Reading: LONG WAY DOWN: THE GRAPHIC NOVEL - Jason Reynolds (author), Danica Novgorodoff (illustrator)

Prose (Story): This graphic novel, adapted from the award-winning novel by author Jason Reynolds (this time working with illustrator Danica Novgorodoff), follows fifteen-year-old Will who - as the story opens - has just lost his older brother Shawn to a gang shooting, an all-too familiar hazard where Will is from. In shock and grief, only made worse by the devastating toll Shawn's death is having on their mother, Will nevertheless remembers The Rules, passed onto him as a child by his brother - No Crying. No Snitching. Get Revenge - and is determined to live by them. Breaking into a drawer in Shawn's dresser that Will had alway been forbidden access to, the young man finds his dead brother's gun and, sure of who Shawn's killer is, sets out avenge his brother - little realizing that an act as simple as getting in an elevator and pressing the down button could prove to have reverberating effects on his life and future. Maybe even save it. 

Don's (Review):  I read Jason Reynold's moving, heartbreaking and deeply profound novel about a year ago, unable for weeks to shake its effect on me (to this day, remembering it sends me back to the dream-like state that overcomes you when reading it). Told in free verse as opposed to a straight narrative made the novel all that much more powerful, putting the reader into Will's head from his first words, but I did wonder how that writing style would work in this form. Sure enough, the book's narrative has been changed up a bit to accommodate the graphic novel, but the words are no less powerful - the story no less sugar-coated in the face of reality - and illustrator Danica Novgorodoff's choice of watercolors, blues and reds and purples runing and smearing into each other over beautiful line drawings that capture the mood of life in the city, the devastation of life where Will and his family live in particular, give the words and story a whole other level of visual impact beyond the novel. While the novel remains my favorite, its mark left permanently on my soul just by reading it, the graphic novel is no less brilliant, and no less a must-read. Not so much a companion piece, or even off-shoot of the book, this is more a gutwrenching visual representation of what it's like to live in Shawn and Will's world - if you're allowed to live in it at all.  5/5 stars

Reading: THE SURVIVORS - Jane Harper

Prose (Story): Kieran Elliot has returned home to Evelyn Bay, on the Tasmanian coast, with girlfriend Mia and baby Audrey in tow, to help his mother Verity after it's been decided that Kieran's dad Brian - diagnosed with dementia some years back - is to be put into a convalescent home. Kieran wants his parents closer to him, in Sydney, but comes to help in the transition closer to home ... even as the memories of a horrible accident twelve years earlier, during a storm, still has him losing sleep from guilt and pain. On that day, Kieran had become stranded out by the caves during the worst of the storm, and in trying to save him Kieran's brother Finn - along with Finn's friend Toby - died when the stormy sea capsized their boat. From his brother's death to the now-chilly relationship with his mother to his dad's descent into mental illness, Kieran feels responsible - and when, soon after his arrival in town, a young server at a local restaurant/bar, in town only for the season, is found strangled to death on the beach, the crime in the normally-peaceful Evelyn Bay opens up old wounds and new investigations that may or may not tie into the unsolved disappearance of a teenaged girl twelve years ago, during that same storm ... as well as answer what really may have happened the day Kieran found himself stranded in the ravaging waves; the day Finn died.  

Don's (Review): I was introduced to Jane Harper with The Lost Man, her standalone mystery release last year that blew the very head off my shoulders, going on to become my favorite read of 2019. A genuine masterpiece. Though I knew I had her two previous titles to read, I was amped upon hearing about The Survivors, and did my best to get my hands on a copy even though it's not released in the States until February 2021. Here, we follow a guilt-ravaged Kieran as he comes back home to help his parents, reuniting at the same time with the core gang of friends he knew back then - including Sean, brother of Toby who died on the same boat as Kieran's brother Finn, and Olivia, whose little sister Gabby was the girl disappeared in the wake of the record-breaking storm twelve years ago, only her backpack washing up on the beach days later. When Olivia's co-worker is found strangled, the police can't help finding some common threads between her murder and Gabby's disappearance, and as we read on Kieran himself tries to cope with his recurring memories and guilt of that awful day - while at the same time, following clues and facts that don't quite fit together in his own quest for answers, even if they're answer he might not want to know. Another masterful mystery from Harper, with a tense ending following revelations both surprising and sad in order to get there. While not quite The Lost Man - I felt the book could have been edited down just a bit more, tightening up the suspense and condensing some scenes that went on a bit - The Survivors still solidifies Jane Harper as a master of her craft. I'd read a dissertation on the benefits of dryer lint, were she to write it. 4.5/5 stars

October Wrap-Up: Let's Get Graphic Here

Having moved in late September - then adding the burden of a roommate I hadn't intended on, who is one of the most difficult people I've ever lived with - plus working again, when you put all this with the upcoming elections, I found my concentration wavering throughout the month. Unable to focus for long on novels for some reason, I realized I also had a hefty bunch of graphic novel and manga ARCs I had to complete because they were releasing soon ... so that's where we went for the majority of the month!

Which didn't end up being a bad thing, either. But starting with Vivien Chien's cozy mystery novel, Killer Kung Pao, the month started off with an awesome cozy mystery - one of my favorites of this series! From there on, I got to hang out with the Teen Titans awhile ... also a distant relative of Mary Shelley ... and even discovered a really unique, interesting twist on the iconic Sherlock Holmes nemesis, Professor Moriarty!

Not even realizing how much this was gearing me onto some serious Halloween reading, I then picked up volume one of Tokyo Ghoul - which blew me the heck AWAY - before segueing into a couple of kidlit titles with another creepy graphic novel in-between.

Also got two episodes into a new Brazilian series on Netflix - "Spectros" - and again, more creepiness. So far, so good!

Sadly, no reviews done for October yet. In fact, not quite caught up with September! So if still reading this, please check back for those reviews ... and for November? God knows. I am determined to finish more novels, definitely, but also am doing NaNoWriMo for November (eee!) - and, quite frankly, all of it would most likely go to hell depending on how the elections go. I write this the day before Election Day, scared to death about what may happen should this election be "won", or worse yet stolen, again by a lunatic.

Reading: KITTY AND DRAGON VOL. 1 - Meika Hashimoto (author), Gillian Reid (illustrator)

Prose (Story): An early reader book for kids that combines three previously separate tales revolving around the unlikely friendship between a kitten and a dragon, who live and play and learn about the importance of friendship together. 

