Bayou

http://graphicnovelreporter.com/content/bayou-review
http://beguilethysorrow.blogspot.com/2010/05/graphic-novelcomic-review-bayou-by.html
http://boingboing.net/2009/05/27/bayou-chilling-ghost.html
http://fierceandnerdy.com/sensational-saturday-bayou-volume-1-by-jeremy-love-book-24-of-2010
http://www.thenerdybird.com/2009/07/graphic-novel-review-bayou-vol-1.html
http://www.dreamstuffbooks.com/blog/2009/08/28/bone-and-bayou-a-graphic-novel-reviews/
http://comicsworthreading.com/2009/05/16/2009-glyph-comics-awards-winners-announced-bayou-sweeps/
http://www.fantasy-magazine.com/2009/02/bayou-by-jeremy-love-patrick-morgan/
http://astripedarmchair.wordpress.com/2009/09/01/a-graphic-novelmemoir-extravaganza/
http://www.thingsmeanalot.com/2009/08/bayou-vol-1-by-jeremy-love.html

Crecy

Reviews:

http://www.avatarpress.com/2007/03/crecy-graphic-novel-new-apparat-gn-by-warren-ellis/
http://www.avatarpress.com/2007/04/fans-of-300-should-check-out-upcoming-ellis-epic-crecy/
http://www.theplugg.com/book-review-crecy/
http://hubpages.com/hub/Warren_Ellis_brings_the_medieval_war_with_Crecy
http://www.warrenellis.com/?p=5320
http://www.abandonia.com/vbullet/showthread.php?p=403318
https://www.bigbadtoystore.com/bbts/product.aspx?product=AVA10014&mode=retail

http://www.librarything.com/work/3221764

Pyoungyang: A Journey in North Korea

Pyoungyang: A Journey in North Korea
By Guy Delisle
ISBN(HC): 978-0896597898

An interesting look at something we don't get to see much of, and an interesting look at how North Korea treats its visitors, as well as some glimpses into their view of the world.

To Sum: Guy Delisle is a contract animator, who takes an assignment in North Korea for two months, and this is his account.

What to watch out for: Not to much, all things considered. Drinking, smoking, some adult situations (parties/hitting on opposite gender, but more the just dealing with being in such a oppressive place when you aren't from there.)

Where to Shelve: There's not much in it that would offend the younger generation, however, the idea of living in another country for two months? Strikes me as more of an adult thing to read. Not saying older teens couldn't handle it, but I think the adults are the ones that would be more likely to pick it up.

Waltz with Bashir

Waltz with Bashir: A Lebanon War Story
Ari Folman and David Polonsky
978-0-805088922

First impressions: There's a lot to this one. As with many other graphic novels, there is a lot said, without a lot being said. It highlights something that many of us didn't know or forgot about; teaching us again about history or reminding us of it.

This isn't an easy book to read. I am saddened to admit that I don't know much of what went on, being very young when this occurred. But it does highlight a failing of my own, and I have a feeling over the next few graphic novels, I'm about to get a major education.

It should also be noted that the movie came first. Although the movie came out of the author's love of graphic novels, and the animated medium allowed for better expression.

To Sum: A gentleman realizes he has no recollections of a massacre that he was present for and goes and talks to others that served with him to find out what happened, and if he was really there.

What to Watch Out For: Well, this is dealing with a 19 year old during the Lebanon war during 1982. There is a scene of a sexual nature, there's fighting, there's blood, there's the shooting of dogs. And the final pictures (actual photographs) of bodies in the street. There's also the idea that there was very little for the soldiers to do to prevent what happened. Oh, and there's a massacre of innocent people.

Where to shelve: The movie is rated R, and that would mean 17+. That would mean adult for my library.

Should a library have it: Honestly, yes. The graphic novel, from what I've read, has been adapted from the movie. Meaning something things have been presented differently as there's no soundtrack, no animation. And as I pointed out, I don't remember much of this going on. I'm sure it was on the news, but I had all but forgotten, if ever I knew. It's not a happy-go-lucky, feel-good novel. But it does show us a different side of oppression - not the oppressor, nor the oppressed, but the witness who can do nothing, or who is helping the oppressed without knowing/knowing it's wrong.

Other links and reviews:

Metropolitan Books Publishes Waltz with Bashir—the Graphic Novel

http://www.grovel.org.uk/waltz-with-bashir/
http://www.huffingtonpost.com/tom-engelhardt/iwaltz-with-bashiri-the-g_b_160565.html
http://dejiridoo.com/blog1/reviews/full-reviews/waltz-for-bashir-graphic-novel/
http://middleeast.about.com/od/booksopinions/fr/me090308a.htm

http://www.alternet.org/blogs/peek/122371/waltz_with_bashir%3A_popular_animated_film_released_as_a_graphic_novel/

http://middleeast.about.com/od/booksopinions/fr/me090308a.htm
http://www.zimbio.com/Ari+Folman/articles/19/GRAPHIC+NOVEL+FRIDAY+WALTZ+BASHIR
http://www.zcommunications.org/waltz-with-bashir-part-1-by-ari-folman
http://www.zcommunications.org/waltz-with-bashir-part-2-by-ari-folman
http://open.salon.com/blog/booknut/2009/02/06/waltz_with_bashir
http://www.afterdowningstreet.org/node/39265

The Unknown, Vol. 1

The Unknown, Vol. 1
Mark Waid, writer
Boom! Studios
978-1934506974

Observations: An interesting read, a slight deviation from the normal superhero sort of comics, but it does raise interesting questions not normally thought of by those in tights. Weighing heavily on the main character is the question of what happens after we die, and the story focuses around her and her assistant solving a mystery which involves that question.

To Sum: The world's greatest detective has a sharp mind, a brain tumor, and about six months to live. Now, she wants to solve the greatest mystery of them all... What happens when we die? Too bad other things keep popping up.

What to watch out for: Not much. There is some "cult" like activities and the normal violence. This book is more based around science and philosophy with some story thrown in.

Where to shelve: Adults would like it, but there's nothing in there to stop teens from reading it.

Should a library have it: Mark Waid is well known in the comic book industry, most notably for Kingdom Come, but he's one of those people that you will find pretty much everywhere. He's done some good work, and if people enjoy graphic novels, this would be a good title to recommend. It's similar enough to other things, but just slightly different. It will be interesting to see where the next volume goes.

How I heard about it: At a comic book convention. The cover caught my eye. And then Mark Waid was there.

Other sites of interest:
http://www.newsarama.com/comics/030903-Waid-Unkown.html
http://www.brokenfrontier.com/lowdown/p/detail/the-unknown-mark-waid


Other reviews:

http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/product-description/1934506974/ref=dp_proddesc_0?ie=UTF8&n=283155&s=books

Solomon Kane

Soloman Kane: Castle of the Devil
By Scott Alie

Overview:

A well done story. Fans of ... Hmmm... I know the people that would pick this up, but I'm not sure what they have in common. They love a good story. They love sci-fi. They love the old comic books. Solomon Kane has two of the three - and in place of sci-fi, this book has a bit of horror/fantasy. But it's definitely in the same vein as... Conan, if only in a different time. Man lives by his code. Does not deviate from his code. And does his best to improve the world.

