The Aeneid: A Graphic Novel by Diego Agrimbau
Stone Arch Books
Publication Date: January 1, 2018
ISBN: 978-1496561138
This is a graphic novel retelling of Virgil’s ancient classic, The Aeneid. After the Trojan War ends with the fall of Troy, Aeneas and his men wander the Mediterranean where they fight monsters and enemy soldiers. They find romance and tragedy, culminating in the founding of Rome.
This slim graphic novel distills Virgil’s classic into a short series of adventures. The art is dynamic and colorful and pairs well with the action and drama of the narrative. Readers will enjoy the battles, amazing art, and story that makes this Greek classic accessible for a new generation. Recommended for fans of Greek myth, Rick Riordan’s Percy Jackson series, and George O’Connor’s Olympians graphic novels.
–Jessica Ormonde
Lumberjanes v. 7: A Bird’s Eye View by Shannon Watters
Boom! Box
Publication Date: 12/12/17
ISBN: 978-1684150458
When the Grand Lodge, the council composed of the highest-ranking Lumberjanes, visits for a last-minute camp inspection, chaos ensues when they are kidnapped by a gigantic bird! Armed with only their counselor Jen, their Scouting Lad friend, Barney, and his magic kittens, Lumberjanes Mal, Molly, Jo, April, and Ripley must team up with one of their enemies from Zodiac cabin. Together they must use their ingenuity, problem-solving skills, and teamwork to save their kidnapped counselors.
Once again, the hardcore lady-types of Roanoke cabin take readers on a fun, supernatural adventure filled with humor, feminist exclamations, and lots of enthusiasm. Though targeted towards younger teens, older teens will equally enjoy the witty humor throughout, as well as the exploration of weightier themes, such as sexual and gender identity. Teens who love the Lumberjanes will enjoy the magical world within this camp. It is a place made magical not only by the many mythical creatures the Lumberjanes must foil and aid, but also by being a haven for those outside the norm to be accepted for who they are without fear of judgment. The bright colors and artistic style showcase the vibrancy, energy, and emotion of the characters and the story. With a gentle touch and more than a little humor, this story once again captures the heart, enthusiasm, bravery and friendship that characterize the Lumberjanes.
This is a great read for Lumberjanes fan as well as for new readers to the series who enjoy Roller Girl by Victoria Jamieson or the works of Raina Telgemeier.
–Lindsey Helfrich
Hermes: Tales of the Trickster by George O’Connor
First Second
Publication Date: January 30, 2018
ISBN 978-1626725256
The tenth installment in George O’Connor’s Olympians series focuses on the trickster god Hermes. The story starts as a jovial traveler stops to rest. He’s greeted by a many eyed man and the two share stories about the Greek god Hermes. The stories are funny, silly, and action-packed: How Hermes stole his brother Apollo’s sacred cattle when he was just a few days old, why dogs always smell each other’s butts, and how Hermes’s son Pan helped defeat a Titan.
The stories perfectly balance action, humor, and grandeur. O’Connor’s capable illustrations make great use of color, scale, and expressions to portray both humor and epic battles. Readers will be drawn to the exciting illustrations, cool-looking monsters, and the balance of action and humor. Recommended for fans of Greek myth and Rick Riordan’s Percy Jackson series.
–Jessica Ormonde