Don's (Review): A sweet, colorfully-illustrated charmer for early readers that opens with young Kitty seeking a calm, quite place to live away from the city, finding exactly that in the home of what appears to be a fearsome dragon - who's actually gentle and friendly and fine with opening up his cave to the tiny cat. Story two involves Dragon fussing over a sick Kitty in the hopes of getting Kitty well enough to go kite flying (so cute, and nicely shows their developing friendship). But it's chapter three, my personal favorite, where kids will see the value of not just friendship but accepting and loving people for who they are, as Kitty resorts to magic to try and cure Dragon's messy, slovenly ways around the cave. Gillian Reid's illustrations perfectly suit the funny, sweet-natured characters and story, and while parents will probably find this a favorite that their kids will want to pull down from the shelf to read time and time again, there's enough humor and heart here to appeal to even the jaded adult, too. Well done, and hope to see more of this dynamic duo!  4.5/5 stars

NOTE: I received a free ARC of this title from NetGalley and the publisher, in exchange for an honest review.

Reading: MIRKA ANDOLFO'S MERCY: THE FAIR LADY, THE FROST, AND THE FIEND - Mirka Andolfo

Prose (Story): Collecting the first six issues of the popular comic, this graphic novel opens in Woodsborough, Washington in the late nineteenth century, during the height of the Klondike Gold Rush, in which Woodsborough is anything but thriving. A few years prior a horrific accident causing the deaths of many locals - including its owner - closed the Swanson mine, and the city and its people have been trying, mostly without success, to bounce back since. Which makes it all the most puzzling when the beautiful, extremely wealthy, ivory-skinned beauty Lady Hellaine arrives in town with her faithful butler Goodwill, immediately settling into the impoverished city via one of the deserted mansions in town. Throwing a big party, Lady Hellaine becomes the envy of every woman and catches the eye of every man in town ... while at the same time arousing nothing but suspicion in Lady Swanson, widow of the deceased mine owner, who is a big supporter of the oppressed and downtrodden - and wonders from the start what Lady Hellaine's ultimate plans are. Underscorng everything else, there is a creature that is going around under cover of darkness, making the streets of Woodsborough run red with blood as it goes on a killing spree that seems to only worsen with the start of the falling snow. Who are the mysterious hunters stalking this creature? Could there be a connection with this creature and Lady Hellaine? And what does a wealthy woman of breeding want with a poverty-stricken town beset by a murderous creature like Woodsborough?

Don's (Review): Number one mention needs to go the striking, incredibly beautiful cover art of this graphic novel; truly, maybe the most amazing cover of everything I read this year. Thankfully, the interior illustrations are just as lush, the story more complex than expected, even starting as early as the rather ... odd hints of all that was going on when the accident happened at the mine, right up to the end of a story that touches on so many issues, from family and loyalty to love and death to the rights of the privileged compared to the rights of the poor. And while I felt the story lost its way just a little at the end, going a bit over-the-top, this visually stunning graphic novel is never dull, often violent/gory, and simply tells a great yarn. Highly recommended. (Available December 8) 4/5 stars 

NOTE: I received a free ARC of this title from NetGalley and the publisher, in exchange for an honest review.

Reading: NIGHT NIGHT, NORMAN - Marie Dimitrova (author), Romi Caron (illustrator)

Prose (Story): A lushly-illustrated children's picture book, perfect for bedtime reading, about a young girl - Ellie - and the horse she loves, dotes on, and cares for - Norman - and what happens when, one evening, Norman becomes curious enough about where Ellie goes and what she does at night, he works his way out of his stall to find out.

Don's (Review): This is a very simple, no-frills, straightforward story, perfect to read little kids before bedtime, that should elicit conversations about what our pets do at night when we sleep. In this case, Norman the horse actually works his way into Ellie's house, and the shenanigans he gets up to once there should bring smiles to the faces of readers young and old, all while emphasizing the bond of a little girl and the horse she obviously and deeply cares for. Romi Caron's bold and vibrant illustrations are both comical and packed with color, and while for adults the story might be a little too basic/simplified, kids should eat up this sweet-natured, uplighting tale of pets and their young owners who love them. 3/5 stars

NOTE: I received a free ARC of this title from NetGalley and the publisher, in exchange for an honest review.

Reading: TOKYO GHOUL, VOL. 1 - Sui Ishida

Prose (Story): Ken Kaneki, a shy-to-the-point-of-introverted collge student in modern-day Tokyo, often hangs out with his more popular, outgoing best friend in a cafe frequented by a girl he's secretly had a crush on. When fate seems to itervene, the two of them officially talking, Kaneki finds out her name is Rize, and she seems as interested in him as he is in her. But this is a Tokyo where humans share the streets and neighborhoods with ghouls - creatures who look, sound and act just like humans ... except for their insatiable appetite for human flesh. When Kaneki decides to walk Rize home that night, a deadly attack results in emergency surgery for the college student, who wakes up in the hospital safe and whole - and the world's first human/zombie hybrid. Caught between two worlds - neither of which he feels he belongs in - volume one of this bestselling, hugely-popular manga series covers Kaneki's difficult adjustment to the "rules and regulations" of a ghoul's life ... including trying to fight off his ever-growing craving for human flesh.

Don's (Review): Having heard so, so much about this series - and it's subsequent films and anime TV series - for years, I was thrilled to get my hands on this volume, and am happy to say it lived up to (even surpassed) all my expectations. The stark black-and-white artwork is stunning, story replete with characters that breathe to life on the page, and Sui Ishida does an amazing job of making Ken Kaneki, in so short a time, one of the most endearing characters I've read in a while. You feel for this guy and the new, visceral and gory world he has to maneuver in, his deepest desire only to be human again even as you bleed for the guy because it's never going to happen. Supporting characters are just as strong (and surprsing), and I found myself glued to every panel throughout, to the point of being genuinely upset when I was done, and there was no more to read beause I didn't have volume two (especially given the teaser to it at the end of volume one). Terrific, scary, heartbreaking, darkly comic - and, I think (would have to look through  the list to be sure), my favorite manga/graphic novel read of 2020.  5/5 stars

NOTE: I received a free ARC of this title from NetGalley and the publisher, in exchange for an honest review.

