Bunnies in a Rocket by Philip Ardagh

BUNNIES IN A ROCKET

A Sunny Town Bunnies Tale

by Philip Ardagh

Illustrated by Ben Mantle

Candlewick

Picture Book

32 pages

ages 4 to 8

COMING APRIL 4th!!!

Climb aboard for a zany, out-of-this-world ride from the team who brought us Bunnies on a Bus, Bunnies in a Boat, and Bunnies in a Sleigh.

They have traveled in a bus, in a boat, on Santa's sleigh and now, in their most epic adventure of all, the Sunny Town Bunnies are going to the moon! They've snuck their way onto a rocket ready to launch, and in no time at all they are streaking across the sky, through the atmosphere, and into outer space. What happens when they reach the moon? And how will they ever get back home again? It’s one small step for a human but one giant leap for Bunnykind in this fantastic cosmic adventure brimming over goofy, lively fun.

GOODREADS   /    PUBLISHER

MY TIDBITS

Everywhere these bunnies go, fun and giggles are sure to follow.

The bunnies are underway again, and it just so happens to be the same day that the panda-astronauts are launching into space. Excitement runs high as the pandas head to the rocket, give their interviews, and board...well, almost board the rocket. The bunnies have arrived and beat the pandas to the ladder and rocket's hatch. Before anyone realizes what's happening, the bunnies press the launch button, and it's off to space they go. With these bunnies, that means chaos and adventure pure with a big dose of silliness, too.

These bunch of bunnies always put a smile on the face, and this latest adventure isn't any different. It's the artwork which carries this read with tons of details to make gazing at each scene a delight. The bunnies are hyper-active, curious, adventurous, and full of ideas. This causes all sorts of activity with quite a bit to explore. While the bunnies handle everything with over-active-enthusiasm, this latest adventure takes a little scifi twist with adorable fantasy, and this invites to a little dreaming and imagination. 

The text is kept short and lets the adventure flow forwards at a nice pace. It's written in rhyme, which flows better some times than others. It fits the age group and creates a nice read-aloud, but listeners will be captivated more by the illustrations than story. After all, that's where the humor and action is.

It's another fun book for patient and reluctant listeners alike.

Winnie's Pile of Pillows by Dana K. White

WINNIE'S PILE OF PILLOWS

Making Room for the Things You Love Most

by Dana K White

Illustrated by Sarah Jennings

Tommy Nelson

Picture Book

32 pages

ages 4 to 8

COMING FEBRUARY 17th!!!

Waddle with Winnie the Walrus through this tale of delightful decluttering! Organizing expert and bestselling author Dana K. White makes tidying easier to do and easier for parents to talk about with their kids.

When Winnie discovers she really loves pillows, she can't seem to get enough! But as the pillows pile up, her bedroom becomes a mess. Winnie loves her pillows, but she also loves the other items in her room she can no longer see or use. So what's a walrus to do? Discover the importance of making room for the things you love most in this laugh-out-loud story the whole family can relate to.

This picture book

is for ages 4 to 8;is a great conversation starter about decluttering, tidying, and donating that parents will appreciate; andis a great gift for any parent who is struggling with too much stuff in their child's room.Winnie's Pile of Pillows will open your child's world—and room—to managing possessions, making space for the things that really matter, and understanding the value of not owning more than what you can contain.

GOODREADS

MY TIDBITS

Not only pillow fans will want to cuddle up with this read and join Winnie in collecting favorite things.

Winnie loves her bedroom. She has a pretty purple carpet, a secret stash to hide her treasures from her brother, and so much more. When she visits her aunt, she takes her favorite book from her stash with her. Her aunt also loves to collect treasures, which makes her house interesting. On this visit, her aunt stuffs comfy pillows around Winnie before reading the book...and Winnie can't believe how comfortable it is! Better yet, her aunt gifts her the pillows, so that Winnie can enjoy them at home. Then, something amazing happens; Winnie discovers more pillows at a yard sale. But this might also be the beginning of an unexpected problem.

This is a brightly illustrated read with scenes, which will have readers wishing they could jump in and join Winnie in her little adventure. She is a bubbly walrus and has a wonderful personality which shines. Her appreciation for even little things makes her adorable, and her desire to enjoy them is warming. When the true problem slides in, it carries a dash of humor to keep the messaging from growing preachy. Instead, the tale flows along to create an enjoyable read.

