Fiction always comes with lessons to learn, and this season’s graphic novel series titles bring many into focus. Young readers will take to heart the need for close friendships, learning how to overcome odds with self-determination, and that true communication between people leads to clarity. Many titles bring the lessons and hardships that come with self-discovery, as well as the joy of caring for and reading about animals. Finally, a healthy dose of characters we know and love are given further adventures, some even celebrating milestone anniversaries. Young people’s focus is ever changing, but these titles should keep them entertained, no matter where their attention lies.
 

Elementary

Baltazar, Art. Flash Gordon Adventures! illus. by Franco. 112p. (Flash Gordon Adventures!: Bk 1). Papercutz. Nov. 2024. pap. $7.99. ISBN 9781545812181.
Gr 2 Up–Science fiction legend Flash Gordon comes to the world of children’s graphic novels. Expertly written and illustrated by Baltazar, who is well known for his distinctive style, this first volume will delight readers of all ages. Football jock Flash Gordon and a scientist called Zarkov head to space and land on a world of human-animal hybrids. Villain Ming the Merciless, normally very evil, brings most of the comic relief to the book. Old favorite characters like Prince Barin and Hawkman Vultan make appearances. This new volume for a young audience offers a fresh vision that seamlessly blends with established lore. VERDICT This volume is the perfect thing to bring this iconic character back to life and popularity.
 

Bruel, Nick. Bad Kitty: Party Animal. illus. by Nick Bruel. 192p. (Bad Kitty: Graphic Novel). Roaring Brook. Jan. 2025. Tr $13.99. ISBN 9781250884794.
Gr 2 Up–Party Animalis letting loose to celebrate the 20th Anniversary of the “Bad Kitty” series. It is time for Puppy’s birthday, and Kitty makes sure to let his feelings known by sabotaging elements of the celebration and generally living up to his “bad” title. Learning to see things from a different perspective is a hard lesson for young children to learn, but much like the rest of the series before it, Bruel teaches with humor and easy-to-understand situations. Readers of all ages will delight in a variety of nerd culture references. This one will fly off the shelf. VERDICT Another great entry demonstrates how it the series has lasted as long as it has.
 

Burns, Jason M. Gnome Sick Gnome. illus. by . ISBN 9781668947500.
––––. The Merpeople of Murfreesboro. ISBN 9781668947524.
––––. The Orc with Torque. ISBN 9781668947531.
––––. The Sad and Laggin’ Dragon. ISBN 9781668947548.
––––. Sid, the Squinting Cyclops. ISBN 9781668947517.
––––. The Terrible Toll of the Transylvanian Troll. ISBN 9781668947555.
ea vol: illus. by Renata Garca & Dustin Evans. 24p. (Magical Pet Vet). Torch Graphic Pr. Aug. 2024. Tr $30.64.
Gr 3 Up–This series features a group of kids who run a veterinarian office for mythical creatures. These cryptids come to get help with various ailments and learn good life lessons along the way. These new releases feature a gnome with a breathing problem, a cyclops with headaches from blurry vision, a troll with a stomachache and insomnia, a mer-couple whose aquacar breaks down, a depressed dragon, and a dizzy orc. What really makes this series shine is the explanation of new words young readers might be seeing for the first time. Support from older readers or adults may help with comprehension. These titles hit a sweet spot that will satisfy young readers of both fiction and nonfiction. It will be hard to keep them on the shelves! VERDICT This series brings the fun of spooky season while satisfying a child’s need to understand what happens when they get sick.
 

Damián. Lost in the Future: The Storm. illus. by Álex Fuentes. 128p. (Lost in the Future: Bk. 1). Papercutz. Nov. 2024. pap. $12.99. ISBN 9781545812204.
Gr 3 Up–While on a field trip, four friends and their bully fall deep into some ruins. Washed out via an underground river, the kids find themselves in a fascinating world of the future. Finding a human village after escaping some forest monsters, they wonder at the differences and discover there might be a way home after all. Will anything break their bonds of friendship? Though the author has chosen some stereotypically diverse characters, they are well-written and young readers will likely find characters to identify with. Opening itself to different time periods and settings should give this series a broad appeal and long-lasting popularity. VERDICT This title sets up a fun time-travel adventure series. Kids will love all the wild situations these friends find themselves in.
 

