A LGBTQ+ graphic novel

The Prince and the Dressmaker

By: Jen Wang

Genre: YA graphic novel/ LGBTQ+

Pages: 284

Published: 2018

Read:  February

3.5 out of 5 stars

This graphic novel had everything going for it. A captivating story line, gorgeous artwork, a timely plot twist. Prince Sebastian is supposed to be looking for a bride, but he has a major secret he is hiding. To aid in his secret, he hires a low life seamstress who is about to get fired to design him exquisite gowns. They become true friends and both benefit greatly from this meaningful relationship. However, as the story comes to a conclusion, it feels rushed and unrealistic; even for this time and age. Due to the nature and development of the characters that Wang created, the unmasking would not have been that easy for young Sebastian.

Craving more...

Stitches

By: David Small

Genre: YA Graphic Novel/Memoir

Pages: 329

Published: 2009

Read:  January

3.5 out of 5 stars

I have mentioned in previous reviews that I struggle with National Book Award Winners. However, I have always enjoyed graphic memoirs – So why not?   Small didn’t have a great childhood, I won’t deny that and it’s a great accomplishment that he came out on top. But, so many other children have it worse. I wonder if it really was worse than he portrayed or if Small choose not to indulge more detail because it was a graphic novel. Or did he feel that he truly suffered as much as other children.

Either way, I craved more – did he Grandma continue to abuse him or just suddenly stop as it seems from the book? What was his mother’s reaction when he walked into the bedroom and saw her with her lesbian lover? I felt what Small endured was minimized by his brief overview. Most of all, I want to know if there was more or did he mean to keep us guessing. Even his author note, while informative, didn’t answer my questions.

I loved the artwork

Miss Peregrine's Home for Peculiar Children: The Graphic Novel

By: Ransom Riggs

Genre:  YA graphic novel

Pages: 272

Published: 2013

Read: December

3 out of 5

This is a good rendition of the YA novel. I still much prefer the actual novel, but teens who are intimidated by reading will enjoy it. There were several story lines in the original version that aren't even touched upon in the graphic novel which was a disappointment. I did loved the artwork and really liked how the color themes changed depending on where the story was taking place. However, I wish more photographs of the peculiar children were included. The photographs were a large part of what makes the story so unique. I also felt that the graphic novel was more violent because the picturistic aspect. This would be a good option for 7th grade and above. 

Very Disturbing Graphic Novel

A Friendly Game

By: Jose Pimienta

Genre:  Adult graphic novel

Pages: 200

Published: 2010

Read: November

3.5 out of 5

VERY disturbing! Two boys start out killing mice for competitive points in what was meant to be a friendly game. The competition went from mice to bigger and better creatures. I liked it because it was definitely unique from other graphic novels I have read.  I read some reviews that criticized the book because of it's gruesome disturbing plot and pictures. Excuse me , but that was the idea. They must criticize Stephen King as well. Others said there were gaps in the plot. The gaps were other sides of the story and minutiae details. Besides, I have always felt with graphic novels the readers always has to fill in some blanks because of style of book. This isn't a fantastic book, but better than the average graphic novel. Recommended to fans of gruesome, gory stories.

The Carter Family...

The Carter Family: Don't Forget this Song

By: Frank M. Young

Genre:  Adult graphic novel

Pages: 192

Published: 2012

Read: November

3 out of 5

A graphic portrayal of June Carter-Cash's musical family - it does not cover June's life but rather the life of her parent's. Even more so her aunt, uncle, and cousins. This was a huge disappointment. I was definitely looking forward to reading about June, her sisters, and Maybelle, which were the individuals I thought made up The Carter Family musical group . It was actually Alvin Pleasant (A.P.), Maybelle's brother-in-law, that began the group. He was a huge jerk, and worse, to everyone.  I honestly don't know how any of them put up with him.  I was blown away with how he is portrayed in this graphic novel - nothing was held back.  I appreciated that there was a family tree at the beginning since I referred to it often.  Also, my copy included a music CD as well, but only 4 songs :(

a depressing graphic memoir

Can’t We Talk about Something More Pleasant?

By: Roz Chast

Genre:  Adult graphic novel

Pages: 228

Published: 2014

Read: November

3 out of 5

This graphic novel was overwhelmingly depressing. I knew that going into it (ex: the title itself). But come on, there could have been some humor added about taking care of your elderly parents; not just the burden and guilt of having to do so. There were a few laughs (when her mother sh%$ all over her bathroom) and a few heartwarming moments with her dad. Most of it though was Roz complaining and bickering about her responsibility. Who wants to read a book like that? It made me think of what I have to look forward to in the future and the hassle I may be on my daughter, who is also an only child. I just pray I go quickly. However, the artwork and pictures were fantastic. So if you read, just be prepared.

Companion graphic novel to Smile

Sisters

By: Raina Telgemeier

Genre:  YA Graphic Novel

Pages: 208

Published: 2014

Read: October

4 out of 5

This is a companion graphic novel to Smile. They are both biographical in nature. This one is about her relationship with her younger sister. I really like the fact that she tells two stories in one. When her younger sister and brother were born and then when they were older and went on a three week road trip. This one was just as cute as Smile, if not more so, but I felt Smile was funnier. In the back of this one, she included actually photographs of her and her sisters. I would recommend this graphic novel to all middle school girls.