Maybe more like Punisher. Except Kane's a Puritan, and fights demons. And men. And evil men.

To Sum: Soloman Kane is a Puritan out to rid the world of evil. He travels a lot, and along the way he meets another Englishman in the Black Forest of Germany. (Think Barvaria, Grimms' Fairy Tale sort of setting). Kane cuts down a boy who was dangling, and goes to find out what has called him to this place and what the evil is that he must deal with.

What to watch out for: We do have some... Religiously conservative people in our area. Depending on their mood, I could see them being offended by the demon in angelic form, although in other moods I could see them pointing to that as a way of proving the need for Constant Vigilance. Aside from religion/demonic aspect, there are some horror elements, but nothing too over the top.

Where to Shelve: Honestly, this is a comic book that I see appealing to the older crowd. Not because of content, but because it reminds me of the old pulp comics. Stoic hero saves the day without compromise. Okay, the book is better than that sum, but it does put me in mind of Conan, the Phantom, and other older comics.

Other Reviews:

http://www.indenvertimes.com/mel-odom-solomon-kane-a-compelling-graphic-novel/
http://bookhound.wordpress.com/2009/07/21/solomon-kane-the-castle-of-the-devil-by-scott-allie-mike-mignola-and-dave-stewart/
http://www.epinions.com/review/Book_Solomon_Kane_1_The_Castle_of_the_Devil_Scott_Allie/content_514493943428
http://www.graemesfantasybookreview.com/2010/07/kull-conqueror-solomon-kane-dark-horse.html

Life has intervened yet again

So, life's been busy as of late. Impending births, deaths, and work load. Thankfully, all of that is happening around me (with the exception of the work load... the work load is stemming from the first two not happening to me, but to coworkers.)

And I'm taking a short break from graphic novels to ponder some things, including how to argue in favor of an adult graphic novel section. I really do want to write an article, do a presentation, something on it.

In addition to that, I've finally been convinced to read a novel that everyone's been talking about. Great heroine, a love interest... A fantastic novel, and I can't wait to finish and read the follow up books.

I'm talking about The Hunger Games. I'm about 3/4ths of the way through and what a great book. It's a good distraction for everything else that's been going on.

However, I do have some graphic novels checked out, so I will get those read and reviewed.

Loveless

I've hit my first real stumper. Loveless - the graphic novel by Brian Azzarello.

So, it's Loveless Vol. 1 - A Kin of Homecoming.

My problems are thus and such:

Wow, the language. And yes, it probably could be argued that that was the language they used, however I'm not sure that having n-gger constantly throughout a book is really going to aid the book against any potential challenges. Also, there's plenty of Mother-f*ckers and the like throughout.

There's also about two pages of more explicit sex than I'm comfortable with. One is a scene of a woman seducing her husband - a finger licking, nipple rubbing, and it's implied that it's also vaginal touching, followed be a silouhette of him on top of her in a sexual position. (Missionary, if any one is curious). The next page shows the woman, in flashback, being raped by a union soldier, and finding out that all the men have had a go of her, and - no! wait - the black soldiers haven't, so let them have a go.

Now, if is was presented as more of a historical piece, I don't think I would have such a hard time with it. The art work isn't bad, but... I feel like the book is trying to push the envelope, but instead just crossed the line.

More disturbing to me, I guess, is finding out that a lot of libraries have it shelved in their YA section...

If I'm having a hard time justifying bringing it into an adult section - does it really belong in the YA?

The other problem, is I'm having a hard time finding reviews of this. Which makes me wonder if it belongs in the library.

But this also raises a concern of mine. I'm not for censorship, but I do have a duty to get materials that fit within the standards of the library. I take that to mean the I have to be able to justify why anything is in my section - good review in Booklist, PW, or LJ, but also, if it has good reviews among other graphic novel readers. I'm doing my best to defend my choices and give my library no reason to question what I do, or to have any reason as to doubt my ability.

That being said, it does concern me greatly to hear people say that they have titles like this in their teen section - especially when it says right on the back that it's suggested for mature audiences.

Am I saying they are asking for trouble? ... A little. If I'm having a problem justifying putting this into my adult graphic novel section, does it really belong in the YA?

Comic Book Tattoo

Comic Book Tattoo Special Edition
Various authors and artists
ISBN: 978-1607060314
Published by Vertigo


Some of these stories are out there, some are thought provoking, some are just provoking. Some, well, there has to be a few "eh" in every collection.

To Sum: That being said, this is a collection of short stories inspired by the music and lyrics of Tori Amos. For those not familiar with Tori Amos, she's almost the weird cousin to Sarah McLachlin. She can be raunchy, honest, imaginative, twisted, and brutally open about her experiences.

And the graphic novel reflects that.

This is a hefty tome.

What to Watch out for: Well, this deals with some unusual themes, but if you've listened to some of Tori's music, so does she. There's some scenes and story lines that are dark, and explore an alternative life style. There's some twisty bits. There are also sweet stories, so it's not all weird.

Where to shelve: Adult. Nuff said. Older teens may like it, but this is probably best left in the adult section.

Should a library have it: There is literary merit, yes. There is also some gorgeous artwork.

How I heard about it: I didn't order this one, but did see it at B&N. This was one that was ordered about the time I was hired.

Other Reviews:

http://www.graphicnovelreporter.com/content/comic-book-tattoo-review
http://www.comicbookresources.com/?page=article&id=15838
http://www.diamondbookshelf.com/public/default.asp?t=1&m=1&c=20&s=423&ai=76967
http://www.secondsupper.com/review.php?r=86
http://blog.oregonlive.com/steveduin/2008/09/comic_review_comic_book_tattoo.html
http://www.fantasy-magazine.com/2008/09/comic-book-tattoo-ed-rantz-hoseley/

http://blog.newsarama.com/2008/12/18/interview-comic-book-tattoo/

Death: The High Cost of Living

Review to come tonight.

Initial reaction - Well done story that will appeal to some teens and adults. Well done.

Nylon Road

Nylon Road: A Graphic Memoir of Coming of Age in Iran
Written and illustrated by Parsua Bashi
ISBN: 9780312532864
St. Martin's Griffin

Quick Note: Many other reviews have compared this to Persepolis, a graphic novel that I have not read. As I haven't read it, I can't compare the two of them.

To Sum: The simple summary is that it is a writer/artist reflecting on what she's been through. However, there's a lot to this, and maybe more so because it's not a topic we hear a lot about in the West. Or worse, we stereotype and characterize the people from that region as all the same.

But, the interesting thing to me at least, was how universal her discoveries are. For example - at one point, she makes the connection that although the Europeans are very ignorant of Iran and the Middle East, she was just as ignorant of Europe and its people when she was in Iran.

And one of those truths? "I learned that not knowing is not a sin. Not knowing and yet being prejudice is where the problem starts."(Pg. 79)

What to Watch out for: This book covers a lot of topics, and few things are shown. However, it does talk about things from a mature standpoint of someone looking back at their life, and who they were at different points. The laws in Iran are very different from ours, and she shows this. There is some depictions of modern late teens in skimpy outfits as well as frank talk about stereotypes and the idea of freedom of speech. There are some very cartoony sunbathers that are topless (probably more common over there) and once or twice she has a swear word. Nothing major.

