Power Rangers, Vol. 2 (comic) - Paul's REVIEW

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Title: Power Rangers, Vol. 2
Author: Ryan Parrott
Artist: Francesco Mortarino
Release Date: August 24, 2021


Synopsis: In order to save the universe, the new Power Rangers team must once again turn to their greatest enemy - Lord Drakkon - but after their shocking discovery, they need him more than ever!

LORD DRAKKON - FRIEND OR FOE? In order to save the universe, the new Power Rangers team must once again turn to their greatest enemy - Lord Drakkon - but after their shocking discovery, they need him more than ever. But a new enemy is rising, one tied to the secret history of the Power Rangers, and it will take every member of this new team to defeat them. But is Lord Drakkon ready to betray the New Power Rangers or is he truly on a path to redemption? Superstar writer Ryan Parrott (Mighty Morphin Power Rangers/Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles) and fan favorite artist Francesco Mortarino (Firefly: Bad Company) continue the UNLIMITED POWER era, as the Power Rangers continue their new mission...and Drakkon takes the next step towards his secret goal. Collects Power Rangers #5-8.

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Review: I really like that the Omega rangers are staying in space. We get to see some of the Power Rangers characters that are more otherworldly. Astronema! SPD! Ecliptor! Jason and Zack have awesome disguise outfits on Onyx. The heist is fun. I'm kind of into Astronema and Jason together. Trini is the moral center of their group. There's some great moral dilemmas in this volume. Do you save a planet that has done bad as a whole, but is made up of individuals? Each character has their own perspective and opinion. The complexities are shown well.

I give this volume a 5/5. I love that these stories are not connected to the original tv show. Ryan has diverged us from the intended timeline and it's great. It's exciting that I don't know where this is going. The whole multiverse awaits. 


--PAUL

Mighty Morphin, Vol. 2 (comic) - Paul's REVIEW

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Title: Mighty Morphin, Vol. 2
Author: Ryan Parrott
Artist: Marco Renna
Upcoming Release Date: August 17, 2021


Synopsis: After the New Green Ranger’s shocking decision, everything has changed for the Mighty Morphin team - and no one is safe!

WHO IS THE NEW GREEN RANGER?

After the New Green Ranger’s shocking decision, everything has changed for the Mighty Morphin team! Still reeling from this discovery of the Green Ranger’s true identity, the Mighty Morphin team must face a new threat with a secret connection to Zordon’s past...and the potential to destroy all their futures!

Superstar writer Ryan Parrott (Mighty Morphin Power Rangers/Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles) and rising star artist Marco Renna continue the UNLIMITED POWER era with the next shocking chapter of the story no one expected! Collects Mighty Morphin #5-8.

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Review: Matthew's perspective! I like seeing the original characters introduced so many volumes ago getting more character development. This volume dives more into Zordon's backstory. Grace and Matt being "with the villains" leads to some interesting moral dilemmas. 

The zeo crystal! Aisha is just such an awesome ranger. She's one of my favorites.

This is a great arc. It leaves the rangers in a really interesting place by the end of this volume. I'm excited to see more about the history of Eltar. I give this volume a 5/5. 


--PAUL

Power Rangers, Vol. 1 (comic) - Paul's REVIEW

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Title: Power Rangers, Vol. 1
Author: Ryan Parrott
Artist: Francesco Mortarino
Upcoming Release Date: May 25, 2021


Synopsis: A new Power Rangers team comes together to battle a new cosmic threat - and only Lord Drakkon, their greatest enemy, can save them! It’s a new beginning perfect for longtime fans and new readers alike.

A NEW ERA BEGINS HERE WITH A NEW TEAM -AND ONLY LORD DRAKKON CAN SAVE THEM!

Only the original Power Rangers, now known as the Omega Rangers - Jason, Trini and Zack - can hope to defeat a new cosmic threat, but their secret weapon is... the villainous Lord Drakkon?! Zordon forbids the new Power Rangers team from contacting Drakkon, so if they want to save the universe then they’ll have to go rogue - and go up against their Mighty Morphin allies. But will Drakkon be their ally...or the one who dooms them all?

