: 2019/11/14
date added: 2019/11/14
shelves: childrens
review:
'The Cloud Lasso' by Stephanie Schlaifer with illustrations by Melodie Stacey is a picture book about a young girl with a lot of clouds hanging over her head.

Delilah has been living under a series of clouds since her grandfather died. Her sadness is manifested as clouds hiding the blue sky. One day, she finds her grandfather's old rope and it reminds her of how good he was at using it as a lasso. She decides to try, and slowly, she finds a way to catch all the clouds around her.

This is a sweet story about loss, grief, remembrance, and what it sometimes takes to move on. The pictures are simple but nice for this story. As Delilah finds a way, perhaps younger readers could as well.

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


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Cervantes: The Genius's Fantasy Part 1

author: GOL
name: Wayne
average rating: 3.00
book published:
rating: 3
read at: 2019/11/13
date added: 2019/11/13
shelves: graphic-novels, non-fiction
review:
'Cervantes: The Genius' Fantasy Part One' with words and art by Miguel Gomez Andrea, (aka Gol) is a bio-comic about the famous author.

Told in a series of acts like a stage play, this volume presents the first 3. The first act shows Cervantes' home life, with his father, an ailing surgeon. The second act shows Cervantes in captivity by pirates after fighting for Turkey. Act 3 shows how he became a poet and how his illegitimate daughter was born.

I liked the approach this graphic novel took to the story. There is text to read, and the art style is really pretty good. I enjoyed reading this book and learning a bit about this author.

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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Shadowman, Vol. 2: Dead and Gone

author: Andy Diggle
name: Wayne
average rating: 3.90
book published:
rating: 4
read at: 2019/11/10
date added: 2019/11/10
shelves: graphic-novels
review:
'Shadowman, Vol. 2: Dead and Gone' by Andy Diggle with various artists follows Shadowman on his journey after death.

Jack Boniface is dead, but his spirit lives on, and it's on a journey to discover the first Shadowman. The first stop is 1940s New York and a man who wields the power. Next is a plantation during the Civil War. The final stop is the plains of Africa. Jack realizes that even this may not be the first instance, but he has things to do.

I liked this trip through time and seeing previous versions of Shadowman. I also liked the unique art that each story got with unique artists Shawn Martinbrough, Doug Braithwaite and Renato Wolverine. My favorite art was probably the fully painted African story.

I received a review copy of this graphic novel from Valiant 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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Frogcatchers

author: Jeff Lemire
name: Wayne
average rating: 3.93
book published:
rating: 4
read at: 2019/11/10
date added: 2019/11/10
shelves: graphic-novels
review:
'Frogcathers' with art and story by Jeff Lemire is an odd and kind of surreal graphic novel.

A man wakes up in a strange hotel. He thinks he's the only one there, but he finds a young boy. There is one room the boy tells him they must not open, so, of course, you know what's going to happen. But perhaps not.

I liked this strange story with it's odd visuals. The art is on the rougher side, but I liked it. The art uses muted color fairly effectively. I liked the mood of the story, but it reads, perhaps a bit too quickly.

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


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The Rolling Stones in Comics!

author: Céka
name: Wayne
average rating: 3.68
book published:
rating: 3
read at: 2019/11/10
date added: 2019/11/10
shelves: graphic-novels, non-fiction
review:
'The Rolling Stones in Comics!' by Ceka is a combination of essays, photos and comics about one of the world's most famous rock bands.

There are 21 short essays and 21 short comics by various artists. The book takes a chronological look at the origins, successes, tragedies, and drugs. There are photos from throughout the years.

The comics that follow the essays pretty much rehash the essays, but it's interesting to see all the different styles of art. I confess to not being the biggest fan in the world, so not knowing a ton about the band or it's members. I had fun reading this book.

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


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Miranda: Fantasyland Tour Guide

author: Aaron L. Humphres
name: Wayne
average rating: 1.75
book published:
rating: 3
read at: 2019/11/09
date added: 2019/11/09
shelves: childrens
review:
'Miranda: Fantasyland Tour Guide' with art and text by Aaron L. Humphres is a book full of vignettes of a strange fantasy world.

Miranda is a tour guide and today the Deedle family are going on a tour of the land of Wondaria. Along the way the reader will see the historical house of the Kazoo wizarding family, the famed cozy cave shopping plaza, and the creaky crescent castle. Various aspects of these places are explored.

