"Who is Wolverine?" That is what this graphic novel reveals. This is the story of a young boy whose parents die in a horrific accident. To escape, James and his nanny travel to a mining camp in the Yukon Territory. It is at the mining camp that James becomes known as Logan. During his time at the mines, Logan begins to experience and understand his extraordinary strength, thus becoming Wolverine. However, Wolverine's past eventually catches up with him and another shocking incident takes place.

Reviewed by Angela A., Cornelius Branch

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Batman: The Long Halloween offers a treasure chest of mysteries, personal dramas, villains, and murders in this somber tale. Writer Jeph Loeb creates an intricate tale of crime lord families in which family members and associates are murdered in conjunction with holidays throughout the year. This combined 13 comic book series hosts a who's who of Batman foes, including the Joker, the Scarecrow, and Poison Ivy along with the charming Selina Kyle/Catwoman and the intense Harvey Dent/Two-Face. Artist Tim Sale's delicate, stylized drawings and the use of color give the book an alluring film noir atmosphere.

Reviewed by Lawrence T., South County Regional

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The Justice League of America has seven epic heroes. They are always strongest when they work together. When Wonder Woman hears that the Oracle at Delphi predicts a battle with a Dragon that will lead to the death of all members of the JLA, she decides to take matters into her own hands. Wonder Woman decides that the only way to save her friends' lives is to deceive them. She understands each friend's weakness and uses it against them. Once her friends are out of the picture and safe she takes on the dragon alone. This graphic novel will appeal to Wonder Woman fans and also those who appreciate wonderful fantasy artwork.

Reviewed by Angela A., Cornelius Branch

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Continuing a comics trend of draping even the most established superhero in a transparent cloak of humanity, Mark Waid has constructed a story that shows both the strengths and weaknesses of the character Batman. An eco-supervillain has decided to take over the world. He is using a strategy to defeat the Justice League that only Batman will be able to recognize and defeat. Batman is therefore distracted in a way guaranteed to force him to focus on anything but the fates of his teammates. He then must face disapproval by his friends because of a near defeat he may have to take responsibility for. This is a riveting story for fans of the character Batman.

Reviewed by Ed M., Morrison Regional Library

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This graphic novel is a thoughtful superhero story of expectations in relationships.
-Lawrence, Charlotte, NC

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The fascinating and alluring villainess Selina Kyle happens upon a caper worthy of her mettle in Selina's Big Score. Presumed dead and strapped for cash, Selina is approached about hijacking drug money from a train run by organized crime figures. She is willing - but on her terms. She sets up the raid and assembles the team for the job. Nevertheless, Selina's best-laid plans go awry with violent results. Darwyn Cooke's story keeps a hard-boiled crime drama edge while his artwork with its characters look to be naturals for a children's picture book.

Reviewed by Lawrence T., South County Regional

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Technical support brings on a whole new meaning for college student Keichi Moristao when he accidentally dials the Goddess Technical Support Line. The beautiful goddess Belldandy appears at his side and tells Keichi that she will grant him one wish. Keichi, who has not had much luck with girls before, wishes that this real-life goddess could stay with him forever. His wish is granted and the trouble begins when Keichi learns that his wish is taken literally and that the goddess Belldandy can never leave his side. If she does, disastrous things will happen to him. Illustrated in remarkable detail, Oh My Goddess! Wrong Number combines both humor and romance and is a great read for those new to graphic novels.

Reviewed by Lori R., University City Regional

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An oversize book with the dramatic comic artwork of Alex Ross, Batman: War on Crime presents a two-front crime battle from the masked hero Batman and the super-rich citizen Bruce Wayne. As a neglected minority neighborhood becomes a new renovation and upscale housing candidate, Batman/Bruce Wayne swings into action. First, Batman confronts neighborhood criminals, and then Bruce Wayne invests to restore the community. All the while, Batman mulls over a neighborhood boy whose parents were murdered. Written by Paul Dini, the book is presented in a picture-book style with a thoughtful character study of its hero.

Reviewed by Lawrence T., South County Regional

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Referred to as one who uses the name "devil" while doing the work of the just, superhero Daredevil faces crises of the heart and of faith in the absorbing Daredevil in Guardian Devil. Smith delivers a sorrowful story with blind attorney Matt Murdock becoming a guardian to a mysterious baby while his alter ego, Daredevil, investigates the situation. Former romances, fellow superheroes, and familiar villains pop up in this eight-part graphic novel. Expressive artwork by Joe Quesada and Jimmy Palmiotti aptly show mounting tensions as the masked Daredevil's face begins to only register either anger or anguish.

Reviewed by Lawrence T., South County Regional

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He's big. He's tough. He's also red from head to toe, with two blunted horns in his forehead and a large, curved tail. That said, it is no surprise that this demonic character has the tenacity to fight large, frightful monsters. He is "Hellboy," and his origin and early adventures are chronicled here. Billed as "the world's greatest paranormal investigator," Hellboy pursues and confronts his share of huge, slimy creatures. Presented with a strong, distinctive artistic flair, this graphic novel offers a fun read with its elaborate fights and its minimal dark background scenes suggesting doom.

Reviewed by Lawrence T., South County Regional

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Sephie, the only child of the Minister of Meridian, has lived a fairy-tale like existence on her floating island home until her uncle Ilahn, the Minister of the neighboring island of Carador, comes for a visit. With his coming, a mysterious power strikes Sephie's father and her uncle and ultimately transforms Sephie's life. Faced with new responsibilities and in the face of great danger, Sephie must discover how to use her new powers and combat her uncle's evil plans -- the fate of not just Meridian, but their whole world waits in the balance. Beautifully drawn, with a strong character-driven plot, Meridian: Flying Solo brings together the first seven volumes of a fantastic fantasy world.

Reviewed by Amanda D., Sugar Creek Branch

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There are 1001 people on the Global Frequency, a distributed emergency response system designed to take action if situations go beyond what normal people can cope with. The people range from police to army to hackers to magicians to experts on memetics. This book contains several self-contained Global Frequency stories, as the part time heroes deal with everything from a human black hole to the ugly reality behind a bionic man to a group of eco-terrorists trying to unleash ebola over London. The language is fresh and funny, the plotting is superb, and the rotating team of guest artists are all fantastic. Warren Ellis has shown why he is in the major leagues of comic books.

Reviewed by Ian R., North County Regional

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After injuring her ankle in a performance, Aya loses her confidence as a ballet dancer. She refuses to dance again, until by chance she sees a performance by a dance company called COOL. They, specifically their lead dancer Akira, make her want to dance again, but Akira refuses to let her join the troupe unless she wins the national ballet championships. One of the nice things about manga as opposed to American graphic novels is the wider range of subjects that are covered. There can be just as much drama in a girl getting her dancing confidence back as in someone trying to stop an alien invasion. Forbidden Dance is beautifully drawn, and has believable characters who will enchant, infuriate and surprise you. Highly recommended.

Reviewed by Ian R., North County Regional

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As popular as comic books are, they are a misunderstood medium, thought by many to simply be a bastardization of pictures and prose. Scott McCloud is the first writer since Will Eisner to lay out a literate examination of what comics are, their appeal, the gradient between abstract and realistic art, the issue of time and sequencing in comics, and a dozen other areas that will astound the casual reader and enlighten even the seasoned comics fan. The best part? He does this all in comics format. The entire book is sequential art, following a cartoon Scott as he introduces the classic structure of comics and puts it in terms that make it instantly comprehensible, even to those who have never read a comic before.

Reviewed by Ian R., North County Regional

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The character of Fagin in Oliver Twist is a curious one. Like Shylock, he seems to be demonized for his religion alone, but also like Shylock he is in many ways not the villain he can be made up to be. In a comprehensive and inspired re-evaluation, Will Eisner does for Fagin what John Gross did for Shylock ten years before. Eisner gives Fagin's whole story, from birth through young adulthood, falling in with the wrong crowd, serving time and coming out at the end as someone simply trying to survive. Eisner does not apologize for Fagin's flaws, but he does ask that Fagin be judged as a whole man, not a caricature. A brilliant and inspired piece of storytelling.

Reviewed by Ian R., North County Regional

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Something that the best writers in superhero comics acknowledge is that even the most invincible character has a weakness. All too often, this weakness is their family. In this exceptional story, Brad Meltzer shows how a violent act against a superhero`s loved one can lead to huge and unforeseen consequences. Part murder mystery, part drama of grief, this is a beautiful and thought provoking re-evaluation of what it means to be a hero, and the lengths heroes would go to in order to protect their own. The whole DC pantheon are present and beautifully illustrated in this story, which showcases several of the most shocking moments in recent DC history. A must for anyone who cares about good storytelling in comics.

Reviewed by Ian R., North County Regional

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Arkham Asylum was one of the first superhero books to successfully match quality of writing and sophistication of illustration. In the story, Batman is forced to enter the nightmarish asylum where insane supervillains are kept. As the environment takes its toll on him, we hear the back-story of the building, and slowly we see Batman confront both the demons around him and those within. What makes this story stand out is the astounding painted artwork from Dave McKean, work that descends, as the asylum does, into a beautiful form of insanity. Matching and keeping pace with this is the wonderful plotting and beautiful prose of Grant Morrison, one of the best modern comic writers. Highly recommended.

Reviewed by Ian R., North County Regional

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A secret crime fighting organization exists to make the world a safer place for the majority of ignorant and blissful citizens. The organization is called “Universal Blue” and just like James Bond in MI6 all of the agents are numbered. Lethal field operative Musashi #9 is the coolest 16-year-old super agent ever, taking on assassins, terrorists and counter-agents without losing that teenager cool attitude. The first volume contains missions one through four, all fast-paced adventures with #9 rescuing both clueless kids and adults from danger.

Reviewed by Kate M., Morrison Regional

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The story of Spiegelman’s relationship with his father, Vladek, as well as Vladek’s story of survival continues in this sequel. The basic story is an account of how Vladek survives the camp and is at last reunited with his wife. This book, too, is a brilliantly effective blend of elements of historic documentary, autobiography, and the comic book. Both books should be considered as one work – a work dealing with the almost impossible task of providing closure to modern history’s most monstrous trauma.

Reviewed by Jim B., Main Library

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Brian Vaughan is one of the rising stars of the comic book industry with innovative titles like Runaways, Ex Machina and Y: The Last Man to his credit. With this book he takes on the archetypal comic book team: the X-Men. This is a mixed collection of stories looking at relationships within the group rather than the group as a whole: Professor X has to face off a mutant bank robber who is immune to his psychic powers, Storm and Wolverine encounter a dangerous woman from Storm's past while Rogue and Gambit face an unstoppable enemy in Las Vegas. The writing in this volume is excellent, and while the art changes from story to story, each suits the mood of their piece perfectly. Compelling storytelling.

Reviewed by Ian R., North County Regional

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They're the children of criminals, mad scientists, time travelers and demon worshipers, and you thought your parents were bad! In the second volume of the Runaways series, Brian Vaughan shows us more of the world that his superheroes on the run inhabit. They tangle with a vampire, stop superheroes robbing a convienance store and meet up with Cloak and Dagger, the original superhero runaways. This series shows how much intelligence a comic aimed at teens can have, managing to be funny, smart, moving and exciting, while never sounding like an adult trying to be hip. Brian Vaughan's characters feel real, and thus you find yourself invested in their drama. One of the best titles Marvel have published in the last five years.

Reviewed by Ian R., North County Regional

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Runaways has managed to show almost every aspect of being a teenager: fighting with your parents, making friends, falling in love and making your own decisions. In this volume, we learn about betrayal. Their parents, The Pride, have been complicit in a plan that will destroy all life on Earth, and it`s up to the Runaways to stop them. That is until one of them reveals they have been working against the group all along. This book is the climax to the first story arc in this series, and it delivers on every level. The characters are brilliantly created, the action is nail-biting and the identity of the traitor will surprise even the most jaded of readers. An amazing book in an excellent series.