While this one makes a lovely read-aloud, it would also work nicely for beginning readers, who are pretty sure of their words. The text is a tiny bit heavier than some picture books and highlights more difficult terms, which might need explanation. As a read-aloud, it's lovely for calmer hours...especially ones which involve pillows, and will work better with patient listeners rather than reluctant ones. It is a heart-filled tale which promises smiles as well as some food for thought. 

Our Prehistoric Planet: Dinosaurs and Other Creatures of the Past by Sue Lowell Gallion

Since we're on the topic of dinosaurs, I thought we'd just stay in the past and hit another, hopefully, fantastic read. This one is a board book...and what a board book it is! I'm always won over by superficial things in the book realm, and this book is right down my first-impression alley. The book flips open to form a standing globe. There are even magnets in the very front and back to help keep it in place and together. So, I'm already showing thumbs-up for this one.

Now, let's see if the inside of the book is as wonderful as the physical concept...I hope so!

OUR PREHISTORIC PLANET

Dinosaurs and Other Creatures of the Past

by Sue Lowell Gallion

Illustrated by Lisk Feng

Phaidon Press

Board Book

26 pages

ages 2 to 5

COMING MARCH 4th!!!

A rhyming, read-aloud introduction to dinosaurs and early life on our planet that, when opened up and folded back, creates a free-standing globe

This exciting addition to the bestselling Our World collection invites children to explore life on our prehistoric planet through rhyming verse and stunning illustrations.

Beginning with the origins of early life in the oceans billions of years ago, Our Prehistoric Planet travels chronologically through the development of giant crocodile-like lizards, the reign of the dinosaurs, mass extinction events, and the rise of early mammals. Along the way, readers will meet incredible creatures from across the globe, from familiar favorites like Stegosaurus to the bizarre Brontothere, an enormous, rhino-like mammal with giant horns over 3 feet long.

Additional text throughout offers more detailed information and friendly interactive questions, encouraging readers to learn about the amazing creatures that, millions of years ago, stomped or swam where we live today.

Inspiring, informative, and one-of-a-kind, this artful homage to our prehistoric world is both an invitation to travel back in time and an object to be treasured for years to come.

GOODREADS      /      PUBLISHER

MY TIDBITS

With a clever format, this sturdy book takes a look at prehistoric times, how the Earth might have been during those eras, and a few of the amazing creatures that roamed the planet during that time.

This is a long, stabile board book, which can be opened up to create a globe. Thanks to the shape and a few magnets in the outer cover, it stands firm and works especially well for classroom displays or on a cabinet in a child's room. Unlike many dinosaur books, the concentration isn't only on the creatures but rather looks at the environment they lived in. It begins with a dinosaur display in a museum before shifting to the first life under the sea. From there, it expands to the influence the volcanoes might have had, various dinosaurs and creatures, and finally, looks at the ruling theory as to why they disappeared. So, this book takes a broader view of the dinosaur time period.

The globe section of each page holds a colorful and detailed scene to help readers/listeners picture what the landscape might have looked like. These invite to gazing. On the base section is the text. The left side holds a 3-4 lined rhyme, which gives a quick description of the scene. This works well for the younger listeners and flows nicely. Sometimes, playful words are used, while other pages hold a few vocabulary building terms...but nothing overly difficult. Then, on the right side of the page (on the base) is a more detailed description with heavier explanations. This works especially well for the adults/caretakers to either read directly to slightly older children or use as a basis to explain more to very curious, younger listeners. This is also written in a playful tone, keeping the young audience in mind. 

This book is lovely for gifting but also is a nice addition to displays or simply for dino-fans to enjoy. 

Call of the Parasaurolophus by Rex Stone

Dinosaur books belong to kidlit like hearts belong to Valentine's Day...or something like that?

Today's read heads into the world of dinosaurs and takes beginning readers on an adventure while teaching dino facts. There are already more than a few books in this series, but this is the first time that I'm diving in. I'm assuming that these don't need to be read in any specific order; at least, that's the impression I'm getting. I'm already intrigued by a series, which takes a peek at specific dinosaurs while adding a tale with it, and hope this is well done. 

So, put on those jungle hats because we're going to go exploring!