Superstar writer Ryan Parrott (Mighty Morphin Power Rangers/Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles) and fan favorite artist Francesco Mortarino (Firefly: Bad Company) introduce the UNLIMITED POWER era, perfect for longtime fans and new readers alike - and nothing will ever be the same! Collects Power Rangers #1-4. 

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Review: The ongoing series Mighty Morphin Power Rangers continues in two different versions now. One focuses on the Omega Rangers while the other sticks with the original gang. The first few issues of both of these ongoing series go hand-in-hand at the start. I would recommend going back and forth between the two Vol.1s so you're reading the individual issues in the order in which they were released. By the end of these volumes the two teams each have their own stories to follow. 

I loved seeing the Omega rangers interacting with the main Mighty Morphin team, especially the Stone Canyon trio. Zordon and Jason's relationship gets a nice focus. The role of the red ranger is also a focus for Rocky in this volume. 

Will Drakkon be good? I give this volume a 5/5. Ryan is taking us on a whole new adventure. I'm excited to see how the more non-Earth elements of the Power Rangers multiverse come into play with the adventures of the Omega rangers. 


--PAUL

Mighty Morphin, Vol. 1 (comic) - Paul's REVIEW

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Title: Mighty Morphin, Vol. 1
Author: Ryan Parrott
Artist: Marco Renna 
Release Date: May 11, 2021


Synopsis: A new Mighty Morphin team has assembled to take on the deadliest threats to Earth - but who is the All New Green Ranger by their side? It’s a new beginning perfect for longtime fans and new readers alike.

A NEW ERA BEGINS HERE WITH A NEW TEAM - BUT WHO IS THE NEW GREEN RANGER?

The new Mighty Morphin team is on a collision course with an even deadlier Lord Zedd, who has a new mission and a new motivation - one that will change everything you thought you knew about our heroes! But even if the Mighty Morphin team can find a way to survive Zedd and their mysterious new enemies, they may discover the greatest threat to their future is the shocking secret of Zordon’s past!

Superstar writer Ryan Parrott (Mighty Morphin Power Rangers/Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles) and rising star artist Marco Renna introduce the UNLIMITED POWER era, perfect for longtime fans and new readers alike - and nothing will ever be the same! Collects Mighty Morphin #1-4.

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Review: The ongoing series Mighty Morphin Power Rangers continues in two different versions now. One focuses on the Omega Rangers while the other sticks with the original gang. The first few issues of both of these ongoing series go hand-in-hand at the start. I would recommend going back and forth between the two Vol.1s so you're reading the individual issues in the order in which they were released. By the end of these volumes the two teams each have their own stories to follow. 

This volume starts diving into Zordon's past. The Green Ranger mystery continues. The rangers aren't quite sure about the Omega rangers. Lord Zedd makes some new putties. 

The reveal is great! I give this volume a 5/5. Ryan is taking us on a whole new journey now. We've left the original tv show behind, diverging enough from the expected timeline. I'm really excited to see how these series continue.


--PAUL

Saban's Go Go Power Rangers, Vol. 9 (comic) - Paul's REVIEW

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Title: Saban's Go Go Power Rangers, Vol. 9
Author: Ryan Parrott 
Artist: Sina Grace
Upcoming Release Date: September 7, 2021


Synopsis: The origin of the Omega Rangers is revealed in this final volume of Saban’s Go Go Power Rangers as one era ends… and another begins!

THE ORIGIN OF THE OMEGA RANGERS!

Tommy must step into his new role as the WHITE RANGER, and the leader of the Power Rangers, even as not everyone is convinced he’ll be able to lead like Jason did. With Lord Zedd seeking his ultimate weapon, will the remaining Rangers of Tommy, Kimberly, and Billy be able to hold him off? Will Zordon and Alpha Five be able to find worthy successors for a complete Power Rangers team?

Meanwhile, Jason, Trini, and Zack must step into their own new roles as they embark on their first mission as the OMEGA RANGERS off world. Will they be able to fend off a new galactic threat, make new allies, and embrace their destiny? In the end, every Power Ranger will need to say goodbye to everything they once knew, each other, and step boldly into a new era!

