Recent Reads: Castle Swimmer: Volume 1 by Wendy Martin

Source: From the publisher in exchange for an honest review. This in no way alters my opinion or review. 

Castle Swimmer: Volume 1 by Wendy Martin

Series: Castle Swimmer #1
Publisher: Ten Speed Graphic
Publication Date:  October 22, 2024 

 

Format: Hardback


Rating:

Goodreads Synopsis: 

In the gorgeous first installment of the hit Webtoon series Castle Swimmer, two young mermen reject their destinies and embark on an epic adventure full of romance and danger, featuring exclusive bonus material.

From the moment Kappa tumbles into existence on the ocean floor, his life’s purpose is already decided for him: He is the Beacon, a light to all sea creatures, and destined to fulfill their many prophesies. In high demand and under immense pressure, Kappa quickly realizes that fame and glory are small compensation for a life of predetermined self-sacrifice.

Unable to resist the call of destiny due to a magical yellow cord that appears from his chest and pulls him inexorably to any sea creatures he swims by, Kappa ultimately finds himself drawn to the Shark kingdom, where he is immediately imprisoned. The Sharks’ prophecy states that the curse maiming their people will only be lifted once their prince, Siren, kills the Beacon. But when Prince Siren decides to defy fate and help Kappa escape, Kappa realizes that there might be more to life than fulfilling endless prophesies, leading to a raucous adventure as big and unpredictable as the ocean itself—and a romance that nobody could have predicted.

Episodes 1-19 of Webtoon's Castle Swimmer Season 1 is collected in this stunning graphic novel, which also includes a never-before-seen bonus chapter featuring Kappa and Siren.

Review: 

This is such a creative story. The underwater world was beautiful and such a fun setting. The plot itself was an interesting one, Kappa was made as the Beacon, to fulfill prophecies. Siren is the Shark Prince and he is meant to kill the Beacon in order to fulfill their clan's prophecy... and things get complicated when the two of them become friends.

I really loved the illustrations in this one. They were beautiful, detailed, and vibrant, and I appreciated that there wasn't an overwhelming amount of text. The artwork was often allowed to take the lead, especially when it came to showing the characters' emotions and the turmoil they were experiencing. There were moments where the illustrations communicated what the characters were feeling far better than words could have.

I liked Kappa, although I felt like this installment focused a little more on Siren. Kappa starts out as curious and hopeful, but after the time jump, you can really see how much he's changed. He seems sad and lonely, and I found that shift in his character interesting. I know we will get more as the series progresses. 

Siren is carrying his own burden, too. He's not just dealing with the prophecy that says he must kill Kappa, but also with the responsibility of being a prince and the survival of his people. In a way, that's what makes their relationship so meaningful. They both have so much expectation placed on them, and neither of thm really knows how to carry them. Together, they begin to realize that they don't have to carry that weight alone.

I really enjoyed this installment and the way the story balances a creative fantasy world with some surprisingly emotional character moments so quickly in the series. And this artwork is absolutely gorgeous!

Early Reader Review: The Faraway Forest: Hester’s Big Dream by Debbie Fong

Source: From Netgalley and the Publisher in exchange for an honest review. This in no way alters my opinion or review. 

The Faraway Forest: Hester’s Big Dream by Debbie Fong 

Series: The Faraway Forest
Publisher: Chronicle Books
Publication Date: TODAY! September 15, 2026

 

Format: Ebook


Rating:


Goodreads Synopsis: 

Welcome to The Faraway Forest, a graphic novel series for early readers about a magical woodland village that’s home to an assortment of adorable animal characters. Perfect for kids who love Animal Crossing!

Hester has just moved to the Faraway Forest. As a night owl, she loves to rise just as the sun sets, and she keeps herself busy all night with her hobbies: dancing, cooking, writing, and costume making. But Hester wonders if there are new friends to be made when the sun is out. Can she stay awake long enough to find out? Or will she discover there is more to the mysterious forest night than she imagines? Either way, Hester is definitely going to have an adventure!

For readers who love The Faraway Forest: Wally’s Route or anyone new to this lively illustrated series, good feelings and great fun await in this delightful story.

