Hollow - Graphic Novel Review

Whilst pottering around the local library graphic novel section, I saw a cool cover that immediately caught my eye - as the old saying goes, always judge a book by it's cover. Upon closer inspection I saw that it was by a writer I've long admired from the Lumberjanes series, Shannon Watters as well as newbie Brandon Boyer-White. Reading the blurb I saw that it was a modern-day take on The Legend of Sleepy Hollow and so, suitably intrigued, I checked it out and, one wet evening, dove in!

The story follows teenager Izzy Crane who moves to the legendary town, only to finds her name carries some serious historical baggage. However, she is a scientifically minded young lady and doesn't go in for superstition but when she forms an unexpected bond with Vicky Van Tassel, the two discover they share more than just a family legacy; they are at the center of a nefarious plot. The mystery deepens with the unexpected appearance of the Headless Horseman, who, instead of being a terrorizing figure, is seeking their help to protect the Van Tassels and stop a reign of terror against the firstborn that has been perpetrated over many generations. But by who?

I really enjoyed this graphic novel as it uses the original story as a foundation whilst reframing the legend for a new generation. For example, the opening features a figure in period costume being chased by the Headless Horseman through the woods at night but when he escapes, he pulls out his mobile phone to tell of his near escape. This ain't your grandpy's Sleep Hollow!

The dialogue is modern and feels natural and authentic, capturing the voices of the characters without ever sounding like it's trying too hard to be cool or 'hip'. This genuine tone makes the characters feel like real people you could be friends with. Hollow was very positive and respectful in its approach to its characters as it is an excellent example of organic LGBTQ+ representation; it treated all characters with depth and respect. Their identities are simply a part of who they are, allowing them to be well-rounded individuals whose personal journeys feel earned and true.

This authenticity is perfectly complemented by Bernice Nelle’s beautiful art as portrays the main characters in distinctive styles which shows their personalities. The costume designs are easy to follow and stylish, mixing what feels like a Boston Tea Party chic aesthetic with a modern university vibe that makes the world both historic and contemporary.

Overall, Hollow is a thoroughly enjoyable graphic novel that takes a beloved legend and makes it feel fresh and relevant. It’s a great read for fans of the original story and anyone looking for a compelling mystery with memorable characters and stunning art.

Beasts of Burden: Animal Rites - Graphic Novel Review

Whilst at my local library I saw this graphic novel and the watercolour art and name Jill Thompson attracted me to it. I knew of Thompson through her work on The Sandman: The Little Endless Story Book graphic novel and Death: At Death’s Door graphic novel from decades ago and was intrigued by this so took it out.

This graphic novel is a collection of the original five-part comic series about four dogs and a cat who band together to solve supernatural mysteries in their seemingly quiet town of Burden Hill. It's a bit like a darker, more macabre version of Scooby-Doo, where the ghosts are real and the stakes are life and death. As a Black Labrador owner myself and someone surrounded by dogs on a daily basis (my in-laws have five between them!), I was immediately drawn to how well writer Evan Dorkin captured the personalities of the canine cast. The characters are instantly recognizable and endearing: Rex, the perpetually scared Doberman; Jack, the excitable spaniel; Ace, the loyal and natural leader Husky; Pugsley, the playful pug jokester; Whitey, the childlike beagle and Old Wise, the elder statesman Old English Sheepdog. They're joined by Orphan, the pragmatic and snarky cat, and together they navigate a world of bizarre and often horrific events.

There are numerous stories:

Stray involves the mystery of the haunted kennel where Jack hears a spooky dog yowling at night. The animals all team together to exorcise the ghost but is it malevolent?

The Unfamiliar looks at a modern day coven of witches and their dark ceremony to summon Sekhmet to remake the world.

Let Sleeping Dogs Lie is a play on the zombie lore as the dead dogs are arisen by a witches familiar as an act of vengeance of the events in The Unfamiliar.

A Dog and His Boy finds a runaway sleeping in one of the dog's kennels and the animals take him in. However, when the moon is out a chamge happens and so the animals have to band together to stop the threat and find their friend a release.

The Gathering Storm has frogs falling from the sky and White's apprentice trying to stop the terrifying creature with magic but without success. The motley crew dispatch the big bad and become part of the Wise Dog Society.

