Alright, I’ll knock it off with the bad puns one of these days. Seriously though, Got a *huge* book rundown for you this week: Giant robots, fairies, and bean dogs (to name a few). First however, the news -
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A while back, I reviewed Raina Telgemeier’s new book Drama on the GNReader. Well, gentle reader, Drama came out on Saturday, and from early feedback, it has been a huge success! I am happy to report that Raina is out promoting her new book now, and is super excited to be meeting her fans. If you would like to see if she’s going to be at a bookstore near you soon, please check out her website at http://goraina.com/.
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Don’t forget! The Re-issue of The Monkey King Vol. 1 is due out tomorrow. Also keep in mind that this is the library binding (hardcover with reinforced spine).
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Since we’ve got a lot to review this week, let’s get to it.
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Voltron Force
Images Courtesy Viz Media
Written by: Brian Smith, Illustrated by: Jacob Chabot
Viz Media, 2012
ISBN(s): 978-1-42154-153-2, 978-1-42154-154-9, 978-1-42154-155-6 (PB)
$7.99, Ages: 8+
Overview
Set approximately five to seven years after the seminal 80s cartoon (which I watched religiously as a kid!), Voltron is back, and still doing battle with the forces of evil. Bringing back the original pilots (Lance, Hunk, Keith, Pidge and Princess Allura) who are now training three new Alliance cadets to help pilot the lions. King Lotor (The ruler formerly known as Prince… Lotor) is back, and pitching Robeasts like they’re going out of style. New to this series is Haggarium, a power source of pure evil (allegedly created from the witch Haggar, creator of Robeasts in the original Voltron) that has poisoned both King Lotor and Daniel, one of the Alliance cadets. These three books focus on stories that are exclusive to the print media, being companion pieces to the television series.
Synopsis
While not really breaking any new ground in terms of originality, Voltron Force is still a blast. Too often, when series get rebooted, the original characters are relegated to a few early stories or episodes and then forgotten all together. In this series, the original crew is there, playing an integral part in the new crew’s training and growth. The villain, who played a part in the original show is back and more evil than ever, and the story feels like only a few years have passed since the original show. The artwork is crisp and reverent to the original, while the characters all stay true to their original incarnations. It’s obvious that the folks working on the series now watched the show when they were young, and hold it in high regard.
Final Thoughts
When I originally heard that Voltron was getting a reboot of sorts, I rolled my eyes, fearing it would be a pale imitation of the original. Imagine my delight when I read these books (I don’t have cable or satellite) and discovered that they’re staying true to the original material as possible. Reading these books, I was hit with a huge wave of nostalgia, and had to turn on Netflix to watch a few episodes of the original series. Another great thing about the book series is the fact that Pidge’s high-pitched, nasal voice is silenced (The only complaint I had about the original series). This is one of those series that can really brings dads and sons together, and I highly recommend it for libraries. The storylines are nothing objectionable and will prove to be popular, especially with action oriented kids or Power Rangers fanatics. The first three books listed above have already been released, with another three scheduled to be released through February of 2013.
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Redakai
Image Courtesy Viz Comics
Written by: Aubrey Sitterson & Mike Raicht, Illustrated by: Write Height Media & Dan Ciurczak
Viz Media, 2012
ISBN: 978-1-42155-336-3 (PB)
$7.99, Ages 8+
Overview
In the world of Redakai, there is an element that is integral to everything – Kairu. When used for good, it helps guide the life of the universe. If it falls into the hands of evil, it can be the most destructive force in the world. However, not everyone can harness the power of Kairu, but those that can have the potential to become Kairu warriors, possibly even a powerful Redakai. Three kids, Ky, Maya and Boomer are three Kairu warrior trainees who are trying to prevent the evil Lokar and his groups of E-Teens from gaining more Kairu.
Analysis
For something that travels across familiar ground, Redakai does a good job of making the journey feel fresh, Ky, Maya and Boomer all have relatable traits that kids can easily recognize, while the villains are mean. but not too scary. The artwork is clean and crisp, and the messages presented are well thought out and executed.
Final thoughts
Redakai is one of those books that you don’t have to worry about if your child gets ahold of it. The battles are exciting without being bloody or even overly violent, and there’s very little chance of nightmares in young readers. If you have a kid (or kids) that are into the trading card game or television show, this is definitely going to be a must have addition. Redakai Vol. 1 is due out October 2012, and volume 2 is due out February 2013.
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Winx Club
Images Courtesy Viz Media
Created by: Iginio Straffi, Translated by: Viz Media
ISBN(s): 978-1-42154-159-4, 978-1-42154-160-0 (PB)
$7.99, Ages: 6+
Overview
Bloom is just your typical 16 year old girl. She loves to hang out with her friends, playing with her rabbit, and dreaming about getting her first scooter. However, a chance encounter with another young woman in the park reveals a whole new world of possibilities. As it turns out, Bloom is not just your typical 16 year old girl – she’s a fairy. He new friend Stella invites her to Alfea and the Fairy school so she can learn to harness her new powers. Along the way, she’ll make new friends, meet new enemies, and have the adventure of a lifetime!
Analysis
Originally created in Italy, and later translated into English, Winx Club has been around for a while as toys, television shows, apparel, and video games, however the books are finally being published in English. The stories follow the original storylines and emphasize the empowerment of the female characters, their ability to triumph over obstacles and get along with others. The artwork is bright, friendly and very clean. While libraries may catch some flack from some people claiming the characters play to stereotypes, I really think they’re looking at the varnish and not the building. Winx is first and foremost a tale about the power of friends and the power to believe that one can do anything they want to – especially through hard work and dedication. While I personally would not pick the books up on a whim, I feel that the message contained within is very empowering to young ladies, and can be a good “hook” to get girls into reading graphic novels. The first two books (listed above) are already out, the third book is due out this month.
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Well, I’ve spent all weekend working on this post, and I’m still not done. I think this is going to be one of those rare 2 part posts. I’ve still got two more book series to cover, but I’m out of steam tonight. Stay tuned for tomorrow, where we take another trip into nostalgia (perhaps not as old as one would think), and meet some creatures that are decidedly different… and cute… and oddly enough…. tasty.