Review: 

Such a cozy and sweet graphic novel. We follow Hester, the owl, as she looks for friends. She has recently moved to Faraway Forest and since she is a night owl, she often only sees people when she is waking up and they are headed in for the night. 

The book has beautifully illustrated pages which feel whimsical and relaxing. The animal characters are also adorable. While it is in a series, this book can be read as a standalone and the graphic novel format give it extra appeal to reluctant readers. 

I liked the themes of friendship and trying new things in order to find friends. Hester goes through a few plans before finding her people and I liked that it showcased things not really working out on the first try but that she kept giving it a go. I also really liked all the extras that this book included. There were items in the beginning for each chapter so you could do a search and find along the way. Then at  the end there is a How to Draw Hester tutorial and a spot-the-differences page. 

I love graphic novels like this, it was pretty to look at, easy to read, and the story was cute and had good themes for younger readers. 

Early Reader Review: Raise the Bar by Fernanda Frick H.

Source: From the publisher in exchange for an honest review. This in no way alters my opinion or review. 

Raise the Bar by Fernanda Frick H. 

Publisher:  Dial Books
Publication Date:  August 25, 2026 

 

Format: Ebook

Rating:

Goodreads Synopsis: 

A debut graphic novel about one girl’s weightlifting dreams and how far she’ll go for them, from a popular Chilean animator.

Sam Sanchez might not have a coach or proper equipment, but she’s going to become Chile’s first weightlifting gold medalist. She just knows it.

When there’s an opportunity to train at the high-performance center with her weightlifting hero and Olympic gold medalist Eva Dos Santos . . . well, Sam can’t let that opportunity pass. Even if it means going behind her parents’ back.

As she makes friends (and a rival) during training and tries to qualify for the Pan American Games, she’ll find out how far hard work and perseverance can take her and just how much weight she’s able to hold.

Review: 

I really really loved this graphic novel. The story follows Sam, who wants to be a weightlifter and that has been her dream for a long time. Her parents just don't get it and want her to be normal. When she has the chance to train with one of the best, she jumps at it with the agreement that if she doesn't medal she will just be done with it all together. 

This was such a good story, brought to life through engaging art and text in such a lovely way. The artwork was bold, vibrant, and easy to follow, and the amount of text was perfect for a graphic novel. 

The story was both inspiring and heartfelt. Following Sam pursuing her dream, it doesn't shy away from the anxiety, pressure, and setbacks that come with being an athlete. I especially appreciated the addition of the generational story/ reasoning for the parents wanting her to be normal woven in, which added depth and even more emotions. 

This was a motivational read that made me tear up at times, so excited for Sam and her accomplishments and revelations about herself. The themes of hard work, determination, resilience, and learning from failure are presented in a way that felt genuine ad encouraging. It's the kind of story that reminds readers that success isn't always a straight path and that perseverance matters.

I think this will be a fantastic read for middle-grade and teen readers. It's fun, uplifting, and packed with meaningful lessons. A wonderful graphic novel with memorable characters, strong emotional moments, and beautiful artwork. Overall a great graphic novel read!

Early Reader Review: Salvage by Renee Nault

Source: From the Publisher and Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. This in no way alters my opinion or review.

Salvage by Renée Nault 

Publisher: Ten Speed Graphic
Publication Date:  July 21, 2026

 

Format: Ebook


Rating:


Goodreads Synopsis: 

In this heartwarming graphic novel romance from the adaptor and illustrator of The Handmaid’s The Graphic Novel, two young artists' paths intertwine as they navigate the complexities of love in a world where sea levels have risen and society is sharply divided.

Paolo lives in the Flats, a dangerous, water-logged community where families survive by salvaging materials from skyscrapers hidden just beneath the ocean’s surface—remnants of a world before sea levels rose. Scavenging the depths comes with its risks, but when Paolo discovers a suitcase of designer clothes, he decides to fulfill his To spend one night in the Uplands, a place of privilege, excess, and freedom. There he meets Jules and her friends, and what begins as a single night of reckless adventure turns into a secret double life—and a seemingly impossible romance that forces Paolo to reckon with who he is, where he belongs, and the importance of being honest.