Lost is the sad story of a mother dog looking for her lost children. She calls upon the Wise Dog Society who go maverick and create a summoning spell that goes wrong with tragic results. The last image from this issue will haunt me for quite a while.

Something Whiskered This Way Comes is about the search for the witch's familiar who was thought killed a few stories ago. She has been captured by the rats who seek a Rat Kingdom but will Orphan be able to help his fellow cat escape from their evil clutches, and at what cost?

Grave Happenings sees our crew of dogs tackle a warlock who uses emissaries to revive him after death. After being defeated he comes back videogame style in a second phase, more powerful form.

I thoroughly enjoyed my time with this graphic novel as Thompson's watercolor art is truly beautiful, filled with rich detail and a wonderful, classic feel that gives the stories an almost storybook quality which contrasts well with the often dark subject matter. Dorkin's writing is equally impressive, filled with hilarious animal-based jokes and wordplay that provide much-needed levity. But, beyond the humor, he expertly reveals the unique personalities of each character and builds an intriguing world of paranormal lore.

Beasts of Burden: Animal Rites is a fantastic and unique read that balances heartfelt character moments with genuine horror and suspense. It's a must-read for anyone who loves a good mystery and appreciates the unspoken connection we share with our pets.

Death: The High Cost of Living - TV Episode Review

I finished the entire Netflix run of The Sandman and the final episode was Death: The High Cost of Living. I was very excited to watch the episode that was alluded to in The Sandman #21, was released as a three part comic series and collected as a graphic novel where:

'... one day in every century Death takes on mortal flesh, better to comprehend what the lives she takes must feel like, to taste the bitter tang of mortality that is the price she must pay for being the divider of the living from all that has gone before, all that must come after.'

I read this specific comic book about 20 or so years ago and remembered that it was about Death getting to walk the Earth to understand people better. It was a deeply humanist work and I had loved it at the time. This adaptation uses that template as a springboard and successfully modernizes the narrative, crafting a bittersweet tale that is both a faithful tribute to its source material and a resonant reflection on contemporary anxieties.

The episode's emotional core lies in the unlikely pairing of Death (played with warmth by Kirby Howell-Baptiste) and Sexton Furnival (an excellent Colin Morgan aka BBC’s Merlin) a depressed journalist teetering on the brink of suicide after feeling an overwhelming sense of despair at the state of the world.

Their journey begins as a reluctant chase, with Sexton fleeing the very figure he sought. However, it quickly evolves into a transformative quest as Death, in her guise as a mortal woman, gently nudges Sexton to confront the very reason for his despair: the world's irreparable brokenness.

Through their interactions, the narrative artfully suggests that even amidst horror, life's small, beautiful moments—a shared conversation, a simple act of kindness, a fleeting taste of happiness—are what make the experience worthwhile. This relationship is the vehicle for the episode's core message: that connection, even in a world filled with suffering, is the antidote to despair.

Howell-Baptiste brings a fresh, vibrant and profoundly empathetic energy to the character of Death. Her portrayal perfectly captures the character's paradoxical nature: she is both an ancient, all-powerful cosmic entity and a genuinely kind-hearted young woman who sees the beauty in every life, no matter how short or unremarkable. This warmth is crucial to the episode's tone, which, despite its heavy themes, never feels preachy or overly sentimental.

The show's direction and writing embraces a style that makes the mundane moments of the day feel special and significant, like the joy of a veggie wrap near a canal on a sunny day, or the throbbing lights from a nightclub.

Ultimately, Death: The High Cost of Living is a timely meditation on finding meaning in a world that often feels meaningless. It serves as a gentle reminder that the bitter tang of mortality, as the price for being alive, is inextricably linked to the sweet joys of existence. It challenges the viewer to embrace the fleeting nature of life, not as a cause for fear, but as a reason to cherish every moment and every connection. It challenges assumptions that there are just good and bad people; life is not binary and people are more complex and nuanced. As Death contemplates her immortal existence, she says, "You're human... you forget what it's like to not have free will." To be human is to suffer but also to have great joy, wonder and awe.

This episode provided a much-needed balm for the soul, offering a message of hope and resilience that resonated deeply with me during these increasingly troubled times.

