Review: Sci-Fu Vol.2: It Takes 2 by Yehudo Mercado

It's graphic novel time! Today's read is the second in the Sci-Fu series, and nope, I did not read the first one (of course not). I loved the name of this one because it promises a fun mix. I don't think there are many science fiction-kung-fu reads out there, are there? Add the toss in of music, and originality is guaranteed.

Are you ready for this one? 

SCI-FU, VOL. 2

IT TAKES 2

by Yehudo Mercado

Oni Press

Middle Grade Science Fiction

Graphic Novel

160 pages

ages 8 to 12

Wax, aspiring DJ and sci-fu master-in-training, made it back safely from the alien robot planet of Discopia, where he defeated the Five Deadly Dangers and became the rightful king of Discopia. He doesn’t want the crown, though. He just wants things to go back to normal. Wax and his crew thought the robot trouble was behind them, but strange creatures have been showing up in Brooklyn, and Wax is determined to take care of them once and for all. Little does he know, there’s a new villain in Discopia, and she’ll do anything to take the crown from Wax. Wax starts to worry he doesn’t have what it takes to protect his family, friends, and all of Brooklyn from the new threats. Wax will need to kick his hip-hop and sci-fu training into high gear—and learn to rely on his family and friends for help—if he’s going to have a shot at saving his neighborhood.

GOODREADS / AMAZON / B&N / INDIEBOUND

MY TIDBITS

This book requires the reader to take a big, deep breath before diving in because once the tale begins, it zooms through with action and colorful graphics non-stop.

Wax is now the King of Discopia, since he defeated the Five Deadly Dangers on the robot planet, and with things quieted down, he's returned to Brooklyn. There, normal life isn't settling in as he's fighting alien creatures, who keep popping up. Little does he know that a powerful, evil alien has escaped prison and is determined to destroy him. He needs to power-up his skills, which means hard work and a little patience...and that still might not be enough if he can't learn to rely on those around him, too.

Hip-hop, Kung-fu, and aliens rule in these pages, and Brooklyn is the perfect setting for everything. Throw in the alien planet/place Discopia, and it's quite the mix of settings and scenes. And that's only the beginning as robot aliens create dangerous beasts with amazing powers, who keep popping up and attacking, too. And Wax's own parents are stuck in an odd predicament (which has nothing to do with any of this) on the other side of the world. To say that nothing is calm and normal, is an understatement.

The graphics are as colorful and energized as the building blocks of the story and carry the same racing atmosphere. Each character is uniquely presented and carries tons of personality and quirks. These graphics are well done and make sure the visual make that non-stop pace hold the whole way through.

The heart of the story circles around Wax's need to take the time and effort to improve his skills, and to learn that he needs to let his friends work with him. There is quite the gang to assist him as not only his only siblings are involved and bring along their own unique talents but also childhood friends as well as new ones he met on his first adventure. There's a lot of back and forth between them, which gives life on that end too. A few of the interactions hit and went a bit too sudden and disconnected, but all in all they were fun.

The text is age appropriate and keeps the pacing up. More than a little of this is written as rap, which didn't flow as well as it could have (probably much better if audio) and came across a bit cheesy at times. But, on the other hand, it adds zest and character...just a little too heavy. I believe this would work better in audio/visual form than on the written page.

This is definitely an energy packed graphic novel with tons of unique aspects. It's fun, humorous and even holds some heart. It also ends on a cliff-hanging note, which means a third book is on its way.

And here he is...

From legendary cartoonist Yehudi Mercado comes the much-anticipated followup to his hit Sci-Fu: Kick it Off. With a second volume jam-packed with all kinds of hip-hop, sci-fi, and kung-fu goodness, Sci-Fu: It Takes 2 spins the perfect track of friends working together to protect their home.

Review: Harley James and the Mystery of the Mayan Kings by Leah Cupps

I stumbled across today's read on Netgalley and was so drawn in by the blurb and title, that I had to give it a go. I love books, which weave facts with fiction, and considering this one also packs mystery and puzzles...well, wouldn't be to like? At least, that's what I hoped. Let's see if it met my expectations.