Reviewed by Ian R., North County Regional

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Captain America is Marvel’s most iconic character. More so than Spider-Man or the X-Men, he speaks for an idea. Of late, his character has been somewhat watered down. Too many of his adventures have been in space or other dimensions, too little emphasis has been put on his roots as the fighting symbol of America. Ed Brubaker reverses this trend with a stylish adventure that takes Cap back to his roots in World War Two. In the wake of the Avengers disbanding and the death of his arch-enemy, Cap hunts for a stolen ultimate weapon in a search that takes him across the world and brings him face to face with a long-thought-dead reminder of his past. An excellent comic.

Reviewed by Ian R., North County Regional

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The story of the Phoenix and the character of Jean Grey have long been an essential part of X-Men lore. This graphic novel written by Greg Pak and illustrated by Greg Land does not disappoint. Years ago, Jean Grey called upon the Phoenix Force to help her save the X-Men from certain death. Years later, Jean Grey has died (again). The Phoenix has returned to Earth, but has found its previous host dead and buried. The Phoenix entity has a dark side, one that hungers for humanity and life. It resurrects Jean Grey and once again is bent on destruction. The X-Men must again try to save the universe from the limitless power of the Phoenix, and put to rest the spirit of Jean Grey.

Reviewed by Angela C., ImaginOn

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The iconic superheroes of DC Comics took their present form during the 1950s and 1960s. What if those heroes had existed in the real world? Writer/illustrator Darwyn Cooke answers that question in these two volumes. The Mystery Men (the first group of costumed crime fighters) had been outlawed due to Cold War paranoia. Batman, Superman, and Wonder Woman continue to operate in the open, while other heroes either retire or go undercover. But a world-threatening crisis erupts, big enough to require a group of superheroes. Their response to the challenge leads to the beginnings of the legendary Justice League of America. Cooke’s bold illustrations bring his characters to life vividly. At the same time, his realistic portrayal of society reveals dark corners unseen in the original comics.

Reviewed by Mark S., University City Regional

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The pictures in Owly are worth one thousand words, mainly because there are no words at all in the pages. Owly relies solely on symbols, expressions, and the charm of the drawn characters to convey the plot. This simple story has many profound lessons about friendship, loyalty, trust, and faith in oneself. This book is very sweet and would be a great tool for parents to teach kids a few life lessons, or for adults to learn a few life lessons themselves. A many layered book in a simple package.

Reviewed by Angela C., ImaginOn

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Way cool book! I love the fact that there are no words. I read this to my niece, she's five and she loved it too.
-Jodi, Charlotte, NC

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The CLAMP school – named after the five woman creative team who wrote this book – is Japan’s most prestigious school. The three brightest students in the school challenge themselves by creating a detective agency and solving mysteries around the school. Their cases include a rich widow being hustled by her brother-in-law, the theft of documents from the school, a missing peacock, and a challenge from a mysterious lady on Valentine’s Day. This is shojo manga, designed for female readers and written about romantic male leads. It manages to avoid simply being cute by keeping a strong and compelling mystery element. This is a great graphic novel for male and female readers, and has something for everyone.

Reviewed by Ian R., North County Regional

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Few European comics make it to the American market. Most graphic novels available are American, Japanese or British. This is a shame, because some of the best and most fascinating graphic storytelling comes from Europe. The Tintin stories were first published in the 1940s and have been continuously popular ever since. They follow the adventures of the reporter Tintin and his dog Snowy, as they travel across the world, solving mysteries. In this volume, they travel to America, Egypt, and China, uncovering conspiracies and righting wrongs as they do so. These stories are a product of their time, containing now outdated stereotypes and images, but their action is every bit as fresh as when they were first published – classic stories.

Reviewed by Ian R., North County Regional

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Light Yagami is a straight A student. He aces exams and gets on well with his classmates. He’s also bored rigid by daily life. One day, he finds the Death Note, a notebook dropped by a Shinigami death god. If you write someone’s name in the Death Note, they will die. Light intends that this power rids the world of crime and evil, but will a master detective named “L” catch him before he can succeed? This is dark and intelligent manga, beautifully drawn and expertly written. What makes it stand out is how readily the protagonist accepts the fate and the responsibility of deciding who lives and who dies. The story is dark, powerful, and compelling.

Reviewed by Ian R., North County Regional

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Death Note is the intense manga that everyone needs to read.
-Abbey, Charlotte, NC

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Like Daniel Clowes, Adrian Tomine is at his best when dealing with the boredom and minutiae of people’s lives. In this collection of stories, Tomine looks at the human condition, especially love, from all angles. He sees the discomfort love can cause as well as the fulfillment it can give even when it is long gone. What works best about these pieces is that although we gain understanding of the narrator in each piece, Tomine is able to paint them as flawed, alienated by society and themselves. His narrators are loners: self-reliant and self-dependent, and sometimes the person they rely on isn’t enough. An excellent, moving book.

Reviewed by Ian R., North County Regional

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Joss Whedon is one of the true cult entertainment icons of the turn of the century, and his first foray into comics is every bit as good as his TV work. Joss starts off with a shattered and exhausted team and rebuilds them into super-heroes. Along the way, they face the shock of an alleged “cure” to the X-gene that gives mutants their special powers. The story is exciting and well crafted, with a compelling plot and snappy dialogue. John Cassaday’s art proves that he is far and away one of the best artists in comics today. Whether drawing a singe panel or a two page splash, his work is dynamic and exciting. This it the best creative team in comics today.

Reviewed by Ian R., North County Regional

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Before becoming a comic book writer, Judd Winick was one of the housemates on MTV’s The Real World. He shared a room with Pedro, an HIV positive teen who became one of his best friends. In this book, Winick tells the story of their friendship: how it matured, how it grew, and how Pedro’s life ended. This is honest and mature work, and Winick pulls no punches in describing his own difficulties and prejudices. However, it is also laugh-out-loud funny at points, as Judd recounts the story of one of his best friends. This is a book about love and loss, but most of all it is a story about friendship, and how it can survive death.

Reviewed by Ian R., North County Regional

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There are many followers of Neil Gaiman who feel that his Sandman graphic novel collection is his most perfect work. Undoubtedly the most well known of his creations, the Sandman chronicles the life of Dream and his immortal family the Endless. Any of the eleven novels can be read alone or in order as all the stories stand apart. Volume five features the story of Barbie. As a little girl Barbie used to imagine herself a princess with animal subjects in a magical land but as an adult she never dreams. Soon, her imaginary world begins to encroach on the real world. This is a strange tale of reality versus fiction, gender and identity, and the roles we play as children and adults.

Reviewed by Angela C., ImaginOn

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Great book, great humor.
-tiffany, charlotte nc

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Superman and Batman are comic book archetypes. Their origins are so well known as to be mythical. Both have an iron-hard sense of morality, and both know that there is a line they cannot cross. This book is an example of what could have happened had they been raised differently. Three powerful individuals from the future have taken Superman and Batman away from their original upbringing and used them to forge a new world: a utopia for some, a dystopia for most. What follows in this volume is an attempt by the remaining heroes in this world to bring down these super-powered despots and reshape the world. This is an enjoyable adventure, recasting well-known characters into new and unexpected forms.

Reviewed by Ian R., North County Regional

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Detective Renee Montoya has a special relationship with the villain Two-Face. This second collection from the series Gotham Central (which features the Gotham City Police Department rather than Batman) includes the earlier stories that established that relationship, as well as the climactic title story arc. Montoya has a secret. When her private life suddenly becomes public, who is responsible, and could she have committed a horrible crime? Rucka and Lark treat a sensitive subject with finesse and skill, and tell a great mystery story in the bargain. A truly mature comic, even without the "Mature Readers" label.

Reviewed by Mark S., University City Regional

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Imagine the era of British Mods and Rockers, set in a dystopian near-future. Now it’s the Originals versus the Dirt, and they ride Hovers instead of scooters. Lel and Bok want to be Originals, but the real story begins after they reach their goal. When tragedy strikes, Lel faces some hard decisions. Should he be true to the group, or to his friend? And what should he do with the rest of his life? Veteran comics writer and illustrator Dave Gibbons (probably best known for co-creating Watchmen with Alan Moore) uses black and white illustrations to create a timeless tale about growing up.

Reviewed by Mark S., University City Regional

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Can you imagine the Justice League of America (JLA) past their prime? Kingdom Come depicts the JLA coming out of retirement. They team up yet again to restore order to the chaos created by the superheroes attempting to fill the void they left behind. Magog, the new meta-human is the catalyst to the team’s reunion. After Magog decimates Kansas, Wonder Woman persuades Superman to come out of exiles, and have the JLA reunite to organize world order. Filled with Alex Ross’ artwork this graphic novel never fails to captivate the reader.

Reviewed by Amrita P., ImaginOn

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The Ultimate Universe is a reboot of marvel continuity, taking Marvel’s characters back to basics and spinning them in new directions. One of the most recent groups to be rebooted is Marvel’s First Family, the Fantastic Four. This book sees the return of Reed Richards’ rival and friend Victor Van Damme, who has been transformed by the accident that created the Fantastic Four into a twisted creature that called itself Doom. Doom is the leader of a “freezone” commune in Copenhagen, and blames Richards for his accident. He launches an attack on the Four, which leads them to retaliate against him. Once they reach the final showdown, as The Thing says, “It’s Clobberin’ Time!” This is a fun book, but it’s also an intelligent one.

Reviewed by Ian R., North County Regional

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Marvel’s “Essential” volumes reissue the first stories of classic Marvel characters. Tony Stark was a millionaire inventor who developed weapons for the government in the Vietnam war, until an ambush left him captured by the Vietcong with a piece of shrapnel embedded in his heart. From scrap materials, he invented a chest plate that keeps his heart beating, and then develops an iron suit to protect the rest of his body. With this armor, he becomes Iron Man! What’s interesting about this comic is how much it reflects its time. Tony Stark is hawkish, anti-communist, and willing to help the US develop incredible weapons. These comics are still fresh and readable although it’s fascinating to see how much writing and art have developed over the years.

Reviewed by Ian R., North County Regional

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This is classic Sandman. This is the issue where everything begins. We meet Nada, the doomed love of Dream. We meet Rose Walker and her abnormal family. We see fallen superheroes, Ken and Barbie, and a mortal man who refuses to succumb to Death. We stumble into a serial killer convention, discover a dream vortex, and find out what happened to Fiddler’s Green. Neil Gaiman truly finds his pace and direction with this volume and the plotlines begin to develop into the Sandman that fans recognize and adore. Although all the volumes are designed to be read alone or in order, this is the piece of the Sandman puzzle that connects all of them and makes it a must read for true fans.

Reviewed by Angela C., ImaginOn

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As much as Superman is the iconic DC superhero, Batman is the iconic DC crime fighter, always more of a detective than a costumed hero. In this volume, DC collects the first 17 Batman stories, from his early days in Detective Comics to his own comic book. These are stories of adventure and crime, owing as much to Dick Tracy as they do to any other superhero. This Batman is also darker and more dangerous than his modern counterpart, at one point engaging in a knife fight with The Joker that ends with a dagger buried in his foe’s chest. These are raw stories, and yet they have incredible energy and life. Small wonder that Batman is still going strong, 65 years after his creation.

Reviewed by Ian R., North County Regional

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From the creator of Buffy the Vampire Slayer comes a new tale of the latest girl with a personal destiny to lead the fight against evil. Set several hundred years in the future, Melaka Fray has no idea what is to come, but then she meets a new friend, Urkonn. He introduces Fray to her destiny, but does he have underlying intentions she is not aware of? When someone close dies, Fray finally accepts who she is and unites friends as well as old enemies to overcome this latest quest for total world domination. But what is Fray to do when she finds out that the leader of the vampires is none other than her twin brother she saw die years earlier? Joss Whedon brings to life so many memorable characters with his writing the reader can’t wait for more.

