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Lumberjanes Vol. 17

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Title: Lumberjanes Vol. 17: Smitten in the Stars

Author: Shannon Watters; Kat Leyh

Publisher: BOOM! 2021

Genre: Graphic Novel

Pages: 112

Rating: 4/5 stars

Reading Challenges: 

STOLEN KITTIES, SECRET CRUSHES & A NIGHT TO REMEMBER! Jen and Rosie plan to take the Lumberjane scouts to see an amazing astronomical event. But their night of star-gazing is thrown off course when half of the Roanoke and Zodiac cabins sneak away into the night in search of aliens, leaving everyone else to deal with a gatecrashing goddess who throws the entire camp into a tizzy. Not to mention there’s a nefarious kitten-napping and a super-secret crush to contend with!

Oh yay! We get another story featuring Diane and the various gods and goddesses that seem to pop into camp now and again. I loved the reveal our the new visitor and her “mission” on Earth. Plus we get a big mystical fight with Diane, appearances from the other members of Zodiac cabin, and Marigold (my favorite kitty!). Such a fun volume.

seoulmates.jpg jujutsu22.jpg jujutsu23.jpg kill creatures.jpg jujutsu24.jpg black butler.jpg jujutsu25.jpg jujutsu26.jpg jujutsu27.jpg mayor of maxwell.jpg antidote.jpg
tags: graphic novel, Kat Leyh, Shannon Watters, 4 stars
categories: Book Reviews
Friday 08.13.21
Posted by Tobe Buffenbarger
 

Lumberjanes Vol. 16

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Title: Lumberjanes Vol. 16: Mind Over Mettle

Author: Shannon Watters; Kat Leyh

Publisher: BOOM! 2020

Genre: Graphic Novel

Pages: 112

Rating: 5/5 stars

Reading Challenges: 

DINOSAURS, DANGER & DIMENSION-HOPPING AND ...OH MY!

Mal wants to learn to be braver, but when she recruits Ripley to help her face her fears, she ends up somewhere she really should be afraid of--the Land of Lost Things, a pocket universe where dinosaurs still roam the earth, and time doesn’t work the way it should. Stranded on her own in an alternate dimension, will Mal be able to find her way back home to camp? And back on the other side of the portal, will Molly, April, Jo, and Ripley be able to find Mal again and save her? Or are they about to get stuck, too?

Yes! This is the kind of volume that I’m always up for. We get a fun and dangerous adventure in the Land of Lost Things. I love that we get to revisit some great settings and see how things have changed. Plus we get some great character development for Mal. I can’t wait to see what happens next!

seoulmates.jpg jujutsu22.jpg jujutsu23.jpg kill creatures.jpg jujutsu24.jpg black butler.jpg jujutsu25.jpg jujutsu26.jpg jujutsu27.jpg mayor of maxwell.jpg antidote.jpg
tags: graphic novel, Kat Leyh, Shannon Watters, 5 stars
categories: Book Reviews
Friday 08.13.21
Posted by Tobe Buffenbarger
 

Lumberjanes Vol. 15

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Title: Lumberjanes Vol. 15: Birthday Smarty

Author: Shannon Watters; Kat Leyh

Publisher: BOOM! 2020

Genre: Graphic Novel

Pages: 112

Rating: 4/5 stars

Reading Challenges: 

BIRTHDAYS TO THE MAX!

Jo’s birthday is coming up, and April is determined to pull out all the stops for her best friend! But when her elaborate plans for a huge, over-the-top celebration fall through, April recruits the yetis and some fellow ‘Janes to put on a play for Jo, instead.

Meanwhile, Mal has been tasked with keeping Jo busy to protect the surprise, but she might’ve done TOO good a job. Will the birthday girl make it back in time for her own party? And does she even want to?

Cute story focused on Jo and April. I was very excited to to see the story focus on some of the other Lumberjanes. We get appearances by some many fun previous characters I can see that the series is starting to build to an ending and I’m not ready for it to be over. But it’s been a super fun ride so far.

seoulmates.jpg jujutsu22.jpg jujutsu23.jpg kill creatures.jpg jujutsu24.jpg black butler.jpg jujutsu25.jpg jujutsu26.jpg jujutsu27.jpg mayor of maxwell.jpg antidote.jpg
tags: graphic novel, Kat Leyh, Shannon Watters
categories: Book Reviews
Friday 08.06.21
Posted by Tobe Buffenbarger
 

Lumberjanes Vol. 14

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Title: Lumberjanes Vol. 14: X Marks the Spot

Author: Kat Leyh

Publisher: BOOM! 2020

Genre: Graphic Novel

Pages: 112

Rating: 4/5 stars

Reading Challenges: 

X MARKS THE SPOT...FOR TROUBLE!