The writing duo of New York Times bestseller Ryan Parrott (Mighty Morphin Power Rangers) and the GLAAD Award-nominated Sina Grace (Iceman) join artists Francesco Mortarino (Mighty Morphin Power Rangers) and Eduardo Francisco (Adventures of Superman) for the final volume of Saban’s Go Go Power Rangers!

Collects Saban’s Go Go Power Rangers #29-32.

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Review: These two ongoing comic series have been a joy to read and now Go Go has come to an end. I've really enjoyed the asynchronous storytelling. The reveals have happened in such interesting ways. This volume serves as the final in the origin of the Omega Rangers. Kiya is introduced. We know how that'll go. 

I love when the comic takes a moment from the original tv series and expands on it emotionally. Tommy has taken over as the leader and there's a discussion between Zordon and Jason about leadership that really hit me in the right way. Kim and Trini have a wonderful heart-to-heart and discuss their feelings. Another aspect of this series that I've loved is getting to learn more about the family life of the rangers. Jason continues to deal with his father's MS. 

The scuba trip with the trio. The Peace Conference. It's all happening! This was a great ending to the series. This series focused on the more personal life of the rangers and I really hope we still get that aspect in Ryan's continuing series. I give this volume a 5/5. 


--PAUL

Mighty Morphin Power Rangers, Vol. 14 (comic) - Paul's REVIEW

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Title: Mighty Morphin Power Rangers, Vol. 14
Author: Ryan Parrott
Artist: Moisés Hidalgo
Upcoming Release Date: February 16, 2021


Synopsis: Lord Drakkon returns with a new agenda, new secrets and a new mission that might tear apart the Power Rangers...well, that’s if they can first survive Lord Zedd’s all-new Dark Rangers!

LORD DRAKKON IS BACK. The Mighty Morphin Power Rangers and the Omega Rangers thought they had overcome their greatest threat - but now Lord Drakkon has returned! This evil, alternate universe version of the heroic Tommy Oliver has mysteriously returned with a new agenda, new secrets and a new mission from the most unexpected of allies. Can the Rangers come together one more time to defeat the combined power Lord Zedd and his all new Dark Rangers? Or will the truth about Lord Drakkon tear apart all the Power Rangers first? New York Times best-selling writer Ryan Parrott and artist Moisés Hidalgo present the epic conclusion to the longest-running Power Rangers series of all time - and begin an all-new, all-different era like never before! Collects Mighty Morphin Power Rangers #51-55.

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Review: Drakkon is back. Lord Zedd is back. This volume has a lot of great stuff in it. The Dark Rangers appear in a very different incarnation than in the original show. I enjoyed how the leader was described as devoid of empathy. The Green Ranger reveal is still upcoming and it's exciting to think of who it might be.

There's some great banter in the Dark Rangers fight scenes. The Mega Terrorzord!!! 

This is very much a volume that's leading up to a lot of exciting things. I give this book a 5/5. 


--PAUL

Power Rangers: Drakkon New Dawn (graphic novel) - Paul's REVIEW

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Title: Power Rangers: Drakkon New Dawn
Authors: Ryan Parrott &Anthony Burch,
Artist: Dan Mora
Release Date: March 23, 2021


Synopsis: The Ranger Slayer, an alternate universe version of Kimberly Hart, has returned home and become the new ruler of her dimension - but can she fill the void left behind by Lord Drakkon or will she be destroyed by his legacy?

RISE OF THE RANGER SLAYER The Ranger Slayer, an alternate universe version of Kimberly Hart, has returned to her home dimension to pick up the pieces left behind in the wake of Lord Drakkon’s reign. But Kim’s only option to save the people she loves is to become the thing she hates most - the new ruler of her world who sits on Drakkon’s throne. Now Kim must uncover the darkest secrets that Lord Drakkon left behind, starting with the secrets of his prison called Deadlock...and the shocking identity of the inmate known only as the Unknown Ranger. When Lord Drakkon’s final failsafe is tripped, an even deadlier threat sets its sights on Earth - and the Ranger Slayer won’t be able to defeat it on her own! Writers Ryan Parrott & Anthony Burch, along with artists Dan Mora & Simone Ragazzoni, present a bold new beginning for two of the most popular Power Rangers of all time - and set Kimberly Hart on a path you never expected. Collects Power Rangers: Ranger Slayer #1 and Power Rangers: Drakkon New Dawn #1-3. 