For the few negatives, however, I can not say how moved I was with this book. And to know that she is not alone in having suffered through that life. An important book if for no other reason than it gives us an honest look at what life was like for her under Shiite government, as well as the philosophical points she brings up.

Where to shelve: Given what I talked about in the previous section, I think it's important enough to just have in the library. Adults for sure. Older teens would probably appreciate it. If you have a high school library, I can see it for that.

The first chapter is available as a PDF:

http://us.macmillan.com/CMS400/uploadedFiles/Nylon_Road_-_chapter1.pdf

Other Reviews:
http://www.comicsbulletin.com/reviews/125920921561484.htm
http://www.bookpage.com/books-10012517-Nylon+Road
http://us.macmillan.com/nylonroad
http://www.dw-world.de/dw/article/0,,2306171,00.html
http://www.wired.com/geekdad/2009/11/the-geekly-reader-nylon-road/
http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/product-description/0312532865/ref=dp_proddesc_0?ie=UTF8&n=283155&s=books

Links for me

Trying to find decent sites where I can get decent reviews.

http://www.shelfabuse.com/

http://comicsworthreading.com/category/graphic-novels/

http://www.grovel.org.uk/

http://www.noflyingnotights.com/ (Wish they would update the adult section on this)

Aetheric Mechanics

Aetheric Mechanics
By Warren Ellis
Illustrated by Gianluca Pagliarani
ISBN: 978-1592910489
Published by Avatar Press

To Sum: A world where Sherlock Holmes meets steampunk. Characters that are very reminiscent of Sherlock Holmes (Sax Raker) and Dr. Watson (Doctor Robert Watcham - just home from a tour of duty on the front), work to solve the murder of several scientists in a case Sax (the Sherlock Holmes character) calls the Case of The Man Who Was Not There.

A good story that is well illustrated. Both writer and artists did their homework. While this is a short graphic novel (coming in at 48 pages), this comes across as a labour of love. There is some slight humor, somewhat subtle.

Some people might be put off that the graphic novel is in black and white, however, their loss.

What To Watch Out For: Eh, not much. There is a war going on, but nothing graphic is shown. The author has a line of "coarse" language, which is immediately apologized for by the speaker. (This does take place in Victorian/Edwardian London, after all. Manners are important.)

All in all, not really offensive, any more than an episode of NCIS or Sherlock Holmes would be.

Where to Shelve: I can see the adults checking this one out more than I can the teens. Not that the teens won't like it, but with it being more Sherlock Holmes like, it would seem to me to appeal to adults more. (Although with the Steampunk influence, the teens might like it more.) The nice thing about this is that it's relatively inexpensive. Yes, it's also short, but the cover price is $6.99.

How I heard of it: It came highly recommended from a dear friend of mine - Mr. Shading. He recommended several titles to me, and this was the first one I've ordered in and had the chance to read.

Other Reviews:

http://paradoxcomicsgroup.blogspot.com/2008/10/graphic-perception-aetheric-mechanics.html
http://goodcomics.comicbookresources.com/2008/11/17/a-whole-bunch-o-graphic-novels-handily-arranged-in-alphabetical-order/
http://geekylibrarian.wordpress.com/2008/10/29/review-aetheric-mechanics/
http://forbiddenplanet.co.uk/blog/2008/steampunk-propaganda-aetheric-mechanics/
http://www.grovel.org.uk/aetheric-mechanics/
http://justhastobeplausible.blogspot.com/2008/12/aetheric-mechanics-warren-ellis.html
http://www.clandestinecritic.co.uk/2008/10/comic-book-review-aetheric-mechanics.html

The Unwritten: Tommy Taylor and the Bogus Identity

The Unwritten Vol. 1: Tommy Taylor and the Bogus Identity
By Mike Carey
ISBN: 978-1401225650
Published by Vertigo

An interesting concept, and a good beginning. I really want to see where this goes.

To Sum: Tom Taylor thought the fictional character, Tommy Taylor, that his dad wrote was just based on him. However, things come up that make Tom start to question his identity. And we find a shadowy group that wants to control the outcome of the telling of the tales. Add into that mix the fact that his father mysteriously disappeared, and things are happening that he can't explain.

An interesting story that mentions other literary figures and calls to mind other literary works. I really did like the "back story" on Kipling. It shows a lot about the organization, but it does a good job of making Kipling interesting, as well as tying the organization to other writers in history. Might actually make teens interested in older authors.

What to Watch Out For: Well, there's some interesting things that happen at the Horror writer's retreat, and the language can be a bit coarse in some areas. I didn't notice the For Mature Audiences on the back until I was done with it. There's killing and death, but I don't recall anything overly sexual in it.

Where to Shelve: Well, it's Vertigo and it has a For Mature Audiences label on it. However, what might also push it into the adult section is that the author has done other works - Lucifer, John Constantine : Hellblazer - that are in adult sections. (Or at least they are in mine.) Vertigo started off being where DC published it's line of comics "for mature readers", meaning adults.

Other Reviews:

grovel.com
mloknitting.com
the-trades.com
beatrice.com (Skip the first few lines if you haven't read the Lucifer books...)
Long Island Press
Fyreflybooks.com
Comicvine.com

X-Men: Magneto Testament

X-Men: Magneto Testament
By Greg Pak
Illustrated by Carmine Di Giandomenico
ISBN (HC): 978-0785138235
ISBN (TPB): 978-0785126409

To Sum: This is an amazing piece of work that can be read without ever knowing of the X-Men or who Magneto is. (Although, you maybe confused by the title.) Disregarding anything that comes later on and the whole mythos of the X-Men, this book does an amazing job of showing what it was like before and during the Holocaust. There is even several pages of notes at the back, describing where an image came from, or why something is in there. This book is a work of love, of dedication, and it shows.

To do what this section says, this book is about a family focusing in on the youngest of them, and what life was like before and during the Holocaust.

What to watch out for: Nothing really. Yes, it deals with the Holocaust, so there is death, but much of it is handled off-screen. The reader is made aware of what is going on, so it's not a sanitized version of the Holocaust.

Where to shelve: They've done a good job making this accessible for the early teens, but not too much that what happened is dumbed down. There's a guide in the back for teachers to use, but this could easily go into both adult and YA. The amount of research done is chronicled in the footnotes, which may interest some adults, and there is a list of additional websites where YA patrons might go to find out more.
It should be noted that Diamond publishers list this title as being 16+. It's also Marvel Knights publication, which is intended 15+, and there is also a Parental Advisory on the back (it's small and on the bottom right). However, there's also a teacher's guide in there intended for use for grades 7-10.

How I heard of this: Well, truth be told I ordered it in based off of Amazon, I believe. However, one of the guys that regularly checks stuff out of my section told me I had to read, and read it now - he had just returned it.