Juniper Mae: Knight of Tykotech City - Graphic Novel Review

Juniper Mae: Knight of Tykotech City is a beautifully written and illustrated graphic novel from Sarah Soh that has quickly become a favorite in our school's graphic novel club. As the club leader for Year 4 and 5 pupils, I've found that comics and graphic novels are a fantastic way to engage reluctant readers, and this book is a perfect example of why.

The story introduces us to the whimsical world of Tykotech City and brilliant young inventor, Juniper Mae. Her passion for building gadgets and her dream of advancing the city are instantly captivating. The plot kicks into high gear when the city's power is mysteriously stolen, pulling Juniper into a thrilling investigation to find the culprit.

Although the book is aimed at children, the compelling story and endearing characters make it an enjoyable escape for readers of all ages. The artwork is a major highlight, masterfully combining the edgy cyan blues of the techno-city with the warm, autumnal hues of the forest. The Cal Arts-style illustrations, with their anime influences, create a cohesive and visually stunning world.

One of the novel's greatest strengths is its heartfelt message, delivered through sweet and relatable characters. Juniper, an empathetic and resourceful heroine, leads the reader on a brilliant adventure. The story concludes with a gripping cliffhanger, leaving all of us eagerly awaiting the next installment.

Overall, Juniper Mae is the perfect gateway for reluctant readers, bridging the gap between comics and more traditional novels. It's a highly recommended adventure that you won't want to miss.

Tiffany's Griffon - Graphic Novel Review

I am a primary school teacher and, as a comic book fan, have found that comics and graphic novels are a fantastic way to engage reluctant readers. I ran an after school club recently for reluctant year 4 and 5 readers and found Tiffany’s Griffon by Magnolia Porter Siddell and Maddi Gonzalez a very popular read.

The story is about a young girl called Marnie who is a bit of a social outcast and is really into a fantasy series. When she is visited by a fairy from the book series she so loves and tasked with looking after a Griffon egg and rearing the creature she thinks her dreams are coming true. The problem is she gained the egg under false pretenses and is not the Chosen One. Rather, the popular girl at school Tiffany is the intended recipient but Marnie claimed she was Tiffany. And so, as the creature seems to build a bond towards Tiffany, Marnie grows jealous but there are real consequences as the magical kingdom is being destroyed by the evil witch. Can Marnie put aside her small woman syndrome and rightfully place the Griffon and Tiffany together? Well, there's the story!

The story deftly blends human drama with the more fantastical elements well and gently preaches the message of 'Never judge a book by its cover.' The story builds from a cozy Tamagochi 'look after an egg' to a genre-playing Scribblenauts/ Penny Crayon middle to a cracking finale with hints of The Neverending Story.

The false foundational relationship serves as the primary engine for the narrative, moving beyond mere wonder to delve into the practicalities and ethical considerations of Marnie harboring such a unique being. Author, Magnolia Porter Siddell, skillfully navigates the challenges Marnie faces in protecting her discovery while grappling with the implications of its existence on her own life and the wider world. Her character development is a notable strength as she realises that she is not the Chosen One and she has been judging Tiffany all wrong. Tiffany evolves from an individual thrust into an unforeseen circumstance to one who demonstrates remarkable resilience and resourcefulness. Her journey is not merely one of adventure but of significant personal growth, illustrating the weight of her unique guardianship and care for her poorly father and griffon.

Overall, Tiffany's Griffon is a well-crafted and engaging work that will resonate with any reader who appreciate fantasy infused with thoughtful character development and meaningful thematic exploration. It offers a refreshing perspective on the classic mythical encounter, grounding it in relatable human experience.

LINK: Japan: My Journey to the East

LINK- Battle Angel Alita: And So It Ends

LINK- The Moomins 80's Soundtrack Vinyl Review

LINK- Inspector Gadget Retro Soundtrack Review

LINK- Ulysses 31 Retro Soundtrack Review

LINK- The Mysterious Cities of Gold Retro Soundtrack Review

LINK- Sonic Mania Video Game Vinyl Soundtrack

LINK- Thomas Was Alone Video Game Vinyl Soundtrack Review

LINK- Akira Soundtrack Vinyl Review

Pumpkinheads - Graphic Novel Review

Whilst browsing my local library's graphic novel section I came across Pumpkinheads, a standalone book by Rainbow Rowell and Faith Erin Hicks. I picked it up as I knew Rowell through her great run on She-Hulk and Hicks I had known for many years as I had many of her graphic novels already. With this dream team, how would Pumpkinhead fare?

