Battlepug Volume 1 by Mike Norton

I had the privilege of being introduced to Mike Norton’s work when I read The Curse (due out in October).  The work was so funny, over the top and featured a pug which made the story complete.  When I had the opportunity to read his Battlepug, I knew I had to.

I was not disappointed.  Mike Norton has a dark sense of humor.  Battlepug is sexy, funny and full of action.  No zombies in this one but it’s filled with man-eating oversized animals and a very evil Santa Claus.

I lied – I was disappointed.  The book ended far too soon.  I hate volumes.  I want to devour a story and not have to stop and wait just as it’s getting good.  Mike Norton is a name that will haunt me as I scour comic book stores.  I don’t want your basic superhero – I want Battlepug.

Vampire Knight (1-3) by Matsuri Hino

I love Manga – it’s special and different when compared to American comics/stories.  Manga borders on the silly while having serious moments.  This one is no exception.  I loved it.

Yuki is the adopted daughter of the headmaster of a special boarding school.  The day classes are fairly normal but at night a different set of students come to learn and they are vampires.

Yuki works as the special guardian with Zero.  Their job is to keep the vampires a secret and prevent them from harming the human students.   Both Yuki and Zero have been victims of vampires in the past which led them to the academy.  Yuki has no memory of her life before vampire Kaname saved her from another vampire. 

As is common in Manga there is a love triangle between Yuki, Zero and Kaname.  I get the feeling that she loves Zero more but we’ll see.

If you love silly romance or anything vampire – I recommend this series. I’ve read through volume 3 and I hate having to wait to get my hands on future volumes.

Matsuri Hino also wrote Captive Hearts – a super silly comedy about a man who is cursed to fall in love with a particular girl.

She has a great style and I love her inserts about her life as she writes these stories.

Unintentional Humor by Brent and Linda Gund Anderson

Autism is a hot topic these days. The news is filled with new research. Bookstores offer the latest cure or diet treatment as well as volumes of how to parent a child with Autism. In all of this slips this little book that offers a different view into the Autistic brain with a little humor. Brent Anderson has Autism. Speaking to Brent was often a challenge for his mother Linda Gund Anderson. He’s not stupid or retarded, Brent’s brain is just more literal than what we consider normal thinking. Unintentional Humor is not a peek into Autism as much as it’s a Gilbert and Sullivan poke at the English language. This illustrated tome picks at those phrases we use without thinking and offers a peek into what those phrases mean to someone with a literal mind. Linda said that when Brent and Alan J Lewis (the illustrator) were working on the book, there was a lot of Alan agreeing with Brent. Perhaps Alan has a literal mind and maybe we all are just so comfortable with these phrases that we don’t stop to think about the ridiculous words that come out of our mouths. I will say that my friend and I would often giggle about a particular phrase my father would use “sh*t fire and little fishes.” We had (and still have) no idea what it really means but it was sure fun to say. I can’t say enough about this book to make you really understand what a wonderful addition it is to your library. It was important to the Andersons to make this book accessible to all ages so it’s reader friendly for even young readers. There are explanations and origins for the phrases at the back of the book. There are so many things one can do with this book. For more information, visit www.celebrateautism.com. Keep an eye out for Linda and her van, she just may be coming your way.

Big Birthday by Kate Hosford

Annabelle wants her birthday on the moon. However, she soon discovers that big birthdays come with big challenges.
This is a ridiculously fun book to read. The pictures only add to the fun – they are bright and inviting. I had a blast reading this book. I could not believe she actually got her birthday party on the moon when the book started. It’s fun and delightful.
A great book to get kids talking about planning ahead when they ask for something like a party on the moon. What are the challenges? What are the perks?
I can’t wait to share this book with my birthday boy (he’s just turned 15).

