I wrote bite-sized reviews for the following four books to help boost my NetGalley ratio as I’m just starting out–here are my thoughts on what I read!
The Antiracist Kid by Tiffany Jewell
This book is a great way to introduce kids to the concept of being antiracist. Jewell lays things out in an easy-to-understand format that isn’t overwhelming, making the book ideal for a wide range of ages. The artwork is adorable, big concepts are explained in a no-nonsense way, and there are little prompts throughout to get kids thinking and beginning to start their own activism in small steps. I can see this being a book for families and kids to return to regularly, especially when talking about issues that might come up at school or in the news.
Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for providing a copy for review.
Wash Day Diaries by Jamila Rowser and Robyn Smith
This graphic novel exemplifies why I enjoy the genre. The artwork is phenomenal, the stories are well-paced, and the characters are distinct and feel real. There was clearly a lot of love put into each of the stories and characters, and it shows on the page. My only complaint is that I want more! I do hope Rowser and Smith decide to do a follow-up, because I would love to see these characters and their shenanigans again. This is definitely going on my list of graphic novels to buy when I have the money to spend.
Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for providing a copy for review.
The Book of Maggor Thoom by James Turner
If you’re a fan of dark humor and eldritch horrors, this graphic novel is for you. I enjoyed the art style a lot; although the inner pages are in black and white, it works well for the style and allows for the creepy goodness to shine through. The beginning drags a little, but quickly picks up the pace, so much so that the ending feels like only the first part of a much longer story. I’m hopeful that Turner has more in store for this world, because the story is begging for a sequel or two.
Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for providing a copy for review.
Taproot: A Story About a Gardener and a Ghost by Keezy Young
Thank you to NetGalley and Oni Press for providing a copy for review.
Taproot is a lovely graphic novel focusing on the relationship between Hamal, a gardener, and Blue, a ghost. The art style is beautiful, the concept is one that gives me the warm-fuzzies, and the execution is well-done. The pacing could definitely be improved upon, but I also think that’s just me wanting more of the story! I enjoyed getting an extra glimpse into Young’s process in this new edition, although it makes me wonder how I’ve missed out on this story for so long. I’ll have to have another look at it once it’s in beautiful, glossy print!