CALL OF THE PARASAUROLOPHUS

Dinosaur Club

by Rex Stone

DK Flip

Children's Fiction

96 pages

ages 5 to 7

COMING FEBRUARY 17th!!!

Travel back in time to the Cretaceous period to help a herd of Parasaurolophus with the Dinosaur Club.

Dive into an exciting Jurassic world and travel back in time with the Dinosaur Club. These character-driven dinosaur books explore different dinosaur species through a thrilling adventure story for kids aged 5-7.

Meet Jamie, a member of the Dinosaur Club. They are a network of kids around the world who love to share dinosaur knowledge, help identify fossils, post dino discoveries, and chat about all things prehistoric. Jamie is exploring Ammonite Bay when he meets Tess, another member. Tess shows Jamie her favourite place – a secret cave with fossils all over the walls.

Suddenly, the two new friends find themselves back in the amazing yet dangerous Cretaceous period, where they encounter a herd of Parasaurolophus that need their help.

This Dinosaur Club story features:

• An introduction to core non-fiction for children aged 5-7 who prefer stories, but are packed with exciting dinosaur facts.
• Beautifully illustrated line art accompanied by expertly written text.
• Reference pages to build upon all dinosaur fans’ knowledge about these fascinating prehistoric creatures.
• All the latest dinosaur information and up-to-date discoveries.
• Engaging material that reinforces the narrative, including timelines, quizzes, fact files, and glossaries.

Dinosaur Club: Call of the Parasaurolophus will take your child on an action-packed Cretaceous adventure as they learn about the Parasaurolophus dinosaur species through fun facts, timelines and quizzes.

More in the series

At DK, we believe in the power of discovery.
So why stop there?

If you like Dinosaur Club: Call of the Parasaurolophus, then you’ll love other titles in the series. Why not try Dinosaur Club: The T.Rex Attack, Saving the Stegosaurus, Avoiding the Allosaurus, and The Compsognathus Chase, and embark on a Jurassic adventure whilst learning about different dinosaur species!

PUBLISHER      /      GOODREADS

MY TIDBITS

A little adventure, friendship goodness, and dinosaur facts meld to form an entertaining and informative read.

Jamie's at his mother's side as she uncrates several fossils to add to the sandbox table when he and Tess discover an odd looking bone: the crest of a Parasaurolophus. They've never seen anything like it and wonder what purpose it had for the dinosaur. No one seems to be able to answer their questions, which means they'll have to head outside to Ammonite Bay and climb to the Smuggler's cave to find out. With a small ammonite from the same time period in hand, they enter the cave and find themselves back in time. While they discover a cute Wannansaurus  right away, they also cross paths with a dangerous T-Rex. Soon, their adventure involves much more than just learning the secret behind the parasaurolophus' crest.

This is a well-done book, which holds enough tension to draw in while teaching readers about dinosaurs along the way. It's just right for those readers, who are sure of their words and happily diving into shorter books. The font and spacing are on the larger side for easy reading, and there are enjoyable illustrations on almost every page. Those pages without illustrations hold speech bubbles with media text messages. So, there's an enjoyable change-up to keep things interesting. There's also a glossary at the end of the read to help with more difficult words, a dinosaur/period timeline, a map of their dino-world, illustrated facts about the main dinosaurs in the story, and a short quiz to help the information sit (and check reading skills). It's a book packed with goodness.

The story flows very smoothly and draws in. Not only are there constant twists and turns as the two characters search Dino World for their answers, but both characters are enjoyable to follow. They are cheerful, curious, and hold exactly the right emotions at the right times. They are friendly and just enjoyable to go on an adventure with. 

It's a lovely tale and not only for dinosaur fans.

And here they are...

Rex Stone is the pseudonym used by Working Partners, the creators of Beast Quest, Warrior Cats, and other successful series like Animal Ark.

I Love You Little Lamb by B.D. Cottleston

It's time to get those loving feelings flowing. After all, Valentine's Day is just a couple days away.

Honestly, this isn't an important holiday in my mind (go ahead and gasp with horror). I know many people love this holiday, and I do decorate and go along with it. My house is so covered in hearts...along with my tractor...that'd you'd probably think I adore this holiday. I was even the girl in school and college, who made sure my friends received a flower of some kind at their lockers or dorm doors. Just because I don't care about the day itself, doesn't mean that I don't enjoy to see others smiling. Everyone needs a little more love and care in their lives.