Ms. Annie #2 Rooftop Cat by Frank Le Gall

Ms. Annie is back for more kitten mischief.
I think I like this one better than the first, however, I feel it's not written for as young of an audience. Children will still love this book but sensitive children might find it difficult (there's a cat death and some cat fights).
Overall, I loved the story. Ms. Annie is still growing as a cat and her curiousity has gotten her into a little trouble.
I find this is not a good manual for how to raise cats though - the master is terrible. He's a good guy but doesn't really think his plans through. I can see that happening in my house too with my husband and our cat.
It's short, sweet and thoroughly enjoyable. The pictures are still inviting and the expressions of the cats will capture your heart.
(there's a sweet story about Ms. Annie's friend the mouse that will delight everyone)

Archie’s Americana Volume 3

Darn it, I got a short sample again. I do prefer full graphic novels to samples but in this case it didn’t ruin my enjoyment of the book.
Archie is one of those comics that has delighted readers, young and old, for decades. This particular volume is from the 1960’s. I think some of the jokes are lost but not enough that you don’t find them funny.
For me, it was an interesting peek into a time when my parents were young. I could picture them the age of the Archie gang and going through similar trials.
I think this is a great series to read for all kids. The humor is clean but there’s an understanding of what it means to be a teenager and growing up. The parents don’t understand. The kids make mistakes. They are all trying to find their place in this world. That’s the magic of Archie.

Bart Simpson’s Guide to Life by Matt Groening

I have such fond memories of the Simpson’s, especially Bart. There’s something entertaining in his absolute determination to be anti-everything. He’s rude, disobedient, obnoxious and yet we love him.
I can’t really describe this book. It’s a conglomeration of Bart’s wisdom from sex to religion to cheating in school. Some of the information is based in fact but I wouldn’t use it for a report. Despite it feeling childish, this book is not for children. The language is a little rough and there are some ideas your children just don’t need to have come from someone else (let alone think of on their own).
I thoroughly enjoyed this trip down memory lane. I felt like I was back in high school pouring over Life is Hell in the back of class with my friends. This is one you could probably read over and over because there are so many little parts to each page. I’m glad I picked this up. I needed a little sunshine to carry me on to spring.

Do You See What I See? by James Sallie

I'm not sure how I feel about this book. It was entertaining but I don't think it's worth the price. According to amazon you can get this for Kindle for $9.99 and in hardback for $70. It not worth $70 and I'm not sure it's worth $10.
It's interesting and I do recommend picking up a copy from the library but it lacks that something that would get me to come back to it time and time again. The humor is very juvenile, which is okay and some of the pictures are clever but it's not the sort that really catches your eye.
In places, I found the book confusing and rather frustrating. I believe that James Sallie has some great talent but many pictures just looked thrown together. I have set this aside for my husband and son to look at and I will share their opinion which may differ from mine.

Bearded Women Stories by Teresa Milbrodt

I'm not even sure how to categorize this book. It's beautiful and touching with just a touch of sarcasm and wit. This collection of short stories has to be the best I have ever read.
The description from NetGalley is this: Welcome to the contemporary Freak Show. A woman trying to have a child has a parasitic twin, an extra lower torso, and set of legs named Bianca—should she have "Bianca's Body" removed to improve her chances at conception? A bearded lady considers coming out of the closet about her hirsute nature, while carrying on a battle of wills with an overeating patron in "Mr. Chicken." A woman with four ears gets a chance to make extra money as the mascot of a tattoo parlour, and encounters a middle-aged, cookie-baking stalker who believes she is a sign that the end of the world is nigh. Meet the "freaks"—they're mothers, wives, and lovers: all of them trying negotiate a world that is quicker to stare than sympathize.
I figured it was up my alley. What I didn't expect was something so visceral and emotional. This is not a freak show but an expose of what it's like to live as someone who is different. The first story Bianca's Body was more than a tale about a woman with a parasitic twin. This nameless woman struggles with jealousy over that part of her body that seems to be more receptive to her husband, the pain of not being able to maintain a pregnancy and the identity of who she really is. It's the perfect introduction to Teresa Milbrodt's world.
The writing is a little odd which only adds to the work. Many of the characters are unnamed and the stories a brief snapshot of their lives. Some left me wondering and others felt complete. This is one I am glad to review and such a gem that will sadly be overlooked by those who would appreciate it most.