Ripley found a treasure map! The Roanoke scouts are eager to hunt down what they hope might be some kind of mystical hoard of gems and jewels, rad dinosaur bones, or maybe even more treasure maps (that you have to piece together to find an EVEN BIGGER prize, obviously)! What they end up finding is scattered pieces of an ancient Greek statue of a woman, who, when assembled, comes back to life as a vindictive ex-goddess!n. And she's looking to satisfy her hunger after thousands of years frozen in stone by draining any nearby magical resource...starting with the ‘Janes!

So much fun! We get an adventure involving a treasure map and a mysterious statue. I loved the callbacks to the Diane and Apollo storyline as well as the time Ripley was a god and created so many cats! Seriously, Marigold is the best kitty. I love picking up a Lumebrjanes volume for some strange fun involving a great group of friends.

seoulmates.jpg jujutsu22.jpg jujutsu23.jpg kill creatures.jpg jujutsu24.jpg black butler.jpg jujutsu25.jpg jujutsu26.jpg jujutsu27.jpg mayor of maxwell.jpg antidote.jpg
tags: graphic novel, Kat Leyh, 4 stars
categories: Book Reviews
Friday 08.06.21
Posted by Tobe Buffenbarger
 

Folklords by Matt Kindt and Matt Smith

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Title: Folklords

Author: Matt Kindt, Matt Smith

Publisher: BOOM! Studios 2020

Genre: Comics

Pages: 144

Rating: 3/5 stars

Reading Challenges: 

In a world of magic and monsters, Ansel is an outsider haunted by visions of our world - and will risk everything to find the mysterious Folklords who can reveal the truth about his existence!

WHERE DO YOU BELONG?

In a world of magic and monsters, Ansel is an outsider haunted by visions of well-pressed suits and modern technology. When it comes time for him to declare his Quest, Ansel decides to seek out the mysterious Folklords, hoping they can explain his visions...but looking for the Folklords is strictly forbidden, punishable by death. How much is Ansel willing to risk to find out about the world he has never truly belonged in?

This very short trade started out strongly, but ended very abruptly and confusingly, but yet very predictable also. I love fairy tale riffs in literature and so I had pick this one up. I loved Ansel’s entire “fish out of water” character and wanted to see how he would find his place. The first issues have him begin his quest and acquire companions. Pretty standard. But there are cryptic messages and the beginning and ending of each issue and I wasn’t really loving those. And then Ansel finds the Folklord and everyone is very confused. He escapes and then…. what exactly? I was very annoyed at the ending. it doesn’t look like there is another set of comics ordered, so that’s it I guess.

Next up on the TBR pile:

seoulmates.jpg jujutsu22.jpg jujutsu23.jpg kill creatures.jpg jujutsu24.jpg black butler.jpg jujutsu25.jpg jujutsu26.jpg jujutsu27.jpg mayor of maxwell.jpg antidote.jpg
tags: graphic novel, Matt Kindt, Matt Smith, 3 stars
categories: Book Reviews
Tuesday 07.27.21
Posted by Tobe Buffenbarger
 

Something is Killing the Children Vol. 3

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Title: Something is Killing the Children Vol. 2

Author: James Tynion IV, Werther Dell’Edera

Publisher: BOOM 2021

Genre: Comics

Pages: 144

Rating: 5/5 stars

Reading Challenges: 

As the House of Slaughter arrives to clean up the situation by any means necessary, Erica will find that the true threat to those around her isn’t who - or what - she ever expected. And the cost of saving the day may be too high for anyone to pay...

NOT ALL MONSTERS HIDE IN THE DARK.

Archer’s Peak is in lockdown, as Erica Slaughter has lost control of the situation and news of the killings has spread outside the town. But as the House of Slaughter arrives to clean up the situation by any means necessary, Erica will find that the true threat to those around her isn’t who - or what - she ever expected. And the cost of saving the day may be too high for anyone to pay...

A fitting conclusion to this storyline. I love horror comics and this one did not disappoint. We get a fascinating world full of monsters and monster hunters. Erica is very entertaining, but I loved the inclusion of other members of the House of Slaughter. I’m glad that this storyline wrapped up with this volume, but left the world open for more stories.