So today's read is very fitting. I'm pretty sure its not about romantic love (it's a picture book. after all), and it doesn't release until beginning March...so long after Valentine's Day is done. But people always need to feel loved, and I'm hoping that's what this book radiates.

Let's open it up and find out!

I LOVE YOU LITTLE LAMB

by B.D. Cottleston

Ink Out Loud

Picture Book

40 pages

ages 4 to 8

COMING MARCH 3rd!!!

A Gentle Story of Love, Comfort, and Belonging

I Love You Little Lamb is a heartfelt celebration of the quiet, reassuring bond between a caregiver and their cherished little one. With soothing words and warm illustrations, this tender book wraps children in the message they most need to hear: You are safe, you are loved, you belong.

Perfect for baby showers, birthdays, bedtime rituals, or just-because snuggles, this sweet story helps grown-ups put their love into words--and little lambs feel it in their hearts.

A keepsake gift for the ones who matter most.

GOODREADS

MY TIDBITS

Care and love flow from every page with a tiny touch of silliness to guarantee smiles.

This is a feel-good book, which invokes warmth and security. The first page holds two sheep, one hugging the other, and this sets off the theme, which stays strong the entire way through. It's about care and letting listeners/readers know that they are loved...which works especially well during a read-aloud session. So, it's a cuddle-up-in-the-chair-together tale. 

While all this loving goodness is going on, the illustrations dribble in a tad bit of humor. The scenes are very simple: a sheep on a plain, single-colored (but popping color) background. So, the concentration remains on the loved sheep. As the one-lined and short text states all the times this sheep is loved (when it's creative, when it's kind), the sheep takes different costumes and poses. Some are just adorable, while others are a bit silly...like the sheep being brave and wearing a cape while doing a 'super' pose. This makes it an entertaining read to hold listeners' interest the entire way through, while feeling the wonderful flood of care.

There's so much love and goodness, and I do recommend this read quite a bit, since listeners are sure to feel the mood and love it. I was a bit surprised, however, that it points out all the times the sheep is good...never anything negative. Being loved during sadness or mistakes wouldn't only strengthen the message, but so, it almost feels like the sheep has to be good to be loved. But that's just my two-cents because I do enjoy this one quite a bit and am putting it on my to-be-gifted list.

It's My Bird-Day! by Mo Willems

It's time for a little fun, and today's read promises to pack tons of that. This should be a picture book of few words (I believe), and the illustrations should hold much of the silliness. Well, if it's silly. Honestly, I'm just assuming it is. Either way, I'm expecting tons of smiles.

So, let's open this one up and see what it holds!

IT'S MY BIRD-DAY!

by Mo Willems

Union Square Kids

Picture Book

40 pages

ages 3 to 5

COMING MARCH 31th!!!

From #1 New York Times bestselling, award-winning author and illustrator Mo Willems, comes the highly anticipated annual event, The Pigeon’s BIRD-DAY!
 
The Pigeon has the hat. And the hot dog cake! He is ready for the presents! But ... do YOU think The Pigeon can handle his BIG bird-day surprise!?!
 
Get ready for a very special birthday celebration from three-time Caldecott honoree Mo Willems.

GOODREADS    /     PUBLISHER

MY TIDBITS

With a little silliness and the struggles of getting past disappointments, this is a book to enjoy with characters to want to see again.

It's Pigeon's bird-day, and he can't wait to celebrate with a candle in his hotdog, presents, and so much more. When he heads to blow out the candle, he's shocked to find that someone already blew it out...and that's not all. Soon, Pigeon's very special bird-day isn't so special after all. Or maybe, it is if he's able to wrap his head around something new.

This is a bright and boldly made picture book. The illustrations are very simple, and that's all which is needed to bring every moment across with the needed emotion and fun. Pigeon's excitement is contagious and his disappointment understandable. After all, his whole happiness smashes against a change he didn't expect. Readers/listeners will have no problem understanding Pigeon's predicament, but they'll also realize the possibilities the change can bring. In other words, there's a lovely message about growth, friendship, and sharing wrapped inside.