Reviewed by Jennifer M., Cornelius Branch

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Winner of the 2005 Eisner Award (in its original Web version), Mom’s Cancer proves once again that the graphic novel is a viable format for serious non-fictional topics. In fact, it works extremely well in this case – describing in highly functional drawings as well as in words the emotional and physical stresses a family endures in the struggle against a devastating disease. The presentation is honest and extremely well drawn, depicting a condition that is anything but pleasant. Serious as it is, however, this endearing and sensitive account is not devoid of humor, and is indeed rich in love and hope.

Reviewed by Jim B., Main Library

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What would growing up with “special abilities” (aka super powers) be like in the real world? Writer Brian Wood and illustrator Becky Cloonan tell twelve stories that give twelve answers to that question. Finding a path in life can be hard enough for young adults, but these characters have the additional burden of being truly different. Their talents are subtle—no flying or power beams—so Demo can focus on the personal aspects of coping with them. The result is a fascinating series of character studies, more like an independent comic than a superhero one. Cloonan’s black and white illustrations vary from story to story, always focusing on character portrayal rather than action.

Reviewed by Mark S., University City Regional

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Gilbert Hernandez established his reputation telling stories about the fictional town of Palomar in the Love & Rockets comic series. Sloth moves to the suburbs to tell a similarly surreal tale of troubled teenagers, a haunted lemon orchard, and a possible murder. Miguel is so bored with life that he willfully slips into a coma. When he wakes a year later he is virtually unchanged, except for his sloth-like pace. After resuming life with his girlfriend Lita and their best friend Romeo, the three are gradually drawn into the investigation of an urban legend which changes all three of their lives in bizarre, unexpected ways. Hernandez's distinctive black and white artwork effectively evokes his unique characters and the strange, yet familiar world they inhabit.

Reviewed by Mark S., University City Regional

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Creator Mike Mignola knew he was going to be busy working on the Hellboy movie, so he sent the Hellboy character to the bottom of the ocean. The story The Third Wish begins in Africa, with African folktale elements, and then becomes a mermaid story. In the sequel The Island, Mignola finds a way to bring Hellboy back to the surface, and tells several origin stories, revealing many secrets about the character. The volume ends with an Epilog which sets up the next chapter in Hellboy's life, plus some discarded pages and sketches.

Reviewed by Mark S., University City Regional

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Lots of comics have dealt with the twin dilemmas of being a teenager and getting super powers, but none in quite the way that Invincible does. Mark Grayson is the son of Omniman, the world’s most powerful superhero, and he’s known about his father his whole life. When his own powers finally kick in, his reaction is “It’s about time!”. Invincible is a smart and funny look at a superhero’s first faltering steps. Its real strength is in its characterization. Every character in the book, from Mark’s friends at school to his concerned but accepting mother, comes across as real and human. This is a great book and the start of a great series.

Reviewed by Ian R., North County Regional

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All the world is indeed a stage, according to Michael Malice -- a stage unfortunately crowded with idiots. He, of course, is a genius, as well as a scrupulously honest man. The problem is that he is always right, always on top. It inclines him towards thoughtlessness and cruelty. But what choice does he have? In a world of idiots, the intelligent man is a lonely creature: just ask his inspiration, Ayn Rand. He's almost too obnoxious to merit the reader's sympathy; though he certainly commands a great deal of the reader's fascination. Like it or not, he's right about everything, and that -- especially against Pekar's gray workaday backgrounds -- makes him most colorful.

Reviewed by Jim B., Main Library

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The latest collection of Frank Miller's Sin City stories breaks the usual pattern in significant ways. The first is length: at nearly 300 pages, Hell and Back is by far the longest of the series. Miller tells a convoluted tale with a large cast of characters, ranging from Esther (this story's damsel in distress), to Wallace (the hero), to the good cop and the bad gangsters (including an especially dangerous femme fatale). The dark look of Sin City is achieved through Miller's heavy black and white drawings, relieved by small splashes of color. Here there are several accent colors employed, plus one fully colored hallucinogenic sequence (where Miller has fun invoking icons from illustration, comics, and cartoons). No fan of Sin City or Miller will want to miss this one.

Reviewed by Mark S., University City Regional

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Robin Plotnick is an assistant mechanic who has just joined the crew of the Fist of Earth, a huge military space station in earth’s orbit. When he meets his new boss, Mac, he is a little shocked. Mac is straightforward, funny, talented, quick-tempered, and an 800 pound gorilla. What follows is a mixture of comedy, space opera, and buddy movie, as Mac and Robin become fast friends and Robin learns to love life as the assistant to a grease monkey. This is well-told, excellently drawn science fiction with a heart and a brain. It gives us the details of Robin’s life without varnish, not letting the protagonist be too perfect or too wretched. A great, fun read for all ages.

Reviewed by Ian R., North County Regional

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Carla, a young American estranged from her Mexican father, heads down to Mexico City with no real plan in mind. A supposed short visit soon turns into an extended stay, as she crashes with her ex-boyfriend Harry and devotes herself to exploring the city, learning Spanish and trying to understand Mexican culture. She meets Anglo expatriates and a group of young Mexicans, eventually rejecting the expatriate set and finding an apartment and a Mexican roommate. Things take an ugly turn when Harry is kidnapped and held for ransom, and Carla’s friends may be involved. Abel tells the story with a unique mix of English and Spanish; her black and white drawings paint an evocative picture of Mexico City and her memorable characters.

Reviewed by Mark S., University City Regional

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The story of David B.’s childhood is the story of his family’s attempts to deal with his older brother’s epilepsy. His parents try one cure after another: acupuncture, magnetic therapists, mediums, and macrobiotic communes. Each treatment promises a cure, only to end in disappointment. Angry at his brother for giving up, and at the quacks, who offer false hope, David copes by drawing elaborate family history, with grandparents represented as ghosts that David converses with in the woods. Realistic and fantastical by turns, the inky black and white artwork creates a unique world: simple or detailed as needed, but always honest and emotional.

Reviewed by Mark S., University City Regional

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I bet there are days when you think your parents are evil. For the six kids in The Runaways, their parents really are evil. Their six sets of parents make up “The Pride,” a group of super-villains who rule Los Angeles and most of the west coast. Disgusted by what their parents are, the six runaway together. In this action-packed volume, the kids travel to New York to help clear the name of super hero Cloak, of Cloak & Dagger. Readers of comic books will love the many cameo appearances and references to standard super heroes. Action and humor go hand-in-hand in this fast-paced fun read.

Reviewed by Emily L., University City Regional

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It’s gimmicky but it works. One superhero has a brief crush with another as a sort of introduction before they sort matters out and join forces to fight the real bad guys. That does occur in the Ultimate Spider-Man graphic novel with the arachnid super-powered teen running into Blade, Daredevil and the Punisher. In “Morbius” Spider-Man encounters the frightful vampire and otherworldly beings in a creepy outing while in “Annual #2” he swings into a gangster turf battle with stunning results. First, though, Spider-man encounters the X-Men in “Deadpool.” It starts as he is captured in a trap designed for the mutant group. Stuck, Spider-Man and his new girlfriend X-Men Kitty Pryde battle through a furious battle with Deadpool’s gang in nonstop action that’s comparable to a good video game.

Reviewed by Lawrence T., South County Regional

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This memoir, in graphic novel format, is a heart-wrenching look at life as the child of two Holocaust survivors. The main body of the work is text, with illustrations scattered on the pages. The style calls to mind Evard Munch's "The Scream." Only one section is in comic book style. Eisenstein recalls her life and relates what happened to her Polish parents as they survived concentration camps, met each other, married, and made their way to Canada. As in most graphic novels, the author's writing style is straight forward with nothing softening the blows of her words. It took courage for the author to accept the painful truth about her parent’s past, as it takes courage for the reader to listen to that truth.

Reviewed by Susan G., Myers Park Branch

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On the surface, title character David Boring is pretty boring. He grew up in a small town, moved to the big city, and leads an aimless life, working as a night watchman. His sexual obsessions aside, it's a mundane slice-of-life story at first (much like Clowes' well-known graphic novel Ghost World). However, his life gradually becomes stranger: first a visiting friend is murdered, then he pursues a mystery woman, and finally Boring is shot. After some additional surreal adventures, he solves most of these mysteries in the last part of the story. In the end, things are not entirely resolved, yet the story remains oddly compelling. Clowes creates memorable characters, no matter how unusual the circumstances become.

Reviewed by Mark S., University City Regional

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What’s it like to grow up Asian-American? Jin Wang finds himself the only Chinese-American at his new school, desperately trying to fit in. Danny is a popular basketball player, but every year his cousin Chin-Kee comes to visit, shaming him by representing every negative Chinese stereotype. Finally, the Chinese fable of the "Monkey King" is retold. The king is the most powerful monkey on earth, but he doesn’t want to be a monkey -- he wants to be a god. As these three tales alternate, creator Gene Yang explores different ways of trying to belong. The surprising climax brings all three stories together. Touching and humorous by turns, sure to appeal to anyone who remembers growing up, regardless of ethnic background.

Reviewed by Mark S., University City Regional

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Garage bands look alike the world over, as Italian comic artist Gipi shows us in this story of four young men starting a band. Giuliano's dad loans him a garage for the band to practice in and the book's five sections--called "canzone"(songs)--tell the story of their attempt to cut a demo tape. Each member has family tensions to deal with, not to mention their own search for individuality. But their desperate attempt to replace a blown amplifier lands them in a world of trouble, perhaps enough to break up the band for good…Gipi's distinctive watercolors bring both characters and Italian countryside to life; a selection of art studies is also included.

Reviewed by Mark S., University City Regional

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This brief but fascinating graphic novella tells the story of one of Harry Houdini's most famous stunts: He jumped off the Harvard Bridge into the Charles River while bound and locked in chains. Cartoonists Lutes and Bertozzi set up the climax with introductory scenes that show Houdini's showmanship, the loyalty of his wife, Bess, and the public's view of him as a superhero. The artists capture the suspense of the event in a series of mostly wordless panels showing crowd reactions as the "handcuff king" goes under. (See The Secret life of Houdini: the making of America's first superhero by William Kalush for more information.)

Reviewed by Tom C., Main Library

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Paul Pope specializes in dystopian science-fiction graphic novels, like his long-running series THB. Here his dark, kinetic visual style proves to be a perfect match for Batman, a character who has always had a darker side than most mainstream superheroes. Set in the year 2039, Pope's story opens with Batman fleeing across rooftops from shadowy military/police operatives. Blamed for the death of an agent, and the last of the now-illegal masked heroes, he is widely regarded as an urban legend. Year 100 finds him attempting to protect his identity (with the help of stalwarts like Robin and the new Commissioner Gordon), while uncovering a sinister conspiracy in very high places. An exciting Batman story which also serves as a good introduction to Pope's distinctive style.

Reviewed by Mark S., University City Regional

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Hikaru Shindo, while rummaging through his grandfather’s junk for something to sell, finds an old Go board. To his surprise and dismay, the board is haunted and the spirit of ancient Go master, Fujiwara-no-Sai, who promptly moves into Hikaru’s consciousness. Hikaru now has to deal with a ghost who wants nothing more than to play Go, a game he has no interest in. Hikaru agrees to learn to play if Sai leaves him alone. This first volume deals with the beginning of his rivalry with Akira Toya, a brilliant Go prodigy. Hikaru no Go is an interesting manga that features not only a entertaining story but also sneakily teaches the basics of the complicated ancient game of Go to its readers.

Reviewed by James S., Sugar Creek

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In this second volume of Hikaru no Go, the rivalry between Akira and Hikaru deepens. Hikaru gets drafted into the Go club for Haze Middle School, even though he is in grade school, by Tetsuo Kaga, a shogi champ. They win a tournament only to have victory snatched away from them. During this time, Hikaru seems to be developing his own appreciation and talent for Go without Sai’s spectral help. Also, members of Kaio Middle School plot to defeat and discredit Akira so that he won’t usurp members of their own championship Go team. While not as fast-paced as the first volume, First Battle still entertains and spends its time wisely developing the characters that are sure to have a payoff in the following books.

