It's All About the Story: Manga, Comics & Graphic Novels

 Hi all, I have read 2 graphic novels by artists/authors that are new to me (and maybe to you too!) French artist Damezin introduces us (well, me anyway) to a piece of traditional Persian literature told in a graphic novel format.  The focus is definitely on the art, though the story is definitely there.  The book is beautifully illustrated and imaginatively interprets the words and emotions of what is happening in the story. Whether or not you are familiar with this piece of literature, I highly suggest trying this graphic novelization/interpretation.   Bunt! tells the story of a freshman student who finds out on the first day of school that her full-ride scholarship has disappeared; leaving her to find a way to pay for this very expensive art college.  She finds a loophole that says if a sports team can win a single game, all the team wins full scholarships (or at least a set amount for the year).  Determined to make this happen, Molly creates a softball team and works hard to get ev

  Codex Black is a fun adventure in ancient Meso-america as two teens search for a missing father and find gods, ancient mysteries and more. This was a fun story, full of color and details of life in a time that isn't often fictionalized and from a perspective of someone raised in Latin American and well versed in the history.  If you're looking for an interesting adventure in a place you perhaps don't know (but is based on historical knowledge) and featuring Mayan/Aztec gods and fables; this is a perfect choice. Third Shift Society is a rollicking good time as Ellie discovers that she has "witchy" abilities and gets a job with Ichabod (yes, the pumpkin head guy from the stories) who runs an investigation firm for those with supernatural problems. Ellie learns about the world along with the reader and it's just a fantastic escapist read for anyone who enjoy supernatural adventures. A friend of mine recommended this title and even though it's not new, it

  Cat Massage Therapy is exactly what it looks like it will be....a sweet, adorable story filled with cute cats and people who adore them.  The basic premise is that these cats (who can talk) give massages, complete with purr therapy and other cat-like cute behaviors and when one man discovers their talent at relaxing him.....he can't help telling everyone.  As their popularity skyrockets, bodegas nearby are finding it hard to stock any tasty treats that the cats might like (they are paid in food, as is proper...don't ask about how they pay rent or how they sign paperwork....you are thinking too much). If you want a fun, silly read to take you away from the problems of the world; this is an excellent choice with really beautiful artwork and a fun, silly story. Adventures in Arden High continue with King Cheer.  Cheer Captain Leah is having trouble with college admissions and is really stressed out.  She decides the best course of action is to step down as Captain and focus on f

  Mia is adjusting to life with her mom and stepfather.  She is learning a lot about her Jewish heritage from her school and her family but she years for a connection to her father and her Native heritage.  When her mother refuses to allow her to visit, Mia sneaks off and goes to meet her father and his new family.  She finds herself learning all sorts of things about the other side of her family and their traditions.  Now she just needs to convince her parents to allow her to continue to be a part of both families and not just ignore half of herself. This was a really interesting story that tackles some heavy issues but remains grounded in what knowledge (or lack of it) means to Mia and how she handles figuring it out.  Prejudices and racism are discussed but are not overshadowed by the joy of finding ones' self through ones' heritage and family connections. Maisie is super excited to be going to Fancon.  She meets Ollie, a Fancon volunteer, and sparks gently fly.  This new cr

Klaus by Grant Morrison is an amazing superhero remake of the classic Santa Claus origin story.  As you can see from the cover this Klaus is not overweight and eating cookies, but he DOES magically make toys and defeat evil.  Morrison's classic art makes this into the most fun with a cheesy premise (that actually makes a good, not so cheesy story). Enjoy anytime, don't wait for Christmas to read! Family Style is a biographical tale of a refugee from Vietnam.  It is a touching story told both from the viewpoint of a child and an adult.  It has won some awards in the recent awards season, and is definitely recommended for you to try. Oseman continues the story of Nick and Charlie in vol 5 of Heartstopper.  I do love how Oseman continues to show us not just the main character's stories but the family and friends around them .....and this was very well done. Look on the Bright Side is the continuing story from Go With the Flow and jumps us right back into the character's li

  To sum up this quickly.....what if being in the popular crowd meant more than just being exclusive and meant changing who you are....literally?  Granted it seems like justice when the "squad" explains that while they are werewolves, they only prey on "slimy boys".....but as Becca discovers; who decides what is slimy and who deserves to die? What happens when being a "demi-human" means being immortal but also being hunted?  What does it mean when one doesn't know they won't know until they are in a fatal situation but don't die?  That's what happens to Kei Nagai and he is now hunted and scared......one day, over-achieving high school student, the next hunted and turned into an immortal creature he doesn't understand. Death Note is everywhere, but if you haven't read it, you really should.  It's cool and creepy and fun. Have a Happy Halloween, Saleena   =)