Review: Everything Vol. 1

Title: Everything Volume 1

Author(s): Christopher Cantwell 

Artist(s):  INJ Culbard

Series/Standalone: Everything Series (Vol. 1)

Genre: Graphic Novel, Dystopian, 

Pages: 128

Publisher: Berger Books

Year Published: 2020

Format: Paperback (Library Copy)

"Everything is a gleaming new mega-department store that has everything you want... but it might take away what you need... things like your sanity, or maybe even your life.

From wayward teens to lonely housewives and ambitious city officials, most in this otherwise-sleepy Michigan town are thrilled with the arrival of EVERYTHING and its catalog-perfect manager, Shirley.

But thrill turns to frenzy and when bouts of mania, random hellish fires, violent explosions and unshakeable psychic disturbances start to overtake the population, a few-like depressive out-of-towner Lori and a suspicious local named Rick- begin to suspect EVERYTHING might be the cause.

What twisted power has taken hold of Holland, Michigan and its town-folk? Who-or-what- exactly is in charge here and what insidious plans are in store?"

My Rating: 4/5

This was such an odd introduction to a series but it hooked me right away. A dystopian book about the greed of capitalism? Sign me up. I would strongly recommend if you want a little disturbing mixed with an odd feeling of familiarity, EVERYTHING may not be as it seems.

Thanks for reading,

Sidny

Review: Out from Boneville by Jeff Smith

Title: Out from Boneville

Author: Jeff Smith

Series/Standalone: Bone Series (Volume 1)

Genre: Graphic Novels, Fantasy, Young Adult

Pages: 138

Publisher: Graphix

Year Published: 1991

Format: Paperback (Library Copy)

"After being run out of Boneville, the three Bone cousins. Fone Bone, Phoney Bone, and Smiley Bone are separated and lost in a vast uncharted desert.

One by one, they find their way into a deep, forested valley filled with wonderful and terrifying creatures.

Humor, mystery and adventure are spun together in this action-packed, side-splitting sage. Everyone who has ever left home for the first time only to find that the world outside is strange and overwhelming will love Bone."

My Rating: 2.5/5

I originally read this when I was quite young and loved it. This time I found that the art was fun but the plot wasn't as encompassing as I remembered. I hope that this series picks up and I look forward to how the series continues.

Thanks for reading,

Sidny

Book Review: Lore Olympus: Volume 1

Title: Lore Olympus Volume 1

Author: Rachel Smythe

Series/Standalone: Lore Olympus Series (Vol. 1)

Genre: Graphic Novel, Adult, Mythology,

Pages: 384

Publisher: 2021

Year Published: Del Rey

Format: Hardcover (Own It)

"Experience the propulsive love story of two Greek gods- Hades and Persephone- brought to life with lavish artwork and an irresistible contemporary voice.

Scandalous gossip, wild parties, and forbidden love- witness what the gods do after dark in this stylish and contemporary reimagining of one of mythology's most well-known stories about creator Rachel Smythe. Featuring a brand-new, exclusive short story. Smythe's original Eisner-nominated web-comic Lore Olympus brings the Greek Pantheon into the modern age with this sharply perceptive and romantic graphic novel."

My Rating: 5/5

I had originally read most of the comics through webtoons as they were published weekly and once they were traditionally published I was quick to buy the first volume. This series has an amazing art style, an addicting storyline and great character changes. I look forward to continuing the series and reading the physical additions. I highly recommend it, it's worth the hype.

Thanks for reading,

Sidny

Book Review: The Fade Out: Act One

Title: The Fade Out: Act One

Author: Ed Brubaker

Artist(s): Sean Phillips (Illustrator) & Elizabeth Breitweiser (Colourist)

Series/Standalone: The Fade Out Series (Volume 1)

Genre: Graphic Novel, Adult, Mystery

Pages: 120

Publisher: Image Comics

Year Published: 2015

Format: Paperback Copy (Library)

"Brubaker and Phillips' newest hit series, The Fade Out, is an epic noir set in the world of the noir itself, the backlots and bars of Hollywood at the end of its Golden Era. A movie stuck in endless reshoots, a writer damaged from the war and lost in the bottle, a dead movie star and the lookalike hired to replace her. Nothing is what it seems in the place where only lies are true."

My Rating: 2.5/5

This was a fun introduction to the series and I liked the idea of the setting. I didn't anticipate how quick it would be to read and I wonder how quickly the writer will be able to wrap up the plot line. I'm curious about how all the characters weave together and what happens next, but overall it was just fun. 