What's missing is any kind of narrative flow. There is no explanation about how or why. I'm actually fine with this, because it made me imagine some backstories for some of the areas. Imagination can be fun. The drawings are packed full of details. I think this would be a fun fantasy novel to explore with a young reader.

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


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Bronze Age Boogie, Volume One: Swords Against Dacron!

author: Stuart Moore
name: Wayne
average rating: 3.18
book published:
rating: 2
read at: 2019/11/09
date added: 2019/11/09
shelves: graphic-novels
review:
'Bronze Age Boogie: Volume One: Swords Against Dacron!' by Stuart Moore with art by Alberto Ponticelli and Giulia Brusco is a kind of loving tribute to comics and pop culture of the 1970s, for better or worse.

In a story full of Martians, talking apes, kung-fu master, we follow Brita, a sword-and-sorcery princess who finds herself sucked into a time warp and in 1975 AD. She finds companions in Jackson Li and martial arts master and Lynda Darrk, a street smart fighter. Together they try to piece things together to stop the Martians and get everyone back to their own time.

It's a pretty convoluted and weird story, which adds to the loopiness. The art is pretty decent, and I liked the character designs. What I didn't like is the constant barrage of in-jokes and winking at the reader. It wasn't really breaking the fourth wall, but it kept yanking me completely out of the story. Plus the chunks of narrative pages didn't help the story flow very well.

I received a review copy of this graphic novel from Ahoy Comics, 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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Nancy Drew and the Hardy Boys: The Mystery of the Missing Adults

author: Scott Bryan Wilson
name: Wayne
average rating: 2.46
book published:
rating: 3
read at: 2019/11/08
date added: 2019/11/08
shelves: graphic-novels, young-adult
review:
'Nancy Drew and The Hardy Boys: The Mystery of the Missing Adults' by Scott Bryan Wilson with art by Bob Solanovicz is a fun middle school level adventure that has a mystery.

When Nancy Drew moves to a new school in Bayport, she immediately runs in to the Hardy Boys, Frank and Joe (don't call him Joseph). Suddenly the adults have gone missing. This seems like a holiday for the kids, but there is only so much cold cereal you can eat. Nancy and the Boys head to a rival school that has a science fair going on. Everything in that town seems fine. What is going on?

It doesn't feel much like the characters I know, but I still had fun reading this. There is a sense of fun and craziness going on. I'm not so beholden to any of these characters that I can't see them remade for a new generation who might come to love the stories I did. I liked the art too. It keeps things lively and looking not too serious as well.

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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Inspired Artist: Draw Every Little Thing: Learn to draw more than 100 everyday items, from food to fashion

author: Flora Waycott
name: Wayne
average rating: 4.17
book published:
rating: 3
read at: 2019/11/07
date added: 2019/11/07
shelves: non-fiction
review:
'Inspired Artist: Draw Every Little Thing: Learn to draw more than 100 everyday items, from food to fashion' by Flora Waycott seemed like an ambitious title for a book of 128 pages, but who's keeping track of these things?

After a charming introduction, and a helpful chapter on tools and materials, the reader/artist is taken in to various familiar areas like Around the Home or Everyday Life. Each of the 4 sections has a series of creative prompts to draw things like pets or gardening tools or lamps. These are followed by exercises where the prompts get put in to a larger project like a picture of the local park, or a homey view of plants and pets.

I liked the cozy and encouraging style of the writing. I do wish the drawing prompts had included perhaps a bit more instruction, or been varied as to build skills. It is approachable and would easily build confidence in anyone looking to do that.

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


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Commute: An Illustrated Memoir of Female Shame

author: Erin Williams
name: Wayne
average rating: 3.63
book published: 2019
rating: 2
read at: 2019/11/06
date added: 2019/11/06
shelves: graphic-novels
review:
'Commute: An Illustrated Memoir of Female Shame' written and drawn by Erin Williams is about a woman going to work and the feelings she perceives in those around her.

The book spends a long time on the author's morning routine. She catalogs the various people on the bus and the things she sees. It is interspersed with stories of abuse and alcoholism.

I liked the idea of this book more than the execution. The work feels so dire and monotonous. There is probably a tighter story in here, but this one rambles too much. I did like the author's art style, though.