Next up on the TBR pile:

seoulmates.jpg jujutsu22.jpg jujutsu23.jpg kill creatures.jpg jujutsu24.jpg black butler.jpg jujutsu25.jpg jujutsu26.jpg jujutsu27.jpg mayor of maxwell.jpg antidote.jpg
tags: graphic novel, horror, 5 stars, James Tynion IV, Werther Dell'Edera
categories: Book Reviews
Tuesday 07.20.21
Posted by Tobe Buffenbarger
 

Something is Killing the Children Vol. 2

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Title: Something is Killing the Children Vol. 2

Author: James Tynion IV, Werther Dell’Edera

Publisher: BOOM 2020

Genre: Comics

Pages: 144

Rating: 5/5 stars

Reading Challenges: 

Erica Slaughter may have slain the monster terrorizing the small Wisconsin town of Archer’s Peak, but now she sets off deeper into the woods -- because the monster she killed was a mother… and now she needs to kill its children.

EVIL NEVER DIES...UNLESS ERICA SLAUGHTER KILLS IT.

Erica Slaughter may have slain the monster terrorizing the small Wisconsin town of Archer’s Peak, but the horror is far from over. As her mysterious handler arrives in town to clean up her mess and quarantine the townsfolk, Erica sets off deeper into the woods -- because the monster she killed was a mother… and now she needs to kill its children.

Oh goodness, this was horrifying and I loved every page of it. This is not for the squeamish. The pages are filled with horrifying deaths and so much blood. Erica solves one problem, but there are so many other problems out there now. I can’t wait to see where the storyline goes from here.

Next up on the TBR pile:

seoulmates.jpg jujutsu22.jpg jujutsu23.jpg kill creatures.jpg jujutsu24.jpg black butler.jpg jujutsu25.jpg jujutsu26.jpg jujutsu27.jpg mayor of maxwell.jpg antidote.jpg
tags: 5 stars, horror, graphic novel, James Tynion IV, Werther Dell'Edera
categories: Book Reviews
Friday 05.07.21
Posted by Tobe Buffenbarger
 

Something is Killing the Children Vol. 1

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Title: Something is Killing the Children Vol. 1

Author: James Tynion IV, Werther Dell’Edera

Publisher: BOOM 2020

Genre: Comics

Pages: 128

Rating: 5/5 stars

Reading Challenges: 

When children begin to go missing in the town of Archer’s Peak, all hope seems lost until a mysterious woman arrives to reveal that terrifying creatures are behind the chaos - and that she alone will destroy them, no matter the cost.

IT’S THE MONSTERS WHO SHOULD BE AFRAID.

When the children of Archer's Peak—a sleepy town in the heart of America—begin to go missing, everything seems hopeless. Most children never return, but the ones that do have terrible stories—impossible details of terrifying creatures that live in the shadows. Their only hope of finding and eliminating the threat is the arrival of a mysterious stranger, one who believes the children and claims to be the only one who sees what they can see.

Her name is Erica Slaughter. She kills monsters. That is all she does, and she bears the cost because it must be done.

I love the horror comics and this one was definitely a winner. Right from the first page, we’re dumped into a very scary situation and it proceeds to get even stranger as the pages go on. The pages are graphics and not for the feint of heart. I can’t wait to see where the story goes.

Next up on the TBR pile:

seoulmates.jpg jujutsu22.jpg jujutsu23.jpg kill creatures.jpg jujutsu24.jpg black butler.jpg jujutsu25.jpg jujutsu26.jpg jujutsu27.jpg mayor of maxwell.jpg antidote.jpg
tags: James Tynion IV, Werther Dell'Edera, graphic novel, 5 stars
categories: Book Reviews
Tuesday 05.04.21
Posted by Tobe Buffenbarger
 

Lady Mechanika Vol. 6

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Title: Lady Mechanika Vol. 6: Sangre

Author: Joe Benitez, M.M. Chen, Martin Montiel, Brian Ching

Publisher: Benitez Productions 2020

Genre: Graphic Novel

Pages: 144

Rating: 5/5 stars

Reading Challenges: UnRead Shelf; Seasonal TBR

Lady Mechanika accepts a job in Spain protecting a Barón's son who was allegedly attacked by a demonic entity, but she quickly begins to suspect the young man's condition was actually caused by illicit experiments forced upon him by his narrow-minded father. As she investigates further, Lady Mechanika gradually uncovers the sinister truth, leaving her entangled in a dangerous situation which seems to have unexpected ties to her own past. A dark tale that exposes the devastating power of love...and hate. Collects the entire five-issue Sangre mini-series, featuring a main story by guest artist Brian Ching (Supergirl, Star Wars) and a prologue story by Joe Benitez and Martin Montiel.