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Review: This is such a fun volume. We get to return to the Ranger Slayer's world. The Coinless characters are back! And we also get to meet some new ones. There are a lot of cool reveals even in just the first issue (Ranger Slayer #1) alone. I really enjoyed seeing the Stone Canyon trio. Adam has a cool backstory. Scorpina! I love the way she's in this book. She is just so awesome. I love the way she thinks. Her humor is lovely. 

There's some great flashbacks in this book. I loved seeing Coinless Jason's backstory. The way Kim and Jason interact is just so great.

I loved reading this volume. I want to see more of this world! The last page makes a pretty big impact. I give this book a 5/5.


--PAUL

Queer as All Get Out: 10 People Who've Inspired Me (graphic novel) by Shelby Criswell - Paul's REVIEW

*I received this book as an eARC from Street Noise Books via Edelweiss. I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.*

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Title: Queer as All Get Out: 10 People Who've Inspired Me
Author: Shelby Criswell 
Release Date: November 23, 2021


Synopsis: This graphic novel paints a picture of the lives of 10 specific LGBTQIA people from history, framed by the personal struggles of the author to find acceptance and to carve out a meaningful life as a genderqueer person. Each chapter focuses on a different relatively little-known historical character, presented within the context of the author’s own life. Shelby Criswell’s art is fun and engaging and brings a comic book feel to this enlightening and important subject matter.

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Review: This is the kind of book I wish I had read as a young queer person. This graphic novel begins in a memoir format and then the style leads nicely into ten life stories focusing on activism and change makers. These ten people should be more well known and I hope books like this get queer history into young people's brains earlier in their life. It's important to see people like you succeed and to learn their stories, the people who made the world a better place for all of us to inhabit.

Nancy Cardenas: An activist and writer from Mexico who came out in her 30s as a lesbian and later had breast cancer. 

Ifti Nasim: A gay poet from Pakistan who was an activist at a young age.

Sister Rosetta Tharpe: A queer Black woman who was an innovator of Rock n' Roll.

We'wha: A Zuni lhamana who was born in 1849 and met with the President at the time.

Mary Jones: Born in 1849 to formerly enslaved parents and worked at brothels before being found guilty of grand larceny. 

Dr. Magnus Hirschfeld: A doctor for queer and trans folks born in Germany in 1868 who campaigned for fair treatment of queer people and the decriminalization of gay sex.

Carlett Brown: A famous intersex person who was born in 1927.

Dr. Pauli Murray: A person born in 1910 Maryland who was hunger for justice and education, but they were denied hormone treatment.

Wilmer "Little Ax" Broadnax: A musician who started out in gospel and lived as a man.

Simon Nkoli: An anti-apartheid, gay rights, and AIDS activist from South Africa.

I love educational graphic novels, especially when I learn more about queer people from history. I give this book a 5/5 and recommend it to young people interested in queer history. It's great to see a book like this that isn't focused on white cis gay men. 

--PAUL

Dick Fight Island, Vol. 1 (manga) by Reibun Ike - Paul's REVIEW

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Title: Dick Fight Island, Vol. 1
Author: Reibun Ike
Release Date: May 11, 2021


Synopsis: Eight mighty island warriors battle to become king. The deciding factor? The one who comes last, of course!

Eight islands represented by their best warriors must battle it out in a tournament to decide their king. To win this battle of endurance, it’s not the last one standing but the last one coming that matters!

The tournament to choose the next king of the islands is about to begin. The rules are simple—whoever comes first loses! Participating warriors protect their mighty swords with armor that grows larger and more elaborate with each tournament. But one warrior has returned from studying abroad with a technique certain to force a pleasurable eruption! Is there a competitor alive able to withstand it? Or is this deft warrior destined to become king?!

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Review: The title of this book alone can give you the reason to read it. It did for me. A friend had bought the book so of course I needed to borrow it. After my husband read it, it was my turn. This book starts out fun as you are introduced to the world. There's a group of islands with different tribes that compete...sexually? The worldbuilding is a lot of fun, but you definitely have to suspend quite a bit of disbelief to enjoy this book. 