Reviewed by James S., Sugar Creek Branch

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In this third volume of Hikaru no Go, the story continues to buildup. Hikaru and the new Haze Middle School Go Club are having problems finding a third member after Tetsuo Kaga quits. Possible salvation arrives with the discovery of Yuki Mitani, a very good player (and cheater) who games for money. Meanwhile, at Kaio Middle School, Akira is bullied and challenged by upperclassmen to frustrate him to the point where he loses to one of them, crushing his hope of ever defeating Hikaru if he loses to a "lesser". The shadow of the upcoming Go tournament taints the story in this volume with a sense of desperation as it becomes apparent that this event will define or break the spirit of the participants.

Reviewed by James S., Sugar Creek Branch

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In this fourth volume of Hikaru no Go, the second tournament begins, this time with Hikaru legally participating. The Haze Go Club blazes the initial rounds to finally face their arch-rivals, the Kaio Club, in a defining match. The results for Hikaru and Akira are surprising and story-altering. Also, Hikaru discovers how to let Sai play on the Internet but, as good intentions go, Sai attracts the attention of the worldwide community of professionals who wonder at this unknown player who never speaks. Only Akira seems to know when he recognizes the same moves made playing Hikaru. The story crests in this volume only to encounter another plot that promises to raise the stakes even higher.

Reviewed by James S., Sugar Creek Branch

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In this fifth volume of Hikaru no Go, Sai’s internet playing comes to a head when Akira challenges Sai to a rematch. That date falls on Akira’s first day of the Pro Exam and he willingly takes a loss to play against his rival. Convinced of Hikaru’s duplicity, Akira confronts him and makes it clear that he will become a professional player and that Hikaru will never come close to his skill. This only solidifies Hikaru’s resolve and he applies for acceptance into a semi-professional insei school. This volume begins to explore the depths of Akira Toya and the message is that Hikaru isn’t defined by Akira but it is completely the opposite and that both are driven by the other.

Reviewed by James S., Sugar Creek Branch

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In this sixth volume of Hikaru no Go, Hikaru is accepted into the insei school but learns that he has a long way to go to reach the pro exams so that he can play against Akira, who passed the exam on his first try. Hikaru watches Akira barely lose to Oza Zama, a highly ranked professional, and he vows to quickly improve. However, Hikaru misses his friends in the old Go club and he drops in to play, only to reinforce Yuki Mitani’s feelings of betrayal after Hikaru dropped out of the club to become an insei. This volume marks a shift in the storyline from Hikaru being considered the lucky bumbling amateur into a serious race against Akira.

Reviewed by James S., Sugar Creek Branch

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This is an original twist given that Star Trek has spawned countless novels, comics and video games – it now moves into manga. Star Trek presents five stories set in the Original Series timeline. All of them manage to capture the "feel" of the television series albeit with concepts such as nanotechnology that was unknown during the 60s. The standout tale from this volume is "Anything But Alone" that forgoes action in favor or a more cerebral take on the subject matter. The artwork runs the gamut from overly simplistic to very detailed. While the manga treatment really doesn’t lend anything to the stories, the tales are quite good on their own and may provide an interest in Star Trek among younger readers.

Reviewed by James S., Sugar Creek Branch

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Alex Rider: teen spy. Alex never would have thought that his life could change this much. Alex lives with his uncle, a bank supervisor – or so he thought. But, Ian dies and Alex discovers that Ian was in the special operations division of MI-6. Alex is tapped to continue Ian’s investigation involving “Stormbreaker,” a computer that will soon be sent to every school in England. Alex must pose as a computer geek, one who has won a contest to see the new computer before it is launched. Can he find out what the secret plot is before it’s too late? This graphic novel adaptation of the book, Stormbreaker by Anthony Horowitz, visually brings to life the action-packed story without losing any of the excitement.

Reviewed by Christine B., South County Regional

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Here’s the picture: high school, change and friendship. Add the desire for independence and you nail the high school experience for everyone, right? That’s the situation for the new girl at school, Jane, who’s coping with a recent move to the suburbs and trying to fit in with new friends. She’s certain she finds them in an unorthodox group of three – all named Jane. Initially they ignore her but their attitudes change between several schemes and goals and “P.L.A.I.N.” – People Loving Art In Neighbors – is born. Spreading the message that “Art Saves” the four students have fun but also create public mischief by defacing public property. Then the expected consequences arise. Carried by realist emotion yet commonplace artwork, the story is sensitive and fair.

Reviewed by Lawrence T., South County Regional

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Courtney Crumrin returns to her old neighborhood, to find her best friend involved with a bad crowd. A few spells help him get out of a jam, and then there’s the matter of his mother’s ghost. Returning to the magical village of Hillsborough, Courtney begins attending Saturday coven school. When a fellow student uses a curse to turn his brother into a night thing, Courtney must lead the group to an orchard in the Twilight Kingdom. To further complicate things, she’s being watched all the while by a suspicious coven deputy. As it comes to a head, Naifeh also lays the groundwork for future sequels.

Reviewed by Mark S., University City Regional

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Jen Dik Seong ("Dixie" to her friends) lives in LA's Koreatown, and attends a high school where she's on the outs with everyone but her best friend Avril. However, she's completely at home at the dojang where she practices the ancient martial art of hapkido. In fact, she's set to win a major championship if she can keep focused. Her crush on fellow martial arts student Adam may be a problem. When she buys him an expensive warrior statue as a birthday present, she starts a re-gifting cycle. Each time the statue changes hands, the receiver learns something about the giver or a previous recipient, culminating in one last exchange just before the final fight in the tournament. A fun read, with action, intrigue, and romance in balance.

Reviewed by Mark S., University City Regional

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This manga-esque version of Johnston McCulley’s classic pulp fiction hero is, at first, an odd updating of the look of the character until you realize that the flesh and blood of the writing is still vibrant and no less striking. Scars finds Zorro on a long run from his habitual enemies, Sergeant Garcia and Commandante Monasterio, with a embittered and disfigured barmaid when they encounter the beauties and hazards of Yellowstone along with the terror of a vicious group of furriers and hunters determined to keep their secret hunting grounds from everyone even if it means killing them to do so. This is the first volume in a three-part story and promises to be an interesting read given the quality of the writing already exhibited.

Reviewed by James S., Sugar Creek Branch

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Collecting the six issues of the comics originally published by Oni Press, Polly and the Pirates delves into the whimsical childhood fantasy of leaving our drab lives for a life of rip-roaring adventure. Such is the case with meek and proper Polly Pringle who resides at a boarding home for young ladies. She wants nothing to do with the wild fantasies of her friend, Anastasia, yet she finds herself abducted one night by pirates who insist the she is the daughter of their former pirate queen and wants her to help them recover the map to her mother’s treasure. In the process, Polly finds out much about herself and her hidden strengths as well as things about the mother that she didn’t know.

Reviewed by James S., Sugar Creek Branch

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Amu is super-cool; just ask anyone at her school and they’ll tell you. But what nobody knows is that she really isn’t cool – she’s actually a very shy girl who wishes she could be herself, whoever that is. When she makes a wish on her guardian angel, three eggs appear. Inside each is a Guardian Character, a magical being who can change Amu into someone new. Along with her new friends, however, comes the attention of a powerful group of students at her school and a mysterious catboy whose intentions may or may not be honest. Filled with handsome boys, cute girls, and delightful clothes, this manga is creative, funny, and a touch romantic, a perfect read for someone looking for a change.

Reviewed by Snow W., Mountain Island Branch

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Sometimes when the emotions are too strong, they can’t be spoken aloud. In these five stories, teens who feel deeply for another person express their love in a letter and that letter changes everything for them. From the girl who finds a love letter written by the school’s tough guy to a boy who helps a girl with a desperate secret and from the quiet bookish girl who finds a hidden letter in the library to a mailman who befriends a blind woman, these letters will touch your heart with their expressive and detailed illustrations. Included are translation notes and a silly bonus story from the author.

Reviewed by Snow W., Mountain Island Branch

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Left on her own by parents who are out of the country for work and always rejected by the boys she likes, Riiko is desperate for companionship. She gets more than she bargains for, though, when she signs up online for a three-day trial of a Nightly Lover “figure.” When the android is delivered the next day, he’s perfect, but when she accidentally misses the deadline to return him, she finds out that she has to pay one million dollars! Watase is one of Japan’s most popular shojo manga creators for her mix of humor, romance, and very cute boys. Follow the adventures of Riiko, her lover boy Night, and her longtime friend/possible love interest Soshi starting with the hilarious volume one.

Reviewed by Snow W., Mountain Island Branch

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“The dusk sky carries your wishes to the Dream Shoppe. Any dream can come true in exchange for something dear to you. What dream do you want?” Join the mysterious proprietor Rin and his cute assistant Alpha as they soar through the sky granting the wishes of people’s hearts. Whether you are a tree that has fallen for a musician or a stuffed animal who loves his owner, the Dream Shoppe has a magical product which will solve your problem. Readers who like sweetly romantic fantasy stories will enjoy these lushly illustrated stories full of pretty boys and the girls who love them.

Reviewed by Snow W., Mountain Island Branch

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Risa Koizumi is the tallest girl in her class at 5’7”, almost taller than all of the boys. At 5’1”, Atsushi Otani is the shortest boy in class, as short or shorter than most of the girls. As far as the two of them are concerned, the worst thing in the world is to be lumped together like some freak comedy duo. It’s not their fault that everyone thinks they’re funny! When they join together to try to win the affections of their crushes, however, Risa and Atsushi’s bizarre friendship might become something more complex. With two very original main characters and a realistic, but light art style, Nakahara’s manga series is the perfect choice for readers looking for a little humor in their romance.

Reviewed by Snow W., Mountain Island Branch

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Set in ancient China, Hoshin Engi follows the adventures of Taikobo, a human boy who has been training in the spirit world after the destruction of his earthly village by Dakki, a beautiful demon who has enchanted the king. His sensei charges him to return to earth and defeat 365 immortals so that they can be imprisoned between earth and the spirit realm. The biggest problem is that Taikobo is both overconfident and lazy. He wins handily early but meets his match against Dakki. This is a good manga but is confusing unless you read the notes at the back first that explain words used throughout and the story starts shaky but it does show promise that it will improve with later volumes.

Reviewed by James S., Sugar Creek Branch

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After their battle with the Ash Daughters gang, Gamma, Smith and Elwood set off in search of the next ring of the dead only to have Gamma run into his old arch-enemy, Balmunk, a deranged magician with a flair for the theatrical. Complicating matters is the introduction of Wolfina, a journalist who has her own agenda and painful past with the rings that she tries to hide. Also included in this volume is Kubo’s very first manga story, Ultra Unholy Hearted Machine, about a android girl and a bounty hunter set up to destroy the mafia. Unlike the first volume, you can see the subtle emotional development that Kubo is known for begin to take form which is guaranteed to pay out in upcoming volumes.

Reviewed by James S., Sugar Creek

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The battle with the mad Balmunk continues as he lures Gamma and his companions to his diabolical circus where they are separated and forced into combat with his troupe of killers. In the fracas, Wolfina discovers that Balmunk has kidnapped her comatose brother and has imprisoned him aboard a circus train that is speeding away. She and Gamma give chase hoping to stop the train before another ring is lost to them forever. This volume also includes a short manga story called “Rune Master Urara” about a girl who binds demons to her body with tattoos and uses them to fight demonic infestations wherever they occur. This is another solid entry into this short series and the final volume should be a spectacular ending.