Thanks for reading,

Sidny

Review: Tin Stars by Jeff Lemire

Title: Tin Stars

Author: Jeff Lemire

Artist(s): Dustin Nguyen

Series/Standalone: Descender Series (Volume #1)

Genre: Science Fiction, Graphic Novel, Adult

Pages: 160

Publisher: Turtleback Books

Year Published: 2015

Format: Hardcover (Library Copy)

"Young Robot boy TIM-21 and his companions struggle to stay alive in a universe where all androids have been outlawed and bounty hunters lurk on every planet. Written by award-winning creator, Jeff Lemire, Descender is a rip-roaring and heart-felt cosmic odyssey. Lemire pits humanity against machine and world against world, to create a sprawling epic."

My Rating: 2.5/5

This first installment was interesting to me and it took a while to get used to the worlds we were being introduced to. As far as an introduction went it was ok, but the premise interests me. So I'm looking forward to seeing where the next volume goes. Was it perfect? No, but was it intriguing? Yes. 

Thanks for reading,

Sidny

Review: Blood on the Tracks Vol. 1

Title: Blood on the Tracks Vol. 1

Author: Shuzo Oshimi

Artis(s): Shuzo Oshimi

Series/Standalone: Blood on the Track Series (Vol. 1)

Genre: Manga, Horror, Adult Fiction 

Pages: 216

Publisher: Vertical

Year Published: 2017

Format: Paperback (Library Copy)

"Seiichi's mother loves him very much, and his days pass with placid regularity. School, friends, even the attention of his attractive classmate Fukiishi.

Until one terrible summer day, that all changes....

Shuzo Oshimi (The Flower of Evil) delivers his most unsettling work yet, the tale of a seemingly normal family suddenly swallowed up by the creeping horror of everyday life.

Gorgeous art and an understated script only serve to heighten the tension as we watch Seiichi Osabe's life spiral into nightmare."

My Rating: 3.75/5

This first volume was a good introduction to the story and was unsettling. I am so curious to see how the series goes and I wonder how the characters will respond to what is happening in the cliffhanger. I look forward to continuing the series over the next few weeks.

Thanks for reading,

Sidny

Review: Lucy Claire: Redemption, Vol. 1

Title: Lucy Claire: Redemption Vol. 1

Author/Artist: John Upchurch

Series/Standalone: Lucy Claire (Vol. 1)

Genre: Graphic Novel, Adult, Fantasy

Pages: 144

Publisher: Image Comics

Year Published: 2020

Format: Paperback Copy (Library Copy)

"Lucy Claire, once a celebrated hero, is now treated as a despised miscreant. Through a series of sinister events, Lucy's children were taken from her; she was slandered and defamed and is now broken and lost. But an old danger re-emerges and Lucy will have to take the mantle of hero again, right the wrongs of her past and, above all else, find a way back to her children."

My Rating: 5/5

I really loved this start to what I hope is a series at some point, but unfortunately, it doesn't look like they plan on releasing any more. I loved the character arches, the first introduction to the world and the artwork was enthralling and I can only hope for more volumes to be released. Would recommend!

Thanks for reading,

Sidny

Review: Attack on Titan, Vol. 1

Title: Attack on Titan Vol. 1

Author/Artist: Hajime Isayama

Series/Standalone: Attack on Titan (Vol. 1)

Genre: Manga, Young Adult

Pages: 193

Publisher: Kodansha Comics

Year Published: 2009

Format: Paperback Copy (Library)

"The Desperate Battle Begins!

For the past century, what's left of mankind has hidden in a giant, three-walled city, trapped in fear of the bizarre, giant humanoids known as the Titans. Little is known about where they came from or why they are bent on consuming humankind, but the sudden appearance of an enormous Titan is about to change everything..."

My Rating: 3.5/5

This was interesting and I'm curious about the world. The series overall is well known and I look forward to continuing the series, learning more about the characters and finding out where the story will take us. I also hope to watch the anime after reading the series. I'm curious about which one people prefer overall.