A Survivor's Tale

Maus, I: A Survivor’s Tale: My Father Bleeds History

By: Art Spiegelman

Genre:  YA historical graphic novel

Pages: 160

Published: 1991

Read: September

3.5 0ut of 5

I recently read an interview with Marjane Satrapi, author of Persepolis, who stated that that Maus was one of her favorite books and the inspiration to write "her story" in graphic form. Since I have been enjoying nonfiction graphic novels, I have decided to give this two volume set a shot. I appreciated this one, but definitely enjoyed the humor and drawings of Satrapi's much more. I also have a major pet peeve about this graphic novel. In the story summary it states that the Nazis are depicted as cats and the Jews are mice.  I dare anyone to view the pictures of the Nazis and tell me they aren't pigs.

A graphic novel sequal

Pursepolis 2: The Story of a Return

By: Marjane Satrapi

Genre:  YA biographical graphic novel

Pages: 187

Published: 2005

Read: August

4.5 0ut of 5

This sequel was just as good, if not better that Pursepolis 1. It was educational, entertaining and even funny. I am surprised at Satrapi’s ability to write and illustrate such tragic events and still entertain the readers with some humor. It is much needed as a relief on the very serious story she tells. I had no idea that these events were occurring in Iran and during my own lifetime. Surprisingly as well, Satrapi is close to my own age. It was a true eye opening experience. Anyone who has read and enjoyed Pursepolis 1, definitely needs to read this sequel. If you haven’t checked out either DO IT NOW. 

A great YA graphic novel memoir

Tomboy

By: Liz Prince

Genre:  YA graphic novel memoir

Pages: 256

Published: 2014

Read: August

5 0ut of 5

For being a graphic novel, this book HAS feeling.  I smiled, laughed, turned red, cried, got angry and almost throw up - while reading this book.  And, of course, it's a memoir, which is my favorite variety of graphic novel. Prince is brutally honest in the retelling of her childhood, where she felt she never fit in.   She is a girl, but not a girly-girly. She looks like a boy, but is not a lesbian. She is all girl, but just a TOMBOY.  I enjoyed the variety of graphics included - drawings, diary entries, charts and graphs.   Although I have to admit that some of my fondest for this book is definitely related to the fact that there are a lot of 80's references (Prince was born is 1981). 

A horror Graphic Novel

Through the Woods

By: Emily Carroll

Genre:  YA Horror Graphic Novel

Pages: 208

Published: 2014

Read: August

3 0ut of 5

This graphic novel is divided into seven short horror stories. Some of them are good, others are just okay. However, all the pictures are great. They were definitely my favorite part. I think I have a hard time getting scared by reading a book. I was hoping the stories would be more terrifying, but they were at least interesting. I recommend this book to teens who enjoy graphic novels and some blood and guts. I will be purchasing this graphic novel to add to the library collection.

A good graphic novel for the boys

Ghostopolis

By: Doug TenNapel

Genre:  YA graphic novel

Pages: 264

Published: 2010

Read: August

3 out of 5

This is a hard review to write because while it was well-written and illustrated, Ghostopolis is not the type of graphic novel I enjoy. With the ghosts, violence, super heroes and paranormal themes, I would much rather read an in-depth novel. There are too many unanswered questions. Plus, the subject matter is definitely geared more towards teen boys. I did find this story more entertaining than other similar graphic novels I have read.  For a change, the illustrations were bright and colorful. The plot reminded me of the movie Beetle Juice and the book The Graveyard Book by Neil Gaiman.  Since I was so indecisive on this book, I have asked a teen boy to read it and let me know his thoughts. 

Educational, Funny and Entertaining

Persepolis: The Story of a Childhood

By: Marjane Satrapi

Genre:  YA graphic novel

Pages: 160

Published: 2004

Read: August

4.5 out of 5

Reading this graphic novel, reconfirmed that my favorite graphic novels are biographic or historical in nature. I think this is because they are usually simply written without overwhelming you with facts. Since I didn’t enjoy history when I was younger and still can’t get into long-winded nonfiction books; well-written and illustrated graphic novels are an enjoyable way to reeducate (or learn something completely new) myself. This is definitely a great example. Persepolis is about a young girl growing up in Iran during the Islamic Revolution. It is not only educational, it is surprisingly funny, entertaining, and a true eye-opener. I highly recommend it to everyone. 

Judging a book by its cover...

This One Summer

By: Mariko Tamaki

Genre:  YA graphic novel

Pages: 319

Published: 2014

Read: August

2 out of 5

As many times as you are told “Don’t judge a book by its cover”; people always will – myself included. The illustration and coloring on the cover was exactly what attracted me to this graphic novel. The blue purplish coloring throughout this book was the best aspect of the story. Even though the premise and events that took place were interesting and teens may relate to them; I didn’t see any of them being resolved by the end. Whether in a positive or negative light, you are left with too many open questions. Readers want a resolution or a sequel, this book foreshadowed neither. There are several better YA graphic novels I would recommend reading.