Reviewed by James S., Sugar Creek

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Less of an ending and more like a breaking point is an apt description of the final volume of Zombiepowder. Wolfina’s fight for her brother’s safety continues aboard an out of control locomotive on a collision course with Alcantara. We are also introduced to the mysterious doctor that Gamma has alluded to in the past as his drug supply runs out and it is revealed that only this doctor can free Emilio from the power of the ring but at a high cost. This volume also includes a short manga story called “Bad Shield United” about a team who hunts down renegade combat androids. Sadly, Zombiepowder is unlikely ever to be resolved due to the popularity of Bleach taking up all of Kubo’s time.

Reviewed by James S., Sugar Creek

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Writer/illustrator Rick Geary’s A Treasury of Victorian Murder series continues with this tale of the scandalous secret affair between an upper class Scottish woman and a gentleman of lower standing. As the story opens, we see young clerk Emile L’Anglier knocking on his landlady’s door in Glasgow, doubled over in pain. He dies within hours, and autopsy confirms death from arsenic poisoning. Several love letters signed "Mimi" are found among his possessions; soon a young woman named Madeleine Smith is arrested for the murder. Geary then gives a family history of the two lovers, and their two-year affair. Despite proof of the affair and evidence that Madeleine had purchased arsenic, the trial ends in her acquittal. A final chapter covers the rest of Madeleine's life up to her death in New York.

Reviewed by Mark S., University City Regional

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Writer/artist David Lapham is best known for his long running series Stray Bullets, whose black and white illustrations depict a dark crime noir world. Silverfish is a gripping crime mystery in the same mold (but the B&W is spruced up with greytones). Mia Fleming is babysitting her younger sister while her dad and new stepmother Suzanne are away for the weekend. Mia finds a suitcase with her stepmother’s secret possessions: an address book, a stash of money, and a blood-caked knife. As she and her friends call people listed in the address book, they begin to unravel Suzanne’s double life. When Mia phones Daniel, a sadistic killer who believes he has a school of demonic fish living in his ear, she brings events to a head. The explosive conclusion reunites Daniel and Suzanne, supplying surprising answers to the mystery.

Reviewed by Mark S., University City Regional

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One day Sey’s mother announces that she’s moving to Italy and leaving Sey behind in Korea with family friends. Sey is looking forward to having a normal family, but she ends up with an over the top new mom and a creepy new brother who is hiding a surprising secret. Add to the mix bad boy Siho, who starts dating Sey’s ambitious friend Rea, but who might be more interested in Sey, and you have the perfect recipe for a dramatic romance. Follow the lives of four girls—Sey, Rea, Hali, and Je Eun—and the boys…and men…whom they love, starting with the first volume of this tangled romance.

Reviewed by Snow W., Mountain Island Branch

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A fine piece of historical fiction, this bears a strong family resemblance to Alan Moore's The League of Extraordinary Gentlemen. Our heroes--representing science--are Mark Twain, Nikola Tesla, Baroness Bertha Von Suttner, and Tesla's assistant Timothy Boone. Our villains--representing magic--are John Pierpoint Morgan, Thomas Edison, Guglielmo Marconi, and Andrew Carnegie. Twain and Tesla want to eliminate war by selling a huge automaton to all of the world powers, making human soldiers unnecessary, while establishing a balance of power. When their presentation fails to impress world leaders, they set up an elaborate demonstration which looks like a demonic invasion. The villains have another world domination plot in motion. When science meets magic, the fireworks are tremendous.

Reviewed by Mark S., University City Regional

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Orphaned almost at birth, cursed to house a demon, and rejected by the people of his village, yet still he struggles toward his goal—to be the greatest ninja who ever lived. If you haven’t met Naruto Uzumaki, now is the time to see why this is one of the most popular manga and anime series in the United States. Join Naruto and his classmates and teachers as they struggle to remain true to themselves in a world which wants to beat them down. This action-packed, gripping read is filled with equal parts humor and drama and deftly illustrated in a clear, but detailed style. Kishimoto’s story will capture your heart. Believe it!

Reviewed by Snow W., Mountain Island Branch

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Reader's comments about this book

For those who like action, read this series! It is still continuing but the storyline is amazing. There are lots of fight scenes and good friends become enemies.
-Summer Library Volunteer, Cornelius, NC

Amazing storyline. For those who are interested in reading a manga that deals with teamwork and persistence, Naruto is the book for you :)
-Jennifer, Cornelius, NC

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Ichigo has always been able to see ghosts and spirits, but he’s unaware of the multitude of supernatural creatures surrounding him. When he runs into a mysterious girl, Rukia, and accidentally absorbs her powers in a desperate effort to save his family, Ichigo learns of the soul reapers, powerful beings dedicated to sending spirits back to where they belong. Determined to use his new powers, he agrees to let Rukia train him, but their new partnership has repercussions that shake both Ichigo’s world and that of the soul reapers. Kubo’s multi-layered and intricate story is popular for several reasons—high adrenaline action, well-rounded characters, sharp plot twists, and strong, evocative artwork. Dive in today and see what you’ve been missing!

Reviewed by Snow W., Mountain Island Branch

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Nobara Sumiyoshi’s one love is volleyball, but her mother is dead set against her playing, even going so far as to cancel the girls’ team at Nobara’s new high school. But that’s not going to stop Nobara from achieving her dreams. She’s determined to restart the girls’ team and to take them all the way to the top, fighting her mother, her own need for further training, the other players’ apathy, and the uncaring members of the boys’ team along the way. Takanashi’s sports manga is a great read about a determined girl discovering who she is, learning about love, and fighting for the right to be herself. You’ll cheer for her all the way!

Reviewed by Snow W., Mountain Island Branch

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Tohru Honda is a homeless orphan, but she tries to always stay cheerful, despite her troubles. When Yuki Sohma, the handsome prince of her school, offers to let her live with him and his cousins in exchange for housekeeping, Tohru discovers that the members of the Sohma family are under an ancient curse. Her determination and love might be just what this troubled family needs to break free from the chains of tradition binding it together. Takaya’s extremely popular manga is drawn with a gentle romantic style that perfectly complements this sweet story, filled to the brim with friendship, romance, and the powerful pull of family ties and obligations.

Reviewed by Snow W., Mountain Island Branch

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Raised from birth by a mysterious organization that turns children into living weapons, Argent now tries to live a peaceful life as an apothecary, but Princess Primula, the young woman he was once food taster for, keeps getting him involved in her struggles as she tries to learn to be the best ruler possible for her people. However, no matter how much the two might long for a deeper relationship, there is no possibility of one developing, since the very touch of Argent’s skin is fatally poisonous. Yamashita’s delicately drawn manga is a softly romantic story with a touch of medieval fantasy, nicely fleshed out by the former-pharmacist-turned-artist’s first hand knowledge of medicinal plants and compounds.

Reviewed by Snow W., Mountain Island Branch

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As the final rounds of the Pro Test loom, Hikaru and his friends must gird themselves against intense pressure to win. This even more so for Isumi who has failed twice already and this is his final attempt. Akira Toya is hired by the father of another prodigy, Ochi, who learns of Akira’s desire to play his old rival and turns this knowledge to his own advantage because he has to play Hikaru soon and wonders what a pro has to fear from an insei. Things come to a head with a catastrophic mistake which leaves the future of one of the insei in doubt. As the story unfolds, you never would believe that putting black and white stones down could be such interesting reading.

Reviewed by James S., Sugar Creek

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The final four candidates for the Pro Test have been selected but only three can advance and Ochi has locked one position already. Hikaru, Waya and Isumi must battle for the two remaining spots. Ochi, failing to heed Akira’s warnings about Hikaru, gets overconfident and is both defeated and humiliated. Waya, under pressure from his father to succeed, wins as well and Isumi is eliminated. With Ochi’s defeat, Akira Toya now realizes that Hikaru will now be facing him as a pro, even as his own twenty-game undefeated record is gaining him his own fame. Volume Eleven in the series is a watershed moment where Hikaru comes into his own as a player and the stage now changes to a stage with much higher stakes.

Reviewed by James S., Sugar Creek

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On the planet of Deloca, students join huge trains that travel the planet’s surface and they learn as they travel. Such are the plans for Reiichi and Liae who plan to board the general train and take the classes they need to move on into society. A chance and violent meeting with the rebellious Arena, however, throws Rei’s life into turmoil and he finds himself handcuffed to the mysterious young girl and aboard the special train, a mobile classroom that has a reputation for failure and missing students. Can Rei survive the humiliation of having to live in the girl’s dormitory; handcuffed to someone he believes is a maniac? This is an extremely good first volume to what promises to be an entertaining series. Recommended.

Reviewed by James S., Sugar Creek

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After her mother’s death, Hana, a Japanese student, goes to live with her grandfather and his pet raccoon in California. Finding it hard to adjust to the culture, Hana spends most of her time practicing her martial arts until she befriends Brittany, the daughter of the local pastor. What follows are the tough choices one must make between friendships and popularity in the face of an extra-dimensional invasion by animal-men in search of a fabled stolen sword and the betrayer who stole it. While geared towards the younger young adult audience, the book has its own simple charm, as exhibited by the cartoony manga-esque artwork and quick reading time. This is the first volume of, presumably, several and worth the time of this light read.

Reviewed by James S., Sugar Creek

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In this spirited retelling of the origin of Captain Marvel, Jeff Smith, celebrated writer and artist of the Bone series, infuses this tale of young Billy Batson turned superhero with adult sensibilities reflecting the post 9-11 modern world but still retaining a childlike enthusiasm and charm in the face of classic Captain Marvel villains as Doctor Sivana and Mr. Mind along with the aforementioned Monster Society. Billy’s inadvertent tampering with time causes more problems with him and his sister, Mary, than they ever could have imagined resulting in an extra-dimensional invasion of earth! Smith’s Shazam! is a refreshing change of pace from the trend of darker post-modernism and cynicism found in current superhero fare and a direct appeal to the child in all of us.

Reviewed by James S., Sugar Creek

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Kazuki was only trying to help when he was killed, but his life is restored by a girl, Tokiko, who says that she is an Alchemy Warrior, one who fights deadly monsters called homunculi. In bringing Kazuki back to life, Tokiko has given him the power over an amazing weapon called a Buso Renkin. Determined to save as many people as he can, Kazuki joins her cause, the cause of Alchemy! Watsuki’s latest series is just as full of fighting as his blockbuster Rurouni Kenshin, but ups the humor to a new high. Fans of Bleach looking for a new action manga, would be well-served to check this one out.

Reviewed by Snow W., Mountain Island Branch

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Ayu Tateishi has been slowly working up her “cool” image and has become the most popular girl in sixth grade. All of this, along with her secret crush on Tetsushi Kaji, is pushed to destruction when she innocently helps out Nina Sakura, a new student, recover a lost item. Nina is a witch from another world and, as thanks, she’ll help Ayu out in any way she can, which is to say incompetently and fraught with embarrassment. In this first volume, Ayu gets turned into a boy not once but twice, shocks any boy who touches her, is made to always tell the truth and is the target of a love spelled boy. If you enjoy high school comedy manga, this is a can’t miss.

Reviewed by James S., Sugar Creek

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Sama’s father has a heart attack after yelling at him and the emotional boy is distraught. A mysterious man at the hospital says Sama can save his father’s life by crawling under the bed and counting to enter another world and retrieve the Sugar Stone, a magic healing item. Despite his doubts, Sama does this and finds himself in Undertown which is being ripped apart by a war between the Furmen and the insectoid Insurgents over sugar. Joining a gang, Sama finds himself up against The Cloud, leader of the Insurgents, who also wants the Stone. The plot is convoluted, concepts are introduced rapid-fire (which is to be expected of a first volume) but the story is engaging and should improve as Undertown evolves.