Thanks for reading,

Sidny

Review: Surviving the City Vol. 1

Title: Surviving the City Vol. 1

Author: Tasha Spillet

Artist(s): Natasha Donovan

Series/Standalone: Surviving the City Series (Volume 1)

Genre: Graphic Novel, Young Adult, 

Pages: 56

Publisher: HighWater Press

Year Published: 2019

Format: Paperback Copy (Library Copy)

"Tasha Spillett's graphic novel debut, Surviving the City, is a story about womanhood, friendship, colonialism, and the anguish of a missing loved one. Miikwan and Dez are best friends. Miikwan is Anishinaabe; Dez is inninew. Together, the teens navigate the challenges of growing up in an urban landscape- they're so close, they even completed their Berry Fast together. However, when Dez's grandmother becomes too sick, Dez is told she can't stay with her anymore. With the threat of a group home looming, Dez can't bring herself to go home and disappears. Miikwan is devastated, and the wound of her missing mother resurfaces. Will Dez's community find her before it's too late? Will Miikwan be able to cope if they don't?"

My Rating: 5/5

This is a coming-of-age story set in the city I currently live in (I believe) and it focuses on more than just becoming a teen in the city, but how racism affects our main characters throughout their life. It deals with serious and important issues. I hope this story reaches those who need it and helps members of the community feel seen. Although that will never be enough, being seen and taking action to correct current and past wrongs is a responsibility we all have. 

I would strongly recommend it. 

Thanks for reading,

Sidny

Review: My Low-G Life

Title: My Low-G Life

Author: Joe Henderson

Artist(s): Lee Garbett, Antonio Fabela

Series/Standalone: Skyward (Vol. 1)

Genre: Young Adult, Graphic Novels, Science Fiction

Pages: 136

Publisher: Image Comics

Year Published: 2018

Format: Paperback (Library Copy)

"One day, gravity on Earth suddenly became a fraction of what it is now. Twenty years later, humanity has adapted to its new low gravity reality. And to Willa Fowler, a woman born just after G-day, it's well, it's pretty awesome, actually. You can fly through the air! I mean, sure, you can also die if you jump too high. So you don't jump too high. And maybe don't get mixed up in your Dad's secret plan to bring gravity back that could get you killed..."

My Rating: 4.5/5

I really love this concept, it's terrifying but so fascinating. We all know that I love a dystopian universe and to see it done in a graphic novel was fantastic. I love the art style, and I think that this was a great opening volume. I can't wait to see where this series goes. I'm sure it will be an intriguing ride.

Thanks for reading,

Sidny

Review: Gasolina by Sean Mackiewicz

Title: Gasolina, Vol. 1

Author: Sean Mackiewicz

Artist(s): Niko Walter, Mat Lopes

Series/Standalone: Gasolina Series (Vol. 1)

Genre: Graphic Novel, Adult, Horror

Pages: 136

Publisher: Image Comics

Year Published: 2018

Format: Paperback (Library Copy)

"Fugitives. Rebels. Newlyweds. In their journey south from El Norte, Amalia, and Randy have played many roles in order to survive. Now, they must become unlikely leaders in the fight against a new cartel, who uses inhuman tactics to ignite the most monstrous war Mexico-- and the world-- has ever seen.

Everything burns in this new series from creators Sean Mackiewicz and Niko Walter, where love and devotion can only be measured in fire and blood."

My Rating: 2/5

I don't like bugs, so I don't know what exactly I was thinking. But this book gave me the creeps and I get that that was the intention. But not all of this was enjoyable for me and I just don't have enough desire to see where things go. Would recommend it if you like creepy bugs and badass female protagonists though.

Thanks for reading,

Sidny

Review: String Theory by Jim Zub

Title: String Theory

Author: Jim Zub

Artist(s): Steven Cummings, John Rauch

Series/Standalone: Wayward Series (Volume 1)

Genre: Graphic Novel, Paranormal, Young Adult

Pages: 134

Publisher: Image Comics

Year Published: 2015

Format: Paperback (Library Copy)

"Rori Lane is trying to start a new life when she reunites with her mother in Japan, but ancient creatures lurking in the shadows of Tokyo sense something hidden deep within her, threatening everything she holds dear.

Can Rori unlock the secret of her powers before it's too late?"

My Rating: 5/5

I really loved this first installment of the series, it was fast paced, it introduced us to our main characters and helped us start to get to know them while still leaving enough of a mystery that I can't wait to read the next one. The magical element in this story was so fascinating and the creative team did not hold back on the violence and fight scenes. Will be continuing ASAP!

Thanks for reading,

Sidny

Review: By Night Vol. 1

Title: By Night Vol.1 

Author: John Allison   

Artist(s): Christine Larsen & Sarah Stern

Series/Standalone: By Night series (Vol. 1)

Genre: Young Adult, Graphic Novel

Pages: 112

Publisher: BOOM! Box

Year Published: 2019

Format: Paperback (Library Copy)

"After discovering a mysterious device, Jane and Heather decide to try their hand at documentary filmmaking... in another dimension!