HARLEY JAMES AND THE MYSTERY OF THE MAYAN KINGS

Harley James Adventures, 

Book One

by Leah Cupps

Vision Forty Press

Middle Grade Mystery

150 pages

ages 8 to 12

Will Harley Find the Missing Mayan Statue & Save the World?

Amateur cryptologist Harley James has just landed in the sticky jungle of Tikal, Guatemala—home to the famous Mayan ruins. She’s made a few friends, a few mistakes…and a ground-breaking discovery.

The legendary statue of the long-lost Mayan King.

Just as she is about to impress her father with her discovery, the statue is stolen. Right from her own room!

And what’s worse? The legend says if the statues of the three kings are reunited, they’ll bring back an army from the dead to rule the world.

Follow along with Harley as she tracks down the missing Mayan statue, solves a few riddles and stumbles upon a secret society that will change her life forever!

GOODREADS   /    AMAZON   /   B&N    /   BOOK DEPOSITORY

MY TIDBITS

History, mystery, puzzles, and tons of action make this the perfect book to get lost in and leaves the wish to travel the world.

Harley is the only daughter of an archaeologist, and gets to travel the world and visit the most amazing places. While in a jungle in South America, Harley heads out to explore a little on her own...which her father wouldn't like if he knew...and runs across an ancient wall buried between the trees. When she figures out which stone is missing and fits it into place, a hidden statue comes into view. She wants to show it to her father and hides it under her bed until she has a chance, but someone steals it. Not only does she need to figure out who took it, but coded notes, secret meetings and a strange boy mean she's in for more than just a little adventure.

This is the first book in a series, and what a beginning it is! Harley is a curious girl, who loves to solve puzzles and likes to explore. She ranks friendship high, loves her father, isn't a homework fan, and despite her desire for a little more independence, does hesitate, sometimes. In other words, she's a pretty normal girl, who many readers will be able to identify with and wish they could explore with her. 

The pacing makes this book hard to put down. Something is always happening, and little clues slide in here and there. Written in first person, the reader always knows what Harley is thinking, and her down-to-earth nature makes her easy to identify with. The mystery mixes with tension, and the twists and turns aren't always easy to see coming. The characters leave just enough uncertainty in their true natures and intentions to keep the reader guessing. And all of it is age appropriate.

While the tale is already fun, puzzles and historical facts give it even more richness. The reader gets to solve the riddles with Harley, and these vary in types and difficulty. The entire tale is based on historical and cultural facts and myths, allowing the reader to learn more about the Mayans along the way. None of this comes across as preachy or teach-y, but rather, it melds right in with the plot. As an extra bonus, the website offers puzzles, facts and other tidbits connected with the story. So, there are quite a few possibilities and things to do. Oh, and there are illustrations sprinkled in the chapters as well.

This is a read for mystery and puzzle fans with more than a little adventure, and the beginning of what promises to be a great series. So, yes, I can recommend this one.

You can discover more at:  https://harleyjamesadventures.com/

Review: Paradise Sands by Levi Pinfold

When I saw today's read, I grabbed it up and, maybe, even squealed. This one promises a slightly darker direction...not too dark, mind you...but takes a more haunting twist. I expect beautiful writing and even better illustrations. And I'm betting this one isn't only for kids.

Ready to see if my gut was right? 

PARADISE SANDS

by Levi Pinfold

Candlewick Studio

Picture Book

41 pages

ages 5 - 9

COMING...

NOVEMBER 22nd!!!

A captivating tale of eerie places and mystical bargains, sumptuously illustrated by Kate Greenaway Medalist Levi Pinfold

Washed clean in his pool, we fall under his rule . . .
Away from what is, we all are now his.