Other Reviews:

http://www.gregpak.com/magneto/ (The author's website, however it does show just how many awards this book has won.)
http://comicsplusblog.com/?p=765 (the person disagrees with me, but I'm cool with that)
http://acomicbookblog.com/comic-book-blog/4-graphic-novels-to-read-in-2010-claire/
http://ichliebecomics.blogspot.com/2009/02/magneto-testament.html
http://www.fistfullofcomics.com/v2/2009/10/16/off-the-rack-x-men-magneto-testament/
http://www.diamondbookshelf.com/public/default.asp?t=1&m=1&c=20&s=422&ai=85212

Deogratis

Deogratias: A Tale of Rwanda
Stassen
978-1596431034

To sum: Takes place after the Rwanda genocide, with flashbacks to what life was like before and during the genocide, and the effect the genocide had on Deogratias, who was a young teenage boy when the genocide happened. Personally, I remember being aware of what was going on, but this book does a good job of explaining how it came to be that way. The translator wrote an introduction explaining the history of the region, which added a lot to the story.

What to watch out for: Well, it deals with genocide, and there's a lot of how the "inferiour" class of Tutsi were treated. During the genocide of the Tutsi in the town where Deogratias lives, the Tutsi women are raped, killed, and the bodies just thrown into piles where the dogs roam free. Deogratias exacts revenge on those he feels killed the girl he liked.

Where to shelve: I have it in the adult collection, however could also see it in a high school library as well. I would say it's more appropriate for 16+, but could also see this being used in school to teach about an almost forgotten part of history.

If they liked: MAUS, recommend this to them. Also, it's a good tie in for Hotel Rwanda

Interesting to note:

http://maslifblog.wordpress.com/2009/08/06/book-challenge-formal/

Other reviews:

http://www.powells.com/biblio/1-9781596431034-3
http://www.firstsecondbooks.com/deogratias.html
http://www.curledup.com/deograti.htm
http://us.macmillan.com/deogratiasataleofrwanda
http://www.grovel.org.uk/reviews/deogratias-01/deogratias-01.htm
http://www.ala.org/ala/mgrps/divs/yalsa/booklistsawards/greatgraphicnovelsforteens/07ggnt.cfm
http://yzocaet.blogspot.com/2007/02/deogratias-tale-of-rwanda.html

Also found in The Reader's Advisory to Great Graphic Novels, pg 64

In The Flesh - complete review

I already started a post about In The Flesh, however, that was before I read it. Here's the full write-up.




In The Flesh
Koren Shadmi
ISBN: 978-0345508713

To Sum: A collection of short stories that deals with relationships, love, lust, and passion and the different sides of those things. A very trippy collection. Some of the stories are much more "normal" with a twist - a boy loves a girl and it's slowly killing him because she's radioactive - while others are creepy - a Grandfather with a camera (old fashion film Minolta) for a head. Some of these stories have stayed with me for several days as I work through them - like how the Grandpa Minolta one puts a twist on real life situations.

What to Watch Out For: Well, it deals with love, lust, passion, and does it with pictures. Some have called it erotica, but I don't think it ever goes THAT far. However, it does show states of disrobe, it talks about sexual situations, and it does show people is those situations. It will show everything leading up to, but not the actual event. Just flipping through this book, I was worried that I had ordered something that violated library policy. Taken out of context, yes, those scenes are shocking. However, when read with the story, it works. These are not for children, nor teens. This is something for adults who have had to deal with relationships that don't work, one night stands and more.

Where to shelve: Without question, this is an adult graphic novel. The intended audience is adults, the situations are things most adults can relate to, and the content is adult. That being said, I do think it's a good addition to a library as it does explore some themes, and it does have a lot of thought into it.

How I heard of it: This one came highly recommended through a spotlight on graphic novels issue of a catalog/journal.

Other reviews:

http://www.bigshinyrobot.com/reviews/archives/3707
http://www.anthemmagazine.com/story/1318
http://www.randomhouse.com/catalog/display.pperl?isbn=9780345508713
http://pageandstage.blogspot.com/2009/04/koren-shadmis-in-flesh.html
http://www.brooklynpaper.com/stories/32/5/32_5_zf_graphic_artist.html
http://www.powells.com/biblio/9780345508713?&PID=32442
http://fantasybookcritic.blogspot.com/2009/02/spotlight-graphic-novels-of-february.html

Dead, She Said

And I'm back...



Dead, She Said
Steve Niles, Bernie Wrightson
978-1600105746

To Sum: Detective Coogan doesn't remember what happened last night. Which is understandable, as he died. Now, he's a walking corpse and is tracking down who killed him and why. Collects #1-3 of the comic, with extra sketches and a black and white short story in the back. It was a quick, fun read. We don't get a lot of short but fun graphic novels like this in the adult section.

Things to Watch Out For: Well, there's a bit of gore. Guts hanging out, the scene at the morgue. The idea of being embalmed while a member of the living dead is ... and interesting idea. Overall, it's a noir story with horror/scifi twists. Not much in the way of sexual content, except comments about grabbing a women's tush. (Okay, they used the harsher word.) And the final scene wasn't horrid, but not what I would want to wake up to in the morning. The extra bits were interesting, but not something someone's going to have to worry about.

Where to Shelve: It is a visual horror, but if the kids have seen and horror flicks, they've seen worse. (Okay, and slasher flicks.) School Journal rated it for grade 10+, which isn't bad. I would say most high schoolers would be fine reading it, but we have it shelved in the adult section. Why? Because I ordered it. Actually, depending on your library, I could see it in both, but would err on the side of Adult. Not because the kids can't handle it, but probably because their parents wouldn't be able to. ;)

How I heard about it: It was in a journal or catalog. Was well reviewed, and it sounded humourous.

Other Reviews:

http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/product-description/1600105742/ref=dp_proddesc_0?ie=UTF8&n=283155&s=books
http://www.associatedcontent.com/article/2765374/graphic_novel_review_dead_she_said.html

http://blog.oregonlive.com/steveduin/2008/12/graphic_novel_review_dead_she.html

http://www.mania.com/comic-review-dead-she-said-1_article_58585.html

Will resume updates on Monday

Life has calmed down a bit (dangerous thing to say when "Uncle Murphey" - the guy who created those rule - likes you).

I have a pile of graphic novels checked out and ready to go. Now to find the time to read them... ;)

Update

An update will happen later this week. Let me recover from that past few weeks of life for a few days, and catch up on work stuff.

Challenged books

While this isn't my section, it does seem that many books that are challenged or banned come from the YA section. That section is near and dear to my heart. Was when I was a kid and a teen, and still is as an adult.

I don't like the idea of someone not liking parts of a book and therefore wanting to deprive EVERYONE of that book. Just because your school has an anti-alcohol group, doesn't mean that there shouldn't be any books where characters are depicted as drinking. We all learn different things from reading. And if all you read is the page where the character has sex for the first time, and not the next chapter depicting her worries about the consequences, you may want to ban something that's actually reinforcing your message.

And what prompted this?

http://www.fdlreporter.com/article/20100517/FON0101/5170327/1985/FONent

Now, this worries me, as it seems like there have been more of these in the news as of late. So, what does that have to do with me? A librarian who orders graphic novels for adults, which we have defined as 16+?

Well, a lot.

If more and more challenges are appearing, how much longer will it be before someone takes a hard look at a YA graphic novel section and is shocked and appalled by what they find?

Which bring me to part of the reason for this blog. Not all graphic novels are appropriate for teens.