Rendered in vibrant watercolor illustrations that bring every scene to vivid life, Salvage is as much a visual masterpiece as it is a moving tale of love and self-discovery. Renée Nault’s atmospheric and luminous hand-painted art draws readers into Paolo and Jules’ world, promising an unforgettable coming of age story.

Review: 

This YA graphic novel is stunning, with detailed watercolor illustrations that bring every page to life. The artwork is bright, engaging, and packed with details that invite readers to stick around and explore. While I found it a little text-heavy at times, the beauty of the story and the richness of the world still made the read enjoyable.

Paolo lives in the Flats, a community where people survive by salvaging goods from the sea, including the remnants of a drowned city. When he discovers a waterproof case filled with in-style clothing (something really rare), he is inspired to travel into the Uplands, where the wealthy live. There, he meets a group of influencer teens and begins spending more time in a world that is completely different from his own.

Alongside a cute romance, the story explores themes of privilege, freedom, identity, and self-discovery. Paolo is the main character, but readers also get glimpses into the life of Jules, the girl he falls for. Despite coming from opposite sides f society, Paolo and Jules struggle with loneliness and share a passion for art in a world that doesn't fully appreciate their creativity.

One of my favorte things about the book was the art - the cities become an additional character. The contrasting landscapes of the Flats and the Uplands feel so vivid and interesting. and the juxtaposition between the two worlds adds depth to the story and gives readers so much to engage with/ look at. I wanted a little more background for how the cities got to this point, but it was still gorgeous. 

Overall, this was a beautifully illustrated and thoughtful read. It's a graphic novel that combines a compelling coming-of-age story with a richly imagined world. 

Recent Reads: The Amazing Generation: Your Guide to Fun and Freedom in a Screen-Filled World by Jonathan Haidt

Source: From the publisher in exchange for an honest review. This in no way alters my opinion or review. 

The Amazing Generation: Your Guide to Fun and Freedom in a Screen-Filled World by Jonathan Haidt
Publisher: Rocky Pond Books
Publication Date: December 30, 2025

 

Format: Hardback


Rating:


Goodreads Synopsis: 

Inspired by The Anxious Generation, this new book for kids and tweens is a comprehensive guide for living a happy and exciting life that isn’t hijacked by a smartphone.

Whether or not kids already have smartphones or social media accounts, this guide is packed with surprising facts, a graphic novel, interactive challenges, secrets that tech leaders don’t want kids to know, and real-life anecdotes from young adults who regret getting smartphones at a young age and want to help the next generation avoid making the same mistakes.

But this isn’t just a book about what not to do. It’s a bold, optimistic, and practical guide to growing into your most authentic, confident, and adventurous self. Readers won’t just discover how to avoid becoming the next Anxious Generation. They’ll learn how to become amazing.

Review: 

This was an informative and engaging read that tackles smartphone and social media use in a way that feels both realistic and fantastical enough to keep younger readers interested. I thought the book did a great job explaining what social media and constant phone use can do to the brain, but in language that kids and t/weens can actually understand without feeling overwhelmed.

One of the strongest parts of the book was how practical the advice felt. Rather than simply telling kids that phones are “bad,” it focuses on helping them build confidence, independence, and healthier habits. The tone walks a good line between cautionary and empowering, but there are definitely some times where it comes off a bit preachy as well (at least that is how it felt to me).

The graphic novel elements were also a lot of fun and helped break up the more informational sections. I liked the storyline, which focused on kids feeling left out. I think it will resonate with readers on both sides: kids who already have phones and social media, and kids who don’t. It encourages empathy while also showing how complicated these experiences can feel at that age.

What stood out most to me was that the message didn’t just feel relevant for kids. Even as an adult, it made me reflect on my own phone habits, which feels like a strong sign that the book’s ideas are meaningful and well presented overall. 

Early Reader Review: Brume, Volume 1 by Jérôme Pélissier

Source: From the Publisher and Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. This in no way alters my opinion or review.