Reading: ASH & THORN VOL. 1: RECIPE FOR DISASTER - Mariah McCourt (author), Soo Lee & Jill Thompson (illustrators)

Prose: Putting together issues 1-5 of the popular comic series, this is volume one of a graphic novel where the Apocalypse is at hand, and the world's only chance at a savior comes in the form of ... a crotchety old African-American gal with dreads named Lottie Thorn, who - along with her equally old trainer/mentor, Lady Peruvia Ashligton-Voss - drinks coffee and bakes a lot, in between Lottie honing her skills in kicking bad-ass creatures, preparation for the biggest of Big Bads to come.

Don's: Storywise, there's a lot to like here; I was originally drawn to reading it when I saw it compared to "The Golden Girls" meets "Buffy the Vampire Slayer" - and indeed, Lottie is built like Dorothy and has the same lack of tolerance for stupidity or baddies, while the chubby Lady Peruvia kind of feels like a Rose with more brains. The banter between these two is fun, as is the story, much of about Lottie's efforts to train even as she's already forced to fight monsters already seeping over into our world prior to the big invasion, as the graphic novel both plays up and pokes fun at various tropes of the genre. For me, though, the story just seemed a bit padded in the middle, to where I wasn't rushing to pick it up for some time, before finally getting to the final battle - and subsequent hint at a sequel - all of which, while fun reading it, afterward left me with wanting more. I'd also kind of fallen for the book's cover art, but to me inside the book the illustrations weren't up to the same style; darker, coarser, and with muted tones, the artwork is well-done and fits the mood of the dramatic part of the story, but for this reader didn't also reflect the wonderfully dry sense of humor sprinkled throughout, as well. Definitely worth a read, but will wait and see what volume two has in store before deciding to continue on with the series.  3/5 stars

NOTE: I received a free ARC of this title from NetGalley and the publisher, in exchange for an honest review.

Reading: MORIARTY THE PATRIOT, VOL. 1 - Ryosuke Takeuchi (author), Hikaru Miyoshi (illustrator)

Prose (Story): In 19th-century Britain class division has never been more pronounced, with nobles making money from and feeding off of the working class to maintain their lifestyle, while treating those who work to the death for them worse than animals. But for once, a noble is noticing the injustices of his class; first-born son Albert James Moriarty is disgusted with his nobility - even more with his own family's penchant for greed, and cruelty for the sake of fun - and when he talks his parents into adopting a pair of orphan brothers, noticing the more-than-unique level of intelligence of one of them who shares Albert's hatred of the rich and desire to level the playing field of the rich and the poor, a plan is set in motion. A plan that includes the destruction of Albert's own family ... and gives rise to the birth of the manipulative and highly-intelligent sociopath who would eventually become the arch-enemy of none other than the one and only Sherlock Holmes.

Don's (Review): A beautifully-illustrated manga tracing the rise of a young orphan with a hatred for nobles and desire for equality for all, who would become a professor while still in his teens and a Crime Consultant not above murder (execution?) of members of the piggish upper class as a means to an end. Just the start of a new series, readers are treated to Professor Moriarty as a young boy, manipulating a young noble tired of his life into aiding in the slaughter of his entire family, only to claim the orphaned Moriarty and his brother as his own blood to authorities afterward, securing their futures. It's only the beginning of the now-Moriarty brothers rise to destroying the rich and elevating the poor, and while this volume feels as if it only gives readers a bare-bones beginner's view of what our young professor is capable of doing - in terms of serving his country and making a better future, no matter how - the underlying genesis of the mad genius he would become before coming across Sherlock Holmes is there. Side characters and other villains - including Sebastian Moran - add dimension to the story, and by the end as a reader you really have a flavor for just how creepy one skinny like blond guy can be - and why he commands respect and fear from those who serve him. Wonderfully done, darkly funny at times, violent and edgy, and a delicious treat for anyone who ever wanted to see the one-percenters get what they deserve - even in 19th-century England. 4.5/5 stars

NOTE: I received a free ARC of this title from NetGalley and the publisher, in exchange for an honest review.

Reading: MARY: THE ADVENTURES OF MARY SHELLEY'S GREAT-GREAT-GREAT-GREAT-GREAT GRANDDAUGHTER - Brea Grant (author), Yishan Li (illustrator)

Prose (Story): Mary Shelley is a typical modern-day teen, if maybe a bit on the dark side. If she is dark, though, she had a reason: the overbearing legacy of being the great-times-5 granddaughter of none other than the Mary Shelley, the woman who became a legend by shocking society when she penned the iconic horror novel Frankenstein. Teen Mary is feeling the pressure of her lineage - for generations the female descendants of Mary Shelley have all proven themselves ambitious, successful novelists or writers - but somehow that bloodline seems to have run out in Mary, who doesn't want to be anything as much as she just wants to be. But when out late one night on the streets of her hometown in the rain, Mary come across a handsome young man limping her way. And when she finds out he's limping because he's holding his own severed foot in his hand - and has come to Mary asking her to re-attach it - the former goth-girl who spent so much time rejecting her heritage discovers that maybe she does have her own special talent, after all. Not to mention an affinity for attracting monsters.

Don's (Review): An interesting premise that, after a slightly slow start in building its world, blooms nicely into an original graphic novel about a young girl who believes she's pretty much coasting through life - not to mention trying to keep her pushy mother, aunt, and grandmother from driving her crazy by telling her she must be wonderful, somehow - who learns, with the help of a cute and possibly-dead boy, a Harpy, and a stuff bunny possessed by the spirit of Shirley Jackson, that her special gifts, indeed, might be the most important of all - not to mention save the monser community from extinction. The premise is great and mostly works, artwork suitably dark with shades of black and blue and purple, the writing especially strong in letting readers feel Mary's angst as a teen. If anything, I just wished for things to go on after the generally fulfilling Big Finale ... so much so that, if anything, I'm hoping at some point for a sequel. Oh yeah, and I seriously want my own Shirley Jackson-possessed bunny! Some toy manufacturer should seriously jump on this! 4/5 stars

NOTE: I received a free ARC of this title from NetGalley and the publisher, in exchange for an honest review.

Reading: TEEN TITANS GO! ROLL WITH IT - Heather Nuhfer & P.C. Morissey (authors), Agnes Garbowska & Sandy Jarrell (illustrators)

Prose (Story): Robin corrals the rest of the Teen Titans together for a rousing game of Basements & Basilisks, a D&D-style role-playing game with (naturally) Robin as the Basement Boss. But when Robin goes (naturally) goes overboard, drunk with power, and makes the game so difficult it's pretty much impossible to win, the rest of the Titans rebel, finding in a new Basement Boss who gives them a much easier time in the game ... so much so, Robin begins to realize that the other Titans are so into their fantasy world now - led on by a new BB who may not have the best of intentions - that his friends may just stay in there forever, ignoring their duties as crimefighters in Jump City.   