Reviewed by James S., Sugar Creek

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It's the 1930s: the great flowering of African American culture called the Harlem Renaissance is in full swing. Yet public executions of African Americans by lynching are also a regular occurrence. With his light complexion, reporter Zane Pinchback is able to "pass" for white, enabling him to publish first-hand reports. He files anonymously as "Incognegro" to avoid being lynched himself. Just as he announces that he's tired of the danger and anonymity, he discovers that his own brother is imprisoned in Mississippi, accused of murdering a white woman. Going undercover one last time, he finds a tangled series of mysteries he must unravel to free his brother. An entertaining mystery which also explores serious issues, beautifully illustrated in black and white by veteran artist Warren Pleece.

Reviewed by Mark S., University City Regional

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Partially-dressed like Batman’s sidekick Robin, 10-year-old Lester has the imagination and creativity that’s expected for his age. He is—by Lester’s own creation--a superhero with his own comic book. What is unexpected for Lester is his home situation—being an orphan raised by his uncle. This new family arrangement takes big adjustments which include loneliness and anger. Lester’s Uncle Ken is frustrated too, but tries to be an ideal guardian whiles another adult—the somewhat mysterious Jimmy at the gas station--reaches through with acceptance and his rowdy nature. The book’s black and white ink illustrations present a stark and crude atmosphere with home being an isolated farm. Like a good short story, this book is brief but says much within its structure.

Reviewed by Lawrence T., South County Regional

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A young girl, homeless on the streets of London, sees the world through a shattered artistic perspective. Influenced by the books of Beatrix Potter and the trauma of her early life, Helen Potter tries to make sense of the world and what she has experienced. This is brave and ambitious graphic storytelling, dealing with the subject of child abuse and its aftermath in an unflinching way. It is beautifully illustrated throughout, as it follows Helen from thoughts of suicide on the London Underground, to an exodus into the countryside, to catharsis and confrontation with her abuser. This is an important book, and a great one.

Reviewed by Ian R., North County Regional

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I'm telling you, this Warren Ellis guy is crazy. But he's not stupid. Marvel Comics offered him money to write a comic that makes fun of the kind of superhero comics they usually publish, and he took it to the bank. This second collection completes the adventures of the super team Nextwave: Agents of H.A.T.E. (at least for now). Once again our heroes perform numerous acts of mindless violence in order to save the world. After much face kicking and numerous explosions, they confront the villain responsible for everything they've been through, and it's an unlikely old-school Marvel character (I won't spoil the surprise by naming him, but he's red). Loads of fun for anyone who doesn't take superheroes too seriously.

Reviewed by Mark S., University City Regional

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Legendary comics creator Will Eisner's The Spirit is one of the original "superheroes" (in this case a crime-fighter with no super powers). Darwyn Cooke's version moves the character into the present, but the mask, blue fedora, and devil-may-care attitude are all intact. There are recurring characters like Ebony, Commissioner Dolan and his daughter Ellen, plus the villains Carrion and the mysterious El Morte. But these are good old-fashioned comics, with each issue a self-contained caper. Cooke has fun playing with comic and noir crime story conventions, and so does the reader. Collects the first six issues of the series, plus Batman/The Spirit.

Reviewed by Mark S., University City Regional

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This is Tony Stark. Except it isn’t. This is the latest version of the Iron Man armor, a computer system so advanced that it contains an exact copy of Tony Stark’s personality and an artificial intelligence as formidable as Stark’s natural one. It was designed to take over if Stark was ever shot or hurt in action, and he just has been. To make matters worse, the armor has been infected with an intelligent computer virus that is attempting to reprogram it from the inside out. Oh, and there’s a floating carrier ship with nuclear missiles heading its way and a gang of rogue mechs out to destroy it. This is superfast high-action funny mecha-comic writing in a manga style. Highly recommended.

Reviewed by Ian R., North County Regional

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Claymore vol.1 is about a Claymore named Clare and an orphan named Raki who go on a journey together. Claymores are girls who are half human and half monster. Claymores, or silver eyed witches, are sent to kill yomas or monsters because they can sense their aroma when they are in human form. But, the Claymores are treated very badly, even though their job is to help the people of the villages, because they are still half yoma themselves. The Claymores must keep a balance between their human side and their yoma side or something very bad will happen! I would highly suggest Claymore vol.1 for all first time graphic novel readers.

Reviewed by Brandon, Cornelius, NC

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Ice Haven is a small town, but it's full of colorful characters. Poets, a comic book critic, an aspiring writer, and several people with secrets are part of the mix. When young David Goldberg disappears, the case bears an eerie resemblance to the famous Leopold and Loeb murder. David's story becomes the backbone of Clowes' story, which is told in the form of a series of character vignettes. Gradually we learn about their lives, and the resolution brings the town together even as some of the main characters leave forever. Although the book appears episodic at first, Clowes creates three-dimensional characters and tells a rich story in just a few pages.

Reviewed by Mark S., University City Regional

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As the story opens, three young drifters are caught up in a nameless war in a nameless country. They squat in abandoned houses, dodge bombs and snipers, and try to sell stolen car parts. But after meeting Felix, a charismatic hoodlum, everything changes. They soon escalate from petty crime, to debt collections, to murder. When Felix recruits them to join the militia at the front, our narrator Giuliano decides he's had enough, and jumps off a truck, abandoning his friends. A story of male bonding and coming of age, Notes for a War Story is at the same time a cautionary tale about life in a war zone. Gipi's evocative paintings serve as a universal portrayal of modern war.

Reviewed by Mark S., University City Regional

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Riley is just starting college in Manhattan. She's almost painfully shy, and still living at home with her overprotective parents. All that is about to change, as she makes friends with three other college freshmen, convinces them to join a research group with her to earn extra money, and plans to move into an apartment with them. Plus she's reconnecting with her arty, estranged older sister, and dealing with an intense online crush on a guy known only as "sneakerfreak." When her secret admirer reveals himself it threatens Riley's budding relationship with her sister. All's well that ends well: in the end Riley has come out of her shell, and embraced her new life.

Reviewed by Mark S., University City Regional

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Alan Moore and Dave Gibbons` Watchmen is one of the most honored comics ever created, as well as one of the most influential. It caused an immediate sensation during its original run as a twelve-issue maxi series, and has been in print as a graphic novel ever since. Illustrator and co-creator Gibbons shares his memories of the making of the project, accompanied by a wealth of previously unpublished art. We see the opening of Moore`s original proposal, early character designs, and rough thumbnail layouts for every page in the series. Colorist John Higgins explains how he helped create a distinctive look, despite limitations in available printing technology. Finally, Gibbons reflects on the success of Watchmen, including merchandising and later editions of the book. No Watchmen fan should miss this.

Reviewed by Mark S., University City Regional

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This Love & Rockets collection focuses on Maggie Chascarrillo, Jaime Hernandez's most beloved character. She's the ghost of the title because when she revisits her old neighborhood (known to its residents as "Hoppers") she finds herself feeling disconnected. Can "home" really have become the apartment complex she manages in the Valley, with all of its quirky characters? And did her childhood friend Hopey really confess her love or did she dream the whole thing? As Maggie remembers her childhood, she is visited by memories and ghosts, angels and demons. Hoppers is still a magical place, but Maggie has moved on.

Reviewed by Mark S., University City Regional

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Koby drives a cab in modern day Tel Aviv, and has been estranged from his father for years when he is contacted by a woman named Numi. She suspects that his father may be the unidentified victim of a suicide bombing. Though reluctant at first, he joins her in searching for clues after she tells him that she had been involved with his father. In the process he learns not only about the events of the last few months, but an entire hidden life--and falls in love with Numi as well. Modan's story hinges on details from contemporary Israeli life, but her themes--the search for identity and for love--are universal.

Reviewed by Mark S., University City Regional

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Harry Dresden is many things: a wizard, a private eye, a troublemaker, but nowhere on his resume does it say “lion tamer”. Thus, when he finds himself investigating a magical murder near the big cat enclosure at the Chicago city zoo, he knows he’s wandered off the path and into the jungle. This is the first Dresden Files graphic novel and an original and entertaining prequel to Storm Front, the first Harry Dresden book. While it doesn’t cover that much new ground, it spins a compelling yarn, has some great fight scenes, and leaves a first-time reader hungry for more. Luckily, the first time reader has the whole of the series to follow from here. It’s sharp with funny action and expertly illustrated.

Reviewed by Ian R., North County Regional

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Jaime Reyes had enough problems with girls, grades at school, and avoiding gangs. “Becoming a superhero” wasn’t on the list. When a blue scarab falls from the sky and bonds with his spine, Jaime becomes the Blue Beetle, the latest in a line of heroes going back to the golden age, but the first to have the scarab’s full powers. Unfortunately, nobody included an instruction manual! What’s best about this book is that Jaime, more so even than characters like Peter Parker, is a normal kid. He is funny, likeable, not particularly brave, and just as confused by his new powers as anyone would be. The focus on humor and the use of non-stereotypical Latino characters make this book stand out and shine.

Reviewed by Ian R., North County Regional

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Meet Atomic Robo, an atomic powered robot with automatic intelligence. Created by inventor Nikola Tesla in 1923, he was granted full American citizenship for participating in a top secret military operation in 1938. His organization Tesladyne operates at the fringes of science, and gets the call whenever something unexplained occurs. In this first collection of the ongoing series we see him battling his nemesis Baron Von Helsingard, fighting a giant mechanized pyramid, and travelling to Mars, wisecracking all the while. The stories are reminiscent of Hellboy and the B.P.R.D., but with a lighter touch, and more of science than the supernatural. Recommended to anyone who enjoys a good action comic, and especially to Hellboy fans.

Reviewed by Mark S., University City Regional

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Nasser Ali Khan was a celebrated Iranian musician, as well as the author's great-uncle. There is never any doubt how his story will end: his funeral is shown early in the book. When Nasser Ali's beloved tar (an Iranian lute) is broken, he finds himself losing interest in life; even his favorite dish brings him no pleasure. He takes to his bed, determined to die. Eight days pass, and day by day Satrapi (author of Persepolis) weaves a complex narrative about how her uncle got to that point, moving skillfully between different perspectives, as well as backward and forward in time. The broken tar becomes the center of a chain of events reaching back into Nasser Ali's life, and forward into the lives of his family.

Reviewed by Mark S., University City Regional

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At first Suburban Glamour looks like a typical high school story. Astrid Johnson is an outsider at school and wants only to escape her meddling parents and their boring small town. Then strange things start happening – forgotten childhood imaginary friends appear, and when she and a friend are attacked by monsters she knows it’s not all in her head. A mysterious woman tells her that the world of Faerie is real, and Astrid is involved in ways she could not have imagined. As conflicting factions meet at her home and threaten her and her parents, she makes a life-changing choice.

Reviewed by Mark S., University City Regional

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Ewha lives with her mother, who runs a tavern in a small town in Korea. Ewha’s father is long gone, and her mother looks forward to the days when her lover, a traveling artist, stops by. The men who visit the tavern can be chauvinistic towards Ewha’s mother, and Ewha doesn’t understand why she can’t avoid their taunts. Ewha’s mother teaches her about love through beautiful flower metaphors, which Ewha uses to communicate with the young men around her. This coming of age memoir is lovely and sad and expressively drawn. It’s easy to see why it’s so popular in Korea.

Reviewed by Meri H., University City Regional

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This graphic novel that’s almost a memoir details a young man’s experiences as an assistant English teacher in Japan. The gray illustrations help illustrate the isolation of a young man who doesn’t understand Japanese and is the only American in his town. Dan is frustrated that at his lack of companionship and confusion about his job duties, but he’s far from the disdainful expats who live in an abandoned Buddhist temple and liken the Japanese to china dolls. This story, about being a stranger not only to neighbors but to yourself, is easy for anyone who remembers those awkward young adult years to relate to.

Reviewed by Meri H., University City Regional

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Mouse Guard: Winter 1152 follows up with the Guards we met in the prequel, Fall 1152. Saxon, Kenzie, Lieam, Sadie and Celanawe are sent out to gather supplies from nearby mouse cities. Due to extreme winter weather, predators and another mouse traitor, the Guards are up against many foes. They will face huge challenges and unfortunately not all will survive this winter. New romances surface, new treaties between mouse cities are prepared and one Guard must make a life-altering decision. David Petersen’s illustrations are incredible and the story ends with the reader still wanting to know more about the brave Mouse Guard.