There's something range going on in Spectrum, South Dakota.

Home to high school best friends Jane Langstaff and heather Meadows, Spectrum is a boomtown that's long since stopped booming, with nothing to show for its former glory but the abandoned Charleswood Estate, its dwindling sprocket millions, and the story of the disappeared industrialist who founded the story of the disappeared industrialist who found the place... But deep within Charleswood, unbeknownst to anyone, there is a device called the Eidolon, which can open up a doorway to an otherworldly dimension. And Heather and Jane are about to go knocking."

My Rating: 3/5

This was a fun first volume, I've read the majority of Giant Days which was also written by John Allison and that's what drew me to this graphic novel. This one was fun and cute, but it didn't grab my attention in the same way. I'm interested in what the different settings can do for the story and will be reading the next one, just not as committed to this series as much as I have been to other graphic novel series.

Thanks for reading,

Sidny

Review: The King is Undead

Title: The King is Undead

Author: Kieron Gillen

Artist(s): Dan Mora & Tamra Bonvillain

Series/Standalone: Once & Future (Vol. 1)

Genre: Graphic Novel, Retelling, Fantasy

Pages: 160

Publisher: BOOM! Studios

Year Published: 2020

Format: Paperback (Library Copy)

"When a group of Nationalists use an ancient artifact to bring a villain from Arthurian myth back from the dead to gain power, retired monster hunter Bridgette McGuire pulls her unsuspecting grandson Duncan, a museum curator, into a world of magic and mysticism to combat the deadly secrets of England's past that threaten its very future."

My Rating: 5/5

This did what I love about graphic novels. You are thrown into the story and have characters that are so eye-catching it dares you to not read it. It's so well written and so enjoyable. While we don't know everything going on in the world (which adds to the intrigue), we get an idea of where we are going in the plot and begin to understand our characters' place in their worlds. I loved the characters and the start of this plot. The art style is so fun and I can't wait to continue with the series.

Thanks for reading,

Sidny

Review: Rebels Without Applause by James Tynion IV

Title: Rebels Without Applause

Author: Jame Tynion IV

Artist(s): Rian Sygh, Walter Baiamonte

Series/Standalone: The Backstagers (Vol. 1)

Genre: LGBT, Fantasy, Graphic Novel, Young Adult

Pages: 112

Publisher: BOOM! Box

Year Published: 2016

Format: Paperback (Library Copy)

"All the world's a stage... but what happens behind the curtain is pure magic literally!

When Jory transfers to an all-boys private high school, he's taken in by the only ones who don't treat him like a new kid, the lowly stage crew known as the Backstagers. Not only does he gain great, lifetime friends, Jory is also introduced to an entire magical world that lives beyond the curtain. With the unpredictable twists and turns of the underground world, the Backstagers venture into the unknown, determined to put together the best play their high school has ever seen."

My Rating: 3.75/5

After completing this first volume I went to add more of the series on my Goodreads TBR. And do you know what I found? There are only THREE volumes of this cute, mystical story! THREE! How will I ever be satisfied with that? I loved the characters in this, and the world of backstage was absolutely amazing. I'm so curious to see what will happen with their antics in the next volume of the story. But again, how are there only three?!

Thanks for reading,

Sidny

Review: Fantasy Heartbreak by Kieron Gillen

Title: Fantasy Heartbreaker

Author: Kieron Gillen

Artist: Stephanie Hans

Series/Standalone: Die (Volume #1)

Genre: Graphic Novels, RPG, Fantasy, Adult

Pages: 184

Publisher: Image Comics

Year Published: 2019

Format: Paperback (Library Copy)

"The Wicked + The Divine writer Kieron Gillen teams up with artist supernova Stephanie Hans (WicDiv, Journey Into Mystery) for her first ongoing comic. Die is a pitch-black fantasy where a group of forty-something adults have to deal with the returning unearthly horror they only just survived as teenage role-players. If Kieron's in a rush, he describes it as "Goth Jumanji", but that's only the tip of this obsidian iceberg."

My Rating: 4/5

This was a really wonderful introduction to the world and the characters. I absolutely adored the art style and the storytelling method. Seeing the characters in past and present helps to gain suspense as we're wondering what happened fully to them in the past as well as how they ended up where they are in their lives now. I look forward to continuing the series.