There. I've said it.

And I want to repeat it. Having a graphic novel section for adults is important. It allows you to put "edgier" titles in the library, but in a clear demarcation that tells parents that it might not be suitable for younger children, even if it is a graphic novel (comic book). It also allows those of us that are older a section where we can get books that have mature themes.

I'm not for taking a tally of how many swear words are said or posting a break down of the different incidences of sexual situations that are in the book, nor am I for showing a tally of how many times drugs or alcohol are mentioned.

What I am here for is to let you know what is in the graphic novel. I find it disturbing how little there is for graphic novels, for adults. I also find it disturbing how many graphic novels that are "adult" are on the YALSA list. I can't seem many kids checking out "The Photographer". As cool as the concept of the book is to me, as an adult, it's not really one I see the kids flipping through.

And while I'm rambling, as I have a tendency to do, the end decision lies with the individual librarians, who know their community.

As I have often said, my section is 16+. Why 16+? Because our YA section is grades 7-12, but since we have some Rebecca Caudill's in the YA, we get 4th graders on up in the YA section. We felt is was more appropriate to put the older teen stuff in the adult section. The kids know where it is, and do check out some of the books from there.

Do I think a 16 year old can handle The Watchmen? Sure. It maybe something where they don't get all of it, but they should be able to handle the story and the adult content. Do I think a 12 year old can handle it? I would say no to that.

And while it does depend on the individual child, those are the guidelines with which we work.

Is it perfect? Not be a long shot. But it's working for now.

Refresh, refresh

Refresh, Refresh
Danica Novgorodoff, Benjamin Percy, James Ponsoldt
978-1596435223

To Sum: Three boys in a small country town await news from their dads who are serving in the US Army, overseas. While they wait, they keep hitting refresh on their computers hoping for an e-mail; they beat each other up to toughen up; and they get into normal high school trouble. They also face the fact that life isn't easy.

Things to Watch Out For: Well, they boys fight and drink. They beat each other up, as well as a few other people. The language can be a little crude, but, it's probably a lot closer to how boys actually talk.

Where to Shelve: This one was rated in one of the catalogues at work as 16+, which meant for my library that it goes in the adult section. However, I think most older teens could handle this. If you have just a high school section, this would probably be fine there. However, since we have 7th grade on up, but also have 4th graders on up coming to the YA section, we shelved it in Adult.

I do like that it's a graphic novel (based on a short story by Percy) that shows the hardships for the young men left on the homefront. We have lots of stories, movies, books, about the soldier's life, and some on life on the homefront. But this deals with a modern war and modern young men. It's different enough that it might just catch the interest of the teen boys.

How I Heard About It: It came through School Library Journal? The YA librarian and I talked about where to shelve it. It also appeared in a few other journals.

Other Reviews
http://engl.iastate.edu/news_items/graphic-novel-adaptation-of-benjamin-percys-story-refresh-refresh-published-1.html/
http://www.graphicnovelreporter.com/content/refresh-refresh-review
http://www.graphicnovelreporter.com/content/graphic-novel-picks-fall-2009-teens-other
http://therumpus.net/2009/11/refresh-refresh/
http://www.ala.org/template.cfm?template=/CFApps/awards_info/award_detail_home.cfm&FilePublishTitle=Awards,%20Grants%20and%20Scholarships&uid=5136A2EB25F1418E
(It's on the YALSA list of best graphic novels for teens 2010)
http://lit.newcity.com/2009/09/29/graphic-novel-review-refresh-refresh/


Other links:
http://www.comicbookresources.com/?page=article&id=23070
http://www.benjaminpercy.com/graphic%20novels.htm

Alan Moore's The Courtyard

Alan Moore's The Courtyard
Alan Moore
978-1592910601

To Sum: A series of murders where the mutilations are very similar as are the dissections, seem to be done by three people with nothing in common. A Fed with a specialty in Anomaly Theory has been sent undercover to find out what's going on. The Fed thinks the murders are tied into a drug called Alko. It's a Lovecraftian tale done in the nearish future.

What to Watch Out For: Well, this deals with H. P. Lovecraft and the mythos he came up with. There's some disturbing imagery, drug use, and talk about mutilated bodies, with some small pictures of parts of the bodies. (Think crime scene photos.)

Also, if you have the same version I have, the language on the intro may offend some. However, it sound like how some people might speak. Not everyone is genteel in their language, and there are people that use language that make sailors sound like schoolboys.

Where to Shelve: It's Alan Moore. Adult. 'Nuff Said. Truth be told, this is probably one of the milder Moore graphic novels I've read. It's not bad in the least bit, but it lacks the depth of say, Watchmen or V for Vendetta. However, it's a trippy, light read.

How I learned of it: Amazon, I think. I was reading up on another graphic novel, and saw this one. Alan Moore is a popular author, so I picked it up.

Other Reviews:

http://www.sfsite.com/01b/tc168.htm
http://fantasybookcritic.blogspot.com/2009/01/spotlight-graphic-novels-of-january.html
http://www.comicsbulletin.com/reviews/104565211541595.htm
http://www.avatarpress.com/thecourtyard/
http://www.mania.com/alan-moores-courtyard_article_36485.html

Green Arrow: The Longbow Hunters

Green Arrow: The Longbow Hunters
Mike Grell
ISBN: 978-0930289386

Green Arrow was one of the first characters I latched onto after being reintroduced to DC Comics. I read Kingdom Come, and in there, he's portrayed dressing like Robin Hood (Sean Connery's Robing Hood from Robin and Marion to be exact). And I love all things Robin Hood, so, he became someone that I wanted to know more about. I was recommended The Longbow Hunters by my comic book guy (every one should have a comic book guy, btw.)

To Sum: By day - Oliver Queen, a man who's getting older and feeling it. He and his love - Dinah Lance - move to Seattle to open a florist shop, but are surprised by the violence and drugs they encounter. By night/undercover - Oliver Queen is Green Arrow, a costumed hero with the ability to shoot a bow and arrow very accurately, and fast. Dinah Lance is Black Canary - a regular woman who uses detective skills and a solid martial arts background to take on the bad guys.

This story is way better than the summary. It was the start of Green Arrow comic being used to tackle grittier real life issues. Hate crimes, drugs and drug use, and more were tackled in the pages of Green Arrow. Green Arrow really focused on trying to help the "little guy". It's a superhero comic that's grounded in reality - no superpowers between the two of them (which is why Black canary doesn't have her sonic scream.)

This story has two prongs. Ollie/Green Arrow dealing with someone who is taking out big whigs using a bow and arrows, and Dinah going undercover to track drug shipments. The two story lines eventually converge.

Things to watch out for: This is a story about two grown ups, doing things grown ups do, as well as fight crime with realistic consequences (you got shot with an arrow and you bleed, sort of consequences). Ollie also tends to do things tastefully naked.

However, the one page that people may find disturbing is where Dinah Lance is being tortured by a sadistic man. Many people assume that she was also raped at that point, but the author has often commented on the fact that, no, she was just brutally tortured. (And isn't that enough?) While I'm usually not a fan of "female gets kidnapped and the hero swoops in to save her", it works here. What Dinah was doing, she was doing alone, and somehow was found out. Ollie doesn't just swoop in and save her and everything is alright - no, he has a moment of blind rage. This is the Ollie that most of us who are fans of Green Arrow know.