The story follows Deja and Josiah, two long-time best friends who have spent every fall working at the same pumpkin patch. As seniors in high school, this particular Halloween night marks their last shift together before they head off to separate colleges. Driven by Deja's infectious energy and a desire to make their final night memorable, the duo embarks on a quest across the sprawling pumpkin patch to find Josiah's long-standing crush, the elusive Fudge Girl (as she works at the fudge shoppe, obviously). What unfolds is a series of comical mishaps, poignant revelations, and an exploration of their own evolving relationship in a road movie-type journey, except it's in one contained area.

This is a charmingly low stakes graphic novel that encapsulates the bittersweet essence of late summer and being on the cusp of change. It was a delightful read and perfect for those seeking a heartwarming, low-stakes adventure.

Rowell's strength (as far as my limited experience with her writing in She-Hulk allows) lies in her ability to craft authentic, relatable characters and snappy, naturalistic dialogue, and Pumpkinheads is no exception. Deja is the spirited, outgoing catalyst, pushing Josiah, the more introspective and hesitant of the pair, out of his comfort zone. Their dynamic is the beating heart of the story; their banter is genuinely funny, and their shared history is palpable. Hicks's art perfectly capturing the nuanced expressions and body language that convey their deep bond.

Hicks's artwork is a perfect complement to Rowell's storytelling. Her clean lines, expressive character designs, and warm, inviting color palette, all warm oranges, pastel purples and deep navies, evokes the cozy, autumnal atmosphere of the pumpkin patch beautifully. Also, the visual humor lands effectively, and the panels flow smoothly, making for a quick and engaging read. The repeating joke of the search for Buck, the angry escaped goat, is hilarious.

Throughout the book, Hicks manages to convey emotion with subtlety, allowing the reader to feel the characters' joy, frustration, and budding affection.

The themes explored are universally resonant: the anxiety of impending change, the comfort and challenge of long-standing friendships, and the quiet, often unacknowledged transition from childhood to adulthood. The pumpkin patch itself acts as a vibrant, almost magical setting, a liminal space where old traditions meet new possibilities. It's a place of joy, nostalgia, and a touch of melancholy for what's about to end.

The plot itself is relatively simple and low stakes but this is precisely where Pumpkinheads finds its strength; it’s not about grand gestures or dramatic revelations, but about the small, significant moments that define a friendship on the brink of transformation. Whilst I understand that some readers might desire more in terms of plot complexity or character arcs, I belive that the story's charm lies in its focus on Deja and Josiah's final night together and their reminiscence.

Overall, I found Pumpkinheads to be a sweet, charming, and visually appealing graphic novel that will resonate with anyone who has experienced the bittersweet feeling of a beautiful chapter closing. It's a perfect autumnal read, celebrating friendship, the courage to embrace change, and the magic found in the everyday. I would highly recommend this for fans of slice-of-life stories, contemporary YA, and anyone looking for a dose of warmth and genuine emotion. With the current geopolitical chaos, something like this is good for the soul.

Hilda and Twig Hide From the Rain- Graphic Novel Review

Hilda fans, rejoice! While we may have said farewell to the television series for now, the magic of Hilda's world continues as Luke Pearson has released a new book in the series- his first in 5 years!

In this latest prequel graphic novel, Hilda and Twig live in the enchanted woods outside of Trollberg. When they find themselves caught in a sudden downpour, they seek shelter. They stumble upon a mysterious burial mound, where they encounter a group of quirky creatures who all share stories and speculations about the mound's history, Twig ventures outside and makes an extraordinary discovery: a giant, gentle white snake. The snake, it seems, is a guardian of the mound.. but what is it protecting?

Pearson's signature art style continues to change and evolve, and this new graphic novel is no exception with a stylized Cal Arts look, combined with a super-deformed chibi style. This, once again, brings a fresh and playful aesthetic to the series. Younger Hilda and Twig are absolutely adorable, and Twig's thought bubbles add a delightful layer of humor and insight.