Mush by Glenn Eichler

Adult graphic novels are tough. I don't know why but I find them lacking. Mush wasn't bad. It started off rough but it was entertaining.
The novel centers around a team of sled dogs and the various issues they have. It was a little weird. The lead dog spends her time moping about being the lead while Buddy spends his day obsessed with mating. Fiddler is constantly philosophising while Guy plots to take over as lead. It's odd.
It took me some time to identify with the dogs. I wasn't really connecting and you have to connect to the characters even if it's a graphic novel. I will say that I would have been completely lost if this was a written novel.
I didn't really care for the humans and when all was said and done I didn't feel like anything was resolved. Being that this is a graphic novel and not a series, I felt like there should have been something more concrete with the ending.
All in all - this was entertaining and enjoyable. It wouldn't be something I would necessarily seek out but I'm not everyone.

The Incorrigible Children of Ashton Place - The Hidden Gallery by Maryrose Wood

I loved the first book of this series that I had to take a break from all the review books to read this newest installment. It did not disappoint except that it just wasn't long enough. I need the third book - now! I guess I will have to be consoled with Maryrose Wood's newest series The Poison Diaries of which I have a galley.
The Incorrigible Children of Ashton Place is a great series and this book was just as delightful as the first. Penelope gets an invitation to London and requests an opportunity to go and take the children with her. Lady Ashton is so pleased that the entire household transplants to London.
Armed with Hixby's Lavishly Illustrated Guide to London, Penelope and the children set off on a whirlwind adventure through the city. They make new friends and stumbled upon new mysteries. However, there are some obscure answers to previous mysteries. To share would ruin the plot.
Readers of all ages will love these books. There's adventure and action, art and a slight romance, all tapered with humor and just a little education (reminiscant of Lemony Snicket).
If you haven't picked up the first book, I highly suggest you do. It's a quick, fun read and I can not wait for the next book to come.

Say Cheese Medusa by Kate McMullan

This third book in the Myth-O-Manic series from Capstone Kids is phenomenal. The "true" story of Medusa and Perseus as told by Hades. It's not accurate to the original myth but a great introduction to Greek Myths for young children.
The story starts with Hades spending a night with his brothers Zeus and Posiden. "Po" wants to picnic with some moon goddesses at Athena's new temple. When Athena finds out, she curses the moon goddesses turning them into gorgons.
Later that night, Hades discovers Danae and Perseus. This starts off a legend in the making.
Hades promises to keep Perseus safe only to find he's grown up to be like his father Zeus - arrogant and lazy. Fun and frolics occur when Perseus sets of to hunt Medusa and bring back her head.
It's a violent concept but the book is violence free. It's witty and amusing with lots of cheese and pop culture references. Perfect for middle grade readers. There are some tough words but the book comes equipped with a glossery of names and another for more difficult words.

My Dead Girlfriend Vol 1 by Eric Wight

I picked this graphic novel from the new book selection at the library. I am so glad I did. This is a light, funny story that touches on real teen angst.
Finney Bleak comes from a long line of cursed individuals. His entire family has been fated to die in weird and horrific ways (some so funny I had to stop and breath after reading them). He just knows his time is coming.
Finney doesn't live in the same world as we do. His classmates include witches, werewolves, vampires and other assorted creatures. Finney comes across as the only "normal" one in the bunch except that his dead relatives refuse to stay dead. The ghosts of his family irritate him.
The only shining moment he had was at the carnival months previous when he met Jenny, his true love or so he thought. His heart is broken when she disappears from his life.
Stuck in high school hell, Finney is just trying to survive. He's bullied and friendless but when he learns what happened to Jenny he discovers he can find something worthwhile.
It doesn't feel like one of "those" books but underneath the charm of Finney's plight is a real emotional story about growing up, falling in love and facing the world.
The only thing that disappointed me was when I discovered that this was Volume 1 (of course at the end of the story) and I would have to wait to find out what happens next.