For all things, this book keeps fun high. Every situation hits with a touch of over-the-top emotions and a hum of humor to guarantee smiles the entire time. Even when Pigeon's mood takes a nose-dive, the drama keeps the situation light and enjoyable...while still making it clear what's going on. It creates a grabbing, quick-paced, and enjoyable read, and will have readers/listeners wondering what situations Pigeon might experience next. So, I do hope there are more to come.

And here he is...

Mo Willems is a number one New York Times bestselling author and illustrator. He has been awarded three Caldecott Honors and an Eisner Award for his picture books, and two Theodor Seuss Geisel Medals and five Geisel Honors for his celebrated ELEPHANT & PIGGIE early readers. His debut picture book, Don’t Let the Pigeon Drive the Bus! was inducted into the Picture Book Hall of Fame. Mo began his career as a writer and animator on Sesame Street, where he garnered six Emmy Awards. Mo is the cofounder of Hidden Pigeon Company, established in 2023 to extend the reach of Mo Willems characters and stories across multiple platforms.

Happy Book Birthday, Europa by James Ponti!

It's time to shoutout another book birthday! This time, it's the 7th in a fun spy series for middle graders from a very popular author, who is known for his exciting tales. I have read several of the books in this series, so I'm pretty sure what type of read this will be...well, unless something surprising happens. I'm looking forward to see what the characters are up to in this latest adventure because it's always bound with high-stakes, action, friendship, and very unexpected twists and turns.

Let's open this one up and see if it keeps the series as exciting as it has been so far.

EUROPA

City Spies

by James Ponti

Aladdin

Middle Grade Spy Fiction

384 pages

ages 8 to 12

In this seventh installment in the New York Times bestselling series from Edgar Award winner James Ponti, the young group of spies work to prevent a dangerous criminal from escaping prison in another international adventure perfect for fans of Spy School and Charlie Thorne.

The City Spies are ready to start fresh with a new home, new schools, and a new directive now that Clementine has come in from the cold and Le Fantôme has been put behind bars. But their plans are put into jeopardy when Umbra threatens to attack multiple high-level targets across Europe unless he is released from prison. With intel leading them to Rome, Paris, London, and Amsterdam, the City Spies split up and race across the continent solving codes and chasing clues in an effort to thwart the attacks. With so many moving parts, the City Spies are going to have pull out all the stops if they have any chance to succeed at this latest mission.

GOODREADS     /     AMAZON     /      PUBLISHER

MY TIDBITS

Tension, action, and, for all things, clever-puzzle solving skills come together to form another fun adventure.

After bringing Le Fantome behind bars and having Clementine return, the City Spies are now in London after losing their other base. But that doesn't mean things are going to quiet down. Instead, Umbra is planning bomb attacks, and while the crew first believes them to be in London, it soon becomes clear that several major, European cities are on the target list. So, they divide up to stop the terror...hopefully, before it begins. Of course, things don't run completely smoothly because the villains are vicious, and Umbra isn't an enemy to be underestimated.

It's always a treat to dive into Ponti's work. The tale flies by quickly and smoothly, letting each scene come across with natural flow...and that while the City Spies are up against anything but normal circumstances. They always work together and do their best to solve each new problem. In this latest installment, Ponti takes the problem solving to a new level with more puzzles and riddles that need to be solved. So, fans of this sort of thing are going to especially enjoy this 7th adventure. As with the other adventures, there's never a boring moment, and every step forward seems to find more complex issues that need to be solved. The teamwork is always inspiring and makes sure that no singular character outshines the rest. That doesn't mean that everything goes smoothly, though, since the City Spies do make mistakes...sometimes big ones. This adds to the tension and makes the read that much more grabbing.

City Spy fans are going to enjoy this adventure as much as the others. There are plenty of surprises, gray characters, and heart as well as action. The City Spies aren't done, yet, though, so we'll see what adventure lies in store for them next.

And here he is...

James Ponti is the New York Times bestselling author of four middle grade book series: The Sherlock Society following a group of young detectives; City Spies, about an unlikely squad of five kids from around the world who form an elite MI6 Spy Team; the Edgar Award–winning Framed! series, about a pair of tweens who solve mysteries in Washington, DC; and the Dead City trilogy, about a secret society that polices the undead living beneath Manhattan. His books have appeared on more than fifteen different state award lists, and he is the founder of a writers group known as the Renegades of Middle Grade. James is also an Emmy–nominated television writer and producer who has worked for many networks including Nickelodeon, Disney Channel, PBS, History, and Spike TV, as well as NBC Sports. He lives with his family in Orlando, Florida. Find out more at JamesPonti.com.