Don's (Review): While I have never played D&D or ever got into that gaming world, I still enjoyed watching Robin's ego leap out of control yet on cue - as well as watch the little guy try to reign it in again long enough to save his friends, especially as he caused the problem in the first place! The story is pretty standard - Robin as BB means an impossible-to-defeat game, the new BB making the game so ridiculously easy, the Titans get addicted - but for me, the real meat of the story is when the new BB's true identity is revealed, and the stakes ratchet up high for what might happen to Jump City if the Titans are lost in her world for good. I love a strong villain going up against the Titans, the more nefarious the better as it brings out Robin's crazier antics, and though I thought the second half of this graphic novel moved must faster than the first, time with the Titans is always well-spent; those kids are crazy! (Available November 10) 3.5/5 stars

NOTE: I received a free ARC of this title from NetGalley and the publisher, in exchange for an honest review.

Reading: KILLER KUNG PAO - Vivien Chien

Prose (Story): Book 6 in Vivien Chien's wonderful Noodle Shop cozy mystery series takes crime closer to home when, during Lana Lee's hair coloring appointment at the Asian Accents salon just down the way from her own family-owned Ho-Lee Noodle House in the Asia Village shopping plaza, a fellow salon customer - the notorious Mildred "Millie" Mao, known for frivolous lawsuits and stirring up trouble wherever she goes - is electrocuted via her foot bath. When it's learned that the only woman disliked more in Asia Village than Millie Mao - June Yi, co-owner of Yi's Tea and Bakery, who'd just gotten into a minor traffic accident with Millie the day before, and made no pretense of how much she hated the woman - was also a customer in the salon that morning, seen nearby Millie just before her death, the case seems cut-and-dried even for Lana's cop boyfriend, Adam Trudeau ... until June's sister comes begging Lana for help in clearing her sister of murder, the put-upon restaurant manager grudgingly taking on another case.  

Don's (Review): How I love this series, and couldn't be happier finding the bulk of this one takes place on Lana's home turf at Asia Village, so we can spend even more time with the Mahjong Matrons, Lana's family, and the other residents and business owners inhabiting the amateur sleuth's world. Author Vivien Chien impresses upfront with the deliciously original method of murder, and throughout the rest of the book as well, as we - along with Lana - go back and forth on trying to decide whether the hateful, mean-spirited June Yi actually is guilty of murder, or not. Red herrings, potential side motives, and recurring characters from past books in the series all rev up to a denouement this reader found both very suspenseful, surprising, and hugely satisfying. Perhaps my favorite in the series so far, Killer Kung Pao is another winner for both author Chien, and the always likable Lana Lee. 4.5/5 stars

NOTE: I received an ARC of this title from NetGalley and the publisher, in exchange for an honest review.

September Wrap-Up: Escaping Into Fall

Ever seen the demolition of a building? The way they place the charges so that boom-boom-boom, one after the other down the line the explosions go off one by one, slowly dropping the building from one end to the other until the entire structure's collapsed in thick clouds of dust and grit?

Such was my September. But with the end justifying the means, I've finally moved. Not an ideal situation, but good for now I think. But as the air turns cold with fall, body aches and bad knees are reminding me how long it's been since I've lived in a cold climate - and winter isn't even here yet!

The good news: some really good books have kept me warm. A light month, in a way, it also found me reading maybe my favorite picture book of all time (The Barnabus Project - a must-have for any kid's library), another wonderful cozy mystery in V.M. Burns's Dog Club mystery series, a pair of even-better-than-the-original kid sequels (Ollie's Haffiness and the especially wonderful Revenge of the Living Ted), a cocktail book based on the popular "Peaky Blinders" TV series that had me salivating - and winding up with a brilliant new children's series opener (Skunk and Badger) as well as a pair of graphic novels, one of which became an instant favorite when I finished it in one sitting! Even better? The reviews for all but two of these September titles - as well as an actual film review from one of the two films I watched in September (#Alive and Forgotten, both Korean films) are already up, so hope you enjoy! And if in the mood for some terrific Halloween-style laughs, hunt down the TV series "Los Espookys"; am two episodes in of the six encompassing season one, and already find it outright hilarious at times!

I normally love fall. The brisk air, leaves changing color and crunching under your feet when you walk. My birthday is also in October. But wondering how the elections next month will go - not to mention COVID Christmas 2020 - has me more than ever realizing what a grand and glorious escape books are. Films, too. So here's to more escaping, for us all, for the rest of 2020! 

Reading: CAT NINJA - Matthew Cody (author), Yehudi Mercado (illustator)

Prose (Story): Claude is an ordinary gray cat living a good life with his eleven-year-old boy owner and the kid's family in Metro City. But whenever danger strikes. Claude dons the costume of his alter ego - Cat Ninja! - and strikes out into the city against the forces of evil, using all the skills he learned as a kitten from his revered old ninja master. In volume one of a projected series, Cat Ninja takes on several foes - none so deadly as Master Hamster, who in his alter ego is "Mr. Squeaks", the pet of Claude's owner's young sister - before realizing a bigger enemy with much dire plans looms on the horizon; one he and Mr. Squeaks may have to work together to vanquish!

Don's (Review): Mind you, this is from a dog person: I love this book! Reading like part chapter book and part graphic novel, Cat Ninja's Cartoon Network-worthy artwork by Yehudi Mercado combines perfectly with the snarky, often very funny one-liners and jokes from the mind of writer Matthew Cody. Kids will love the story and characters, as well as the look of the book's colorful and lively palette, but adults reading it to them (or even for themselves) should also take equal pleasure from the characters and story being "in on the joke" even while taking things seriously - which of course makes things even funnier. I loved this one so much, soon as I was finished reading it I read it again; it's one of those books that, when you finish it, you'll wish you could run out and buy ten copies of, just to give each away to someone you love, who could use both a good story and a good laugh. 4.5/5 stars

NOTE: I received a free ARC of this title from NetGalley and the publisher, in exchange for an honest review.