A horrifying graphic novel

The Walking Dead, Book One

By: Robert Kirkman

Genre:  Graphic Novel

Pages: 304

Published: 2010

Read: July

4 out of 5

As far as graphic novels go, this was a great intriguing horrific roller coaster of a ride. The book was jammed packed with action, but also included friendships, families and even a sideline love affair. The artistry was extreme and a very graphic zombie story. You could even envision the zombies moving across the page as stiff as a board.  I loved it!  I remained fascinated throughout the story. I have never read a graphic novel where I felt the characters were so well developed. My rating for this book is relative to other graphic novels and while I enjoyed it, I still prefer nonfiction/biographical graphic novels.  As this is a series, I am still unsure if I will continue reading them.  I got a taste (no pun intended) and there are so many books to read.

A graphic novel version of one of my sister-in-law's favorite novels

The Alchemist: A Graphic Novel

By: Paulo Coelho

Genre:  Adult/YA graphic novel

Pages: 208

Published: 2010

Read: June

3 out of 5

The original novel, The Alchemist, is one of my sister-in-law’s favorite books.  She has been wanting me to read it for years and I have been fighting it. I didn’t think it was a story I would enjoy and I would end up suffering until the end. So when I discovered that there was a graphic novel version, I thought it would be an excellent way to try the story without committing too much time. While I didn’t love the book, I definitely think anyone a fan of The Alchemist and Paulo Coelho should read it. It was very well done and even Coelho states in his intro that he is happy with outcome. I also felt the graphics were phenomenal and give kudos to Daniel Sampere. 

YA graphic novel award winner....

Nothing can Possible Go Wrong

By: Prudence Shen & Faith Erin Hicks

Genre:  YA graphic novel

Pages: 288

Published: 2013

Read: May

4 out of 5

I was pleasantly surprised by this book. I felt it was well done and includes a little of everything – humor, romance, competitions, friends, and struggles with being a teenager. The illustrations are artistic and I especially enjoyed the detailed facial expressions. I wish I could understand why the majority of graphic novels don’t use color illustrations though. I felt color would have been an added bonus. I also felt it was strange that the robotic competition was held on Thanksgiving. I am not sure what that added to the story and why an organization would hold it on such a big holiday, but then again the retail stores are open as well on Thanksgiving (YES, that bothers me)! I do believe this book was deserving of the YALSA Great Graphic Novels of 2014. 

By the well-known author of American Born Chinese

Saints

By: Gene Luen Yang

Genre: YA graphic novel

Pages: 170

Published: 2013

Read: April

3 out of 5

I had a hard time rating this book. There were some parts that I didn’t really understand, so I can’t say I loved or even really liked the book. However, I love the artwork and how it fit the story so well. I also have to give the author a great deal of credit for writing about such a controversial issue, religion, in a main stream YA book. I love his honest, but blunt approach on the subject with a touch of humor. For these reasons and the fact that I found it easier to follow than American Born Chinese I feel it deserves at least 3 stars. When I choose to read it, I thought that Boxers and Saints were companion novels so I read Saints (which is actually supposed to be read second) first. I may eventually read Boxers, but I am not making it a priority.

The Story of Annie Frank - Graphically

Anne Frank

By: Elizabeth Hudson-Goff

Genre: Juvenile Graphic Novel

Pages: 32

Published: 2006

Read: April

3 out of 5

I have been into reading biographical graphic novels, so I was excited when I saw this one come across my desk.  I loved the Diary of Anne Frank and this story focused on the when and whys Anne started the diary. Her father played a part in the telling of the story as well.  Like most nonfiction graphic novels, the story provided a quick brief overview of a true event, which is an excellent tool to gain interest in a topic. I think this would be an appropriate story for 7 to 10 year old. However, I was disappointed in the artwork. I actually think given the time period the story took place it, the artwork would have been awesome in black and white.

A YALSA Great Teen Graphic Novel Winner for 2014

Will & Whit

By: Laura Lee Gulledge

Genre: YA graphic novel

Pages: 194

Published: 2013

Read: March

2.5 out of 5

The story was just OK. I have read much better YA graphic novels recently and I am surprised this was a winner of the YALSA Great Graphic Novels for Teens 2014.  Not only did I feel it jumped scenes,  but I feel a few simple changes would make the book more appealing to readers, especially teens. The title and cover are misleading, which by itself is not a bad thing...but the story is not only about Will & Whit, but all of Will's friends AND they are definitely not in a relationship as the cover portrays. However, even a better improvement would be the addition of a little color. The story focuses around creative teens coming into their own and growing together. Color is referenced a lot. I believe splashes of colors would greatly enhance the reading experience, especially blue (Whit's favorite color) and yellow (Will's lamps and electricity). With both of these being bright colors, it would give the story a bright cheerful feeling which corresponds with the story as it continues; without giving it away.