Reviewed by Jessica B., University City Regional

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Hugh and Maryanne live in an isolated cottage by the sea. Hugh is a fisherman, though when tragedy strikes he vows to have his revenge on the ocean. His determination to oppose the forces of nature is not only foolhardy but dangerous, and it’s up to Maryanne to stop him before he gets everyone killed. This slim novel covers some well known literary themes, but with pictures instead of words. Artistically drawn with grotesque looking characters and broad seascapes, this is Moby Dick with a touch of magic realism.

Reviewed by Meri H., University City Regional

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Former SS Captain Gunther Lutze returns to the deserted Dachau concentration camp to reminisce about his days as a sadistic overseer, not expecting to encounter ghosts from his past. As a surprised Lutze is transported back to the camp during wartime, he faces former inmates long dead and reminders of his cruelty, and is finally brought to justice. The story was the basis for a classic episode of the television series The Twilight Zone. Creator Rod Serling’s original script was adapted to create this graphic novel version. Like the television episode, it’s an effective mix of realism and surrealism, with a twist ending. Recommended to fans of the series, as well as anyone who enjoys a good story.

Reviewed by Mark S., University City Regional

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George Gerfaut is cruising around Paris in the small hours of the morning, listening to the jazz music that gives the story its title. This has nothing to do with his recent adventures, but the narrative quickly shifts to the car crash that started it all. He takes an injured man to the hospital, not realizing the chain of events he has started. Soon he finds himself pursued by two hit men. He manages to elude them, mainly by luck, and goes on the run. It’s a classic crime noir setup, an innocent man in over his head. Manchette builds an elaborate structure of crime and revenge, brought to gritty life by Tardi’s black and white illustrations. Easily recommended to any crime fiction fan.

Reviewed by Mark S., University City Regional

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How could a geeky, brainy type end up with the pretty party-girl? Ask Peter Parker—who is also Spider-Man—and he could tell you about Mary Jane Watson. She is the stunning red-head, who has been a part of his life for nearly all of his superhero existence. This eye-opening graphic novel gives some emotional highlights of the devoted couple from first introductions—she does crave the spotlight—to the revelations of discovering Peter’s secret superhero identity. Any Spider-Man/Mary Jane fan would want to read this one all the way through.

Reviewed by Lawrence T., South County Regional

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Parker is back in town. He wants revenge on the people who double-crossed him (and the money they owe him)—and he doesn’t care who stands in his way, or who he has to hurt. As the story proceeds, we slowly discover how he was wronged, and the lengths he will go to for satisfaction. It’s a classic crime noir tale (adapted from Donald Westlake’s novel). Parker is like a force of nature, the ultimate tough guy in a seamy world populated by them, and he pursues his goals relentlessly. Cooke captures the 1962 New York City setting perfectly, depicting just enough violence to make an impact on the reader, but without glorifying it. A terrific start to a planned series of Parker adaptations.

Reviewed by Mark S., University City Regional

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Logan is special. The 14-year-old orphan—-his age is a guess—-is like many that age with the inclination to be headstrong and to prove himself through fights. Logan, though, has genuinely freakish abilities. His talent to heal miraculously from wounds is other worldly--not to mention the secret long claws that can spring from his clinched fists. To become a model citizen beyond the walls of his marital arts school however, Logan slowly learns while his schoolmaster Elliot instructs him. But the outside world Logan wants to see offers much more personal peril than he could imagine from Lady Silence and her associates. With his fighting technique and background story, popular Marvel Comics character “Wolverine” is a perfect fit for the manga story-telling venue.

Reviewed by Lawrence T., South County Regional

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When Justin Green published Binky Brown Meets the Holy Virgin Mary in 1972, there were no autobiographical comics, nor any that were 40 pages long. He was forced to invent a genre to tell his confessional tale of relentless obsession and religious guilt. Poor Binky is a misfit at school and the lessons taught by the nuns just create more confusion. No amount of penance or ritual behavior can stop the endless impure thoughts. Finally as a young adult he devises a ritual to rid him of his Madonna fixation. Deliberately provocative and visually outrageous, Green produced a true underground classic. This edition is an over-sized facsimile of the original art pages rather than a reprint, which shows more of the artist’s technique.

Reviewed by Mark S., University City Regional

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RASL is a burglar who specializes in high end merchandise, and he’s got a gimmick. He uses the Drift to escape to an alternate dimension to make his getaway. It’s physics, not magic: he designed the machine that straps on to the body to make the jump. The story of how he went from scientist to criminal is just begun in this first collection from the ongoing series. But a mysterious lizard-like stranger is pursuing him across dimensions, and he’s already killed RASL’s girlfriend. So RASL is on a mission to catch up to the stranger and find out what he knows. This is an exciting start to the latest project from the creator of Bone and is intended for an older audience.

Reviewed by Mark S., University City Regional

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Kenji dreamed of becoming a rock star, but finds himself owner of the family convenience store instead. When one of his friends mysteriously commits suicide, he reconnects with his childhood gang. Their private gang emblem starts appearing everywhere. Could it be related to the bizarre new cult that has been implicated in several other murders and disappearances? Kenji finds himself drawn into the investigation, and he and his old friends are starting to remember things. As children they set out to save the world, and now it looks like they might actually be called to the task. With this compelling first volume, Urasawa has begun a series that looks like the equal of his earlier Monster and Pluto: Urasawa x Tezuka.

Reviewed by Mark S., University City Regional

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Skipping the spandex costumes for street clothes, Misfits gives the “X-Men” characters a fresh incarnation with a manga version of the Marvel Comics icons. Kitty Pryde, a high school student, arrives at the Xavier School for Gifted Youngsters as its newest pupil. The school educates mutants, those with superhuman powers, and Kitty—who can step through walls—also has the distinction of being the only female student. Fitting in takes awhile with the students in different camps about their temperament and using their mutant powers but Kitty persists and even finds romance. “X-Men” fans should like this creative series while most would relate to the comic “chibis” instances (the manga term for having a sudden vivid emotion and turning into a short person) for Kitty.

Reviewed by Lawrence T., South County Regional

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Neil Gaiman celebrated the ten year anniversary of his comic book series The Sandman with the publication of an illustrated novella set in Japan. He combined ancient Japanese mythology with his creation The Dreaming so effectively many readers believed the story was a retelling of a Japanese folk tale. Artist P. Craig Russell (the illustrator of the much-loved Sandman #50) had always wanted to do a full graphic adaptation of the story, and here he finally gets his chance. The result is a beautiful visualization, with coloring that approximates the color palette of Japanese woodblock prints. For Sandman fans it’s like a new addition to the series: as if Russell was given the script to illustrate in the first place.

Reviewed by Mark S., University City Regional

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Larry Marder’s Beanworld is a whimsical place populated by bean-like creatures. It’s a weird fantasy dimension with its own rules and laws, a truly original creation. But all of the characters ultimately depend on each other for survival, hence the description “ecological fantasy” on the back cover. Marder explains each new character and situation as he introduces them, so everything always makes internal sense, no matter how strange. And above all else, his creations are extremely cute, which makes for a fun read. This volume collects the first nine issues of the black and white comic, originally published in the 1980s.

Reviewed by Mark S., University City Regional

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Rich “Junk” Junkin was a high school and college football star, but was injured during his first year in the pros. Now he’s a car salesman, trying unsuccessfully to trade on his fading fame. So his rich boss has another job for him: bodyguard for his wayward daughter, who often winds up in the gossip columns. Junk takes the job, and swiftly finds himself in over his head. He gets involved with both the daughter and an actress: is one of them a femme fatale? After a series of murders and a frame-up, we get the surprising answer. A vintage crime noir fiction story, illustrated in moody black and white.

Reviewed by Mark S., University City Regional

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Embodying the spirit and the demeanor of a brave, honorable soldier and a national patriot-his costume does resemble a U.S. flag-is the comic book hero Captain America. From his glory days in fighting with the army in World War II, this "living legend" has resurfaced in the '60s (when these comics were first published) to fight again for the nation's safety against its destructive foes. The stories of the transformation of Stevie Rogers to super soldier "Captain America," the WWII skirmishes with sidekick Bucky Barnes and the various battles with arch-enemy the "Red Skull" are covered here. Featured are fun, fast, action stories with the shield-wielding hero returning to battle with several issues drawn, fittingly, by the character's co-creator Jack Kirby.

Reviewed by Lawrence T., South County Regional

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Tough guy legend and now newly-released convict Luke Cage is back in his home where opportunity and trouble find him. Returning to Prohibition era Harlem, an old acquaintance and crime boss Stryker offers a hand in the business while a white stranger, Randall Banticoff, approaches him to work independent of the police to investigate the recent murder of his white wife in Harlem. Personal priorities take Luke--also nicknamed "Power Man"--in other directions as he searches for a woman in his past which leads him to unexpected confrontations with the tough enforcer named “Tombstone.” The period slang and good artwork with largely sepia color tones give this “noir” story of mystery and revenge a fitting aura and worthy showcase for Marvel Comic’s Luke Cage.

Reviewed by Lawrence T., South County Regional

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After a period of strange and explosive behavior, Matt Murdock, formerly the costumed superhero “Daredevil” is charting a new life on the open road. Fate, however, has other plans as Murdock walks into a western small town with violent locals, shadowy activities, and lawmen complicit in the same. With the help of the unlikeliest of an ally, Murdock risks his life to expose the town’s secrets--which could leave him as a splat on the side of the road if he doesn’t react in time. Andy Diggle writes a good story of redemption and resolve while artist Davide Gianfelice’s characters have the rough and tumble appearance to match the desert landscape.

Reviewed by Lawrence T., South County Regional

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The town of Forks, Washington has never looked better in this retelling of the popular Twilight series. In Volume 1, we follow Bella as she navigates this seemingly dreary town. Why would you leave your sunny home in Phoenix, Arizona? Well when the mysterious Cullen family comes into play, particularly the handsome Edward, Bella stops asking herself that question. Between her quirky friends, her best friend Jacob and awkward relationship with her Dad, we truly get to know Bella. Emotions are tense at first but soon the love story develops between the "old soul" teenager and her vampire boyfriend. The visual detail of the graphic novel sheds a brand new light on this story loved by millions.

Reviewed by Angel T., Beatties Ford Road Branch

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It was a very moving book. It made me see things in a whole nother perspective.
-Shaunya, Huntersville, NC

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In volume 2 of “Twilight Graphic Novel,” we return to the town of Forks, Washington where Bella Swan and Edward Cullen are completely in love. In this volume, we get some background history on the Cullen family and find out just why they are `vegetarians` in the vampire community. Dating a vampire doesn’t erase normal teenager activities as Bella balances life with her Dad, homework, friends, and Prom! An innocent family game of baseball with the Cullens during a thunderstorm turns their world upside down and they are forced to think about a life without each other. This new version of the famous `Twilight` book by Stephanie Meyer is a delight to read and see!

Reviewed by Angel T., Beatties Ford Road Branch

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Late for school, tripped by a delirious cat, and failing MATH; this is the complicated life of teenager Usagi. The mysterious cat leads her to become a Champion of Justice in a sailor suit, thus `Sailor Moon` is born. She is given the mission to find the `legendary silver crystal` and the moon princess. As the graphic novel progresses, her `Sailor` team grows and her friends Sailor Mercury, Mars, and Jupiter join her in her fight to conquer the `Dark Kingdom`. Not only are these girls fighting energy sucking evil aliens, they struggle with the weight of homework, boys, and pesky family members. We are happy to go along for this fun and adventurous ride!