Oh… this was turned much darker than I thought it would. I really did enjoy seeing Lady Mechanika grapple with a problem that she may not succeed at defeating. Plus we get a call back to a previous character incarnation from another volume. I’m still really loving this series and cannot wait to see what happens next.

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Next up on the TBR pile:

seoulmates.jpg jujutsu22.jpg jujutsu23.jpg kill creatures.jpg jujutsu24.jpg black butler.jpg jujutsu25.jpg jujutsu26.jpg jujutsu27.jpg mayor of maxwell.jpg antidote.jpg
tags: graphic novel, Joe Benitez, Beth Sotelo, M.M. Chen, Unread Shelf Project, UnRead Shelf, Martin Montiel, 5 stars
categories: Book Reviews
Friday 04.23.21
Posted by Tobe Buffenbarger
 

Lady Mechanika Vol. 5

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Title: Lady Mechanika Vol. 5: La Belle Dame Sans Merci

Author: Joe Benitez, M.M. Chen, Martin Montiel, Beth Sotelo

Publisher: Benitez Productions 2019

Genre: Graphic Novel

Pages: 104

Rating: 5/5 stars

Reading Challenges: UnRead Shelf; Seasonal TBR

Lady Mechanika's investigation into her forgotten past is overshadowed by concern for her associate Mr. Lewis when he becomes enamored of a beautiful and enigmatic young widow, whose own past seems disturbingly linked to the untimely deaths of several creative geniuses. Will Mr. Lewis be next?

Another great volume of comics. I totally predicted where this storyline was going, but it was definitely fun to tag along on the ride.

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Next up on the TBR pile:

seoulmates.jpg jujutsu22.jpg jujutsu23.jpg kill creatures.jpg jujutsu24.jpg black butler.jpg jujutsu25.jpg jujutsu26.jpg jujutsu27.jpg mayor of maxwell.jpg antidote.jpg
tags: graphic novel, Joe Benitez, Beth Sotelo, M.M. Chen, Unread Shelf Project, UnRead Shelf, Martin Montiel, 5 stars
categories: Book Reviews
Wednesday 04.21.21
Posted by Tobe Buffenbarger
 

Wellington

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Title: Wellington

Author: Aaron Mahnke, Delilah S. Dawson, Piotr Kowalski

Publisher: IDW 2020

Genre: Graphic Novel

Pages: 120

Rating: 4/5 stars

Reading Challenges: Winter TBR

Meet the Duke of Wellington--one of England's most decorated military heroes and, unknown to most, her most daring monster hunter. After receiving a letter from an old flame, the Duke of Wellington heads to the countryside to investigate a series of disturbing crimes-a mysterious murder, a missing child, and a vicious black dog roaming the hills. Featuring an amazing cast of characters and calling upon centuries of supernatural myths, folktales, and lore this thrilling graphic novel reveals the secrets behind one of history's most illustrious figures.

I had been looking forward to the beginning of this new comics series. I love the idea that the Duke of Wellington was actually a monster hunter along with fighting the human wars for Great Britain. I love listening to Aaron Mahnke tell me weird and wonderful stories on the podcast Lore. So I was super excited about this one. And overall, I really enjoyed the start of this story. However, I really wanted more from the first trade in the series. We don’t get to learn too much about Wellington or the big bad. There were some very scary bits through the issues and I loved meeting Wellington’s “god daughter". Hee hee. I am really excited for the continuation of this series.

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seoulmates.jpg jujutsu22.jpg jujutsu23.jpg kill creatures.jpg jujutsu24.jpg black butler.jpg jujutsu25.jpg jujutsu26.jpg jujutsu27.jpg mayor of maxwell.jpg antidote.jpg
tags: graphic novel, Winter TBR, 4 stars
categories: Book Reviews
Saturday 01.16.21
Posted by Tobe Buffenbarger
 

Solutions and Other Problems by Allie Brosh

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Title: Solutions and Other Problems

Author: Allie Brosh

Publisher: Gallery Books 2020

Genre: Graphic novel; Memoir

Pages: 518

Rating:  4/5 stars

Reading Challenges: Winter TBR

Solutions and Other Problems includes humorous stories from Allie Brosh’s childhood; the adventures of her very bad animals; merciless dissection of her own character flaws; incisive essays on grief, loneliness, and powerlessness; as well as reflections on the absurdity of modern life.