Brume: The Dragon Awakens by Jérôme Pélissier
Series: Brume, Volume 1
Publisher: Astra Publishing House | Hippo Park
Publication Date:  September 30, 2025

 

Format: Ebook


Rating:


Goodreads Synopsis: 

Brume, a feisty wannabe witch, is on a quest to learn magic in the first volume of this enchanting graphic novel series for kids ages 7–11—perfect for fans of the Hicotea, Hilda, and Sorceline series.

Brume is a tiny but mighty heroine with plenty to prove to the people of her small village. With her newly discovered spellbook and two sidekicks in tow, she'll try her hand at spells, mess up sometimes, and discover magical adventures along the way.

The great witch Naïa has always protected the village—but where has Naïa gone? Enter Brume, a plucky and spirited witch-to-be, who dreams of being able to cast spells. When Brume's father hands her a secret spellbook, she tries out her wand and cauldron--and manages only to cover the whole village in fog! But is the fog a result of Brume's first spell, or is it smoke from a fire breathing dragon who has awakened?

Accompanied by her pig, Hubert, and her best friend, Hugo, Brume sets off to find out what happened—and to save the village one step at a time. Here is a funny, charming, and accessible graphic novel—the first in a series—that is just as heart-warming as it is hilarious.

Review: 

Brume is a young girl obsessed with Naïa a witch known for her greatness from the past. So, she is determined to be a witch as well, even though she is often told that witches don't exist anymore. 

Brume is brave, determined and very stubborn - so she accidently puts a fog over the town in an attempt to be a witch. Now she has to slay a dragon for the items needed to create the solution. 

Our little witch is hilarious. She is so sure of herself in the best way that you are rooting for her even after things get messy and on her adventure to possibly slay a dragon she is still so excited and chill about the situation. The plot is cute and funny as it is mostly Brume making mistakes and her friends -- Hugo and a pig cleaning up after her. 

The artwork was great, cozy and charming with a lovely sense of Autumn and spooky-season vibes. I think that middle grade readers will enjoy it, it is pretty short and I appreciate the show versus dialogue telling that some graphic novels have fallen into. 

Overall, a cute read for this Halloween season... or year round.

Early Reader Review: Welcome to the Forest: The Harvest Party by Katie Risor

Source: From Edelweiss and the Publisher in exchange for an honest review. This in no way alters my opinion or review. 

Welcome to the Forest: The Harvest Party by Katie Risor  
Series: Welcome to the Forest
Publisher: Andrews McMeel Publishing
Publication Date:  August 5, 2025

 

Format: Ebook


Rating:


Synopsis: 

A group of quirky forest creatures embark on heartwarming adventures in this graphic novel series opener featuring original gouache art. Perfect for beginning readers and graphic novel fans, especially those who love the Studio Ghibli films and Tove Jansson's Moomin. Includes nonfiction information at the back of the book​ about the autumnal season.

Deep in the heart of the Forest lives a handful of monsters. The Forest is home to many creatures, big and small, like:

boisterous Mossman, who is much kinder than he looks;

cautious but cheerful Wallace; 

carefree, kind Grumpkin;

and a sweet, mysterious entity named Shadow. 

The creatures prove that every day is an adventure as new discoveries draw them closer together.

In this book, readers will get a glimpse at the woodland creatures' lives and discover three bite-sized stories, perfect for the autumnal harvest season. In Welcome to the Forest: The Harvest Party, Mossman and Wallace decorate pumpkins, Grumpkin meets a new friend, and the creatures celebrate fall with a lively Harvest Party.

Review: 

This was such a cute and cozy graphic novel about a group of forest friends: Mossman, Wallace, Grumpkin, and Shadow who are planning a harvest party. Each short story within the graphic novel focuses on themes of friendship, with the tales building toward the big celebration. The bite-sized chapters make it easy for younger readers to take breaks if needed, which I felt was a thoughtful touch.

One feature I really appreciated was the use of a dyslexia-friendly font. It was easy to read and makes the book more accessible to a wider audience. The illustrations were absolutely lovely—full of rich, warm color and charming fall vibes that perfectly captured the spirit of the season.

The storytelling is well-balanced between the visuals and the text, and I especially liked that it wasn’t overly text-heavy, which works well for a graphic novel format. This is a heartwarming and visually engaging read that both kids and adults will enjoy—and there’s a good chance every reader will see a bit of themselves in at least one of these delightful characters. 