Reviewed by Angel T., Beatties Ford Road Branch

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What’s a girl to do when she has no VALENTINE?! Well, Mina aka `Sailor Venus` has little luck in love when we start this second volume of the `Codename Sailor V`. She soon swoons over a mysterious beau and she finds herself ready to take on the dark forces that threaten to drain the energy of her teenage friends. Not only is she trying to save Tokyo and subsequently the world from domination but she is trying to live a normal teenage life. Her faithful and witty guide, `Artemis` the cat, is still there to help but we soon find out that Mina can never be a normal. Sailor V recovers some vital information and she has to decide if her new love is her friend or foe.

Reviewed by Angel T., Beatties Ford Road Branch

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Peace is the goal now. It’s been five years since the war and world peace is the stated objective of the Golden Tree. Stationed in an impressive, domed city called “Neolantis” hidden in South America, how does this happen and who is this group? More importantly, why will this group attract the attention of a trio of heroes? Enter adventurer extraordinaire Doc Savage, resurrected crime fighter the Spirit and costumed vigilante the Batman. Traveling with others, they are bound for a violent jungle region and a fight certain to lead to death. Neatly packaging these classic figures from pulp fiction and comics, the fluid story and moody art offer a fair take of three major characters so different in personalities a

Reviewed by Lawrence T., South County Regional

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To use her words about the situation, “the world is broken.” It has been a year since Scarlet Rue, a young red-haired free spirit, was shot and suffered a head wound. Moments earlier, her boyfriend was shot and killed. Those responsible were two members of the Portland police in an act of deadly rage and unnecessary retaliation. Now, fully recovered and determined to confront those corrupt police, Scarlet commits to deadly force—killing the men she holds accountable. To plead her case, she decries police abuse to the public and touches a chord with many who rally to her support. Brian Michael Bendis has created an ultimate troubled, rebel while Alex Maleev’s artwork is mesmerizing with his characteristic multiple panels of close-up emotional faces.

Reviewed by Lawrence T., South County Regional

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The origin of superhero Spider-Man is a classic comic book story and this new version is worth the time for any fan. The book’s creative team including writer Cullen Bunn’s sharp dialogue and artist Neil Edwards’ crisp artwork is a winning effort. The story begins with the geeky, high school student Peter Parker bit by a radioactive spider and, in an amazing twist, comes to acquire the powers of a spider. Capitalizing on this change, Peter seeks celebrity fame as the costumed “Spider-Man” but finds he needs to play the role of hero instead. And so it happens, though battles with the winged bandit the Vulture, the Spider-Man legend begins to take its course. An additional mini story of Spider-Man’s newest adventures completes the book.

Reviewed by Lawrence T., South County Regional

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Can a jock and a nerd have a relationship? Jack Chen isn’t so sure. Jack is very different from Dicey Bell; she plays baseball for the school team, while he has a fellowship as a research assistant. With really nothing in common, somehow Jack and Dicey really like each other. Then on their first date, the unthinkable happens. An apocalypse hits their hometown of St. Petersburg! After hearing sirens wailing in the distance, Jack receives a call from his parents who tell him that there is a disease outbreak. When people become infected, they turn into zombies! Will Dicey and Jack ever make it out alive? Told through black and white illustrations, Tsang’s graphic novel is a fast-paced story you will love to pieces!

Reviewed by Carrie M., Myers Park Branch

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Gail Carriger`s Parasol Protectorate series finds a new vibrant life in the adult graphic novel Soulless where the charming Alexia Tarabotti comes alive in descriptive drawings. Vampires, werewolves, and Alexia as a ‘preternatural’ are animated into high society Victorian England. This steampunk tale was meant to be told on the pages of a graphic novel and the vivid illustrations capture your mind. After Alexia inadvertently kills an uncivilized vampire, she takes advantage of an opportunity to rise above her social status in life. As an unmarried, seemingly undesirable woman in 1890s London, she has some obstacles to overcome, but when she prevails, she does so with a great deal of humor. Grab this graphic novel that will be a delight to steampunk and paranormal fiction fans alike.

Reviewed by Angel T., Beatties Ford Road Branch

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This graphic starts out by introducing you to a desolate but technologically advanced Earth and an orphan named Cosmo Hill. Cosmo introduces us to the desperation of his situation just as he and his best friend escape their transport. After losing his friend and almost dying himself, Cosmo is rescued by a motley crew who become interested in him after they realize he can now see floating blue creatures who are attracted to death. As we follow Cosmo and his new friends, who are called the Supernaturalists, you start to wonder who the real villains are.

Reviewed by Christen H., ImaginOn

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The adaptation of writer Charlaine Harris’ Grave Sight story from novel to graphic novel is smooth and polished in this first book of the series. Nine years earlier, a teenaged Harper Connelly survived a lightning strike but acquired a special ability. She is able to see events leading to the death of the deceased whose presence she encounters. When asked if God or the Devil has empowered her, Harper doesn’t have an answer--but will share her power with families for a fee. Traveling with her step-brother, Tolliver, they tread carefully. Now in Arkansas, they encounter a bothersome balance of family secrets, fear and suspicious police. The book’s moody, muted tonal colors and its characters’ mostly angular appearance give a dreamlike quality to this appealing title.

Reviewed by Lawrence T., South County Regional

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A sequel, of sorts, to Fun Home, Bechdel`s latest focuses on her mother. She is searching, trying to figure out her mother and their relationship. When she was seven, her mother stopped kissing her goodnight or even touching her forever. She ponders why and why her brothers were treated differently. She begins therapy and details sessions with her counselors, becoming almost obsessed with psychoanalysis. She becomes self-absorbed, but acknowledges the irony in her writing. Despite the pain, she lays bare her life and her mother’s, but constantly worries about the repercussions to their relationship. In the end, her mother accepts the honesty necessary for a memoir and Bechdel accepts the limits to their relationship.

Reviewed by Michele B., Plaza Midwood Branch

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This international classic novel of self-discovery and the true purpose of living are brought to vibrant life in graphic novel format. Each illustration adds to the rich tale of a young shepherd, Santiago, who is set on the journey of a lifetime after he encounters a mysterious “King” that inspires him to seek the Egyptian Pyramids. Santiago’s quest is teeming with themes of spirituality, defying insurmountable obstacles, and the dynamic simplicity of Egyptian desert life. Will Santiago finally reach the Egyptian Pyramids to find his hidden treasure, or will he come to the realization that you can find treasure anywhere? Read this graphic novel to go on a visual adventure and find out for yourself.

Reviewed by Angel T., Beatties Ford Road Branch

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After their father is murdered, the Locke family is moving in with their uncle at the ancestral mansion, hoping for a new start. Once there the youngest son finds a magic key that fits an ill-used door, and discovers that passage through that door separates your soul from your body. Experimenting with the key, he accidentally unleashes a mysterious evil that is connected to their father`s murder, the house, and the fate of the entire Locke clan. This is just the beginning, because the house is filled with doors, and every door has a key. The story of ancient evil reawakened is evocative of the TV show American Horror Story, and is a good read for anyone in the mood for a well written series of dark and unsettling graphic novels.

Reviewed by Jonathan W., Morrison Regional

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She has fully healed and she is back. She’s back in the black spandex and the yellow gloves and boots for the costume she had to abandon for three years following a gunshot from the Joker. For a period, Barbara Gordon was a wheelchair user and away from active street crime as her alter ego—Batgirl. But now she has returned to the streets of Gotham City, driving her motorcycle or swinging from rooftops to fight crime once more. Writer Gail Simone gives a nuanced and understandable voice to the hero, and artist Ardian Syaf’s work beautifully stages the action and drama. Batgirl’s return is nicely packaged with perilous action, tough hand-to-hand fights, and a personal life moving from calm to complex in a hurry.

Reviewed by Lawrence T., South County Regional

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Taking charge of one’s life and handling change is the challenge of living, and that’s Dick Grayson today. Roaming Gotham City nightly as the costumed hero Nightwing, his life is complete as he battles its criminals. This routine almost comes to a halt as Dick is pulled immediately into his past life. The former trapeze artist receives in a will, the traveling circus from his childhood which also featured his parents as performers. The transfer of ownership is far from smooth with stunned circus staff, a speedy romance and the violent blade-welding “Saiko” after Nightwing in a baffling quest to kill him. Kyle Higgins’ story is on target for a satisfying read and Eddy Barrows’ art including the aerobic Nightwing moves is stunning.

Reviewed by Lawrence T., South County Regional

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It’s 1944 in Brooklyn, NY as World War II rages in Europe. The Boogeyman has just snatched a boy from his bedroom and stolen him away to the world of the Dark. The boy`s loyal toys are now in a whirlwind battle and adventure to save the boy from the evil Boogeyman. Will the boy’s toys win in the battle against the Boogeyman’s army? Can they beat the Mayor at his menacing game in the town of Hopscotch? What does the Boogeyman want with an innocent little boy? This graphic novel has great illustrations to go along with an interesting, dark story about toys from a boy during a hard time in the world. It is the start to a series you will not forget easily.

Reviewed by Maeve C., University City Regional

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Noah has just sent out invitations to come join him on a fabulous cruise he is having. Only the species selected by God get to come so they may continue their race after The Flood. Not everyone gets an invite, but two lucky Churamanes do. There is a reason you have not heard of the Churamanes. Sadly, the Churamanes are lazy and definitely not the smartest because they miss their time slot to hitch a ride aboard Noah`s great ark. As the rain starts, the Churamanes reflect on the life they have had together with their many litters of babies and the love they have for each other. This feel-good and funny graphic novel will have you laughing, but also appreciating the little things you have in life.

Reviewed by Maeve C., University City Regional

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The amazing thing about Maus – and after more than two decades, this 1992 Pulitzer Prize winner does indeed still amaze – is its incredible effectiveness as a teaching tool. In a time when massive tomes and numerous hours of documentaries about the Holocaust continue to replace the few voices of first-hand experience left, this simple heartbreaking tale in comic-book form goes right to the heart of its subject in the most literal way – connecting the reader emotionally to one of history’s great tragedies: an extremely valuable lesson, and a way to keep the memory of it forever alive.

Reviewed by Jim B., Main Library

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This collection of one of the most encompassing conflicts in Marvel history has hero fighting hero with the fate of the world in the balance. When the world destroying force known as The Phoenix returns to earth, it targets the young mutant Hope Summers. While the X-Men believe she can harness it for good, the Avengers consider her a threat to all life on Earth. An epic contained in one volume, the greatest heroes of the Marvel universe are forced against each other in increasingly desperate conflicts. This reviewer went into it without reading the stories preceding the book and found it easy to follow and pleasingly unpredictable.

Reviewed by Jonathan W., Morrison Regional

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This brilliantly crafted noir graphic novel features a tough PI investigating crime and corruption in a world where animals are people, but this is NOT a children’s book. In a gritty look at the paranoid McCarthyism society of the 1950`s filled with sex and violence, this book was originally published in Spain to high acclaim and artfully depicts the social upheaval of 1950`s America. Using anthropomorphic animals as effective metaphors for racial conflict, with white-supremacist arctic foxes and lizard street gangs, it provides an uncommonly sophisticated social commentary in addition to a great mystery. If you usually avoid comic books or decry them as “kids’ stuff” this is a great introduction to the more mature realms of the medium.

Reviewed by Jonathan W., Morrison Regional

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This graphic novel is a satirical, but not unkind twist on the well-beloved Downton Abbey TV series. The valet, Gates, is not only a servant of the grand house, but a secret agent with the charge to protect crown and country. There are three other agents downstairs and an important one (The Dowager) upstairs. Together the four agents try to thwart a plan that could be a precursor to WWI. Not surprisingly, the villains from the TV series (the head footman and the lady’s maid) are also up to `no good` in this volume. The graphics have likenesses very close to the televised characters and the humor of the story comes mainly from the upstairs characters’ behavior and motives are exaggerated to absurdity!

Reviewed by Jeanenne R., Steele Creek Branch

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