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


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The Arab of the Future 4: A Graphic Memoir of a Childhood in the Middle East, 1987-1992

author: Riad Sattouf
name: Wayne
average rating: 4.38
book published: 2018
rating: 4
read at: 2019/11/06
date added: 2019/11/06
shelves: graphic-novels
review:
'The Arab of the Future 4: A Graphic Memoir of a Childhood in the Middle East, 1987-1992' with words and art by Riad Sattouf is the 4th volume of memoirs by the author.

In this volume, Riad becomes an adolescence. Meanwhile, his parent's marriage is falling apart. His father is teaching in Saudi Arabia and his mother and the kids live in France. His father wants them to all move to Syria, but his family and his racist ways make things difficult. Meanwhile Riad wants the things other kids want, like sneakers and computers.

I like this series. The family dynamic can be hard to read, but the story and art are good. I'm glad I got a chance to read this 4th volume in Riad's story.

I received a review copy of this graphic novel from Metropolitan Books, Henry Holt & Company, and NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. Thank you for allowing me to review this graphic novel.


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Fowl Language: Winging It

author: Brian Gordon
name: Wayne
average rating: 4.35
book published:
rating: 4
read at:
date added: 2019/11/05
shelves: graphic-novels
review:
'Fowl Language: Winging It-The Art of Imperfect Parenting' by Brian Gordon is a collection of essays and comics that will look familiar to most folks.

This book is organized in to sections like Babies, Sleep, Holidays, and Growing Up Too Fast. Each section begins with a funny and heartfelt essay, then includes themed comics for the section.

This may be one of the most heartfelt and honest parenting books I've ever read. The author admits his own faults and owns the fact that he is no perfect parent (but who is, really?). Some of the comics feel like repeats from other collections, but that doesn't make them any less funny.

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.


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Punk Mambo

author: Cullen Bunn
name: Wayne
average rating: 3.26
book published:
rating: 4
read at: 2019/11/05
date added: 2019/11/05
shelves: graphic-novels
review:
'Punk Mambo' by Cullen Bunn with art by Adam Gorham and covers by Dan Brereton is a reboot of sorts of the Valiant magic using malcontent.

Punk Mambo is a mambo living in New Orleans and dealing with taking out supernatural monsters. When the spirit, or loa, she uses gets kidnapped, she decides to take it personal. The loa would help in her quest, but it turns out all the loas are being kidnapped, so she reluctantly accepts an offer of help and heads to Haiti to crack skulls and sort things out.

Also included is a one shot by Peter Milligan and Robert Gill giving a sort of origin story of the character.

I like edgy, cranky characters and Punk Mambo is just that. With her punch first, then talk style and willingness to take a beating, she's pretty cool. The internal art by Adam Gorham works great, but those painted covers by Dan Brereton really show you what this character is all about.

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


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Seven Blades in Black (The Grave of Empires, #1)

author: Sam Sykes
name: Wayne
average rating: 4.12
book published: 2019
rating: 3
read at: 2019/11/04
date added: 2019/11/04
shelves: sword-and-laser
review:
'Seven Blades in Black' by Sam Sykes is the first novel in a new trilogy. It's about a snarky killer and her sentient gun.

Sal the Cacophony is a pretty unpleasant character. She is scarred, a reputed killer, leaves a wake of trouble in her wake, and has a serious grudge. It's a wonder she has any friends, and she kind of doesn't, but her lover Liette does her best to help, and Cavric, the soldier she kidnapped, tries somewhat helplessly. Sal is out to kill the ones that betrayed her, but it just may kill her.

I liked this story of revenge, but I got to a point in the book, and there wasn't a lot of character development. It was a lot of new monsters to fight, and new characters that Sal had ticked off in her life. The final third comes together, but I really feel like this book was about 200 pages too long. The writing is good and I would definitely read more by this author.

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


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Red Dust (Comanche #1)

author: Greg
name: Wayne
average rating: 3.84
book published: 1972
rating: 4
read at: 2019/11/03
date added: 2019/11/03
shelves: graphic-novels
review:
'Red Dust (Comanche #1)' by Greg with art by Hermann Huppen is a comic book set in the old West. The original publication date is 1972, but it's a story that holds up well for Western fans.

A cowboy with red hair comes to town and shakes things up. He finds out about a hit on a local cattle rancher named Comanche and decides to help. He finds a bunch of misfits to help, and takes on corrupt sheriffs and landowners.

This book has really great art. The story feels like a bit of a trope, but the familiarity felt comfortable to me, like a friend I hadn't seen in a while. I enjoyed this one.