Another lovely collection of stories from Allie Brosh’s life. There were a few stories that I really connected with, some other ones were really funny, and some were a bit strange (in that they didn’t seem to have a point). Like all collections of stories, I don’t love all of them equally. But, I might say that really did choke up during her story about her sister. I was not expecting that turn and it really threw me for a loop. Overall an enjoyable collection of comics from a very complicated person.

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Next up on the TBR pile:

seoulmates.jpg jujutsu22.jpg jujutsu23.jpg kill creatures.jpg jujutsu24.jpg black butler.jpg jujutsu25.jpg jujutsu26.jpg jujutsu27.jpg mayor of maxwell.jpg antidote.jpg
tags: comedy, graphic novel, memoir, Allie Brosh, 4 stars
categories: Book Reviews
Friday 01.15.21
Posted by Tobe Buffenbarger
 

The Tea Dragon Festival by Katie O'Neill

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Title: The Tea Dragon Festival

Author: Katie O’Neill

Publisher: Oni Press 2019

Genre: Graphic Novel

Pages: 136

Rating: 4/5 stars

Reading Challenges: 

Rinn has grown up with the Tea Dragons that inhabit their village, but stumbling across a real dragon turns out to be a different matter entirely! Aedhan is a young dragon who was appointed to protect the village but fell asleep in the forest eighty years ago. With the aid of Rinn’s adventuring uncle Erik and his partner Hesekiel, they investigate the mystery of his enchanted sleep, but Rinn’s real challenge is to help Aedhan come to terms with feeling that he cannot get back the time he has lost.

So a prequel, I guess? I was thrown by the the timeline in this one. But ultimately, it’s another beautiful quiet story for children and adults.

seoulmates.jpg jujutsu22.jpg jujutsu23.jpg kill creatures.jpg jujutsu24.jpg black butler.jpg jujutsu25.jpg jujutsu26.jpg jujutsu27.jpg mayor of maxwell.jpg antidote.jpg
tags: graphic novel, Katie O'Neill, 4 stars
categories: Book Reviews
Friday 12.18.20
Posted by Tobe Buffenbarger
 

The Tea Dragon Society by Katie O'Neill

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Title: The Tea Dragon Society

Author: Katie O’Neill

Publisher: Oni Press 2017

Genre: Graphic Novel

Pages: 72

Rating: 5/5 stars

Reading Challenges: 

The Tea Dragon Society is the two-time Eisner Award-winning gentle fantasy that follows the story of a blacksmith apprentice, and the people she meets as she becomes entwined in the enchanting world of tea dragons.

Oh goodness! This is such a sweet little story! I really wish that I had some little girls to give this book to. My boys are a little too into Minecraft and Dinosaurs to appreciated a story about Tea Dragons. I sped through this one, but loved staring at the art and entire design of the book. Beautiful!

seoulmates.jpg jujutsu22.jpg jujutsu23.jpg kill creatures.jpg jujutsu24.jpg black butler.jpg jujutsu25.jpg jujutsu26.jpg jujutsu27.jpg mayor of maxwell.jpg antidote.jpg
tags: graphic novel, Katie O'Neill, 5 stars
categories: Book Reviews
Wednesday 12.16.20
Posted by Tobe Buffenbarger
 

Monstress Volume 5

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Title: Monstress Volume 5

Author: Marjorie Liu, Sana Takeda

Publisher: Image 2020

Genre: Graphic Novel

Pages: 144

Rating: 4/5 stars

Reading Challenges:

The long-dreaded war between the Federation and Arcanics is about to explode. Maika must choose her next steps: will she help her friends, or strike out on her own?

Collects MONSTRESS issues #25-30

Another interesting volume in this series. At this point in the story, there are a ton of characters and plot threads. To be a fantastic read, some of those characters and plot threads need to be streamlined. There is just too much at certain points in the series. I did enjoy this volume and can’t wait to see what happens next.

Next up on the TBR pile:

seoulmates.jpg jujutsu22.jpg jujutsu23.jpg kill creatures.jpg jujutsu24.jpg black butler.jpg jujutsu25.jpg jujutsu26.jpg jujutsu27.jpg mayor of maxwell.jpg antidote.jpg
tags: graphic novel, Marjorie Liu, 4 stars
categories: Book Reviews
Saturday 12.12.20
Posted by Tobe Buffenbarger
 

Flight Vol. 2

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Title: Flight Vol. 2

Author: Kazu Kibuishi

Publisher: Villard 2007

Genre: Graphic Novel

Pages: 432

Rating: 4/5 stars

Reading Challenges: 

The graphic novel anthology that solidified the stature of the FLIGHT series as one of the most thoughtful, beautifully rendered works in the field.

