Monday, May 07, 2018

Graphic Novel Review: KID BEOWULF: THE BLOOD-BOUND OATH by Alexis Fajardo


KID BEOWULF: THE BLOOD-BOUND OATH is both a re-imagining of the epic Beowulf story and the first book in a planned series of graphic novels that introduce younger readers to classic characters of mythology and literature. The book begins with an introduction that paraphrases the Old English poem "Beowulf." Then this new re-imagining of Beowulf begins. Beowulf doesn't even appear in this book until it's over halfway through. But that's ok. The story is the exposition needed for the planned series of graphic novels to continue. I love the story of Beowulf (there has yet been a film adaptation made that does the story right) and I was a bit hesitant to read this book. However, I really enjoyed it and am looking forward to reading more stories in the series. After this chapter of the story ends, there's a world map, a description of characters, a family tree, some notes about Beowulf, a short essay about monster slayer stories, an essay on how a graphic novel is made, fun facts, a bibliography, and a preview of the next book in the series, "The Song of Roland." I look forward to reading it.

Book Review: BINGE PARENTING by Rick Kirkman and Jerry Scott


BINGE PARENTING is the 34th collection of "Baby Blues" comics. It contains all of the "Baby Blues" comics published from January 3, 2016 – December 31, 2016. The comics chronicle the ongoing adventures of the MacPherson family as Darryl and Wanda (the dad and mom) attempt to keep ahead of their three children: Zoe, Hammie, and Wren.  The strip remains fresh and is a simple joy to read.