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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Leonardo the Genius (Leonardo 1)

author: Phillip Turk
name: Wayne
average rating: 3.80
book published:
rating: 3
read at: 2019/11/03
date added: 2019/11/03
shelves: graphic-novels
review:
'Leonardo the Genius' by De Groot with art by Phillip Turk is a collection of comics about one of the world's greatest inventors.

In this collection, Leonardo gets an assistant, and then proceeds to blow up and abuse the poor fellow. He also invents a series of inventions that he never made in real life, like the automobile and television. A longer gag has him inventing wings and running in to humorous situations.

The gags are mildly funny and pretty silly. The art works well. I think it would be a fun read for younger readers.

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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Dungeons & Dragons: Legends of Baldur's Gate

author: Jim Zub
name: Wayne
average rating: 3.64
book published: 2015
rating: 3
read at: 2015/05/15
date added: 2019/11/03
shelves: graphic-novels
review:
'Dungeons & Dragons: Legends of Baldur's Gate Volume 1' comes along with the new 5th edition of D&D. It's a fun story, but not a great story.

We meet young magic user Delina who is in the city to save her twin brother. When we meet her, she is being chased by winged demons and using her random and sometimes unreliable powers to defend herself. When her powers hit a statue of Minsc, the revered (and long gone) ranger, he shows up in the flesh to help out, along with his space hamster Boo. After adding a couple of thieves into the mix, we're off to find Delina's twin brother. Except that the city guard and another faction are also in the mix chasing our little band. We get some back story on Delina and her brother, but mainly we get hilarious wise-cracking from Minsc.

The art is only ok, but the story is fun enough. I loved Minsc, and who wouldn't love Boo? The thieves are fairly standard, but I liked Delina's random, uncontrolled magic. A nice sword and sorcery graphic novel for those looking for one.

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.


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Batman: 100 Greatest Moments: Highlights from the History of The Dark Knight

author: Editors of Chartwell Books
name: Wayne
average rating: 3.82
book published:
rating: 4
read at: 2019/11/02
date added: 2019/11/02
shelves:
review:
'Batman: 100 Greatest Moments: Highlights from the History of The Dark Knight' by Robert Greenberger is a sprawling look at the 80 year history of one of the greatest characters in comicdom.

The 100 greatest moments are divided in to chapters like Origins, The Batman Family, Enemies, and others. The origins of things like the Bat Signal and how Batman started disappearing after talking to Commissioner Gordon are here. The great writers, story-lines and artists are here as well.

It's really a must-have for any Batfan as well as anyone looking to learn more about the Caped Crusader. I definitely found some story-lines I want to find and read based on this book.

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


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The Black Mage

author: Daniel Barnes
name: Wayne
average rating: 3.60
book published: 2019
rating: 4
read at: 2019/11/02
date added: 2019/11/02
shelves: graphic-novels, young-adult
review:
'The Black Mage' by Daniel Barnes with art by DJ Kirkland is a familiar story told with race in mind.

When Tom Token is accepted into the prestigious St. Ivory Academy for wizards, he thinks he is the first black student. As such, things don't go well for him, as he is discriminated against, and even uncovers a plot that may end his life. Fortunately, he is helped by the ghost of past fighters Harriet Tubman, Frederick Douglass and John Henry.

I liked this parody of another famous wizard school. I liked the anime style art. Tom is a pretty cool character, and it would be interesting to see what he gets up to next.

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


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Voracious: Appetite for Destruction (Voracious, #3)

author: Markisan Naso
name: Wayne
average rating: 4.56
book published: 2019
rating: 4
read at: 2019/11/01
date added: 2019/11/01
shelves: graphic-novels
review:
'Voracious: Appetite for Destruction' by Markisan Naso with art by Jason Muhr concludes the bonkers story of a man, a diner, and an appetite to serve up some dinosaur.

Nate Willner has a diner and a time travel suit. With it, he hunts dinosaurs and serves them. No harm done, right?

Except Nate is hunting in an alternate past and killing sentient dinosaurs. Now it's all come to a head as dinosaur detectives and feral dinosaurs are unleashed on Nate's town. Now he and dino-detective Gus Horncrasher have to save the town and try to put things right.

It's a satisfying enough conclusion, and overall a decent, if crazy, story. For a first time shot at comics, this wasn't half bad. It does get pretty wordy at times, but it has a good ending and a nice finish.

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.


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