Overall, I think this will be a great fall/ autumn read for all ages.

Early Reader Review: All Are Welcome by Gwen Tarpley

Source: From Edelweiss and the publisher in exchange for an honest review. This in no way alters my opinion or review. 

All Are Welcome by Gwen Tarpley 

Series: Cat Cafe #3
Publisher: Andrews McMeel Publishing
Publication Date: July 29, 2025  

 

Format: Ebook


Rating:


Goodreads Synopsis: 

Join Cat, Rabbit, Penguin, and the rest of the team in this delightful new comic collection for middle grade readers! All are Welcome offers young readers delightful comics full of friendship and fun. 

According to the School Library Journal, Cat Cafe "makes you feel good because it’s a place where you are accepted, no matter who you are or how you feel."

The comic book equivalent of a cozy blanket, Cat’s Café takes you by the hand and carefully guides you away from all the darkness in life. Freeing the warm and floofies within, Cat’s Café offers a world that understands you. In this new comic collection for middle grade readers, fans will find new levels cuteness, heartwarming moments, and learn more about their favorite characters. Along with the familiar stories of mental health and friendship that Cat’s Café is known for, author Gwen Tarpley also uses characters like Rabbit to share her most authentic self with the world. So, grab your favorite mug and brew, and sip, laugh, and cheer as you curl up with the newest installment of Cat’s Café. 

Review: 

This graphic novel is an absolute gem. It is bursting with heart, humor, and brightly colored, animal-filled comics that explore so many important themes in short, impactful moments. From emotional support and mental health to friendship, anxiety, small wins, asking for help, and the underrated joys of everyday life, All Are Welcome covers it all with tenderness and charm.

I’ve always loved Cat’s Café—it truly feels like a warm hug in book form. Whether it’s Rabbit doing a rain dance just to stay snuggled up at home, or the painfully relatable quote “I sleep. I happy. I wake. I sad.” (because mornings are SO hard!)...these comics strike a perfect balance between comfort and emotional honesty.

The fall-themed pages were my personal favorite with the cozy vibes that I love to see in illustrations. There was also a really cute full-page of a DnD scene, and the LOTR references? Absolutely adorable. Frododo and Lambwise stole my heart. (SO fricken cute!)

This is a beautifully affirming read that reminds you it’s okay to feel things deeply, to ask for support, and to find joy in the little things. Highly recommended for readers of all ages who need a little light and love in their day. Cat and his friends are here for you. 

Early Reader Review: The Lost Heirs by Sam Prentice-Jones

Source: From Netgalley and the Publisher in exchange for an honest review. This in no way alters my opinion or review.

The Lost Heirs by Sam Prentice-Jones 

Series: Arcana #1
Publisher: Feiwel & Friends
Publication Date:  June 24, 2025 

 

Format: Ebook


Rating:


Goodreads Synopsis: 

Debut author/illustrator Sam Prentice-Jones explores fighting against your destiny and reconciling the actions of your ancestors in Arcana: The Lost Heirs, a tarot-inspired fantasy graphic novel for young adults.

James, Daphne, Koko, and Sonny have all grown up surrounded by magic in the Arcana, an organization of witches that protects the magical world, run by the mysterious and secretive Majors. Eli Jones, however, didn’t even know other witches existed . . . until he stumbled into James. As James introduces Eli to the world of the Arcana, he finds the family he never had, and a blossoming romance with James.

The five new friends soon realize that sinister things are afoot and everything may not be what it seems at the Arcana. When the group delves deeper into the mystery surrounding the deaths of their parents and the Major’s rise to power, they discover that they’re at the center of a curse - one they’ve just unwittingly set into motion. As the friends search for answers, they’ll have to confront the cursed legacy that links them in hopes of freeing their futures.

Review: 

This first installment in a new graphic novel series introduces an intriguing magical world and a compelling mystery at its core—but unfortunately, it stumbles a bit in execution.

