Incidentals Vol 1: Powers, Lies, and Secrets by Joe Casey

MY RATING: 2 of 5 stars

The first volume of the graphic novel Incidentals compiles the chapters 1 to 4; it is about the group of people who possessed superhuman abilities when a meteor strike on earth. These people were at the beach at the same time where the accident happened.

The story started on the part where Vanessa, Nuke, and Taylor were trying to save and get a girl with the same ability they have. A multi-millionaire tycoon, Bo Vincent Chen, is the leader of this group and they are trying to search and recruit those who are just like them.

At first, the pacing of the story is a little confusing but readers could still comprehend as the story progress. This comic series is part of the Catalyst Prime of Lion Forge and I had the opportunity to have the ARC of the first volume of the Superb and Noble through Netgalley also. And after reading this, I found that the two aforementioned series are much better than this.

The story of Incidental is quite overused; I've watched and read the same plot on movies and other comic series before. This is only the first four chapters of the series, hence there is a big chance of improvement to the storyline.

Dollface, Vol. 2 by Dan Mendoza

Dollface, Vol. 2 by Dan Mendoza
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

Looks could be really deceiving; that's my initial reaction right after I finished reading this comic book. I got fooled by the cover, artwork, and the typeface because I find them a little childish; what I didn't expect is that the content is for mature readers only.

There are several disturbing parts: abortion, the killing, and the consumption of babies by the witch; which even I, as an adult, find a little grim and dreadful. The publisher, Action Lab Comics, should have put the warning sign of Mature Readers in the front cover and not in the back; so, parents will be aware that this comic series is not meant for young kids.

Joyride Vol. 1 by Jackson Lanzing

Joyride Vol. 1 by Jackson Lanzing
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

The only thing that I don't like in this graphic novel is that Uma is the protagonist; I prefer Catrin than her because she possessed a pleasing personality than the latter. Nonetheless, this comic series is really exciting to read and based from the synopsis of the succeeding volume, it looks like it is much better than this.

Although I don't like Uma, because of the story, I would still read the second installment once I got a copy. I also want to check if there would be any development in the relationship of Catrin and Dewydd because I really want them to end up together.

Striking The Balance by Dominique Roques

My rating: 3 of 5 stars

Pico Bogue: Striking the Balance is a humor-filled graphic novel about the two witty siblings, Pico and Anna. Based on the illustrations, the comic panel started in autumn then ended in the Christmas or winter season. There are several repartees in this book that I've liked, but there are also that are not that great. However, I could say that it's still a great graphic novel to check out when you want something that is a light-read and if you want to be entertained at the same time.

Ada Lovelace by Mª Isabel Sánchez Vegara

My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This storybook is another great addition to the Little People, Big Dreams series of the Frances Lincoln Children's Book. The story was written by Ma. Isabel Sanchez Vegara and illustrated by Zafouku Yamamoto.

This book narrates the life story of one of the brilliant and important women who changed the world, Augusta Ada Byron or more famously known as Ada Lovelace. She is considered the world's first computer programmer because of her idea that everything could be turned into a number and programmed into a machine. Through her concept, she wrote a new code or algorithm hence she heralded the title given to her.

Ada Lovelace's story is about the power of imagination and perseverance that must be instilled to the mind of young kids. A lovely children's book that will definitely love by young kids and even adult readers who are fond of this kind of books.

Becoming Unbecoming by Una

Becoming Unbecoming by Una
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Becoming Unbecoming is one of the best informative graphic novel I came across. It provides a lot of useful facts about sexual assaults, misogyny, and victim blaming. I highly recommend this to all, particularly to women, as this will enlighten everyone on how society sometimes perceived victims to be also at fault.

It also shows how the suspect lives or acts as if they haven’t done anything wrong that fools everyone especially the authorities. If ever you see a copy of this, don’t lose the chance to get it because it’s really worth it.

Thanks to Arsenal Pulp Press for the reading copy of this in exchange for honest opinion.

Comics for a Strange World: A Book of Poorly Drawn Lines by Reza Farazmand

Comics for a Strange World: A Book of Poorly Drawn Lines by Reza Farazmand
My rating: 2 of 5 stars

Indeed strange, that's how I was able to perceive the comic strips are in this graphic novel. There are at least two that I found at least a little hilarious; but as for the rest, they just made me question on what the heck those comic strips really mean.

