A couple new takes on sci-fi comics worth noting are hitting shelves today, so here I go, noting them: “The Hypernaturals” (Boom!): As I wrote about the Free Comic Book Day preview of this new series, writers Dan Abnett and Andy Lanning are no strangers to futuristic superteams. Among other things, they’ve written for DC’s … Continue Reading →
Two recent graphic novels found their way to my desk, and I had to share them. While both are all-ages books, one is definitely more skewed to younger fans. Here’s a look: “Giants Beware!” (First Second) — This is my favorite of the two, a delight from start to finish and a great book for … Continue Reading →
One of the nice things about sick days, is that when I wasn’t blowing my nose or napping, I got caught up on things. First to check off was a few episodes of “Fringe” I had on the TiVo. Nice to finally see some movement in what has been a rather lackluster season. It was … Continue Reading →
“Amulet — Book 4: The Last Council” by Kazu Kibuishi (Scholastic Graphix) – Well, as long as Kibuishi keeps writing good installments of “Amulet,” I’m just going to keep repeating myself. Kibuishi has created a stunning, imaginative world for his all-ages “Amulet” series. He’s taken the fairly standard reluctant hero story and created something magical. … Continue Reading →
Because of some conflicting release-date information, I’ve been sitting on these reviews of two new books from First Second. Both are enjoyable but could use a bit more polish. “Americus” by MK Reed and Jonathan Hill — “Americus” is one of those great underdog stories and should be read by anyone who celebrates Banned Book … Continue Reading →
Take a dash of “Blair Witch Project,” throw in some camp and top it off with a bit of “Cloverfield,” and you get Norway’s immensely enjoyable “Troll Hunter.” If you think you know your trolls from the old “Billy Goats Gruff” story, think again. Three college film students head into the woods following a strange … Continue Reading →
I can’t say it any better than the people who wrote up the pitch for this awesome new book. “Is your child exploring strange new words? Or are you simply a Trekkie who needs a goofy gift for a fellow-fan friend? ‘The Star Trek Book of Opposites’ will transport you together to an exciting voyage … Continue Reading →
I remember going to a comic con several years ago and picking up a book by a teenaged Ray Friesen and being awed by the kid’s spunk — writing, drawing and publishing his own books and getting his own booth, not just a little table in artist’s alley. These days, his talent matches his ambition, … Continue Reading →
“Bad Island” by Doug TenNapel (Graphix) – Following up his fun graphic novel “Ghostopolis,” TenNapel presents a teen take on “Lost,” with some “Swiss Family Robinson” and aliens thrown in for good measure. It’s not as engrossing or original as “Ghostopolis,” but it’s still a good read. Angsty teen Reese is forced to go on … Continue Reading →
A trio of all-ages books is out from First Second press today. Some skew younger than others, and they’ve all got their charms. Here’s a rundown: “Level Up” by Gene Luen Yang and Thien Pham – This is my favorite of the bunch, a whimsical story about serious issues, the biggest being living up to … Continue Reading →