We Remember Your Baptism by Meta Herrick Carlson

Happy Sunday! I hope your day looks like it's going to be as cheerful and nice as our day will be. After the last few weeks of snow and cold, the sunshine seems even nicer. There is still snow in patches, but I suspect we'll see a little more of that or ice before the month is over.

Today's read stays in the Sunday direction and looks at baptism. I believe this one reminds readers of their own baptisms, but maybe, it can be used for happening ones, too. We'll just have to open it up and find out!

WE REMEMBER YOUR BAPTISM

by Meta Herrick Carlson

Illustrated by Clara Anganuzzi

Beaming Books

Picture Book  Religious

40 pages

ages 4 to 8

COMING FEBRUARY 17th!!!

"You may not remember your baptism, so we tell you the story again and again."
With lyrical text, this picture book lovingly describes the collective memory that a family and church community carry about a child's baptism and what it means to be washed and held in the current of God's love.

We remember the beginning, when the breath of God moved over the waters of the deep. We remember your baptism too--when God's word was spoken and water was poured to welcome you as a beloved child of God! Harkening back to biblical stories of how water refreshed communities and made people whole, and pondering how water reminds us of God's forever love, this picture book captures the depth and heart of the sacrament of baptism.

A beautiful read-aloud for baptism celebrations, anniversaries, confirmation, and any time a family or church community wants to retell the story of a child's baptism. We Remember Your Baptism includes a presentation page, a pastoral message from the author, and a place to record baptism memories.

GOODREADS   /    PUBLISHER

MY TIDBITS

With beautiful illustrations and a poetic flow, this is a lovely book to not only look back at a baptism but discover how it comes together with daily life.

The book begins with a page for the reader to add their name, making it ideal for gifting. At the end, there's also space for a photo of the baptism and more, which rounds off this personalization angle nicely. The 'story' begins with a family sitting down to view photos from the children's first baptisms. The main focus, then, slides onto the water, and this holds the rest of the way through. Starting with how God formed life in the waters in the very beginning, the book, then, leads through moments such as swimming in the ocean to watering flowers and so much more. Various stories from the Bible involving water are also touched upon. Each time, the text points out the significance of water in the various situations and ties it into the religious life. At the end of the book, there are hints and suggestions for care takers, parents, and guardians on activities and other ways to work with the theme.

The illustrations draw in and are done in watercolor, which is very fitting. They carry a more artistic direction when needed, and slide into more distinct detailed scenes when that style is more fitting. It's enjoyable to gaze through the pages, and they fit the text nicely to create a lovely read-aloud. The text is written with four short lines, which flow smoothly. Some of the vocabulary words are a bit more difficult and work well for the upper end of the intended age group. But then, the text often hits at deeper meanings, which will also work better for the upper end of the intended audience level, since younger listeners might not understand some of the indirect meanings. It will probably work better with patient listeners than more active ones due to the slower pacing. Many aspects of this read can be used to open up to discussions and even lead to other lessons...such as the Bible stories mentioned during this read.

And here they are...

Meta Herrick Carlson is a pastor, a poet, and the author of Ordinary Blessings and Ordinary Blessings for Parents. Her work is rooted in a love for meaningful ritual, accessible language, healthy communities, and the gospel still expanding. Her words are inspired by God's delight in our real and ordinary lives. She laughs at her own jokes and packs extra snacks just in case. Meta and her family live in Minneapolis, Minnesota, on Dakota land.
Website: metaherrickcarlson.com
Twitter: @herrickmeta
Instagram: @metaherrickcarlson

Clara Anganuzzi was raised in the Seychelles Islands, where she would draw on every surface she could find. She has always had a fond love for the sea and all types of critters, who often inhabit her drawings. Clara now spends her days doodling in her plant-filled studio overlooking Bristol. She is the author-illustrator of The Ocean Gardener and Strong. She also illustrated Dear Earth by Isabel Otter and How to be Brave by Karl Newson. 