When a young girl and her older brothers step into the ghostly Paradise Sands hotel, they fall under the rule of the mysterious Teller. The girl makes a deal with the commanding creature to free them all from his haunting paradise—and let them return to their mother, white roses in hand. But can the girl, determined as she is, hold up her side of the bargain? A contemporary story with the feel of a classic fairy tale, Levi Pinfold’s Paradise Sands is lush with enchanting illustrations, rendered in a muted palette with the artist’s distinctive stylistic realism.

GOODREADS   /   AMAZON   /   B&N

MY TIDBITS

Haunting and beautifully illustrated, this is one of those tales, which pulls in, skirts the borders of unsettling, and inspires with love and selfless determination.

On the way to visit their mother, a young girl encourages her three brothers to pull to the side of the road for a minute and pick a bouquet of flowers growing along an otherwise sandy, desert landscape. While picking, they run into a large castle with clear, refreshing water running on by. Hot from the day's heat, the brothers take a drink, and then, enter the palace to find even more inviting things. Only the girl remains careful, and soon, is the only one who might be able to save brothers from the master of a mysterious place. And that will come at a price.

This is one of those rare picture books, which lures the reader on a fantastical journey and leaves a mark long after the last page is done. This one is sold for ages 5 to 8, but adults will even enjoy the depth and food for thought. It takes the reader into a haunting fairy tale, where there isn't a true evil, but rather, bad decisions force a path, which breaks the heart. Courage and family love radiate loud and clear, as the 'weakest' needs to become the secret heroine.

The illustrations are a treat and create a very realistic world in the fantastical realm. They aren't frightening but carry the same subtle, haunting atmosphere as the tale. These are the type of illustrations worth visiting more than once.

The writing flows smoothly and holds more than a few wise phrases and messaged words. It's poetic, while packing in food for thought. While the younger end of the intended audience will understand the general gist of the story, these finer meanings and depth are geared more toward an older audience. It is a read, which will be revisited and will be finding a spot on my own book shelves.

Review: Thurman Goes Green by Artie Knapp

Today's read won me over with that super, sweet turtle on the cover. Plus, this one promises to give young readers some inspirations for summer projects...and us parents out there will need all the inspiration we can get. Although I'm not always into 'message books', I might just be won over by this one.

Ready to go on a turtle hunt? 

THURMAN GOES GREEN

A Turtle's Guide for a Cleaner Planet

by Artie Knapp

Illustrated by Mike Jackson and Dan Goffredo

Wonder Children

40 pages

ages 4 to 8

Join Thurman the Turtle in his quest to create a greener, cleaner, healthier planet. A storybook for every boy and girl who cares about the Earth.

When he discovers his water is being polluted by human garbage, Thurman the Turtle goes on a mission to stop it. He travels and realizes that people have not only polluted his pond and river but also their own land. But he also finds out that humans put an end to pollution with the four "R's": Rethink, Reduce, Reuse, and Recycle!

When he accidentally gets his head stuck in a bottle, he finds out that boys and girls can be heroes too. Change is possible. Anyone can make a difference and protect our environment.

GOODREADS   /   AMAZON   /   B&N

MY TIDBITS

When this adorable turtle decides to take things into his hands, it's hard not to cheer him on and be inspired.

When a turtle wedding is ruined by garbage thrown out of a passing car window, Thurman decides enough is enough. Not knowing how he can make a difference but determined to try, he heads down the river toward the human's living area. Everywhere, there's garbage. Even around their own homes and streets. But his shock and disgust is interrupted as a passing school group sends him into hiding. Unfortunately, it lands him in a very bad spot, leaving more than just his his mission in jeopardy.

I'm always a bit cautious when it comes to 'message' books, but this turtle is hard not to like. The reader accompanies Thurman on quite the little adventure, and that with one or two original twists. It's easy to sympathize with his frustration, in the beginning scene, and to cheer for him as he heads out to do something about the problem. It's never mentioned what exactly he thinks he'll accomplish, but this also will keep listeners thinking and wondering. 