Reading: MY RIOT - Rick Spears (author), Emmett Helen (illustrator)

Prose (Story): Val, a white teen from suburbia who studies ballet and has pretty much spent a lifetime keeping to herself, is growing discontent with dancing and the constant pressures of dieting or - worse - smoking in order to drop weight. One night while working at her job at an ice cream shop, a riot breaks out in the neighborhood, and in the process Val's store is invaded by looters and badly vandalized. She also meets another girl her age that night, one of the looters no less, who seems the opposite of Val in every way - free-spirited, her own person, raging against society - and the entire experience clicks something in Val, in a way that changes her forever. With the help of the girl from the riot - now her new friend - Val forms a band and enters the world of punk rock, ditching ballet and dying her hair and embracing an entirely new and rebellious life. 

Don's (Review): I really wanted to like this one, especially after identifying with Val and her journey in the opening scenes. But as I read on, this graphic novel lost my interest, becoming predictable yet somehow straining believability at the same time. People of color - even a Black girl the ladies bring into their band, turning her into a major supporting character - aren't exactly depicted in an always flattering light, and the relationship between Val and her mom comes off a little farfetched when, in the beginning, the two seem to argue or disagree on everything Val wants to do, Mom essentially worried about Val because she's young and immature ... until out of nowhere the mom suddenly seems to have an epiphany and pretty much gives her daughter the greenight for whatever she wants to do. The artwork, by Emmett Helen, is really good, but for me the color palette of black and white pages saturated in or overlayed with blotches of pastel colors throughout - presumably to set the mood for the punk rock-themed narrative? - left me bored and easily able to put the book down (sadly, without being especially anxious to pick it up again). Nothing wrong with the story or writing itself really, and in fact the scenes where the  band is playing concerts in grubby venues or clubs befitting their musical style, are when the story comes to life; those scenes, brief as they are, kept me reading. It just sometimes felt like everything else, all that tropey story, got in the way of something that could have been so much better. 2.5/5 stars

NOTE: I received a free ARC of this title from NetGalley and the publisher, in exchange for an honest review.

Watching: FORGOTTEN

Year: 2017

Rating: TV-MA

Director: Jang Hang-jun

Story: Handsome 21-year-old student Jin-seok (Kang Ha-neul), an easygoing guy on anxiety meds for an unnamed condition, moves into a new home with his parents and older brother, sharing a room with his brother after his father tells them that the previous homeowner is still storing some stuff in the other bedroom at the opposite end of the second-floor hall; a room he cautions his sons must never be entered. On top of second-guessing himself when Jin-seok begins to hear thumps and scrapes and other strange noises coming from behind the closed door at the end of the hall, the young man's life is further turned upside-down when he witnesses his brother Yoo-seok (Kim Mu-yeol) being kidnapped by a group of men one dark, rainy night ... and when Yoo-seok returns nineteen days later, with no memory of where he's been or what happened, Jin-seok slowly begins to realize that the man who came home just may not be his brother.

   

Review: One thing I love about Korean cinema (particularly over American cinema) is that films never "dumb down" their plots/stories for the audience. Sometimes the viewer has to think things out, get confused for a bit before figuring out fully what's going on. And the twists! Forgotten has them back to back to back, and just when you think you might have figured things out or at least know where things might be heading ... oops, wrong again! And you've gotten on another rollercoaster altogether. I watched this because of Kang Ha-neul, one of my most favorite actors, who here brings fresh-faced innocence to Jin-seok, whose fear and paranoia become palpable as he starts to try figuring out what's really going on with the man claiming to be his brother - even while, as the viewer, you wonder if all this is real, or how much Jin-seok's condition (and/or anti-anxiety meds) might figure into the equation, especially when Jin-seok begins questioning even his own parents' roles in whatever might be going on. The film's strength is definitely in building that sense of fear, confusion and dread in viewers right along with Jin-seok, and when the twists start coming - each flipping the story in nearly another direction - it's a heart-racing journey following the young man to the truth ... right up to the very final, even heartbreaking reveal in, literally, the last few moments of the film. My only "complaint," if you can call it that, is the film's not exactly uplifting ending. But even that felt - if not happy - at least felt "right"; the proper, honest closure to an exciting, very well-crafted and suspenseful thriller trying to mess with your mind ... and succeeding.  8.5/10 stars

Reading: SKUNK AND BADGER - Amy Timberlake (author), Jon Klassen (illustrator)

(BLOG TOUR SPOTLIGHT!)

Prose (Story): The Odd Couple meets Winnie the Pooh when an uptight, workaholic badger, whose life revolves around being a Rock Scientist and being left alone, has his life and home upended when he's forced to take in a roommate ... the sociable, talkative, friendly, chicken-loving(!) Skunk. 

Don's (Review): Badger lives in a big, two-story brownstone rent-free courtesy of his Aunt Lula, who owns the building. He lives alone and spends his days doing his important Rock Science work, eating the same cereal every day, his life one of orderliness and quiet. That is, until he ignores a few of Aunt Lula's letters letting him know she's also okayed the outgoing, boisterous, very social Skunk to share the brownstone with him, which Badger has no clue about until the affable Skunk shows up at his door, suitcase in hand. Left with no choice, the duo become roommates, Skunk soon getting on every one of Badger's nerves, even as he also introduces the staid Badger to things like a hot, homemade breakfast ... and chickens. Many, many chickens. Award-winning author Amy Timberlake has fashioned a sweet, funny story about tolerance and friendship, creating two very different characters readers of all ages will grow to love and root for, even as they sort of get on each other's nerves. Having read an advanced copy, my only caveat to the book was I was hoping for more of Jon Klassen's beautifully-rendered, Pooh-like black-and-white and color artwork throughout, but have since learned that readers buying the hardbound version of the finished novel will indeed be treated to a beautifully-bound copy with amazing art under the book jacket, and even more full-color plates and black-and-white illustrations inside - so you can bet I will be getting mine, as the artwork is fabulous, fitting the story to perfection. Timberlake has really done a masterful job of creating two main characters who at times are both easy to understand, while at times you can also see how each could be frustrating to the other's lifestyle - much like the real world, where you take people (and animals) as you find them, adapting yourself to their pluses and minuses and accepting them for who they are, if they are to be part of your world. And when things come to a head and Skunk moves out after a very unfortunate - and smelly - accident, by then as a reader you're so invested in these two wonderful animals, you hope that acceptance is a lesson the normally stodgy, disagreeable Badger will learn, as well.  4.5/5 stars

NOTE: I received a free ARC of this title from NetGalley and the publisher, in exchange for an honest review.