If you're a fan of Hilda, you won't want to miss this latest adventure. Hilda and Twig Hide From the Rain is a charming and heartwarming tale that expands the lore of Hilda's world while introducing new creatures and mysteries. It's a perfect read for both young and old, and a testament to Pearson's enduring talent.

Come Find Me: An Autumnal Offering - Graphic Novel Review

I do love a good anthology series. Over the past few years, I have reviewed Goosebumps, Are You Afraid of the Dark?, Love, Death and Robots, Hammer House of Horrors and many more besides on this very website. However, anthology comic books have had a trickier path to follow as the received wisdom has been that there isn’t a market for it anymore… or is there?

I recently started to read Hello Darkness, which is published by those fine fiends at Boom! who seem to specialise in the horror, sci-fi and mystery genres. At the time of writing (Jan 2025) it has 7 issues and seems to be going strong.

When writer and artist Becky Cloonan, who I have followed since Demo days, through to By Chance or Providence, Gotham Academy and, more recently, the multi-Eisner award winning Somna, mentioned that she was working with DSTLRY to create a one-shot horror anthology book called Come Find Me featuring a variety of creatives, my interest was piqued and I promptly ordered a copy from my local comic shop.

With anthologies, variety is a key strength that keeps you interested as you get a diversity of voices, genre-bending and find hidden gems of stories and artists. In this book, there are 6 stories to delight and horrify:

Devil's Trill- A young man becomes fascinated by and opera singer but are his intentions pure? No. No they're not.

Portorium- When grave robbers disturb a corpse, a young lady the penny intended for Charon so he exacts revenge.

Down by the Water- A man struggles to get over the death of his beloved, who drowned. But

Coal and Clover- When a union man is killed by his bosses his wife takes revenge against the company but there is a heavy price to pay.

La Cheta- I'm not gonna lie; I didn't quite understand this story totally. As far as I can make it, in a small village a new teacher comes along and people start to die by some evil presence. I'm not sure if she is the killer or if it's some malevolent other force.

The Warmth of the Hunt- When an intensely passionate relationship falls apart the consequences are fatal.

Obviously, taste is subjective but there were a couple of standouts for me; Portorium by Becky Cloonan, Lee Loughridge and Pat Brousseau, told a Medieval gothic horror tale warning you about what happens when you try to cheat the ferryman, Charon. Over the course of just several pages, you get a chilling tale about what guilt does to the psyche and it's presented beautifully with Cloonan's distinctive gothic style.

The other tale that got me was the mythic folk horror Coal and Clover which looks at the price of exacting revenge. You know it isn't going to end well but the price exacted is too heavy for any parent to bear.

The book is beautifully printed on good paper stock and the colours pop off the page in between the pitch black places. The artwork is consistent brilliant and has a variety of styles, the most impressive for me being Cloonan's and E. M. Carroll's, whose artistry is really something special and appeals to my style.

Overall, I had an excellent hour or so marveling at the artwork and creativity on show here and look forward to other seasons, if that becomes a thing.

Emma G. Wildford- Graphic Novel Review

Whilst scanning the sale section at Forbidden Planet, London, I picked up a hardback graphic novel for £2.99. It wasn't just the price but the beautiful cover art and a blurb promising a globetrotting adventure set within the roaring 20s that won me over. So, is it any good or do I have buyers remorse for a book that costs less than a cup of coffee?

In a time of flappers, jazz, and boundless optimism, Emma G. Wildford, a young woman with a thirst for adventure, embarks on a journey that will change her life forever. Fourteen months after her fiancé's mysterious disappearance on a National Geographic Society expedition to Lapland, Emma decides to take matters into her own hands. Ignoring the skepticism of the society's old guard, she ventures into the unknown, armed with courage, determination, and a notebook filled with her poetic musings.

As Emma traverses the harsh Arctic landscape, she confronts both physical and emotional challenges; she learns to navigate the wilderness, face her fears, and embrace her own strength. Along the way, she encounters a cast of intriguing characters, from eccentric scientists to enigmatic locals, each leaving an indelible mark on her journey.