Chimichanga by Eric Powell

I don't normally read humorous graphic novels, can't say why but it just doesn't happen. Chimichanga was a delight to read. The story of a young bearded girl, Lulu, who's grandfather runs the circus. She gives away some of her whiskers to a witch in exchange for a shiny rock and a wagon. The rock turns out to be the egg. It hatches a beast she names Chimichanga (after her snack that he eats). What happens is an amusing battle between this little girl, the circus and a pharmaceutical company that wants to use Lulu's whiskers in a gas remedy.
Short, sweet and appropriate for most readers. Chimichanga can be a little frightening to sensitive readers.

Secrets, Monsters and Magic Mirrors, edt. Donald Lemke

My final graphic novel for Capstone (at this time) and it was a doozy. Secrets, Monsters and Magic Mirrors was the retelling of five popular fairy tales by five different teams of authors and illustrators.
The stories told were Rapunzel, Thumbelina, Snow White, Beauty and the Beast and Princess and the Pea. I loved that they were each adapted by different people. It gave the stories an element of surprise because the illustrations were so varied. All, but Snow White, followed the popular telling of each story.
I recommend this book for any reader. I can see it appealing to girls more than boys but the style of the various stories might catch a male eye. They definitely would be a great replacement for your average fairy tale picture book.
One feature I loved the most was at the end of each story was its history. A single page detailing who published the first copy of the story and some of its evolution. To me, that made the book jump over my favorite list.
There's something fascinating with the history of a story and learning exactly how it's changed over the years.
I should make a note of the illustration styles for those who need to do the hard pitch.
Rapunzal was a rather basic design, lots of grays with accents of color. The style almost reminds me of Charles Addams or Roald Dahl's books. The witch is a series of circles against sharp scenery. The characters had a German flair. When Rapunzel is free of the witch, the grays turn yellow.
The illustrations for Thumbelina are bright and more cheerful. They remind me of Nickelodeon, specifically The Wild Thornberries. I'm sure other readers can connect it to other cartoons.
Snow White has a "true" comic book feel to it. I could easily see it sitting amongst stacks of Superman, Elf Quest and others. It's darker than the rest in this book.
Beauty and the Beast is lighter and more colorful. The work is digital resulting in sharp contrasts and less round edges. It feels more like a picture book than a graphic novel.
Princess and the Pea completely reminded me of Japanese graphics or manga. The characters have sharp features and huge eyes. Everything is much lighter and muted.
I can not wait to get my hands on more of this series. Start the hunt for Capstone books and enjoy.

Honestly, Red Riding Hood Was Rotten by Trisha Speed Shaskan

I don't normally review young children's books but I read a fair amount. I don't review them because I don't include them in my book count unless they are spectacular in some way. When I joined NetGalley, I agreed to do children's books. I have come across some really cute books and can't wait to share them.

Honestly, Little Red Riding Hood Was Rotten is such a cute book. It's funny, entertaining and gives a different perspective to the Red Riding Hood story. This story is told by the wolf who explains why he ate Red Riding Hood and her grandmother. It's not scary in any way and should not frighten small children. The pictures are vivid and wonderful.
One thing that really sets this book apart from others I have viewed is that at the end it encourages the child to compare the story to the original and asks some questions. It encourages creative thought.
It, also, comes with a couple of websites associated with the publishing company. I explored these sites and just was amazed at the content. It is geared towards younger children (up to 4th grade) but it attempts to offer more advanced sites for those in 5th grade and up. I think they are worth exploring. www.facthound.com and www.capstonekids.com