The story follows a group of young witches—James, Daphne, Koko, Sonny, and newcomer Eli—who are connected through the Arcana, a secretive organization overseen by powerful figures known as the Majors. As they uncover dark truths about their parents’ pasts and the curse that links them, the mystery deepens in an engaging way that promises more twists in future volumes.

Where this volume falters, though, is in its delivery. There’s a heavy reliance on exposition, often telling rather than showing, which feels especially out of place in a visual medium like a graphic novel. The dialogue can feel repetitive, reiterating information the reader already knows. While this might serve to reinforce the stakes, it ends up slowing down the pacing. Additionally, the artwork is decent but not particularly striking. 

There are a lot of characters introduced in this first installment, and at times, it was difficult to differentiate between characters. While the reader can differentiate using the visuals, they are all pretty one-dimensional at this point and seem to have similar background. This makes it harder to connect with each individual character, I never really felt invested. 

Still, the premise is strong, and the central mystery is compelling enough that I’m curious to see where the series goes from here. I’m hoping future installments strike a better balance between visual storytelling and exposition, and give each character more distinctiveness and depth.

Early Reader Review: A Song for You and I by K. O' Neill

Source: From Netgalley and the publisher in exchange for an honest review. This in no way alters my opinion or review. 

A Song for You and I by K. O' Neill 

Publisher: Random House Graphic
Publication Date:  March 4, 2025

 

Format: Ebook

Rating:


Goodreads Synopsis: 

Being a ranger means adventure, action, and protecting the weak. But who protects the ranger when they lose their way? From the bestselling author of The Moth Keeper and the Tea Dragon Society comes a must read MG graphic novel for fans of soft sweeping fantasy romances.

Rowan knows exactly what they to be a ranger, protecting their village alongside their trusted flying horse Kes. But when Rowan's eagerness to show off their worth gets Kes injured, Rowan is suddenly unsure if they're capable of being the protector they've always dreamed of becoming. 

With Kes needing to heal, Rowan is assigned a slow and winding expedition across the outlying lands. Paired with a lackadasical sheep hearder Leone, Rowan only finds frustration as they seem to fail even the simplest tasks. But Leone's own struggles, and endless support brings a new possibility to Rowan. Could their unlikely friendship be something more? And if it is, will Rowan be able to leave Leone behind to pursue being a ranger once Kes is healed?

Review: 

This beautifully illustrated graphic novel bridges the gap between middle grade and young adult readers, offering a gentle and heartfelt exploration of self-identity and growth. The story follows Rose, a young ranger who, after making a mistake, is assigned to assist sheep-tender Leone on a seemingly mundane task. However, the true heart of the book isn’t in its plot but in its themes—discovering who you are and finding the courage to embrace it.

As Rose begins to express a desire to be called Rowan, the journey shifts into one of quiet self-discovery. Leone, too, is on their own path toward confidence, and together, the two characters support and uplift one another in a way that feels organic and touching. The novel’s cozy and warm tone is enhanced by its soft, pastel-hued illustrations, making it a visually soothing read.

While the ranger aspect of the story is not fully fleshed out, the emotional core of the book shines. It’s a tender, introspective tale perfect for readers who enjoy character-driven narratives about growth, identity, and quiet moments of connection.

Early Reader Review: The History of Everything by Victoria Evans

Source: From Netgalley and the Publisher in exchange for an honest review. This in no way alters my opinion or review. 

The History of Everything by Victoria Evans  

Publisher: HarperCollins Children's Books | HarperAlley
Publication Date:  February 18, 2025

 

Format: Ebook

Rating:


Goodreads Synopsis: 

Best friends Agnes and Daisy must learn to say goodbye in this coming-of-age YA graphic novel perfect for fans of Booksmart and Pumpkinheads from debut creator Victoria Evans.

Daisy and Agnes have always had each other.

And that’s all they’ve ever needed—or wanted, at least. So when Agnes’s mom drops the bombshell that she and Agnes are moving at the end of the summer, the girls are crushed.

All seems lost until the pair unearth "The History of Everything," an old friendship scrapbook with the ultimate bucket list to make their last summer together unforgettable. But when Daisy starts dating a charming drummer, her social calendar suddenly has less room for her best friend. Insecurities bubble to the surface, and Daisy and Agnes begin to question if their friendship is meant to last the summer, much less forever.