Reading: PEAKY BLINDERS COCKTAIL BOOK - Sandrine Houdre-Gregoire

Prose (Story): Inspired by the wildly-popular television series, this is an officially-licensed guide to 40 easy-to-make cocktails - divided by three sections: Whiskey, Gin, and Other Spirits - that will make you feel right at home hanging out with the Shelby clan. Also interspersed with photos from the series.

Don's (Review): I'm not even that much of a drinker, but with each turn of the page - featuring the drink recipes on the left and a full-color photo, shot in a very "Peaky" way, on the right - of this gorgeous hardbound book, I found myself wanting to try pretty much each and every one of these amazing-looking/sounding drinks, especially from the Whiskey section. Whether the John Shelby, featuring Chartreuse and Apple Jack and rye whiskey, to the Inspector Campbell sprayed at the end with a mist of absinthe, to the Epsom (featuring gin, Cherry Marnier Liqueur, and one egg white), to Arthur's Coffee (cardamom pods, coffee liqueur, gin and cold espresso) or the amazing-looking Grand Duke (Burgundy wine, Cognac, blackberry liqueur), even a Champagne Cocktail livened up by a quarter of sugar cube and Cognac - each page, each drink takes you right back to the brilliant series and its characters, and pretty much had me salivating on the page. Beautifully done, and a must for any bar or barkeep - not to mention fans of the series! (Available September 22)  5/5 stars

(Left to right: The John Shelby, the Inspector Campbell, the Epsom, Arthur's Coffee, the Grand Duke, and the Champagne Cocktail. Click on image to enlarge.)

NOTE: I received a free ARC of this title from NetGalley and the publisher, in exchange for an honest review.

Reading: REVENGE OF THE LIVING TED - Barry Hutchison (author), Lee Cosgrove (illustrator)

Prose (Story): Picking up literally the morning after the events of Night of the Living Ted, this sequel finds suburban school kid Lisa Marie and her half-brother Vernon once again fighting for their lives and their town when an old nemesis comes back to take his revenge ... along with his thousand-strong teddy bear army.

Don's (Review): As much as I loved Night of the Living Ted, I gotta say I enjoyed this crazy, funny, thrill ride of a sequel even more. Hard to say too much without spoilers, but after Lisa Marie and Vernon manage to save their town by shutting down the heinous, Halloween night invasion of teddy bears from the first book, the kids wake up the next morning only to be astonished when not a single person - adult or child - in their town, besides them, even remembers the whole thing happening! Even Vernon's bully of a buddy, Drake - who himself was changed into a cutesy-wutesy teddy just the night before - seems to have no recollection of the incident. Only when Lisa Marie and Vernon are suddenly kidnapped by a mysterious man with his own mission, do things become clear ... before an old, furry enemy takes control yet again, this time determined to make the kids pay for their thwarting of him in the first place. And WOW, did I love every page of it! My only (mild) complaint is that the ending felt a bit rushed; other than that, I seriously think - between the wacky plot/storyline and Lee Cosgrove's animation-like illustrations - that Netflix (or someone) should snap this up and turn it into the funny, subversive and snarky series or series of films it deserves to be. This was so great, even better than the first, and this reader for one already anxiously awaits Invasion of the Living Ted - not, sadly, due until January!  4.5/5 stars

NOTE: I received a free ARC of this title from NetGalley and the publisher, in exchange for an honest review.

Reading: OLLIE'S HAFFINESS - Riya Aarini (author), Virvalle Carvallo (illustrator)

Prose (Story): Book two in the Carefree Ollie early reader children's series finds our hero losing his front teeth, which he promptly leaves in an envelope for the Tooth Fairy in the hopes of getting his wish of having a pet lizard. Sure enough, upon waking up he finds a cage on his nightstand housing a bright green chameleon, whom Ollie instantly calls "Haffiness" (thanks to his missing teeth). But when Ollie proves easily distracted from his pet owner duties and Haffiness turns up missing from his tank, the worried boy goes on the hunt, determined to get his new friend back. 

Don's (Review): Being a fan of the first book in the series, Ollie's Backpack, I have to say I loved this one even more. Again bursting with colorful, full-of-life illustrations kids will love and ogle - courtesy of Virvalle Carvallo - having been a pet owner since childhood, I also really appreciate how author Riya Aarini here spins an entertaining story around a message that will hit home to kids about really caring for (and taking responsibility for) the pets they love. Don't worry, things end on a positive note here, but just don't be surprised if, after reading this engaging book to your kids, they start asking you for a lizard of their own. (Available September 12)  4/5 stars

NOTE: I received a free ARC of this title from NetGalley and the publisher, in exchange for an honest review.

Reading: PAW AND ORDER - V.M. Burns

Prose (Story): Book four in V.M. Burns's popular Dog Club cozy mystery series finds Chattanooga's newest amateur sleuth, Lilly Echosby, donning her deerstalker again when uber-rich dog aficionado Archibald Lowry is murdered at her friend Dixie's charity event (which happens to take place at the museum Lilly works for), and Lilly subsequently becomes custodian of his favorite pet poodle ... whom other, more malevolent forces also have their sights on.

Don's (Review): Somehow, some way, I bonded with Lilly Ann Echosby from the minute I met her on the page. I get the same warm, hot-chocolatey feels reading her novels that I get every time I watch an old episode of "Murder, She Wrote" - and actually, feel just as squishy for her friends like Dixie and BJ and Dr. Morgan, daughter Stephanie and potential son-in-law Joe, and of course Red - Lilly Ann's cop boyfriend. All of the above, happily, are featured here along with a slew of new suspects - er, characters - and the mystery surrounding whodunnit in the stabbing murder of Archibald Lowry is well-paced as Lilly, along with her visiting daughter and gang of Watson-like friends, unpeels the layers of what ends up being the darker-than-expected eccentric millionaire's past, while getting closer to the truth. Indeed, another hallmark of the series is that the books are short, quick reads, trimmed of fat so that the mystery moves along swiftly, clues and red herrings leading us - in this case - to one of the better, more suspenseful finales I've read in a cozy in awhile. A solid mystery, but with this series what makes me always come back as much as the puzzle is the extremely likable, life-like cast of characters in Lilly Ann and her world; the humor and heart they bring that makes you wish they were friends of yours in the real world.  4/5 stars

NOTE: I received a free ARC of this title from NetGalley and the publisher, in exchange for an honest review.

