Graphic Novel Review: SNOWPIERCER 3: TERMINUS

SNOWPIERCER 3: TERMINUS is the third and final volume in the Snowpiercer Trilogy. It begins immediately where the previous volume, SNOWPIERCER 2: THE EXPLORERS ended. It turns out that the remnants of humanity aboard the Snowpiercer train might not be the only humans to have survived the worldwide calamity that froze the Earth centuries ago. While there are differences, the plot reminded me very much of BENEATH THE PLANET OF THE APES. Despite those similarities, I would say that overall, SNOWPIERCER 3: TERMINUS is my 2^nd favorite volume in the Snowpiercer trilogy.

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 34^th 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.

Book Review: UNICORN ON A ROLL by Dana Simpson

UNICORN ON A ROLL is the second collection of "Phoebe and Her Unicorn" comics. The adventures that began when a unicorn, Marigold Heavenly Nostrils, befriended the young human girl, Phoebe, continue. This comic is a traditional old-school comic full of wit, intelligence, and heart. While there are unicorns, the characters are well-developed and not just comic caricatures. Some of the big stories in this collection include Phoebe having to write Valentines, Phoebe being invited to a unicorn birthday party, and Phoebe being cast in the lead of her school play. I enjoy the "Phoebe and Her Unicorn" comics and look forward to reading more of Phoebe and Marigold's adventures together.

Book Review: 99 STORMTROOPERS JOIN THE EMPIRE

99 STORMTROOPERS JOIN THE EMPIRE is a book that combines the "counting" rhymes of "Ten Little Indians" with Star Wars. In this book, 99 Stormtroopers join the Empire and they are all eventually killed until there is only one left who is given a very cushy assignment. The book references all of the Star Wars movies (at the time of the book's printing) from the original "Star Wars" to the prequel movies to "The Force Awakens" and "Rogue One." Personally, I think my favorite of the deaths are the 36 who were sent to Alderaan. 99 STORMTROOPERS JOIN THE EMPIRE makes a great gift book for any Star Wars fan.

Calendar Review: HAMILTON 2018 WALL CALENDAR

The HAMILTON 2018 WALL CALENDAR features images from the show of the cast with lyrics from some of the songs. On the actual calendar part of the calendar, dates that are somewhat connected to the events featured in the musical. For instance, Hamilton's birthday and the death of George Washington. It should be noted that not all of the images featured on the back cover of the calendar are the images actually in the calendar. I don't know why, but instead of featuring the original cast members, the calendar features actors in different productions who have played the different roles. For those who are strict fans of the original Broadway show, this is an issue. However, for those who have seen the show at a different locale and just enjoy the music of the show, this probably isn’t as big a deal. However, it really is false advertising.