Thanks for reading,

Sidny

Review: Awakening by Majorie M. Liu

Title: Awakening

Author: Majorie M. Liu

Artist: Sana Takeda

Series/Standalone: Monstress Series (Volume 1)

Genre: Adult, Fantasy, Graphic Novel

Pages: 202

Publisher: Image Comics

Year Published: 2016

Format: Paperback Copy (Library)

"Set in an alternate matriarchal 1900's Asia, in a richly imagined world of art deco-inflected steam punk, Monstress tells the story of a teenage girl who is struggling to survive the trauma of war, and who shares a mysterious psychic link with a monster of tremendous power, a connection that will transform them both and make them the target of both human and otherworldly powers."

My Rating: 3.5/5

This is such a different graphic novel than the previous ones I've been reading (I'm currently rereading Giant Days, very different energy). The art in this graphic novel is absolutely stunning and I loved admiring the thoughtfulness to details. That being said the world is extremely confusing. It takes most of the book to catch an idea of what is going on, or what has happened in the world. It was helpful that there are little filler pages about the world and how it got to the point of how it looks now. I am planning to continue the series, I'm curious to say the least about where the plot is going.

Thanks for reading,

Sidny

Review: Alex + Ada Vol. 1 by Jonathan Luna

 Title: Alex + Ada Vol. 1

Author: Jonathan Luna

Artist: Sarah Vaughn

Series/Standalone: Alex + Ada (Book 1-5)

Genre: Graphic Novel, Science Fiction, Adult

Pages: 128

Publisher: Image Comics

Year Published: 2014

Format: Ebook (Library Copy)

"From Jonathan Luna (Girls, The Sword, Ultra, Spider-Woman: Origin) and Sarah Vaughan (Sparkshooter) comes Alex + Ada, a sci-fi drama set in the near future. The last thing in the world Alex wanted was an X5, the latest in realistic androids. But after Ada is dropped into his life, he discovers she is more than just a robot."

My Rating: 2/5

I often pick up things like this, with AI, robots and futuristic society because the possibilities make me curious. That being said, while the world is interesting, this first book doesn't really offer much. There are many characters and not a ton of expansive character development at this point. Just a fine read for the time being, but I do plan on continuing with the series as soon as possible for some guilty pleasure entertainment.

Thanks for reading,

Sidny

Review: Rat Queens: Sass & Sorcery by Kurtis J. Wiebe

 Title: Sass & Sorcery

Author: Kurtis J. Wiebe

Artist(s): Roc Upchurch

Series/Standalone: Rat Queens Collected Volumes (Volume #1)

Genre: Adult, Fantasy, Graphic Novel

Pages: 128

Publisher: Image Comics

Year Published: 2014

Format: Paperback Copy (Borrowed Via Friend)

"Who are the Rat Queens?

They're a pack of booze-guzzling, death-dealing battle maidens-for-hire and they're in the business of killing all the god's creatures for profit. Meet Hannah, the Rockability Elven Mage, Violet the Hipster Dwarven Fighter, Dee the Athiest Human Cleric and Betty the Hippy Smidge Thief. 

This modern spin on an old school genre is a violent, monster-killing epic that is like Buffy meets Tank Girl in a Lord of the Rings world on crack!"

My Rating:4.5/5

I can usually tell if I'm going to enjoy the sequel by the first instalment of a graphic novel series and this was no exception. The story was hilarious, filled with badass women, comedy, role-playing style /fantasy tropes (in the best way) and intrigue. I think that the world was decently fleshed out and I'm certainly curious about the character's lives (current and past). I hope to continue these as soon as possible.

Thanks for reading,

Sidny 

Review: Save Yourself by Jermey Whitley

Title: Save Yourself
Author: Jeremy Whitley
Artists: Mia Goodwin, Jung-Ha Kim, Dave Dwonch
Series/Standalone: Princeless Series (Volume 1)
Genre: Grahic Novels, Fantasy, Young Adult
Pages: 140
Publisher: Action Lab
Year Published: 2012
Format: Paperback (Library Copy)

"Princeless is the story of Princess Adrienne, one princess who's tired of waiting to be rescued. Join Adrienne, her guardian dragon, Sparky, and their plucky friend Bedelia as they begin their own quest in this one of a kind, action packed, all-ages adventures."

My Rating: 4/5


This was a really cute first installment. It really is a feminist princess story, one that I think so many young girls should read. I think it really kicks in for someone my age who still grew up with Disney Princess unreal expectations, but then sees how the world is changing in the most positive way for women. We're not quite there, but we're taking steps to become more than just a princess waiting for a rescuer and that's saying something.

Thanks for reading,

Sidny