There are some really hot panels in this manga. Full frontal, pornographic nudity. I was a little confused how this society functions and the views of sex by the people. Characters are surprised by sex acts you would think had already existed in a world where there's armor for your penis. But I understand that's not where the focus of the book stands.

There are a lot of characters in this book to keep track of and they each have histories and allegiances. Overall, I enjoyed this book. It was fun to read something different, but it didn't quite connect with me. There was too much focus on the unrealistic sex without the plot making sense to me. I give this book a 3/5. 


--PAUL

Money Shot, Vol. 2 (graphic novel) - Paul's REVIEW

*I received this book as an eARC from Vault Comics via Edelweiss. I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.*

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Title: Money Shot, Vol. 2
Authors: Tim Seeley & Sarah Beattie 
Artist: Rebekah Isaacs 
Release Date: May 11, 2021


Synopsis: The XXX-plorers embark on their second mission to a naughty world (that may have inspired the biblical Hell...or at the very least ripped it off). But whips, chains and spanks have nothing on the torture of STD testing! Meanwhile, a powerful romance rocks an alien empire to its core, with intimate consequences for our scientists-turned-porn-stars!

A great jumping on point for new readers -- or a comfortable place to sit and rock for current fans. Collects Money Shot #6-#10.

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Review: It's volume 2! Time for the team to find a new mission that will deliver on both ratings and subscriptions. This volume gives us a look at them back on Earth. This volume is great and filled with so much. An STI scare. President Luke Kirk. An intergalactic incident. Even a Power Rangers reference!

I really enjoy this series. It's sex-positive and filled with fun sci-fi tropes. I love seeing sex and science save the day. The characters show growth even within this volume. I give this book a 5/5. Absolutely my vibe. 

--PAUL

Money Shot, Vol. 1 (graphic novel) - Paul's REVIEW

*I received this book as an eARC from Vault Comics via Edelweiss. I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.*

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Title: Money Shot, Vol. 1
Authors: Tim Seeley & Sarah Beattie 
Artist: Rebekah Isaacs 
Release Date: March 24, 2020


Synopsis: In the near future, space travel is ludicrously expensive and largely ignored. Enter Christine Ocampos, inventor of the Star Shot teleportation device with a big idea: She'll travel to new worlds, engage--intimately--with local aliens, and film her exploits for a jaded earth populace trying to find something new on the internet. Now, Chris and her merry band of scientist-cum-pornstars explore the universe, each other, and the complexities of sex in MONEY SHOT!

A story about scientists having sex with aliens for the glory of mankind--and money.

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Review: In 2027, aliens offered humans to join the greater universe. BUT, they retracted that when they got to know how messed up we really are. This story takes place a few years later in 2032. This book is a really fun, sex-positive sci-fi story. It's full of adult content, obviously. 

I really enjoyed reading this book. It's like if a Star Trek bridge crew decided to all have sex together on a live cam. The characters are each interesting, bringing their own histories together to their mission. Sex, humor, and interpersonal connections. I give this book a 5/5. I will definitely continue reading this series. 


--PAUL

The Strangest Thing in the Sea: And Other Curious Creatures of the Deep - Paul's REVIEW

*I received this book as an eARC from Hachette Book Group via Edelweiss. I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.*

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Title: The Strangest Thing in the Sea: And Other Curious Creatures of the Deep

Author:  Rachel Poliquin
Artists: Byron Eggenschwiler
Upcoming Release Date: October 5, 2021