Davidson, Sarah. Habits and Habitats. illus. by Sarah Davidson. 1. 88p. (Jackson’s Wilder Adventures: Vol 1). Papercutz. Jul. 2024. pap. $7.99. ISBN 9781545800843.
Gr 2 Up–This title pairs a young boy with an imaginary friend, Irwin the Thylacine, an extinct Australian marsupial. As the boy encounters things in his life that seem out of the ordinary, Irwin shows him real life animals and their struggles, which help Jackson get through his issues. This series opener helps Jackson try food he finds gross by seeing animals that eat gross things (regurgitated slugs, whole tarantulas, and animal dung), and helps alleviate his fears about moving to a new house by showing animals who are losing their habitats due to human expansion, climate change, and pollution. This fun and informational series provides fantastic examples to children of how we share so much with the animals of our world. VERDICT This series should continue for a long time. Plenty of fun adventures can be had when finding out about the world we live in.
 

Eriksen, Lars Henrik. The Secret of the Scrap Goblin. illus. by Lars Henrik Eriksen. 176p. (The Inventor: Vol 2). Papercutz. Sept. 2024. pap. $12.99. ISBN 9781545811849.
Gr 3 Up–Cobalt Cogg is a young man looking for his grandpa. Having left his home of Mata-Mata, he rides his trusty giant green turtle towards the town of Basara. The trade city made of junk has many rules and carries a secret in its depths: the Scrap Goblin, who was there when the city was founded, and has big plans for it. Cobalt must find a way to locate Grandpa in all this chaos. The second volume of “The Inventor” dives deeper into the lore of the world, showing promise for future installments. While the overarching story of the series has still not been made clear, author Lars Henrik Eriksen has built and illustrated a world that will bring the fun of steampunk and adventure to a young audience. VERDICT The Inventor is a new hero readers can get behind.
 

Hunter, Erin. Warriors Graphic Novel: The Prophecies Begin. adapted by Natalie Riess & Sara Goetter. illus. by Natalie Riess & Sara Goetter. 272p. (Warriors Graphic Novel: Bk. 1). HarperAlley. Jul. 2024. Tr $24.99. ISBN 9780063203884.
Gr 4 Up– Adapting the first two books in Erin Hunter’s “Warriors” series, Into the Wild and Fire and Ice, we see the beginning of the journey of Fireheart, once a house cat for humans named Rusty, now a proud warrior of Thunderclan. This adventure is epic in scale and takes a child’s love for cats and teaches the strong lessons of perseverance, teamwork, family, and courage. This new graphic novel series will be extremely popular, not only for readers of the original series but also for a new generation who can experience the adventure for the first time. VERDICT The Prophecies truly begin again in this phenomenal graphic novel adaptation of the “Warriors” series. The compelling story will make cat lovers of all readers.
 

Leong, Sloane. The New Adventures of Turning Red: Besties 4ever. adapted by The Disney Comics Group. Vol 1. Jul. 2024. ISBN 9781545802137.
––––. The New Adventures of Turning Red: Panda Power. adapted by The Disney Comics Group. Vol 2. Sept. 2024. ISBN 9781545812884.
ea vol: illus. by Sergio Algozzino. 88p. (The New Adventures of Turning Red). Papercutz. Tr $12.99.
Gr 3 Up–Disney/Pixar’s 2022 film Turning Red featured four close female friends. One of them, Mei, inherited her family’s curse of turning into a giant red panda when she experiences strong emotions. From writing songs for their favorite boy band 4-Town to learning the power of protest while standing up for their city park, this new graphic novel series finds the girls on new adventures. Mei, Miriam, Priya, and Abby still show young readers their strong bonds of friendship and how just being open and honest with one another can have such a positive impact on their lives. VERDICT Joining the other “New Adventures of…” books from Disney, Turning Red gets a chance in the spotlight with this wonderful series showing the power of friendship.
 