Authors contributing to Flight, Volume Two include: Michel Gagne, Doug TenNapel, Catia Chen, Jake Parker, Sonny Liew, Khang Le, Neil Babra, Don Hertzfeldt, Jen Wang, Kazu Kibuishi, Hope Larsen, Becky Cloonan, Matthew Woodson, Kean Soo, Phil Craven, Rodolphe Guenoden, Doug Holgate, Rad Sechrist, Justin Ridge, Herval, Bannister, Clio Chang, Ryan Sias, Johane Matte, Jeff Smith, Giuseppe Ferrario, Ben Hatke, Amy Kim Ganter, Joana Carneiro, Kness, Richard Pose, and Vera Brosgol.

Another interesting collection of stories. Like all collections, I find some stories much more interesting than others.

seoulmates.jpg jujutsu22.jpg jujutsu23.jpg kill creatures.jpg jujutsu24.jpg black butler.jpg jujutsu25.jpg jujutsu26.jpg jujutsu27.jpg mayor of maxwell.jpg antidote.jpg
tags: graphic novel, 4 stars, Kazu Kibuishi
categories: Book Reviews
Saturday 12.12.20
Posted by Tobe Buffenbarger
 

Once & Future Vol. 2

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Title: Once & Future Vol. 2

Author: Kieron Gillen, Dan Mora

Publisher: Boom Studios 2020

Genre: Comics

Pages: 160

Rating: 5/5 stars

Reading Challenges:

When an ancient helmet at the British Museum is taken, Bridgette and Duncan are confronted by another hero of yore, one who will lead them to facing off against their most formidable challenge yet...a beast and his mother.

Although Bridgette and Duncan stopped Arthur from retrieving the Grail and separated him from the legendary scabbard of Excalibur, the undead King of the Britons still has his sights on returning to our world and returning to power. By inadvertently changing the story of the famous King, Duncan and Gran have thrown the Otherworld into shambles, allowing for new legends and characters to make their appearance - and bring a world of trouble along with them.

But when an ancient helmet at the British Museum is taken, Bridgette and Duncan are confronted by another hero of yore, one who will lead them to facing off against their most formidable challenge yet...a beast and his mother.

New York Times bestselling writer Kieron Gillen (The Wicked + The Divine, Star Wars) and Russ Manning Award-winning artist Dan Mora (Buffy The Vampire Slayer, Klaus) deliver the next chapter of the critically-acclaimed series that took the world of comics by storm!

Collects Once & Future #7-12.

Oh I am so incredibly into this comic series. We get appearances from three more story characters and learn more about Merlin and Nimue and Arthur. Lots of action in this volume and lots of gore. Love it! Can’t wait for the next one.

Next up on the TBR pile:

seoulmates.jpg jujutsu22.jpg jujutsu23.jpg kill creatures.jpg jujutsu24.jpg black butler.jpg jujutsu25.jpg jujutsu26.jpg jujutsu27.jpg mayor of maxwell.jpg antidote.jpg
tags: graphic novel, 5 stars, Kieron Gillen, Dan Mora, Tamra Bonvillain
categories: Book Reviews
Friday 12.11.20
Posted by Tobe Buffenbarger
 

Gotham Academy Second Semester Vol. 1-2

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Title: Gotham Academy

Author: Becky Cloonan, Brenden Fletcher, Karl Kerschl

Publisher: DC 2017

Genre: Graphic Novel

Pages: 158

Rating: 4/5 stars

Reading Challenges: 

It’s the second semester at Gotham Academy, and everything is back to normal. Of course, “normal” for Gotham’s top prep school would be considered uncontrollable weirdness anywhere else!

First, a bunch of students start walking out of their extracurricular activities with no explanation and signing up for a strange new society—Witch Club! Then, a stolen map of the Academy puts the students on the trail of ancient symbols and hidden chambers.

There’s plenty for the Detective Club to investigate—but Olive Silverlock is distracted by her new rebel roommate, Amy. Is Maps Mizoguchi right to be suspicious of a bad influence, or just jealous that she’s losing her best friend?

Plus, Detective Club is joined by the World’s Greatest Detective—Batman!

Collects GOTHAM ACADEMY: SECOND SEMESTER #1-3, #5-8.