This stunning graphic novel, brought to life by the talented team of Edith and Zidrou, is a captivating tale of love, loss, and self-discovery with one of the most compelling aspects of Emma's story being her exploration of selfloss. This concept, rooted in Slavic and Icelandic folklore, involves a liminal journey to confront one's soul. Emma's quest for her missing fiancé becomes a metaphorical journey of self-discovery, as she grapples with grief, uncertainty, and the complexities of love.

Edith's breathtaking artwork, with its vibrant colors, dynamic compositions, and attention to detail within the city contrasts wonderfully with the stark beauty of the Arctic landscape whilst Zidrou's sharp writing brings Emma's character to life, highlighting her intelligence, resilience, and unwavering spirit. The dialogue is witty and insightful balancing moments of introspection with thrilling adventure.

Overall, I thoroughly enjoyed my time with Emma G. Wildford as it's a universal tale of love, loss, and the power of human spirit, beautifully told through stunning artwork and insightful writing. It is highly recommended and worth well over the £2.99 I paid for it.

Gyo by Jinji Ito- Graphic Novel Review

Junji Ito is known for creating a  sense of unease and creeping dread that is often mixed with body horror. He often bases this in everyday life and the malignant force happens to people, rarely is there a hero who escapes... It's a bit of a downer really but that's what people like about his work. There's often no deus ex machina or hard reset; the world is messed up and that's it -fade to black.

In Gyo, a manga from the early 2000s, we are introduced to Tadashi and Kaori, a young couple who go to the coast of Okinawa. Whilst there they discover a new breed of animal: a walking fish. However, when these creatures and other sea beasts that have evolved start to take over the land the novel's premise, while initially seemingly absurd, quickly spirals into a terrifying exploration of humanity's impact on the natural world.

Sure, the characters are archetypes but Ito uses them effectively to highlight the chaos and desperation of the situation. Kaori's demands and Tadashi's reluctant heroism add a layer of dark comedy to the horror. Kaori is the stereotypical shrill demanding girlfriend who is pretty unreasonable to her boyfriend, at one point asking him to get rid of a walking Great White Shark! Meanwhile, Tadashi is the put upon boyfriend who tries to be the hero but is just an everyman who is overwhelmed by what is happening. Tadashi's uncle is an eccentric scientist who wants to investigate these strange creatures as, after years of early promise with his inventions, he has not been able to fulfill his potential.

What follows is a tale involving World War II, biological weapons and a force that is hard to control. Ito's signature grotesque style is on full display here, with the walking fish and other monstrous creatures becoming nightmarish symbols of ecological disaster. The way he blends elements of horror, science fiction, and historical fiction creates a truly unsettling atmosphere.

The inclusion of the Enigma of Amigara Fault is a nice touch, providing a stark contrast to the sprawling narrative of Gyo. It's a testament to Ito's versatility as a storyteller. Overall, Gyo is a must-read for fans of horror and fans of Ito's work. It's a disturbing, thought-provoking, and visually stunning masterpiece.

LINK: Japan: My Journey to the East

LINK: Blood, Sweat and Pixels- Book Review

LINK: The Offworld Collection- Book Review

LINK: Shadow of the Colossus- Book Review

LINK: Manga Exhibition at the British Museum

LINK: The Midnight Library and the Idea That You Can’t Go Home Again

LINK: The Transportive Nature of Objects (And the Power of Mini Consoles)

LINK: My One True Gaming Constant in Life- Nintendo

It's Lonely at the Centre of the Earth- Graphic Novel Review

Comics are amazing as they can open our minds to a whole world of imagination. There are many comics and graphic novels which are based on real life and tell us about the human condition and humanity and It’s Lonely at the Centre of the Earth by Zoe Thoroughgood is one such book.

It's an introspective, relatable and very truthful graphic novel about depression. I haven't felt depressed for many years but this comic did send me back into my memories of my difficult mid to late teens where I questioned everything and wasn't sure of my place in the world. Looking back that was more existential and a feeling of ennui than clinical depression but nonetheless, it felt monumentally overwhelming at the time. Thoroughgood describes her depression as something biological and chemical; 'I am not my depression. But sometimes it's comforting to believe that's all that I am' and 'Even on beautiful days like this one-it feels impossible to imagine a future where I don't kill myself.' When her depression hits it hits hard and the lockdown during the pandemic heightened her sense of isolation.