The Loud House: Howling Good Time. 64p. (The Loud House: Bk. 21). Papercutz. Sept. 2024. Tr $12.99. ISBN 9781545801024.
Gr 2 Up–Meet Lincoln Loud, of Nickelodeon’s hit series The Loud House. A typical suburban 11-year-old boy with one major difference: he has five older sisters and five younger sisters. A wide variety of interests and identities divide the kids: a musician, a tinkerer, a pageant girlie, and a goth sister who loves cemeteries. So many differences, but one thing unites them together: being a family who loves and helps one another. This book brings in characters from The Casagrandes, another Nickelodeon show, as they are linked by teens who are dating each other. Both families bring chaos and high jinks. VERDICT Two hit shows unite in the 21st book in “The Loud House” series. Readers should expect all the love and adventures they find on the show.
 

Madan, Vikram. Owl and Penguin: Here and There. illus. by Vikram Madan. 40p. (Owl and Penguin: Bk. 3). Holiday House. Sept. 2024. Tr $14.99. ISBN 9780823457120.
PreS-Gr 2–Owl and Penguin are back, and this book finds them making a pizza, playing in the snow, and going on a fun hike together. This bright and cheerful graphic novel uses very few words to describe the action-packed panels, and emerging readers will delight in reading this along with their peers or grown-ups. Readers of all ages will laugh as these two best animal friends explore the world around them. Instructions for drawing Owl and Penguin are included. VERDICT Another fun and engaging graphic novel in this series. Read alone, with a friend, or with a loved one and share the hilariousness.
 

Ortiz, Amparo. The New Adventures of Encanto: Time to Shine. illus. by Andrea Greppi. 1. 88p. (The New Adventures of Encanto: Bk. 1). Papercutz. Jul. 2024. Tr $12.99. ISBN 9781545802328.
Gr 2 Up–The adventures of the family Madrigal, from Disney’s Encanto, appear in this magical new graphic novel. The volume contains four short stories. “Tall Tales,” where Camilo helps Antonio build his confidence; “A Madrigal Showtime” has the sisters participating in a talent show; Bruno tries to get people to like him for more than his abilities in “Meet Hernando”; and we learn the love story of Pepa and Felix in “Lovestruck.” All stories bring the vibrant colors this franchise is known for, and the lessons of family, unity, and determination are always present. The author has an excellent grasp of the characters’ demeanor; fans of the movie will hear their voices as they read. VERDICT An excellent continuation of the story of the family Madrigal. It will dance off the shelves.
 

Peyo. The Smurfs Tales. 160p. (Smurfs Tales: Bk. 10). Papercutz. Jul. 2024. pap. $14.99. ISBN 9781545812853.
Gr 3 Up–The Smurfs have been entertaining kids for over 65 years. In this volume, we get all the smurfin’ good laughs and fun times we expect from them. The first story has Brainy and Hefty discovering a genie’s lamp, leading to questions about the genie they find inside. Also included is an in-depth adventure tale of Johan and Peewit, the comic strip in which the Smurfs were introduced, which involves chase scenes, magic, and the pursuit of a stone. We finish up with a visit from Gargamel’s nephews, a Smurf Disco Nightclub, and a collection of one-page jokes. This volume is comprehensive and has a large amount of content, which readers will consume over multiple sessions with the book. VERDICT The Smurfs continue their whimsical adventures. Great for fans and new readers alike.
 