The illustrations are straight forward and work very well with the story. Thurman comes across very nicely and seems like a turtle, who would make a great friend. The problems are clear and the world familiar, making these great to look at, especially during a read-aloud.

The tale itself is pretty straight forward and appropriate for the age group. There is a section on carbon foot printing, which might need a bit more explanation...but that fits in well with a discussion after the read. This book does work nicely for introducing a theme to a group and inspiring kids to consider the environment more. The message is very clear, but it's well woven into a fun tale, which entertains all on its own. 

And here they are...

Artie Knapp is the author of over 40 published Children's Literature works that includes books, poems, videos, stories and videos. You can visit him online at www.artieknapp.com.

Mike Jackson and Dan Goffredo (aka MJ Illustrations) have been creating award winning images for nearly 30 years. Among their extensive list of publications is Random House’s Paw Patrol book series, which is based on the internationally popular children’s television series. You can visit them online at www.mjillustrations.com.    

Review: And Time Stopped by Kristen L. Jackson with Giveaway!

It seems like it's been awhile since I've picked up a dimension springing read, and today's read is exactly about that. As always, I'm not starting this series in the beginning but am diving in with book three...which might be stretching things. Ready to take a peek with me?

And Time Stopped: Dimension 9

by Kristen L. Jackson

Keeper of the Watch, #3

YA Contemporary, Fantasy

 

After a smooth jump to Dimension 9, Chase, Alyx, and chimera pup, Bo, discover that this world’s peaceful existence only extends as far as the local high school. A different kind of battle wages there, and the identity of the school bully is a surprise they never anticipated. When Chase decides they have no choice but to enroll at Dune Harbor High and repeat their senior year, Alyx is less than thrilled. But the two soon discover the influence just one person can have over the decisions, lives, and even deaths, of those around them. While they try to prevent one tragedy, another one unfolds even as Chase unravels one more piece of his family history. What he discovers will leave him reeling, and his life will never be the same.

Amazon / Barnes & 

Noble

MY TIDBITS

First off, I have not read the other books in this series, and while I was concerned that this might be an issue, it wasn't. The prologue covers enough ground to set up the basics about the story, and the rest isn't too hard to catch up with. Still, I do recommend starting this series from the beginning.

Alyx and Chase are one of the few chosen ones, who jump dimensions every month...and that since their 18th birthdays. The jumps are random, landing them in one of twelve possible dimensions. In this read, they land in Dimension 9 and are accompanied by their pet chimera, who thanks to the lack of magic in this dimension, appears to be a normal puppy. They immediately find themselves saving another version of Chase's best friend, Mason, as he tries to commit suicide...and that's where the adventure begins.

Although this is a book about dimension jumping and a race against an evil, who is trying to kill off the dimension jumpers, this novel one has an interesting sense of 'normality'. After saving Mason, Alyx and Chase enroll in a usual high school in attempt to help the boy (after loosing Mason in another dimension, Chase is determined to rescue him in this one). This sense of usualness gave an interesting contrast to the rest of the action and added a refreshing twist.

Alyx and Chase work well together and have a wonderful relationship. Their support and team work is inspiring, and even when they don't always agree, they manage to work things out. This is especially important as the several twists hit, and Chase discovers more than a small surprise or two about his own family and past. 

It's clear that another book is on its way, and it will be interesting to see where things head next.

And here she is...

Kristen L. Jackson lives in Reading, PA, with her husband, two grown sons, and four large- breed dogs. She has been a teacher for over 20 years, and writing for children of all ages is close to her heart. Her debut novels KEEPER OF THE WATCH and MAGIC HARBOR (Books 1 & 2) are available now, as well as a novella, DIMENSION KEEPER, which is the prequel to the series. A children’s picture book, JOCELYN’S BOX OF SOCKS, (2019 1st Place Pencraft Award Winner) is also available now. Kristen enjoys writing, reading, and spending time with her family at their cabin in the Pocono Mountains of PA. Follow Kristen on Social Media:

Website / Facebook / Twittwr / Pinterest

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