And we’re back to the actual storyline thankfully. We get an interesting new character and more answers. I loved getting more about Colton and Pom. We get some movement on various relationships. I loved to see where the stories were going.


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Title: Gotham Academy

Author: Becky Cloonan, Brenden Fletcher, Karl Kerschl, Adam Archer

Publisher: DC 2017

Genre: Graphic Novel

Pages: 128

Rating: 4/5 stars

Reading Challenges: 

The second semester at Gotham Academy is wrapping up, but more than just the school year may be coming to an end. Olive Silverlock is possessed by the spirit of her ancestor, Amity Arkham, a ghoulish entity who wants to burn Gotham City to the ground.

As Amity leads Olive on a mission of fire and vengeance, the rest of Detective Club scrambles to find a way to free their friend. When their rescue attempt leads them to an ancient relic hidden inside Wayne Manor, will Damian Wayne be able to help the students without revealing his secret identity as Robin?

And when Amity’s control pits Olive against villains Two-Face and the Penguin, Olive’s friends’ good intentions might just get them killed…

Collects GOTHAM ACADEMY: SECOND SEMESTER issues #9-12 and #4, from the creative team of Brenden Fletcher, Becky Cloonan, and Karl Kerschl, Adam Archer and MSASSYK.

The first issue of this volume was definitely my favorite. We get an interesting carnival themed story featuring Hammerhead and the past of Gotham Academy. Beyond that story, we get a sort of conclusion to the series. I was slightly disappointed that we don’t get more involvement with Batman and Robin, but the glimpses were nice. Overall, I really enjoyed this series.

seoulmates.jpg jujutsu22.jpg jujutsu23.jpg kill creatures.jpg jujutsu24.jpg black butler.jpg jujutsu25.jpg jujutsu26.jpg jujutsu27.jpg mayor of maxwell.jpg antidote.jpg
tags: graphic novel, Becky Cloonan, Karl Kerschl, Brenden Fletcher, DC, Derek Fridolfs, Dustin Nguyen, Rafael Albuquerque, Mingjue Helen Chen, 4 stars
categories: Book Reviews
Saturday 12.05.20
Posted by Tobe Buffenbarger
 

Lumberjanes/Gotham Academy

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Title: Lumberjanes/Gotham Academy

Author: Chynna Clugston-Flores, Maddi Gonzalez, Whitney Cogar Rosemary Valero-O'Connell

Publisher: BOOM! 2017

Genre: Graphic Novel

Pages: 160

Rating: 5/5 stars

Reading Challenges: 

The Lumberjanes and Gotham Academy kids team up!

DREAM TEAM UP!

When a teacher at Gotham Academy goes missing, it’s up to Olive, Maps, Colton, Pom, and Kyle to figure out what is happening and how to get her back. With only an outdated birthday invitation as the clue, they find themselves in the middle of the woods with no idea of where to start. With the sudden appearance of the Lumberjanes—April, Jo, Mal, Molly, Ripley and Jen—who are on the hunt for their missing Camp Director, all clues point to an abandoned cabin with more secrets than cobwebs.

BOOM! Studios and DC Comics team up to bring together Lumberjanes and Gotham Academy for the ultimate friendship-fueled crossover event. Written by Chynna Clugston Flores (Blue Monday), and illustrated by Rosemary Valero-O’Connell (Laura Dean Keeps Breaking Up With Me) and Maddi Gonzalez, this is a running-for-your-life-from-skeletal-monsters mystery that leads to lifelong friendship!

Oh such fun! I loved this adventure romp featuring both the ladies of Roanoke Cabin and the students from Gotham Academy. The was lighter than the other Gotham Academy volumes and more like a Lumberjanes volume. Thank goodness. I wanted the fun romp through a slightly strange mystery. It was great to see the connections between the two worlds and a few of the characters. Lots of fun for an afternoon’s reading.

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tags: graphic novel, Kat Leyh, Shannon Watters, 5 stars
categories: Book Reviews
Friday 12.04.20
Posted by Tobe Buffenbarger
 

Gotham Academy Vol. 1-3

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Title: Gotham Academy Vol. 1: Welcome to Gotham Academy

Author: Becky Cloonan, Brenden Fletcher, Karl Kerschl

Publisher: DC 2015

Genre: Graphic Novel

Pages: 160

Rating: 5/5 stars

Reading Challenges: 

Welcome to Gotham Academy, the most prestigious school in Gotham City. Only the best and brightest students may enter its halls, study in its classrooms, explore its secret passages, summon its terrifying spirits…

Okay, so Gotham Academy isn’t like other schools. But Olive Silverlock isn’t like other students. After a mysterious incident over summer break, she’s back at school with a bad case of amnesia, an even worse attitude… and an unexplained fear of bats.