Peyo. The Smurfs Village: A Crow in Smurfy Grove. 56p. (Smurfs Village: Bk. 3). Papercutz. Oct. 2024. pap. $7.99. ISBN 9781545811986.
Gr 2 Up–The titles in this series take place after the events of the 2017 movie Smurfs: The Lost Village.This installment revisits Smurfy Grove, the hidden village of the Smurf girls. Gargamel’s current plot against the Smurfs involves sending out a crow to report back with the location of Smurf Village. Instead, the crow takes his own path and sets himself up in the Grove, turning Smurfblossom and Smurfstorm against each other, causing division and chaos. Fans of this newer iteration of he Smurfs will enjoy seeing more stories featuring their favorite characters. Readers will find the pacing of this volume enjoyable and will respond to the boldness displayed by the Smurf girls. This revamp is sure to bring a new generation of readers to the fandom. VERDICT This release is a smurfing good time. Kids will enjoy the inclusivity and strong depictions of teamwork and family.
 

Reedstrom, Kirk. Duck and Moose: Duck in the Dark!illus. by Kirk Reedstrom. 64p. (Duck and Moose: Bk. 3). Disney-Hyperion. Dec. 2024. Tr $12.99. ISBN 9781368097314.
PreS-Gr 2–The third outing in this popular series deals with a fear many children have: the dark. During the winter, it gets dark earlier, and Moose wants to postpone their fun to get a good night’s sleep. Duck’s constant interruptions lead to a discussion about being afraid of the dark, which is handled with the typical humor of the series. These beloved animal friends continue to guide young children through essential life skills by playing on the bonds of friendship and humor. VERDICT Duck and Moose’s newest title helps overcome fear with humor and wonder.
 

Tropper, Jana Animal Rescue Friends: Finding Home. illus. by Chelsea Trousdale. 160p. (Animal Rescue Friends: Bk. 4). Andrews McMeel. Sept. 2024. pap. $12.99. ISBN 9781524888756.
Gr 3 Up–Jimmy, Mikey, Noah, Bell, and Maddie return in the fourth volume of “Animal Rescue Friends,” and the lessons they learn continue. Starting a podcast, finding a home for a ball python, and learning how to bring out happiness in a pig are just a few of the adventures undertaken in this graphic novel. As with the earlier books in the series, the group of friends learn hard-won lessons that are passed on to the reader. Subtlety and nuance are a strength of this narrative, which could easily lead readers to self-reflection. VERDICT With lessons like patience, forgiveness, and work/life balance, this title features emotional depth in addition to animal care.
 

Upper Elementary to Middle School

Berne, Emma Carlson. Prudence Under Suspicion: A Salem Witch Trial Graphic Novel. illus. by Markia Jenai. ISBN 9781669073239.
Gilbert, Julie Kathleen. Bonnie and the Fiery Crash: A Hindenburg Disaster Graphic Novel. illus. by Wendy Tan Shiau Wei. ISBN 9781669073222.
Griner, Susan. Rei Escapes Disaster: A Great Tohoku Earthquake and Tsunami Graphic Novel. illus. by Diobelle Cerna. ISBN 9781669073215.
Rubinate, Amy. Annie and the Unsinkable Ship: A Titanic Graphic Novel. illus. by Isabelle Duffy. ISBN 9781669073246.
ea vol: 48p. (Girls Survive Graphic Novels). Capstone/Stone Arch. Aug. 2024. Tr $20.99.
Gr 5 Up–Throughout history there have been several tragic events that stand out above others, making them common knowledge. The “Girls Survive” series takes those events and shows how a regular (fictional) girl uses her skills and talents to make it through the worst of it. These graphic novels cover situations from distant and recent history: Prudence is under suspicion of witchcraft in Salem; Annie boards the RMS Titanic with her mother; Bonnie makes her flight home on the Hindenburg; and Rei and her friends race to escape a post-earthquake tsunami in Japan. Each story shows the grit and determination of each young girl as they help themselves and others. The series keeps the focus on how the event affects the girls personally and leaves out other elements that most retellings of these events cover. VERDICT Tragedy is unavoidable, but these books depict young girls trusting in themselves and one another and overcoming the odds.
 