Synopsis: An intriguing look at some very strange creatures in the sea --- but which is the strangest? A feathery tutu dancing through the water? A tiptoeing rock wearing a wig? A mountain of skulls on the ocean floor? Not everything is quite as it seems in this fascinating exploration of 12 bizarre and little-known sea animals. Each creature is introduced with an imaginative first-person depiction of its appearance, accompanied by an artistic interpretation and the question, “Am I the strangest thing in the sea?” Then, open the gatefold, and an illustration and full description of the actual creature in its habitat are revealed, along with the tantalizing answer that, no, this is not the strangest thing in the sea. That is, until the last creature, which is the strangest. But what could it be? The question-and-answer approach and gatefolds in this innovative and engaging book of wonderfully weird sea creatures are sure to pique children's curiosity and encourage scientific inquiry. Rachel Poliquin has included a range of the very oddest sea creatures --- the yeti crab, goblin shark and vampire squid, to name a few --- and she provides unique, interesting and quirky information about each as well as their size, prey, habitat and depth. Award-winning illustrator Byron Eggenschwiler's beautiful art gives the entire book an otherworldly feel, as all the creatures seem to be fantastically imagined. The material aligns with elementary life sciences curriculum: animal adaptations and characteristics, evolution, ecology, habitats, ecosystems, biodiversity and food webs. A final gatefold shows all the creatures together. Includes a glossary.

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Review: This is a great book for kids interested in weird animals and the ocean. This nonfiction book has facts, poetry, and great artwork. It's both informative and fun. The animals covered include giant siphonophores, peacock mantis shrimp, and yeti crabs. There's even a glossary at the end. This book gets a 5/5 from me.


--PAUL

An Earth-Bot's Solution to Plastic Pollution (picture book) by Russell Ayto - Paul's REVIEW

*I received this book as an eARC from Kids Can Press via Edelweiss. I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.*

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Title: An Earth-Bot's Solution to Plastic Pollution
Creator: Russell Ayto
Upcoming Release Date: September 7, 2021


Synopsis: In his signature quirky style, Russell Ayto takes on plastic pollution with this story about a video game-loving boy named Neo and some unexpected aquatic visitors who need his help. Neo lives next to the ocean, where there's a big plastic pollution problem. But Neo doesn't notice. He's too busy playing his favorite video game, joining forces with all the other Earth-bots to defend the planet against invading aliens. One day, though, Neo's sea creature neighbors keep interrupting his game, as one after another comes to his door, pleading with him to help them clean up the plastic that's ruining their home. Finally, to get them to go away, Neo agrees to check it out. And the plastic mess he sees in the ocean shocks him. He suddenly realizes there's an actual invasion taking place right outside his door --- one that's too big for him to handle on his own! With a refreshing approach to the timely topic of plastic pollution in the world's oceans, here's a readable picture book that manages to be offbeat and loads of fun without making light of the issue. Award-winning author-illustrator Russell Ayto's one-of-a-kind storytelling and hilarious illustrations will keep the pages turning, leading readers to concrete suggestions for how they can help. With its important environmental message and positive themes of teamwork, responsibility and stewardship, this book offers excellent connections to life science, earth science and social science curriculums. 

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Review: This picture book contains a relatable story about kids playing video games who learn about plastic in the ocean. The artwork is very cute. There's a great message about conservation. The wonderful 3 R's are referenced. There need to be more books like this that encourage children to make an impact on their world. I give this book a 5/5.


--PAUL

My Sister, Daisy (picture book) - Paul's REVIEW

*I received this book as an eARC from Capstone via NetGalley. I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.*

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Title: My Sister, Daisy
Author: Adria Karlsson
Artist: Linus Curci
Upcoming Release Date: September 1, 2021


Synopsis: Daisy’s older brother is thrilled when he gets a new sibling. They are best buddies who do everything together. But in kindergarten, things change. His sibling tells him she is a girl and wants to be called Daisy. Daisy’s brother must adjust to the change — including what it means for him and their relationship. A powerful, moving picture book based on a true story, My Sister, Daisy handles a sensitive subject with warmth and love.

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Review: The author of this book didn't see any books that represented her family situation so she wrote one! There's a lovely story at the end of the book explaining the background. This book is an excellent introduction to young people who may be going through similar experiences, especially for kids who have a trans sibling.

An older sibling is told by his younger sibling that she is a girl. The older brother questions his sister in an understanding way. The emotions are very evident.

I give this book a 5/5. This is a beautiful picture book for children these days. I highly recommend it for parents with toddlers or slightly older children.

--PAUL

Mutts Go Green: Earth-Friendly Tips and Comic Strips - Paul's REVIEW

*I received this book as an eARC from Andrews McMeel Publishing via Edelweiss. I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.*

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Title: Mutts Go Green: Earth-Friendly Tips and Comic Strips
Author: Patrick McDonnell
Release Date: March 30, 2021


Synopsis: Mutts Go Green is a special kids' collection of the popular comic strip MUTTS, featuring themes of ecology, environmental friendliness, and animal education.