Olive’s supposed to show new student Maps Mizoguchi the ropes. Problem: Maps is kid sister of Kyle, Olive’s ex. Then there’s the ghost haunting the campus…the secret society conducting bizarre rituals…and Bruce Wayne, the weirdo billionaire who funds the Academy - and may know the secret to Olive’s big mystery.

Find out in GOTHAM ACADEMY VOL. 1, the acclaimed new series from co-writers Becky Cloonan (DEMO) and Brendan Fletcher (BATGIRL) and artist Karl Kerschl (TEEN TITANS: YEAR ONE)! Collects GOTHAM ACADEMY #1-6.

I’ve never read much of the DC Universe, but I picked up this series because there is a crossover with Lumberjanes. I loved the mix of Nancy Drew-esque mystery solving and actual supernatural events. I want to know more about Olive and Tristan and the various teachers. There are definitely mysteries in abundance at Gotham Academy. I am completely on board for the ride.


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Title: Gotham Academy Vol. 2: Calamity

Author: Becky Cloonan, Brenden Fletcher, Karl Kerschl, Mingjue Helen Chen

Publisher: DC 2016

Genre: Graphic Novel

Pages: 144

Rating: 4/5 stars

Reading Challenges: 

Gotham Academy is haunted!

At the beginning of the term, Olive Silverlock returned to Gotham Academy a shadow of her former self. But thanks to her new friendships and their Detective Club sleuthing, Olive was finally starting to feel whole again.

Then, abruptly, Olive’s mother died—or, she seemed to. In the weeks after the funeral, Olive begins seeing her mother around the school. An Arkham Asylum patient with a deadly dark side, Sybil Silverlock was a powerful and complicated woman. Could her spirit be reaching out from beyond the grave? And if so, is it motherly Sybil who haunts Olive—or her deadly alter ego Calamity?

Plus, the kids hunt a werewolf on campus and Maps teams up with the Academy’s newest transfer, Damian Wayne!

Writers Becky Cloonan and Brenden Fletcher team with artists Karl Kerschl and Mingjue Helen Chen for GOTHAM ACADEMY VOL. 2: CALAMITY. Collects GOTHAM ACADEMY #7-12 and DC SNEAK PEEK: GOTHAM ACADEMY #1.

I still really enjoyed this volume of stories, although it wasn’t quite as interesting as the first one. The mysteries continue to deepen, but we don’t get many answers to all our questions. I do love the addition of Damian Wayne. Wonder where that’s story is going to go?


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Title: Gotham Academy Vol. 3: Yearbook

Author: Brenden Fletcher, Derek Fridolfs, Dustin Nguyen, Rafael Albuquerque

Publisher: DC 2016

Genre: Graphic Novel

Pages: 176

Rating: 4/5 stars

Reading Challenges: 

"Another turning point, a fork stuck in the road. Life grabs you by the wrist..." and hands you this year's Gotham Academy yearbook!

The students of Gotham's most prestigious prep school are back and they've just survived one heck of a year within the walls of Gotham Academy. Now it's time for everyone to look back and experience some of the lost adventures from the school year that was. Featuring stories and art by some of comics' best and brightest creators including Dustin Nguyen (BATMAN: L'IL GOTHAM), Derek Fridolfs (BATMAN: L'IL GOTHAM) and Rafael Albuquerque (AMERICAN VAMPIRE), as well as from regular series writer Brenden Fletcher (BATGIRL)!

Collects GOTHAM ACADEMY #13-17.

This was more of a compilation of vignettes than a big story arc. I did love the glimpses into the Robins and the larger problems with Batman.

seoulmates.jpg jujutsu22.jpg jujutsu23.jpg kill creatures.jpg jujutsu24.jpg black butler.jpg jujutsu25.jpg jujutsu26.jpg jujutsu27.jpg mayor of maxwell.jpg antidote.jpg
tags: graphic novel, Becky Cloonan, Karl Kerschl, Brenden Fletcher, DC, 5 stars, Derek Fridolfs, Dustin Nguyen, Rafael Albuquerque, Mingjue Helen Chen
categories: Book Reviews
Saturday 11.28.20
Posted by Tobe Buffenbarger
 
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