I even question myself that maybe I didn't sense the meaning, but I'm quite certain that I'm not the only one who just didn't get it.

Wallace the Brave by Will Henry

Wallace the Brave by Will Henry
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Wallace the Brave is one fun-filled graphic novel that will undoubtedly make anyone laugh. All the characters are funny and readers can relate to one or two characters; I can see myself on both Wallace and Amelia, and Spud and Sterling are the funniest for me. If you are bored or under the blue, this one is a great companion to ease your boredom or sadness.

The Girl Who Said Sorry by Hayoung Yim

The Girl Who Said Sorry by Hayoung Yim
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Love everything about this picture book! I like how it presents life situations that not only young girls could relate to, but teens and ladies also will be able to associate themselves with some of the predicaments cited. I can relate to some of these circumstances such as being too quiet and outspoken, but that's who I am, and that's what this brilliant book wants to impart to the readers.

Anyone should live not to please anyone; not to live to the norms just because it is the standards. As long as you're not hurting anyone, you should live to what your heart desires because it is your life and no one should dictate what you should and should not do.

Pride of the Decent Man by T.J. Kirsch

Pride of the Decent Man by T.J. Kirsch
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

T.J. Kirsch, as both a writer and illustrator, did an impressive job in coming up with this outstanding graphic novel. The story of Andrew Peters will make readers ponder about their lives and how we treat others with hostile or dislike, without knowing who they really are. I am guilty of being prejudiced to substance abusers; but after a while, I've learned that these people might be dealing with problems and the only temporary escape they aware of is immersed themselves into this kind of abuse.



Andrew Peters, on the other hand, is an ex-convict; there are a lot of people that have a preconceived opinion that anyone who served jail time has an ill personality and will never be transformed. Reading this book will make us reflect on how we are as a person; it also serves as a wake-up call that we should learn to be open-minded and put ourselves into other's shoes first before making any judgment.

Pride of the Decent Man is a magnificent book with a remarkable story that accompanies with admirable illustrations. I'm confident that there's a high probability that would be delighted to read this compelling graphic novel and they'll recommend this to their friends as well.

Street Angel: Superhero for a Day by Jim Rugg

Street Angel: Superhero for a Day by Jim Rugg
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

The artworks are really spectacular and impressive, and that's what I really like in this graphic novel. On the other hand, I'm disappointed that the story is quite short and that the ending is not what I've expected it to be.



Thanks to Image Comics for the reading copy in exchange of honest opinion.

Angel Answer Book by Robert J. Morgan

Angel Answer Book by Robert J. Morgan
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

The Angel Answer Book is very informative and quite an interesting read. I like how accurate it is because it cites the Bible as its reference. Also, there are several Bible passages or scriptures quoted that support the answers per question. If you love reading books about angels, this is essential because it is eminently worth reading.

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High Moon Vol. 1: "Bullet Holes and Bite Marks" by David Gallaher

My rating: 2 of 5 stars

The Volume 1 of the High Moon comics series entitled Bullet Holes and Bite Marks which was created by David Gallaher and Steve Ellis, has an engrossing story. Although, there are confusing parts such as that I thought the protagonist was the detective Matthew McGregor. Then in the middle part of the story, the fugitive Eddie Conroy, which later became Edward McGregor, was after all the lead character.



Another cause for confusion is who Ester Kittel really is and what did his sons Frederick and August mean on the latter part of this graphic novel. I could have gave this 3 to 4 stars if only I was not confused on some scenes; and I guess, those unanswered questions of mine about Ester spoiled everything.

Erik the Lone Wolf by Sarah Finan

My rating: 5 of 5 stars

The adorable children's story of Erik The Lone Wolf is a great way to teach young kids that parents' set rules for their sake also. They are being guided because they love and care for them; parents only want the best and their kids' safety. The cute and colorful illustrations will also enchant young readers, hence the moral lesson of the story is easier to grasp.

Baby Teeth by Zoje Stage

My rating: 3 of 5 stars

When I was given the opportunity to receive the reading copy of this novel from the publisher and without reading the synopsis, I was really intrigued by the title and the word monster was the first thing that came to my mind. And while halfway perusing, I remember watching the movie The Orphan and thought that Hannah from this novel is just like the character in the said film. They have the same nature on how their love for their dads is severe; although Alex is Hannah's biological dad, I believe that Hannah's admiration is a bit creepy and sexual.