There's also things that come up from the past as to why the big whigs are being hunted, which ties into a string of "modern" prostitutes that are being killed.

I will say, that I find the artwork amazing. While the story line is not for children, it's a good one for adults. Ollie questioning his age, which is something few heroes ever do.

Where to shelve: Oh, adults. This started off as being part of DC's "Mature Line", which eventually became Vertigo. And this definitely falls into the mature side of things.

Other reviews:

http://www.noflyingnotights.com/greenarrow.html#greenarrowlh (It's second to last)
http://www.comicsbulletin.com/reviews/97379109637884.htm
http://www.comicbookbin.com/greenarrowlongbowhunters000.html

Perry Bible Fellowship: The Trial of Colonel Sweeto

Place holder for next week



Perry Bible Fellowship: The Trial of Colonel Sweeto

To Sum: Dark and twisted humor, front and center. Strips from an on-line comic strip (web comic) are collected. Despite the candy colored cover and insides, really, heed the warning on the cover page of "For Mature Audiences".

What to watch out for: It's hilarious, and offensive, in the best possible way. There are lots of sexually cartoony images and innuendos (I liked the Hammer Man coming home to find a screw in his wife - who is a board in a bikini. The next scene is Hammer Man fighting with his neighbor Screwdriver Man.) There's plenty of wrongness here, but it's done in a way that one of the pages at work said "I'm so offended, but I can't stop reading." Which pretty much sums it up. It's offensive, but you want to know what's on the next page.

Where To Shelve: Adult. No hesitation with this one. It says right inside the front cover "For Mature Audiences" and Dark Horse (the publisher) lists it at 16+.

How I learned about it: It had been reviewed in a journal or catalog, however, it was a bear to actually get. Also, the review mentioned the hilarity aspect, but not really the adult and wrongness (in the right way) of it.

Reviews:

http://www.shinyshelf.com/2007/11/10/the-trial-of-colonel-sweeto-and-other-stories/
http://www.playbackstl.com/content/view/6774/167/
http://thedailycrosshatch.com/2007/08/29/the-trial-of-colonel-sweeto-by-nicholas-gurewitch/
http://www.darkhorse.com/Books/13-825/The-Perry-Bible-Fellowship-The-Trial-of-Colonel-Sweeto-and-Other-Stories-HC
http://www.avclub.com/articles/comics-of-note-november-9-2007,22511/
http://www.guardian.co.uk/books/booksblog/2007/nov/02/bloodshedcrueltymurderthes
http://nymag.com/daily/entertainment/2007/11/the_perry_bible_fellowships_fi.html

New Yorker Magazine did an interview with the creator:
http://nymag.com/daily/entertainment/2007/11/nicholas_gurewitch_kind_of_reg.html

Book of Bunny Suicides

Book of Bunny Suicides
Return of the Bunny Suicides
Andy Riley

The books can be found individually, in a set, as a postcard book, in a Big Book of Bunny Suicides.

I said somethings about these books earlier, but I figured it's time to expand.

To Sum: Cartoon drawings of fluffy bunnies killing themselves in unique fashions. Some of them are just one panel, others span up to six (maybe eight). Often times there's cultural references - mostly to things adults would get. Very British in humor, not surprising given that the creator is, funny enough, British. Generally, however, these ways of suicide are not very likely to occur in real life, or by most humans. Part of the humor is that these bunnies are bound and determined, and often, it's not even noticed by the humans that are right there. (The one exception is Darth Vader.)

Things to Watch Out For: Well, there isn't a whole lot of sex. There's not a whole lot of nudity (unless one counts the fact that the bunnies are not wearing clothing). The thing that people will take note is the fact that these bunnies are trying to kill themselves - in very unrealistic scenarios. However, the idea of suicide seems to be the one people who have complained about this book are latching onto.

These are meant to be funny. They aren't meant to encourage suicide, but to poke fun at it. Some of the suicides are so elaborate, or so out there, that you know not to take it seriously.

Where to Shelve: This is going to be one of those where I fall back to who was the intended audience. Given the references, most of which anyone alive and functioning in the 80's would get, I would have to say this is for adults. Would 13 year-olds get the jokes? Most likely. But there are probably some that would go over their head. Like, say this panel:



Most adults have been exposed to enough British humor/culture that they're going to get most of what's going on, as well as having been alive for the cultural references. (Okay, most of us don't really need to have been alive to understand the hand-gesture to Hitler, but the statue of Saddam falling? The Doctor Who joke?) I will say that the humor is very, very British.

How I learned of it: It came out when I was working at a chain bookstore. A bunch of us flipped through it when we saw it.

Other reviews:

http://www.curledup.com/bunnysui.htm
http://www.cnn.com/2004/SHOWBIZ/books/05/31/review.summer.books/index.html (review is about 3/4ths of the way down)
http://www.schoollibraryjournal.com/article/CA6418669.html (Under the category "What's so funny?")
http://pfacker.wordpress.com/books/graphic-novels/

Past incidents:

http://www.kval.com/news/local/31282894.html
http://www.kval.com/news/local/31378584.html
http://www.lita.org/ala/alonline/currentnews/newsarchive/2008/october2008/bunnieswontburn.cfm

In The Flesh

Have not read, nor reviewed. I think I ordered it based off of reviews in LJ and BL. Haven't had any complaints about it yet, but I pulled it off the shelf to look at it, and could see someone raisin' a ruckus over the few panels I saw.

A coworker checked it out before I could. We'll see what happens.

Just preparing in case

Reviews
http://www.bigshinyrobot.com/reviews/archives/3707
http://www.anthemmagazine.com/story/1318
http://www.randomhouse.com/catalog/display.pperl?isbn=9780345508713
http://pageandstage.blogspot.com/2009/04/koren-shadmis-in-flesh.html
http://www.brooklynpaper.com/stories/32/5/32_5_zf_graphic_artist.html
http://www.powells.com/biblio/9780345508713?&PID=32442
http://fantasybookcritic.blogspot.com/2009/02/spotlight-graphic-novels-of-february.html

Auschwitz

Auschwitz
By Pascal Croci
ISBN: 9780810948310 (Hardcover)

Impressions: I've never read Maus. It's something I've been meaning to remedy for a while, but haven't. I have read other accounts of the Holocaust - both fiction and non-fiction, but not in graphic novel format. The artwork in this is captivating - both horrific and stark, reflecting the subject matter - and it is breathtaking.

To Sum: A couple in Yugoslavia in 1993 take refuge during the ethnic war in Bosnia. The old man says that is it time to remember, and begins to talk about his time in Auschwitz - where he finally got assigned to cleaning out the gas chambers. His wife picks up where he leaves off and tells what happened to her, and their daughter. The final pages brings us back to present day, and the fate of the couple.

One might ask the question - do we really need another graphic novel about the Holocaust? Or another book on it?

This book, in my mind, tells us why we need most of them. Yes, there are a few I can do without, as they over simplify what happened, or give a distorted idea of what went on. (Yes, I'm thinking of a certain book that was written for children/young YA.) This book, however, reminds us that the Holocaust isn't just the past. Events like it are still happening. And we must remember.