Ferrell, David L. Heroes of Greek Mythology. 112p. ISBN 9781499476606.
West, David. Dinosaur Stories. 104p. ISBN 9781499476576.
ea vol: (Graphic Short Stories). Rosen Young Adult. Jul. 2024. Tr $39.80.
Gr 6 Up–This series collects multiple stories on similar topics together in a graphic novel format. Both Dinosaur Stories and Heroes of Greek Mythology are an excellent way to allow children to explore both points of interest. Dinosaur Stories offers us a glimpse into the lives of Pteranodon, Tyrannosaurus, Triceratops, and Velociraptor as they hatch and grow up. We follow them as they learn survival and pack tactics, and into their adult lives. Heroes of Greek Mythology covers elements of familiar stories like the Trojan War, Jason and the Golden Fleece, the Labors of Heracles, Perseus and Medusa, Theseus and the Minotaur, and the Voyage of Odysseus. Both are well-illustrated and informative, including a glossary to help young readers with unfamiliar vocabulary. VERDICT Educational graphic novels are an excellent way to help children learn to visualize the topics they are learning about. This series contains many excellent examples, and is presented cohesively.
 

Hamilton, Richard Ashley. Tectiv: Noirtopia. illus. by Marco Matrone. 180p. (Tectiv: Bk. 1). Mad Cave/Maverick. Dec. 2024. pap. $14.99. ISBN 9781545812440.
Gr 5 Up–In a postapocalyptic future, Bingo works as a scrapper, finding various trinkets and occasionally books, her favorite. She works closely with her friend Fenn, a well-liked and respected person in their town of Ellay. When Fenn goes missing, Bingo must rely on the knowledge found in old “tectiv” stories, where the hero solves crimes in a trench coat and hat. Though no crime has happened in over 2,000 years, Bingo will not let this one go unsolved. Tectiv is a wonderful introduction to noir for younger readers. Not only does it show the relentlessness of a gumshoe, but it also pokes fun at the conventions of noir fiction, like the past tense inner monologue often found in classic crime fiction. With the setting, the books also explore environmental issues, utopian concerns, and the dangers and delights of robotics. Bingo is an inquisitive protagonist who will carry readers into subsequent volumes. VERDICT With the heart of a noir thriller, Tectiv will solve the mystery of what young people want to read: a story that shows the power of determination.
 

Leong, Sloane. The New Adventures of Disney Pixar Inside Out 2: Big Feelings. illus. by Sergio Algozzino. 2. 88p. (The New Adventures of Inside Out). Papercutz. Oct. 2024. Tr $12.99. ISBN 9781545802205.
Gr 5 Up–Following the success of the release of Inside Out 2 this year, kids will be excited to see more from Riley’s emotions. New characters Anxiety, Embarrassment, Envy, and Ennui (better known to kids as Boredom), have new ways to help a developing girl grow up. The four stories here—a haunted cabin at summer camp, a teen pool party, remembering a childhood fandom, and acne before picture day—cover topics young people might relate to. These characters provide an effective and entertaining way to help young people cope with the changes of puberty. Knowing that these difficulties are being experienced by other young people offer the hope of overcoming them and works toward eliminating self-negativity. VERDICT The continuing adventures of Riley’s emotions will resonate with young readers, and the popularity of this franchise will make this series a favorite.
 

Peters, Stephanie. The Magic History Book and the Fumbling Pharaoh: Starring Cleopatra!illus. by Jazlyn Alcaide. ISBN 9781669067726.
––––. The Magic History Book and the Secret Flier: Starring Amelia Earhart! illus. by Jazlyn Alcaide. ISBN 9781669067702.
Scott, Steven. The Magic History Book and the Grade-A Genius: Starring Einstein!illus. by Le Nhat Vu. ISBN 9781669067733.
––––. The Magic History Book and the Total Drama King: Starring Shakespeare! illus. by Jazlyn Alcaide. ISBN 9781669067719.
ea vol: 32p. (The Magic History Book). Capstone/Stone Arch. Jul. 2024. Tr $18.99.
Gr 3-6–This series offers an engaging twist on historical learning, with legendary figures like Amelia Earhart, Shakespeare, Cleopatra, and Albert Einstein transported into the present to help kids solve modern-day problems. Each of the first four titles features a different child protagonist, blending history with relatable, real-life challenges. Presented in an early graphic novel style, the illustrations are often laid out in panels, with some extending beyond the frames for added visual interest. The text is a mix of narrative and speech bubbles, kept short and simple for introductory readers. The back matter includes facts about the historical figure featured in the story, along with a glossary, making it both educational and fun. These volumes not only introduce young readers to important historical figures but also show how the past can inspire solutions for today’s challenges, all in a vibrant, comic-book format. VERDICT A worthwhile addition to comic book collections.
 