Reading: THE BARNABUS PROJECT - The Fan Brothers (Terry Fan, Eric Fan, and Devin Fan)

Prose (Story): Perfect Pets is the ultimate pet store, where adults and kids alike can buy their (literally) perfect pet, thanks to genetic engineering. What no one knows, however, is that far beneath the store, buried deep underground, is the lab where these pets are created ... and where the Failed Projects, like the half mouse-half elephant Barnabus, are stored in glass cases, awaiting their fate at the hands of the Green Rubber Suits. But when Barnabus's friend Pip, a cockroach who has seen the world above, tells Barnabus of a land where the hills are green and the buildings are filled with stars that reach to the sky, the young mouse/elephant hybrid decides its time for him and his fellow "Failed Projects" friends to find their own place in the real world above.

Don's (Review): Terry and Eric Fan first blew me away with their brilliant, beautiful picture book Ocean Meets Sky; here, aided by a third brother - Devin - the Brothers Fan have ramped things up another notch, not only producing one of the most gorgeously-rendered picture books any child could ever own, but also imbuing real heart and soul into a story that will resonate with any child who has ever felt less because he or she was "different". Not only do Barnabus, Pip and their friends come to life on the page, their "breakout" and means of escape from the lab flows organically from the story; you truly, really see, with each step, how they systematically plan/make their way, and will be rooting for this group of heroes the entire time. A simple tale with incredible depth at its core, The Barnabus Project is a love story for anyone who's ever felt like they didn't belong - and if you had any heart at all for The Island of Misfit Toys from the Rankin-Bass "Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer" Christmas special of your childhood, you are going to love this, as I did.  5/5 stars

August Wrap-Up: The Books of Summer

Have been fortunate to have read some really great books over the summer, and August was no exception. Starting off with the decadence of Kevin Crazy Rich Asians Kwan's newest, Sex and Vanity, I fell in love with Capri sight unseen ... segueing to the Teen Titans (whom I've always loved; they just crack me up), a new, made-for-kids version of Scrooge's tale that had me flashing back to old-time animation ... and two very similar yet infinitely different cozies set in east-coast B&B's that had me missing that part of the country badly, too.

That's not counting vikings, a farting pony, an adorable rescue kitten, trashed Christmas decorations, or a gerbil talked into purposefully eating the homework of one of the funniest kids I know. But you can check out the reviews yourself, below - or, as always, as I get them added; only finally just caught up with July!

No new films or TV series to report, but as my life preps to change greatly in just the next week or so, who knows what September's wrap-up will be like (though already have two books under my belt so far). Either way, I hope you stick around for it - or come back again, especially as I try to turn this catching-up-on-reviews thing into a trend.

Stay safe - stay sane - stay masked!

Reading: BIG NATE: THE GERBIL ATE MY HOMEWORK - Lincoln Peirce

Prose (Story): Yet another entry in the New York Times bestselling series of comic collections featuring the hilarious, self-absorbed and wholly subversive middle schooler, Big Nate: The Gerbil Ate My Homework focuses on a new year in middle school for the little ... tyke.

Don's (Review): I don't know how many of these I've read now (Big Nate has been featured in comics for something like thirty years, so we're talking a lot), but as much as I very rarely have had a single negative thing to say about any Big Nate collection, somehow this one is even better than most; focusing on a new year in middle school during which (among other things) Nate breaks up with his girl, tries to pin his lack of homework skills on the hapless class gerbil, Sherman, and even turns his plump little friend and classmate Chad into a superhero by directing his first film, I laughed out loud even more at this school-focused collection that shows off Peirce's narcissistic little middle-schooler at his best. Or is it his worst? Either way, bring on some more of Big Nate - always.  4.5/5 stars

NOTE: I received a free ARC of this title from NetGalley and the publisher, in exchange for an honest review.

Reading: JASMINE GREEN RESCUES: A KITTEN CALLED HOLLY - Helen Peters (author), Ellie Snowdon (illustrator)

Prose (Story): In the latest entry in the popular chapter-book series for kids, young Jasmine Green and her best friend Tom, while checking out a broken-down shed on Jasmine's farm as a potential clubhouse, discover a stray/feral cat and her three kittens. When they scare the mom away, who comes back later and only moves two of her three kittens - leaving the little black bundle of fur behind - Jasmine talks her veterinarian mother into letting her and Tom take it in to foster, just in time for the upcoming winter holidays. 

Don's (Review): This is, I believe, book seven in the Jasmine Green series (she fosters a different animal in each book), which I had never heard of before coming across this title. Though set in modern day, the tone of the book, thanks to writer Helen Peters, is very reminiscent of classic children's books like the Little House on the Prairie series; the writing is crisp, not a word wasted so that the story moves along quickly, with equally old-fashioned-looking charcoal or pencil-like illustrations by illustrator Ellie Snowdon that fit so well with the charmingly old-fashioned feel of the story. Better still, Jasmine and her siblings and Tom come off as real kids, who make mistakes and goof up (and wow, do they goof up when some cats get loose near the Christmas decor), and learn to take responsibility when necessary; it's a great read for, I think, early school-age readers to explore and enjoy even on their own. Normally someone who finds "old-fashioned" can often border on "schmaltzy", imagine my surprise when I had a tear or two in my eyes by the end of this fine, very well-done chapter book. Now that's saying something, and I look forward to going back and reading more about Jasmine's other animal rescues now .  4.5/5 stars

NOTE: I received a free ARC of this title from NetGalley and the publisher, in exchange for an honest review.

Reading: TEA & TREACHERY - Vicki Delany

Prose (Story): Former New York City pastry chef Lily Roberts trades in her big-city life to become owner of Tea by the Sea, a traditional English tearoom situated at the edge of the Victorian B&B her grandmother Rose owns and runs on the bluffs of Cape Cod. Having only recently opened for the season, Lily's initial success is tempered by the accidental death of shady real estate developer Jack Ford, a man who fell to his death on Rose's property just one day after she and Ford had a bitter argument over his buying the property next to hers. Dealing with crooked politicians, an even more potentially crooked cop, and one hunky British gardener as distractions, Lily must keep her tearoom running while helping Rose at the B&B as she searches for a murderer to prove her grandmother innocent.  