Zicky: Wrath of the Rat King by Darin S Cape

Today's read heads into adventure pure in, what should be, a fast-paced graphic novel. I'm expecting fantasy goodness with tension and tons of action. I'm not sure if this all happens in a child's dreams or exactly how the world is set, but it will be fun to find out. Plus, what do robots have in common with giant rats?

Let's find out!

WRATH OF THE RAT KING

Zicky #1

by Darin S Cape

Illustrated Zeno Decrux and

Hiorsh Gabotto

SHP Comics

Middle Grade Fantasy

160 pages

ages 9 and up

COMING APRIL 14th!!!

Zicky: Wrath of the Rat King is an all-ages fantasy adventure graphic novel combining isekai manga with western comic storytelling. With its expressive visual style, cheeky humor, and emotionally grounded characters, Zicky puts a fresh spin on classic kai (portal fantasy) storytelling. Zicky is ideal for readers who love fast-moving fantasy with heart. A coming-of-age story set in a strange and dangerous world, this graphic novel delivers a unique voice and a vivid, unforgettable journey.
Deep underground, Zicky plunges into the lair of the Rat King—a tyrant amassing an army of rodents to invade the real world. A mysterious supervillain lurks in the shadows, and the fate of both worlds hangs in the balance. But just as the battle begins, Zicky wakes up... back in his bedroom, surrounded by his siblings who tease him for believing his adventures are more than a dream.

Zicky: Wrath of the Rat King bursts with monsters, mayhem, and heart — a vivid journey into a world of thematic depth where reality bends, and friendships are tested. Join Zicky on his first adventure where he will need all of his persistence, humor and ninja skills to survive.

PUBLISHER     /     GOODREADS

MY TIDBITS

Action remains key as this hero dashes from one problem into the next and flips between worlds to form a dizzying pace.

Zicky is a kid by day and a hero by night. When everyone else is sleeping, he teleports to other worlds to defeat those with evil plans. Right now, he's dealing with the Rat King, who is planning on taking over the real world as soon as he gets a chance. Luckily, Zicky's child-self transformers into a powerful fighter whenever he wears his magical ring. The ring is also the key to the transports. Unfortunately, the Rat King is determined to get its hands on this ring, and Zicky might just make the mistake which allows this to happen.

This read takes on the isekai manga style, especially when it comes to the action and other world scenes. The battles are intense, the graphics full of power, and the characters pack personality. So, action and fantasy fans are sure to enjoy it from the very first page...because this one slams with the action right away. But Zicky isn't just an action hero; he's a kid in the real world. And this juxtaposed duality adds an interesting twist. Zicky's magical ring it a pacifier, which he wears on a string around his neck. Add that he is by no means a baby, and it builds in an obviously problematic twist...which isn't addressed in this first novel too much, but definitely adds possibilities for bullying arcs and such later on in the series. Plus, Zicky has a very normal family, who cares for him, and carries the usual parent back-and-forth as well as sibling issues. Interestingly enough, Zicky doesn't try to hide his alter-ego life from his family, but they simply don't believe him and mark it off as dreams. So, there's an intriguing flip-flop in this book with so many possibilities still to come.

The illustrations pack color and personality. The illustrators let the other worlds shine not only in the details but in the entire, illustrative style. This makes it easy to decipher which realm is being displayed and keeps things from growing confusing. The text fits the middle grade audience nicely and is kept pointed and necessary. This allows for a nice balance between text and graphics to let the story flow smoothly. 

It's an exciting read with tons of surprises, some silly moments, and villains, who are dangerous but carry a goofy edge to keep everything from growing too heavy, dark, or harsh. It's a fun read for action fans who enjoy quirky moments mixed in with the tension and are ready to root for an original hero, who is doing his best to deal with a odd and difficult situation.

You can watch the trailer HERE!

Founded by SHAWN HAINSWORTH, SHP Comics launched in 2021 as an independent publisher aiming to deliver daring, intelligent, genre-bending comics and graphic novels. Hainsworth began his creative life as an award-winning experimental filmmaker before telling stories on the page under the pseudonym Darin S. Cape. The publisher, author and producer lives in Western Massachusetts with his wife, two kids and a hound dog mix. Learn more at shpcomics.com, and follow SHP on Facebook: @shpcomics and Instagram: @shpcomics.