S.p.A., Rainbow. Winx Club: Heart of a Fairy. 144p. (Winx Club: Bk. 3). Papercutz. Nov. 2024. pap. $14.99. ISBN 9781545812068.
Gr 6 Up–The magical fairy girls of the Winx Club at Alfea Academy empower young girls with their adventures in this new series. The volume features three short stories. The Trix, three bad witches, try to do evil with spells from forbidden books. In another story, the Winx girls help love blossom both for themselves and for Madame Greta. In the third we find out how Bloom got her part-time job. These stories relay messages young people could benefit from: those of respect, friendship, and the overwhelming power of hope and love. This volume will have wide appeal to both those who watched the television show growing up as well as new fans. VERDICT Winx Club is pure magic, and libraians won’t have to cast any spells to keep this series from jumping off the shelves.
 

Soto, Zack. Second Strike. illus. by Zack Soto & Jason Fischer-Kouhi. 208p. (Power Button: Bk. 2). Lerner/Graphic Universe. Nov. 2024. Tr $31.99. ISBN 9781541555532.
Gr 5 Up–The second volume in this series seems to be a typical superhero/sci-fi action story, but its straightforward plot will help young readers gain an appreciation for the genre before moving on to more complicated stories. Friends Kaz and Truly have control of a pair of alien-summoning wristbands, calling forth Cyclo, a hero with a robot appearance. Cyclo helps them to fight against the Horde Empire, who began their invasion of Earth in the previous volume. The characters play on common archetypes, but that is part of their charm, especially when combined with the graphic style. Readers will find themselves enraptured by the tale and will await the next installment with strong anticipation. VERDICT This ongoing series will bring graphic novel readers a great delight. Young heroes and aliens always work well together.
 

Upper Middle School to High School

Bowles, David. The Hero Twins and the Magic of Song. illus. by Charlene Bowles. 80p. (Tales of the Feathered Serpent: Bk. 2). Cinco Puntos. Oct. 2024. pap. $15.95. ISBN 9781947627697.
Gr 7 Up–Mesoamerican myth and legend continue in the second installment of this series, about fated sets of twins and musical magic. Lady Blood, a princess of Xibalba (or the Underworld) gets involved in a relationship with One Hunahpu, a demigod of maize. Their twins, Hunahpu and Xbalanke, will one day grow to help resurrect their father and uncle. One of Hunahpu’s children from his overworld life will need to get past their jealousy and envy of these new twins. This story is full of symbolism and is directly connected with stories of Mayan mythology. With vibrant colors and tight pacing, the graphic novel format will pull readers along easily, even into subsequent volumes. VERDICT The hero twins of Mayan mythology and their wild stories are brought to life in this great series.
 

Coulon, Yves. Dogmatix and the Indomitables: Show No Mercy to the Romans!illus. by Matthieu Choquet. 80p. (Dogmatix: Bk. 1). Papercutz. Oct. 2024. Tr $12.99. ISBN 9781545811962.
Gr 6 Up–Dogmatix and his friends, a crew of fellow dogs known as the Indomitables, are strays who resist Roman rule and occupation in Gaul in 52 BCE. Three short stories—the first about a bouncy ball gone wild, the second involving an outbreak of hiccups, and the third in which the dogs protect a singer who stirs up anti-Roman sentiment—are collected in the first volume of the series. The character of Dogmatix originally premiered in the classic “Asterix” series, and this collection serves as not only a prequel to the series, but also part of the 65th anniversary of the pivotal work. These dogs’ chaotic adventures will delight younger readers while older readers may enjoy the ironic humor in Coulon’s naming scheme or focus on the classic chase-style high jinks. This release might create new fans of a classic series. VERDICT Hilarity and history collide.
 