Roald Dahl Day

Today has been set aside as a day to honor Roald Dahl - on this day in 1916 he was born. It's been interesting to see this day littered with controversy. The garden shed or "hut" in which he wrote needs some new attention. His family wants to move it from their family land to a museum of all things Roald Dahl and they are asking for money to do so. The controversy is - they have profited so much from his books and the movies and merchandise that people feel it's only right that they pay for the move themselves. To be honest, I don't know how I feel. On one hand, I suspect if they could afford to it themselves, they would but then people are funny. I, also, feel like it wouldn't be too hard to raise the money to help, after all a good deal of money was raised to help Nathan Fillion by the rights to Firefly after he made a comment about needing the money (it was just a comment, not a serious thought but people ran with it).
What does bother me is that this is the story that is commemorating a great man. I grew up with Roald Dahl books and stories but I didn't know much about the man and honestly, never gave it much thought. It wasn't until my son became a huge fan that I started paying attention to him as an author. I had never connected the dots that the same man who wrote Willy Wonka wrote The Witches (both movies I adored and ashamedly admit I hadn't read the books as a child). For me, I was an avid reader but somehow he slipped through my reading cracks. I have enjoyed many of his books as an adult with my son. It never occurred to me to learn more about this man (I am one who doesn't associate the work with the creator of the work).
I didn't know he wrote adult fiction and in fact wrote the plot to my favorite Alfred Hitchcock episode "Lamb to the Slaughter" - where a woman kills her husband with a frozen leg of lamb and then serves it to the police when they come to question her.
His first big children's story was James and the Giant Peach (1961) followed by Charlie and the Chocolate Factory. He adapted Ian Flemming novels for movies including Chitty Chitty Bang Bang. I strongly suggest taking time to read his biography at his website - this was a man who deserves to be studied. He was an amazing man as well as an amazing writer and I'm glad that today is his day.

Dr. Horrible and Other Horrible Stories by Zack Whedon

I loved Dr. Horrible's Sing Along Blog. If you did too then you'll love this book. It doesn't make a lot of sense if you aren't familiar with Dr. Horrible. The stories in this graphic novel are really snippets of stories of the various characters. There's little character development because it was written with the idea that you already know the characters.
If you haven't seen Dr. Horrible's Sing Along Blog, definitely do a youtube search and watch it (we found the complete "movie" at our library on DVD). It is a musical and it is a comedy. It's all good fun where you'll be rooting for the bad guy to win.

Hollowfields by Madeleine Rosca

Earlier this year I reviewed the first volume of Hollowfields, to my surprise we found a copy with all three volumes. This is defininetly the way to go. Hollowfields is such a cute story with so much action that it should please most readers. This is my 14 year old son's favorite story so far.
Nine year old Lucy Snow is going to boarding school for the first time in the middle of the year. She gets lost and finds herself at a school. It's been raining and she is so hungry that she signs the school's contract just to stay inside. It doesn't take long for her to discover she has just joined a school for future mad scientists.
Each Friday, a student with the lowest grades is sent to detention in the Windmill where they are never heard from again. Lucy wants to avoid the Windmill and sneaks out at night to find a dictionary in the library. What she finds is Dr Bleak, a speaking metal cube. Dr Bleak helps her with her assignments and help keeps her out of detention (but just barely because there are forces working against her).
Through the course of the story, Lucy matures (as much as a nine year old can) and finds herself plotting to save the children from the Windmill and free all the students from HollowFields.
There are some scenes that give you the history of the school and how it came to be. It's a rather predictable story but so engaging. Lucy is cute and animated but she's surrounded by all these gruesome experiments. She keeps a very Pollyanna attitude and becomes the hero at the end. There is some animated violence but it's done in such a way that it's not scary. There's a lot of humor and silly cartoon antics.

Silly Street by Jeff Foxworthy

I don't normally post children's books unless they really catch my attention. I was a little shocked when I picked up this book from the library. It's a rather young children's book and not the juvenile literature I was expecting.
However, it was a really fun read. There were maybe 10 poems in this collection but every one caused me to giggle. It reminds me of Shel Silverstein and made me really wish it was longer.
It's an early reader book so nearly anyone can read this book. It's silly and funny so it should appeal to anyone with a sense of humor.