Things to watch out for: There's a lot of death. Most of it senseless. There are scenes of mass murder. Of burying the bodies (naked) from the gas chambers. Granted, given the title, most people should know not to expect champagne and roses, but better to err on the side of caution.

Where to shelve: Depending on your library, adult. Some may argue YA, but that will depend on your library. If you have just a high school section, or you are a high school librarian, I think this would be a valuable addition. However, if you are a public library, I would err on the side of caution and put this in the adult section. There is little in the way of nudity, but this is the Holocaust. Croci does not shy away from death and other unpleasant aspects of the Holocaust. And he also raised a lot of ethical dilemmas, and philosophical questions.

Who to recommend this to: People who have read Maus. Depending on the teen/child - those that have read Surviving Hitler. (Which is a far superior book to Boy in the Striped Pajamas, in my opinion.) Those that read Milkweed MAY also like this. This might also be good for adults who may have read Maus, or heard of it. There are a number of graphic novels dealing with the Holocaust, and personal memoirs of that time. This, with its eye-catching cover, is a quick, but deep read. I plan on rereading it a few more times as the end sheds more light on the story.

There is also an interview with the creator and how the story came about. While it is fiction, the author did a lot of research for it.

How I learned of it: Booklist had a review, as did Library Journal. The cover is very, very eye catching.

Other Reviews:
http://www.typepad.com/services/trackback/6a00d834515c2769e200d835398e1969e2
http://marksarvas.blogs.com/elegvar/2004/04/auschwitz_graph.html
http://catalog.dclibrary.org/vufind/Record/ocm52458976/Reviews
http://www.diamondbookshelf.com/public/default.asp?t=1&m=1&c=20&s=422&ai=66611
http://www.powells.com/biblio?show=HARDCOVER:USED:9780810948310:8.95
http://tickettoanywhere.blogspot.com/2009/02/auschwitz-by-pascal-croci.html

God Loves, Man Kills (X-Men)

God Loves, Man Kills (X-Men)
Chris Claremont

To Sum: The X-men face off against a evangelistic foe, who turns one of their own against them. There are a lot of similarities (as well as a lot of differences) between this and the X-Men 2 movie. I would almost say that the movie was based off of the graphic novel.

Things to watch out for: There is a dream scene where a character is crucified, and the X-Men visit him in demonesque visages.* Also, there's a powerful scene early on between Kitty and her dance instructor involving a derogatory word for an African-American. In context, the word is needed to make the scene, and the point, work. However, in both cases, someone could get there knickers in a twist.

Where to shelve: Originally, this was printed without the Comic Code. What does that mean? It means it was probably intended for adults. I have this one in my adult collection, partly for themes, partly because of the religious aspect - Stryker is a Reverend and is the bad guy.

Marvel's website does list the book as being for "T+", which means 13+, with a caution that parents may want to preview first. I think I first read it at 15, so 13 seems a little young to me.

Who would like this: Most X-Men fans. People who want to read Watchmen, but it's checked out.

How I heard about it: This is one straight from my formative years. I picked it up when I was a teenager. I was very much into the "Classic X-Men" series, and starting to realize that there was a modern Uncanny X-men still running. I picked up this graphic novel because it still had the old characters - and my favorites : Nightcrawler and Kitty Pryde.

* - I am trying not to interject too much of my personal life into this. However, when I had this as a teen, my dad flipped through it one day, and came across the part where the character is being crucified, and was not happy about me reading it. (I may have lied to keep it.) The crucifixion scene is eye catching, and seems to be where the book wants to open to.

Other reviews:

http://geoffklock.blogspot.com/2008/09/jason-powell-on-god-loves-man-kills.html (Not a glowing review, but gives you another view)
http://www.denofgeek.com/comics/98416/revisiting_the_xmen_god_loves_man_kills.html
http://www.thexaxis.com/minis/godlovesmankills.htm
http://io9.com/314748/must-read-x+men-god-loves-man-kills

Why I Killed Peter

Why I Killed Peter
By Oliver Ka
ISBN: 9781561635436 (Hardcover)

This is another translation of a French work. And while comparisons can be made to Miss Don't Touch Me, they really are in different categories. The French do have different cultural standards than Americans, which should be noted early on.

To sum: This is probably more non-fiction than fiction, being based on the author's life, but we have it classified as fiction. Oliver begins each chapter with "I killed Peter because I am X years old" and then highlights what happened that year, focusing on events that lead up to a priest sexually abusing a boy, as well as the effect it had on the boy's life into his adult years.

The Art: The art works well. Subtle changes happen as the story goes on. I love the final picture as well. Things are depicted both casually, and with great care, depending on what is required. The use of color is also well done.

Things to watch out for: This is for mature readers, which is says right on the back. The actual incident of sexual abuse is done in panels that are almost completely blacked out. It does focus the reader on the words, and what is happening without actually showing anything. However, people flipping through will probably focus on the drawings of naked bodies - male and female. Oliver's parents lead a hippie life style, and Ollie as a young boy was often around naked adults. Also, there is talk about Ollie's father having many girlfriends - along with stylized drawings of women.

Another thing that may offend patrons is there's a lot of discussion about religion - Oliver's parents are described as hippies and anti-religious, while his grandparents are depicted as very religious. Oliver talks about the confusion that created. And then there's the priest, Peter, who sexually abuses Ollie.

This book also talks about a lot of different sexual situations besides the incident with Peter - Ollie's parents are depicted as having an open marriage as well as Ollie's first sexual experience with a girl is depicted.

Should I have it in the library: There's a lot that can be discussed about what lead up to it, and how it could have been prevented, what people could have done differently. How Peter "trapped" Ollie into agreeing to the sexual incident is probably textbook on how it is done, but important all the same.

While all that is good, the main reason I purchased it was for those that may also have been abused. There is something powerful about finding yourself, or a situation you were in, in a book. It maybe that they have never talked about it. It maybe that a family member may see this and realize that something happened. Almost as important, in my mind, is that it shows the impact that one incident had on Oliver's life and how it changed his relationships from that moment on.

Who Would Like This: Fans of biographies, especially graphic novel adaptations. If they like Blankets, this would probably be a good one to recommend as it has a similar vein of themes - but different treatments.

Where to shelve: This one, powerful as it is, is definitely adult.

Things that may get questioned: I showed this to my boss when I wanted to order it, and she flipped through it - and stopped. Near the end, Ollie goes to confront Peter some 20 years later. Ollie and his collaborator Alfred took photographs of their trip to the summer camp where the sexual assault happened. My boss asked me if that was normal, and while it isn't, we are seeing a bit more of photography and photographs being used in graphic novels - most recently in The Photographer. It's only a few pages, but it may catch people off guard.

How I heard about it: A good review in Booklist, or Library Journal. A professional catalog gave it a good review and it looked interesting.