In this tender graphic novel debut, Victoria Evans delves into the heart of a best friendship and explores what it means to grow up without growing apart.

Review: 

The History of Everything is a graphic novel about best friends Agnes and Daisy. Both punk, emo, goth besties that have grown up together and can't wait for an amazing summer. Sadly, Agnes gets the news that her mother got a new job and they are moving and this is her last summer with Daisy. She is angsty, depressed and just overall in a bad mood so they decide to make a summer bucket list like when they were younger, scrapbook and all. The problem is - Daisy isn't taking it seriously.

This is a book about saying goodbyes, growing up, and friendship. It was full of hard lessons, emotions raging, and a heartbreaking story of dashed expectations and jealousy. 

Agnes fills these pages with her emotionally charged outlook on how things are going and should be going, while depressed, angry, and jealous that Daisy is seemingly moving on. 

Daisy is falling in love, completely smitten with a guy but feeling guilt and some forms of resentment for/around Agnes.

This plot was so well done. It was engaging, intense, and wistful at times. It was lovely.  I loved the illustration, they were on-theme with a darker palette for our emo/goth MCs. The details around their rooms and overall settings were easily recognized and fun. The overall feel of the story was so good; the tensions and angst felt so accurate to the teenage plight/ crisis. I really enjoyed this one so much. It was such a great representation of growing up and how friendships evolve over time and how you and others change. If you are looking for a good coming-of-age graphic novel, this would be a fun one to grab.

Early Reader Review: Hope It All Works Out!: A Poorly Drawn Lines Collection by Reza Farazmand

Source: From Netgalley and the Publisher in exchange for an honest review. This in no way alters my opinion or review.

Hope It All Works Out!: A Poorly Drawn Lines Collection by Reza Farazmand

Publisher: Andrews McMeel Publishing
Publication Date:  September 24, 2024

 

Format: Ebook

Rating:


Goodreads Synopsis:

The absurd antics, good-natured sarcasm, and misguided optimism of Mouse, Bird, Turtle, and Snail are inspiring and infectious, and a reminder that sometimes the best plan is to have no plans at all. The perfect book for comic lovers of all kinds, Hope It All Works Out offers a deep dive into the Poorly Drawn Lines comics of New York Times bestselling author Reza Farazmand.

On the surface, the animals in Poorly Drawn Lines are sophisticated, decadent creatures — Turtle sports a beret, Snail wears shades, Bird smokes cigarettes, and Mouse assumes a fighting stance when anyone challenges his emotional fragility. But lurking beneath their surface images is a surprising warmth and charming naivete that provides the perfect setup for Reza Farazmand’s unparalleled sense of humor. This author-curated collection of new comics and greatest hits showcases the unique and charming world of these small animals and the amusing gap between their tough guy images and animal innocence. Familiar to millions of readers of the Poorly Drawn Lines webcomic and FX animated series on Hulu, this book collection includes dozens of never-before-seen comics. 

Review: 

This is a graphic novel collection of strips - mostly sarcastic, adult humor about life. Mouse, Bird, Turtle, and Snail are the characters and best described, they would be Mouse - Main character, Bird is the angry one, turtle is the stoner friend, and snail is that friend that is rude and annoying and you are friends but not sure why.

The overall feel and coloration felt just meh to me. It was clever and funny at times for sure but it felt a little draggy even for short strips. Maybe it was hitting too close to real life/ real world for my liking.  Not sure. 

The strips that I liked: 

• Notebooks bring too good to use/ write in. "Too good for my thoughts"  Painful realization yea, but also so truuuuue sometimes.
• A break from messing things up - just want to "work in my garden , do some reading" THIS... ALL THE TIME PLS.
• Devil's advocate - "an a-hole but for intellectual purposes" made me giggle. 

Overall, Just ok, I liked the pastel colors but was a little bored and jaded by the time I got to the end. Mouse really wasn't a character I wanted to 'win' or suceed, he was just there. It was illustrated well enough but nothing mindblowing. That said, if you are looking for overly sarcastic and kinda dark... this is it.