Featuring witches, amulets, middle school crushes, and more, a number of graphic novel sequels hit the shelves this month.
Amulet #8: Supernova
In the highly anticipated eighth book in Kibuishi’s sci-fi fantasy series, protagonist Emily is trapped in the “Void,” lost without the powers of her amulet. Familiar characters, a continuing story arc, and Kibuishi’s bright, immersive graphics are sure to gratify long-standing fans of the series, which kicked off in 2008 with The Stonekeeper.
Lowriders Blast from the Past
This prequel to Lowriders in Space and Lowriders to the Center of the Earth, focuses on how Lupe, Flapjack, and Elirio first meet and become friends. The characters bond over their shared love of lowriders and join forces in fending off bullies, Las Matamoscas. The co-creators again feature a quirky-cool world of lowriders and distinctive animal characters, with Spanish words and phrases integrated throughout.
Nathan Hale’s Hazardous Tales #8: Lafayette!
The latest in Hale’s historical, humor-filled comic series takes place during the American Revolution and stars the famed Frenchman Marquis de Lafayette. Hale pokes fun at famous figures through slapstick and a sprinkling of playful sarcasm, while also delivering a true-to-life tale.
The Unsinkable Walker Bean and the Knights of the Waxing Moon
In The Unsinkable Walker Bean, the titular character became an unlikely—and reluctant—pirate. In the second in Renier’s adventure series, Walker and friends, Shiv and Genoa, are trapped on Plumb Island with the crew of the wrecked Jacklight. Influences of classic comics and adventure tales are evident in the characters’ epic journey, while supernatural elements and finely detailed art enhance the storytelling.
Caveboy Dave: Not So Faboo
Dave Unga-Bunga, a 12-year-old caveboy, would seem to be on top of the Paleolithic world. But just when things are going well, the shaman goes missing. Dave is charged with being the boss of the village: what could go wrong? Easy reading and satisfying humor will draw old fans and new.
Lumberjanes Original Graphic Novel: The Infernal Compass
It’s been a big couple of years for the Lumberjanes. In 2017, Abrams published Unicorn Power!, first in a middle grade novel series (by Mariko Tamaki and illustrated by Brooklyn Allen) adapted from the long-running comics. A second novel, The Moon is Up, was published earlier this year. This month brings the publication of the first original Lumberjanes graphic novel, The Infernal Compass. Rumor has it that a Lumberjanes movie is also in development.
Crush (Berry Brook Middle School)
The third title in Chmakova’s Berrybrook Middle School series—following Awkward (one of YALSA’s 2016 Top Ten Great Graphic Novels) and Brave—focuses on a new student, Jorge. He’s big enough to be a bully, but is actually a softie, and when he develops a big crush on a fellow student, everything goes topsy-turvy. In her approachable graphic novels, Chmakova sensitively conveys the complexities of middle school friendships and the changes that come along with growing up.
The Hidden Witch
In The Witch Boy, protagonist Aster longed to learn witchery but, as a boy, was forbidden to do so. After proving himself to his family, Aster is now learning alongside the other witches. When Aster’s friend Charlie is stalked by a dark force, Charlie wrestles with how far he will go to protect her. Ostertag again challenges gender stereotypes, while focusing on a vibrant and unconventional community.