This special collection of MUTTS comics for kids includes eco-friendly lessons on how to keep the environment clean and ways to help create a greener future for our furry friends and future generations. Mutts Go Green draws on Patrick McDonnell's 25-year career of writing and illustrating heartwarming comics starring Earl the dog, Mooch the cat, and a host of other adorable animal friends.

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Review: This collection of comic strips was made in celebration of Earth Day. Interspersed among the humorous strips are conservation messages and actions. This would make a perfect gift for a kid interested in conservation. This book is all about appreciating nature and the world around all of us. I give this book a 4/5.


--PAUL

The Way of the Hive: A Honey Bee's Story (graphic novel) - Paul's REVIEW

*I received this book as an eARC from HarperCollins via Edelweiss. I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.*

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Title: The Way of the Hive: A Honey Bee's Story
Creator: Jay Hosler
Release Date: April 20, 2021


Synopsis: Experience the life of a honeybee in this coming-of-age story about a bee named Nyuki, in this full-color graphic novel by Jay Hosler, perfect for curious kids who are fans of the Science Comics series.

Nyuki is a brand-new honeybee—and she has a lot of questions. Like

When does a bee go through metamorphosis?

Why does a queen bee sometimes leave her hive?

And where does all this honey come from, anyway?!

But Nyuki’s biggest question is, “What is this inner voice I hear, and why does it tell me to go forth to adventure?

Follow Nyuki on a lifelong journey as she annoys her sisters, avoids predators, and learns to trust her inner voice as she masters the way of the hive.

And if you still have questions at the end, the back of the book uncovers even more mysteries about the lives of these incredible insects!

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Review: This graphic novel opens up with a creation story involving a flower sending pollen into the universe. And then evolution-ish. The book focuses on a bee colony integrating both fantastical anthropomorphizing elements with interesting facts about bees. It's actually quite informative. It's a fun way to learn about the bee life cycle. Mantises and beetles are also included and even plants have some dialogue. 

I give this book a 5/5. It's unlike any graphic novel I've read before. It's right up my alley. Animal sociology and biology with added storytelling for flavor. It's not quite as cartoony as most comics about insects, but it still adds some more human elements to the bees' lives. A great tool to increase empathy for animals. I want to see more comics like this.  

--PAUL

Sexuality: A Graphic Guide - Paul's REVIEW

*I received this book as an eARC from Icon Books via Edelweiss. I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.*

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Title: Sexuality: A Graphic Guide
Author: Meg-John Barker
Artists: Jules Scheele
Upcoming Release Date: June 15, 2021


Synopsis: From the dream team creators of Queer: A Graphic History and Gender: A Graphic Guide

Sex can seem like a house of horrors – full of monsters and potential pitfalls. We often live with fear, shame and frustration when it comes to our own sexuality, and with judgement when it comes to others’. Sex advice manuals, debates over sex work and stories of sexual ‘dysfunction’ add to our anxiety.

With compassion, humour, erudition and a touch of the erotic, Meg-John Barker and Jules Scheele shine a light through the darkness and unmask the monsters in this illustrated guide. From sexual identities to having sex, to desire, consent and relationships, we’ll explore the invention of sex as we know it and imagine sex as it could be. Along the way, we’ll move past thinking of sex as meaning just one thing, defined by the genders of those doing it, instead making space for lots of different types of attraction, desire, relationship and act.

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Review: This book definitely is more textbook than comic book. There's multiple paragraphs of information on most pages. It's a lot of reading. This is a book that will most likely take you some time to get through and fully digest. Not a breeze-through type of book.

This book covers so much material. There's the history of sex and societal expectations and cultural norms surrounding sex. There's historical context given for so many different subjects. This book is very informative with plenty of references in case you want to dive deeper into these subjects in other books or papers. 

I give this book a 4/5. There's a lot to take in. I've enjoyed these type of nonfiction informative graphic novels before that have more story and that are primarily illustration. This is different than that. This is 176 pages of information.


--PAUL