Cuartero-Briggs, Olivia. Fate: The Winx Saga: Dark Destiny. illus. by Christianne Gillenardo-Goudreau. 112p. (Fate: The Winx Saga: Bk. 1). Mad Cave/Maverick. Aug. 2024. pap. $14.99. ISBN 9781960578938.
Gr 7 Up–A continuation of the popular television series, this graphic novel depicts the fairy club’s senior year at Alfea College. Bloom has vanished, taking the Dragon Flame with her to the Realm of Darkness in order to help her birth mother escape. This leaves Alfea without strong leadership, forcing the other Winx to take some drastic measures. While the prologue does clue us in on the chaos to come, the real heart of the story comes from the strong friendships and drama that ensues. The author demonstrates that she knows these characters deeply, and the story and artwork together to show these fairies aren’t kids anymore. Volume two promises to be dark. VERDICT Both fans of the original series who have grown older and new readers will love this mature take on these powerful fairies.
 

Goscinny, Rene. Asterix Collector: Asterix the Gaul. illus. by Albert Uderzo. 72p. (Asterix: Bk. 1). Papercutz. Nov. 2024. Tr $19.99. ISBN 9781545812228.
Gr 9 Up–This year marks the 65th Anniversary of this beloved French comic, and Papercutz is starting the celebration by releasing a collection featuring the first story as well as bonus content detailing how the series came to be. Set in the year 50 BC, the area of Gaul (which we know as France) was under occupation by the Romans. The Empire has total control, with the exception of one village of particularly strong people who hold out. Head among these rebels is Asterix, whose uncanny strength comes from a potion made by their druid. Rife with slapstick and tongue-in-cheek humor, this is a great opportunity for young fans and new readers alike to enjoy it from the beginning. VERDICT Known for its humor, this first volume set the tone for future releases, and could introduce these characters to a new, younger audience.
 

Hamilton, Richard Ashley. Scoop: Buried Leads. illus. by Pablo Andrés. 92p. (Scoop: Bk. 2). Mad Cave/Maverick. Sept. 2024. pap. $14.99. ISBN 9781545811863.
Gr 9 Up–Sophie Cooper has a lot going on in her life. A few of her problems typical for girls her age: quinceañera planning, family drama, and typical high school issues. It’s the other problems that are taking up so much of her time: an internship with a local news channel, continuing to investigate supernatural elements surrounding her father’s arrest last year. Sophie also works as an investigative reporter on a new case, trying to clear the reputation of a suspected murderer. The author includes some dialogue in Spanish; translations are not included for these dynamic family interactions. The pacing of the book matches the frantic nature of Sophie’s job at the news station, so readers will need to pay close attention. The art in this teen thriller is vibrant and colorful. VERDICT Fans of the book in the series will enjoy the further adventures of this heroine.
 

Valentin, Gabriel. Digital Lizards of Doom: Dana Deathly. illus. by Ceri Langell. 144p. (Digital Insiders: Bk. 3). Papercutz. Dec. 2024. pap. $12.99. ISBN 9781545812426.
Gr 6 Up–This chaotic space adventure story continues in this third outing from Valentin. Dana Deathly teams up with lizard hero Dizzy Doom to find a powerful weapon to help save the universe. Standing in their way is Commander E.K.O., a robot who still has it out for Dizzy. The author has adopted a unique visual style with the series, having all dialogue on the opposite page of the illustrations. Pop culture elements are peppered throughout. Instances of the chaotic Pineapple Pete breaking the fourth wall could cause confusion while following this wild adventure. VERDICT Valentin’s visual style will delight those who have followed it so far. New readers might want to go back to the beginning.