Through its varied art styles, including collage, manga, super deformed as well as videogame style like pixel art, we get to connect to her moods and feelings. Thoroughgood is effective at being self-deprecating but also brutally and harshly critical of herself and her process.

I enjoyed the graphic novel and, even though some parts were heartbreaking, I liked the honesty and earnestness of her writing.

Ojingogo- Graphic Novel Review

Utterly surreal and slightly abstract with elements of Alice in Wonderland, Wizard of Oz, Gulliver's Travels and much from the world of manga, Ojingogo is a not your average graphic novel tale. The story is about a young girl, her pet chibi-octopus and her sentient camera, which is stolen by a malevolent octopus/humanoid creature. At least, that's what I think happened as the book had very little to no text and is presented with a surrealist bent. As a fan of David Lynch and Jodorowsky, I'm used to art that challenged and confounds but even this didn't help in understanding the story too well. I think, author and illustrator Matthew Forsythe, like Lynch, is all about creating a mood and evoking feelings of wonder and bewilderment so you strap in and enjoy the absurdist journey.

The illustrations are beautifully drawn with fine lines and lots of use of blank space to let the characters pop. The drawings seemed to be inspired by South Korean and manga art; cute big eyes and some interesting creature designs. There were a couple I thought that could be turned in plushie toys so you get an idea of the aesthetic.

This One Summer- Graphic Novel Review

This graphic novel is like an ode to those everlong summers of the past, where the holidays seemed to stretch on forever and the possibilities and promises of the future seemed endless. The power of nostalgia is strong in this comic as writing and art team Jillian and Mariko Tamaki create a believable scenario where
Rose and her family head to the beach for the summer, as they always do, but things are tense in the family as Rose's mum is suffering from deep depression whilst her father is feeling the strain of keeping the household positive. Meanwhile, Rose and her regular holiday friend Windy, get involved with a teen pregnancy drama whilst watching horror films.

It is poignant and wistful, carrying the memories of summer beach holidays when everything was possible, nothing much actually happened and time seemed to stand still. The artwork is incredible- beautiful blue washes and an amazing mix of the detailed and the impressionistic- and the story is sad and realistic. The story and the art go together perfectly.

The demographic for the book is hard to pinpoint as it uses words like slut, rape, abortion, blow job, porn, boobs etc so it's quite fruity with its language but I know, from working at a couple of youth centre for over 10 years, that actually many tweens do talk like this so it is lifelike.

Overall, I'd recommend the book as it captures the fleeting moment we have all had our lives so well. Additionally, the gorgeous blue brushlike art flows, stunningly capturing the spirit of the summer; it make you *feel* the place you've never been to. The Germans calls this fernweh which means farsickness and it’s the concept of feeling homesick for a place you’ve never been or could never go. This book made me feel that and it captures the mood so well.

This One Summer- Graphic Novel Review

This graphic novel is like an ode to those everlong summers of the past, where the holidays seemed to stretch on forever and the possibilities and promises of the future seemed endless. The power of nostalgia is strong in this comic as writing and art team Jillian and Mariko Tamaki create a believable scenario where
Rose and her family head to the beach for the summer, as they always do, but things are tense in the family as Rose's mum is suffering from deep depression whilst her father is feeling the strain of keeping the household positive. Meanwhile, Rose and her regular holiday friend Windy, get involved with a teen pregnancy drama whilst watching horror films.

The book is beautifully presented with a blue brush-stroke style.

The demographic for the book is hard to pinpoint as it uses words like slut, rape, abortion, blow job, porn, boobs etc so it's quite fruity with its language but I know, from working at a couple of youth centre for over 10 years, that actually many tweens do talk like this so it is lifelike.

The book captures the fleeting moments we have all had on our lives so well. The gorgeous blue brush-like art flows and stunningly capturing the spirit of the summer; it make you *feel* the place you've never been to. The Germans calls this fernweh which means far-sickness and it’s the concept of feeling homesick for a place you’ve never been or could never go. This book made me feel that as it captures the mood so well; it is a definite recommend.

LINK- The Offworld Collection

LINK- Three Shadows- Graphic Novel Review

LINK: Japan: My Journey to the East

LINK- The Future Starts Here: An Optimistic Guide to What Comes Next- Book Review

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