Reviews:

http://www.graphicnovelreporter.com/content/why-i-killed-peter-review
http://comicsworthreading.com/2009/03/09/nbm-releases-little-nothings-2-miss-dont-touch-me-why-i-killed-peter-first-time/
http://thedailycrosshatch.com/2009/01/06/2198/
http://www.readaboutcomics.com/2009/03/06/why-i-killed-peter/
http://goodcomics.comicbookresources.com/2009/01/10/why-i-killed-peter-ogn-review/

from the publisher:
http://www.nbmpub.com/comicslit/whyIkilled/whyhome.html

Queuing up

Just queuing up a short list of graphic novels that I'll be looking at next, in no particular order:

God Loves, Man Kills
Green Arrow: Quiver
We are on our own
Smoke
Marvels
Auschwitz
Simon's Cat
Bunny Suicides
Why I killed Peter
100 Bullets
House of Mystery 1


And more...

I will say, that I was going to review Bunny Suicides sooner rather than later, but I just sold the copies I had a few weeks ago to help pay for some stuff that's come up. Short review - they are funny, but they weren't meant for teens. A smart woman - Robin from No Flying, No Tights - said at a seminar I was at, that we have to consider who the intended audience was meant to be. And given some of the references, it's clear that the cartoons are more for adults - British cultural references, science fiction references, and other cultural references that would be understood by those that actually lived through the 80's.

WE3

WE3
Written by Grant Morrison
ISBN: 978-1401204952
Published by Vertigo

To Sum: WE3 is a story about three animals - a dog, a cat, and a rabbit - that are experimented on by the U.S. government and made into cybernetic killing machines. They escape and look for "home," but going there isn't going to be easy as the government wants the project, and them, decommissioned. The art is very good, and the "lost" posters just about break your heart.

Things to watch out for: Well, violence is a plenty in here given that the animals are killing machines. Oh, and there are modified rats and a mastiff in here as well. And there is some on screen death and bodies.

Should I have it in a library: As with a lot of Morrison stuff, there's a lot in here, and it's not just about violence. There are bigger ideas at hand - where is "home", how we treat animals, and more. And many people have admitted to crying during the reading of this. This is a slim graphic novel - only combining three issues - but there's a lot to chew on.

Who would like this: people with experience with graphic novels. This is not something you give to someone who's never experienced the genre before. Anyone who is thinking of reading Watchmen, give them this first. It's not as thick, or as heavy, as Watchmen, but it will get the thinking going. People who like both animal stories and robots would love this.

Where to shelve: Some places are rating this 14+, but to me, this goes in the adult section (which is 16+ where I am). Younger teens maybe able to follow the story, but there's a lot there. And there's a difference between reading and understanding.

It's hard not to feel for the animals in the story. You really want to give 1 a dog biscuit and tell him he's a good dog.

How I learned of it: I read it at a friend's house, and remembered it. When I was first hired, and given the okay to order graphic novels for the adult collection, this was in the first order.

Other reviews:

http://www.comicsbulletin.com/reviews/111949504898976.htm
http://comics.ign.com/articles/673/673191p1.html
http://comicsworthreading.com/2009/03/31/we3/
http://www.grovel.org.uk/we3/
http://www.readaboutcomics.com/2005/01/28/we3/

Miss Don't Touch Me

Miss Don't Touch Me
by Hubert & Kerascoet
ISBN: 978-1561635443

There's something we don't have a lot of in America, and that's graphic novels like this one. It's adult, and a fun read. It's not deep, it's not earth shattering, but it reads like a mystery novel/drama made into a comic book. Everything you need to know about the book is on the back of it 1) For Mature Audiences and 2) a brief summary of the plot.

To sum: To sum up the story, a girl's sister gets murdered by a serial killer and it was made to look like a suicide. The girl starts investigating and follows the trail to a high end brothel, where she takes a job. Since she's worried about her virtue, she takes a job as Miss Don't Touch Me - an English Governess persona, which is basically a dominatrix. Set in 1930's Paris, there are scenes of semi naked women, and there's some violence as well.

Things to watch out for: Patrons that just flip through this without understanding what they are looking at are going to see scenes from life in a brothel. Complete with mostly naked customers, women in skimpy outfits, as well as violence. It is stylized, but if they are going to just point at one panel and object, there are ones in here that they may do it to.

Should I have it in a library: Overall, this is a rare sort of graphic novel. It's a translation from a French work, so the standards are slightly different. But what really sets it apart is the fact that it's not trying to blow your mind with deep messages; it's not making political statements; it's not heavy with symbolism. It's a story about a girl trying to solve a murder, and adapting to life in a brothel. It's fluff, and fun at that. A quick read with a great feel for the era it's in.

Who would like this: Well, it's not a typical graphic novel. It's part murder mystery, part intrigue, part enjoyable, "fun crap" (as one review puts it, and I agree). Give it to people who have read some graphic novels, but are tired of the superhero genre, or the heavy stuff.

How I can to learn of it: I learned of it through Booklist, which recommended it.

Other reviews of it:
http://blog.newsarama.com/2009/01/25/review-miss-dont-touch-me/
http://www.readaboutcomics.com/2009/02/27/miss-dont-touch-me/
http://www.oregonlive.com/books/index.ssf/2009/01/graphic_novel_review_miss_do_n.html
http://highlowcomics.blogspot.com/2009/02/baser-instincts-miss-dont-touch-me.html
http://www.grovel.org.uk/miss-dont-touch-me/
http://comicsworthreading.com/2009/03/09/nbm-releases-little-nothings-2-miss-dont-touch-me-why-i-killed-peter-first-time/
http://robot6.comicbookresources.com/2009/03/robot-reviews-miss-dont-touch-me/

Oh! First entry!

So, why another blog to review books? Well, because I couldn't find one that had what I needed.

And what is it I needed?

As a library worker (not an official Librarian with a gilded and capital "L" - more on that below), I order graphic novels for the adult section. I have been having a hard time find places that offer good reviews on stuff for libraries, and especially for people who order for the adult section. There are many sites out there that have stuff for ordering for teens' and children's sections, but not much for those of us that order for the 18+ crowd (or 16+ in my case.) For reference, at my library, we have a juvenile/children's section, which goes up to about 6th grade, and we have a teen section with goes from about 7th-12th grade. However, there's nothing to say that a 4th grader can't take something out of the teen section, just as there's nothing to say that an 11th grader can't check something out from the adult section. Which is why my section is 16+. Since the teen section covers such a range of ages, it was thought the stuff more suitable for "older teens" would be better placed in the adult section. Again, anyone can check anything out from any section. As a librarian (little l), it's my job to help them find it. It's the parent's job to decide if they can read it.

Now, I do not have the almighty Masters degree, which often times separates librarians from Librarians. (Also, people with the MLS/MLIS seem to have ninja powers of not being detected. Must come with the degree.)

What I do have, however, is the fact that I have been collecting comics for more than half my life. And helped really build the small collection at my library. (I think we now have about 300 titles, and it was about 35 when I started.)

What I hope to provide here, for myself at least, is a place where someone can go to get references on graphic novels for adults for libraries. What I thought of it, how I came to hear of it, any other reviews, and other information that is available. I want this for several reasons - as a way to have it all in one place, but especially so that if something gets challenged, I can justify why I purchased it and have my rebuttal prepared.

The best defense? Maybe.

Hopefully, this is the beginning of something long term. I hope to cover mainstream stuff, as well as things that fly under the radar.

Next post will be a review.