This will make readers think of how an innocent looking girl like Hannah could just turn sinister and dark when she was alone with her mom, Suzette, and her attitude is quite the contrary towards her dad. I even thought that maybe she's possessed by an evil spirit, a clone or something like that; I reckon that others also speculate of possible reasons on Hannah's condition while reading.

Some would find this novel entirely disturbing due to Hannah's murderous plans to get rid of her mom; this is not recommended for those who are not okay or prepare in reading this kind of stories. Skip this if you are a faint-hearted person, but delve into the riddle and puzzle of the story if you are into mystery and thrilling genre.

The Doomster's Monolithic Pocket Alphabet by Theo Prasidis

The Doomster's Monolithic Pocket Alphabet by Theo Prasidis
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

The cover photo and the title of this graphic novel piqued my interest, thus I checked out the ARC provided by Image Comics. I really appreciate the illustrations, however I'm not a fan of heavy metal music or DOOM; therefore I'm not the target audience of this book. Nonetheless, the artwork is great. Oh wait, I already mentioned that.





Thanks to Image Comics for the advance reading copy!

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Grandpa's Ghost Stories: Story and Pictures by James Flora

Grandpa's Ghost Stories: Story and Pictures by James Flora
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Grandpa's Ghost Stories was first published on late 1978; it's not your typical children's book that contains cute story and adorable illustrations. This book is more appropriate for kids ages from 9 and and up as they can already processed these kind of ghastly tales.



There are three stories in this book: The Bag of Old Bones, The Cave of the Warty Witch, and The House of Ghastly Ghost. I consider the last story the best and the most horrifying that will scare kids out of their wits.



Thanks to Feral House for the reading copy of this book.

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Dr. Coo and the Pigeon Protest by Sarah Hampson

Dr. Coo and the Pigeon Protest by Sarah Hampson
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Dr. Coo and the Pigeon Protest is a children's picture book that teaches kids about the respect to animals. It has a brief history also of how pigeons were revered then. This book also reminds readers that we should co-exist with animals and about how love can change everything.



Thanks to Kids Can Press for the ARC.

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Eternal Empire, Vol. 1 by Sarah Vaughn

Eternal Empire, Vol. 1 by Sarah Vaughn
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

Eternal Empire is a graphic novel written and illustrated by the same author and illustrator of the Alex + Ada comic series. This first volume of Eternal Empire compiles issues from one to five, and it is about the story of Saia and its people, particularly the two protagonists: Tair and Rion.



Tair came from Essla, the southern and colder part; while Rion is from Qaara, the desert and mid part of Saia. They are haam or workers and both escape from their countries because of the visions they always see; unexpectedly they met in Amdor while fleeing. They discover that they both have powers when they first met and they both agreed to fled and take refuge to Nifaal, the only remaining country in Saia that is still fighting against the oppression of the Imperial Palace and the Empress.



The plot is great but the story telling is a little bit off or dull, and quite predictable also. The characters Tair and Rion are a look-alike of Alex + Ada; I just hope that the illustrator, Jonathan Luna, drew the protagonists in Eternal Empire more defined. Another thing that displeased me is the bestiality which was subtly described in the first page of this book. Regardless of these disappointments, I will still check out the future releases of this comic series because I want to know how it will end up.

Thank you to Image Comics for the ARC!

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In the Tree House by Andrew Larsen

My rating: 4 of 5 stars

In The Tree House is an adorable story of two brothers who were growing apart. However, their relationship brought them back together when the power was gone out in their neighborhood one night.

The story is quite simple, but it reminds us of several lessons. Aside from being in touch with our loved ones, the beauty of simple living away from gadgets and other forms of digital entertainment was also tackled in this picture book.
Thanks to Kids Can Press for the reading copy.

A Dream for Three by Jérôme Hamon

My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Emma and Violette is a short story of two sisters who dreams to be a prima ballerina someday. While Violette has no problems making it to the audition to one of the prestigious schools for ballet, Emma on the other has was having difficulty due to her individualistic way of performing.

This graphic novel is highly recommended especially to middle graders — it shows that we should do what makes us happy and not just conform to what others tell us to do. And that sometimes, what we believe our dream is not really what we are destined to be.