How Do You Smoke a Weed? (graphic novel) - Paul's REVIEW

*I received this book as an eARC from Iron Circus 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: How Do You Smoke a Weed?
Author: Lauren Keller
Artists: Lin Visel & Joseph Bergin III 
Recent Release Date: April 23, 2019

Synopsis: Sprout, a wee babe of a Weeping Giant Sequoia, is psyched to smoke marijuana for the first time. But she stumbles on her first obstacle right away: she has no idea what she's doing! A trio of helpful (and more mature) sequoias give her a dried cannabis flower and send her on a delightful journey of discovery. The forest is alive with wizened old animals who know the laws and customs, the history and science, and all the ins and outs of America's increasingly legal pastime. HOW DO YOU SMOKE A WEED? is both a fun storybook quest and a practical how-to for the novice weed smoker!

With marijuana decriminalized or legalized in 26 states and Washington, DC, dispensaries popping up everywhere, and experienced users openly rejoicing, it can be hard for the marijuana newbie, cowed by years of Just-Say-No disinformation, to find your way. Written by experienced, conscientious users and presented in an easy-to-read comic book format, HOW DO YOU SMOKE A WEED? fills that gap. Perfect for the cannabis-curious, and with new insights for the veteran smoker. 

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Review: I'm a big fan of edutainment graphic novels. I've recently read quite a few on sex and gender, and now this book which gives an entertaining introduction to marijuana. Weed is becoming legal across the United States and many adults are trying it for the first time, whether it is to just get high or to help their anxiety, joint pain, or just to help them sleep. This graphic novel gives a brief run-down on marijuana.

First off, the book makes it very clear that this is for responsible, consenting adults and that you should follow the laws in whatever state you live in. The purpose of this graphic novel is to combat decades of misinformation and criminalization. 

There's a good mixture of science-y facts and step-by-step instructions. Joints and bongs are covered. Even how to properly clean out a bong. There's a great section on healthy munchies ideas. The science behind sativa, indica, & CBD is explained. All of these things are great introductions that can give you the vocabulary to be able to research yourself or be knowledgeable enough to talk to the cashiers at a local store about what may work best for you. 

I give this book a 4/5. It's full of great, responsible information. But I wanted more details. It's always difficult for edutainment material to balance the goofs and the facts. I wanted just a little less funny. This is a great beginner's guide, especially for someone who is not familiar with weed.



--PAUL

Burnouts Volume 1 (graphic novel) - Paul's REVIEW

*I received this book as an eARC from Image 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: Burnouts Volume 1
Author: Dennis Culver
Artists: Geoffo & Chris Burnham
Upcoming Release Date: February 26, 2019


Synopsis: A group of teenagers must fight off an attack on their town by a secret alien invasion to save their friends and families...but they can only see the aliens if they're completely wasted!

The BURNOUTS are saving the world one puff at a time!

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Review: This is a fun book. A group of teenagers realize they can see aliens inhabiting other people's bodies when they're inebriated, either high or drunk. They take it unto themselves to take care of this unusual alien invasion. It turns out being hit really hard knocks the alien out of you and once the alien is on its own, it can be bopped out of existence easily. You can imagine what this looks like to those not in the know: drunk and high teenagers beating up strangers and shouting about aliens.

This is a colorful book that is intense and hilarious. The cow tipping is great! I'm looking forward to seeing where this series will go with the next volume. I give this first volume a 4/5.    


--PAUL