Don's (Review): I loved Lily from page one, maybe even more so her no-nonsense, take-no-prisoners grandmother, Rose - who, in a fight, I'd want on my side every time. The discovery of the body is handled very well, the detectives who show up (one a slovenly, heavyset pawn of local politicians, the other a savvy and smart female detective newly relocated from Boston) making for a nice contrast even as the bad cop obviously fixates on Rose as guilty right off. Lily's investigation is logical and builds suspense, while the crime-solving team of Lily's best (female) friend Bernie and grandma Rose, who together have the potential to stir up all sorts of trouble, provides some brilliant comic relief in between the tracking down of suspects and overturning of lies (of which there are many). Thankfully, even any potential romance for Lily and her suave and sexy gardener is handled as a blip on the radar for now, this very well-plotted book's focus almost solely on the mystery right up until a rather rowdy confrontation that's both satisfying and downright fun to read. Author Delany's writing is tight, her characters exceptionally likable, and while I wish I could visit Tea by the Sea in person (and I'm not normally a tea drinker), I am more than happy to wait for the next installment in this entertaining new series.  4.5/5 stars

Reading: THE PRINCESS AND THE PONY - Kate Beaton

Prose (Story): Princess Pinecone, an adorable little girl who wants nothing more than to be a fierce warrior battling side by side with her family and kin, decides that asking for her own horse - a big, strong, victorious horse - for her birthday would be a good start to getting into the fray ... until that day comes and the short, chubby little pony with the wonky eyes she receives as a gift doesn't exactly scream "warrior princess".

Don's (Review): Love Princess Pinecone, love the pony (trouble with flatulence and all), and love where the story goes in this laugh-out-loud early reader book for kids, featuring a girl-power heroine who learns that power can come in different forms. This is my first Kate Beaton, after hearing so many good things about her work, but it won't be my last; fart jokes and all, this is a must-have book young kids will return to again and again, that will equally entertain adults, too.  4.5/5 stars

Reading: BOOKED FOR DEATH - Victoria Gilbert

Prose (Story): Book one in Victoria Gilbert's new Booklovers B&B Mystery series, set in Beaufort, North Carolina, follows Charlotte Reed - new owner of Chapters, a B&B specializing in bookish themes she inherited from her quirky (even mysterious) great-aunt Isabella - who, during a weekend of festivities celebrating the life/work of mystery writer Josephine Tey, finds herself under suspicion when a rare book dealer (and guest) at Chapters, having hinted at some dark dealings in Isabella's past, is found stabbed to death during a party. 

Don's (Review): Gilbert expertly fills her B&B with plenty of worthy suspects - including Chapters's long-time cook/housekeeper, Charlotte's fill-in chef, and even her bookstore-owning best friend; all characters you expect to return in future installments, so long as they not have committed murder here! This adds a nice layer of insecurity as Charlotte begins nosing into whodunnit it, and herself can't even trust anyone completely, as she is so new to the scene, herself! Another plus that's a bit more rare in cozies is a full-on "B" storyline, featuring Charlotte's great-aunt Isabella, that at times is as intriguing to guess at as the primary murder mystery itself; I really liked how Gilbert seamlessly wove the two plots together right up to the end, almost making Isabella (who, being deceased, is never "on-camera") as much a character as anyone else in the book. The mystery is well-developed, pacing spot-on as Charlotte's investigation brings her closer to the killer, and without giving spoilers I also like Gilbert's fresh/different take on the usual cozy finale, where normally the amateur sleuth and villain would just have a one-on-one, with the sleuth clearly at the disadvantage. Well-done, and looking forward to book two!  4/5 stars

NOTE: I received a free ARC of this title from NetGalley and the publisher, in exchange for an honest review.

Reading: A CHRISTMAS CAROL - Charles Dickens (author), Phillip Gooden (adapted by)

Prose (Story): This Easy Classics illustrated edition, by Sweet Cherry Publishing, of Charles Dickens's iconic classic Christmas tale re-tells - this time with a few bits from the novel not usually found in, say, the best-known film versions - the story of the miserly, miserable Ebenezer Scrooge, who through the late night visits of three spirits, finds redemption and his heart in discovering what Christmas is truly about. 

Don's (Review): The oft-told tale still manages to feel fresh here and will appeal to kids of all ages, largely due to the stylized illustrations that young ones will find cute and funny ... while adults like me, who grew up with Underdog, Clutch Cargo, and more animation from back when Saturday mornings were spent with cartoons on TV, will wax nostalgic over the broadly-drawn characters of similar style. The already-short novel is perfectly adapted to hold, along with the artwork, even the youngest person's attention, while older kids and adults will find this version one to return to repeatedly on- or off-season, due to the story's perfect length and message of always being kind, but especially at Christmas. Really glad Gooden included, as mentioned, a few tidbits from the novel itself that I had forgotten from reading it so long ago; a nice touch that somehow freshened up a story so many of us know by heart already. (Available September 29)  4.5/5 stars

NOTE: I received a free ARC of this title from NetGalley and the publisher, in exchange for an honest review. 

Reading: TEEN TITANS GO! TO CAMP - Sholly Fisch (author), Marcelo DiChiara & Agnes Garbowska & Dario Brizuela & Abigail Larson & more (illustrators)

Prose (The Story): After the uber-competitive Robin caused a landslide of molten marshmallow - during a hideous giant s'mores fiasco - effectively shutting down their last summer camp, this year the Teen Titans find themselves spending an even slightly more ... challenging six weeks at Camp Apokolips, which rather resembles Purgatory on a bad day, complete with fire pits and parademons and the presence of activity director Granny Goodness, a white-haired, chubby old lady whose evil eye is on auto-pilot along with her temper. Further to frustrate are the opposing bunks; the Titans must go up against the Titans East and the H.I.V.E. Five to compete in some very dangerous camp games - Robin, blindly and bullheaded-ly leading the way in his personal and selfish quest for the Camper of the Year title, no matter what - or who - he has to crush to get it.

Don's (Thoughts): I love the Teen Titans, and this graphic novel depicts the gang's usual determination to win (or at least stay alive), no matter what insanity Robin leads them into with his big head and ego. The book has a few laugh-out-loud moments (Cyborg's band camp obsession won my heart) and is filled with the snarky humor you'd expect from the series; if I had any complaints, it would be that here the rest of the Titans seem to take a backseat to Robin's shenanigans throughout. One nice touch: each chapter ends with one of the team member's letters they've sent back home, talking about (and often playing up) the "great" time they are having at the horrible camp. Granny Goodness is very funny (even if she did bring back memories of an old grade-school teacher I'd rather have forgotten), and the ending is way cool ... right up to the last letter home depicted in the book, my personal favorite. Could have used a little more punch, but a solid and funny addition to the Teen Titans lexicon!  3.5/5 stars

NOTE: I received a free ARC of this title from NetGalley and the publisher, in exchange for an honest review.