by Lucy Softich

Dr. Horrible and Other Horrible Stories, by Zack Whedon
$9.99

Plot
This book is a series of short stories, each following a different character from Dr. Horrible’ Sing-Along Blog, a web musical created by Joss Whedon, Zack Whedon, Jed Whedon, and Maurissa Tancharoen. The series is set in a world where superheros and supervillians are somewhat common-place, and these five stories range from origin-stories to everyday life.

First Impressions
You may have noticed I’m a fan of Joss Whedon, so of course I’ve seen (and loved) Dr. Horrible’s Sing-Along Blog. Naturally, when I saw this comic, I couldn’t help myself. I had to have it. This book is set before the events in the musical, and it was nice get a longer glimpse into the world.

Lasting Impressions
I only wish it were longer! Each stories is a good, solid look into the characters’ backgrounds. The art style changes with each story, which really worked here, as it kind of highlighted the differences in their perspectives. The length worked fine—they really were mere snippets—but left my hungry for more. And of course, all the songs from the musical were stuck in my head, just by association.

Audience
Fans of Joss Whedon and Dr. Horrible’s Sing-Along Blog will of course love this, but new readers will also have fun. If you’ve grown up on superheros, or are a fan of The Venture Bros., you’re sure to enjoy this book.

There’s nothing in this book that’s inappropriate for young readers, but teen to adult readers are probably more likely to get the humor.

by Lucy Softich

Fables Vol. 1: Legends in Exile, by Bill Willingham
$9.99

Plot
Once upon a time, creatures and figures of legend lived in worlds apart, strangers to even each other. Until the Advesary came, and drove the survives into our world–to live amongst the Mundanes as best the can.

In this back-drop, Bigby Wolf (the sheriff) and Deputy Mayor Snow White are working to solve a gristly mystery—the disappearance or murder of Snow White’s own sister, Rose Red.

First Impressions
I’ve heard a lot of good things about this series, especially the early volumes, and it was about time I finally picked it up. I’m also a big fan of re-imagined fairy tales, especially when they take a dark, adult turn.

Lasting Impressions
While it was a tad kooky at times, I was won over by Fables pretty fast. It takes classic characters, and develops them in new and interesting ways. It’s also clearly working from actual fairy tales, not the sugar-coated versions, and there are a lot of lesser-known legends sprinkled about. It reminded me of Neil Gaiman’s Sandman series, in all the best ways, and I’ll definitely be picking up more of the series.

Audience
This story will be more appealing if you have a solid background in fairy tales, and it isn’t for kiddies. I’d rate it as 16+ for blood and swearing. Adults will definitely get a kick out of it.

by Lucy Softich

Nightmares & Fairy Tales Vol. 1: Once Upon a Time…, by Serena Valentino & FSc
$14.95

Plot
The doll Annabelle has been witness to some terrible things. For some reason, where ever she goes, sadness and violence are all around her; whether caused by her, or simply a sad coincidence, even she isn’t sure. From ill-fated lovers to fairy tales gone wrong, Annabelle has seen it all.

First Impressions
I got this book on a recommendation from a friend, and am always intrigued by tweaked fairy tales and Gothic sensitivities. There was also something deliciously haunting about the artwork, and I wasn’t disappointed.

Lasting Impressions
There is something deeply unsettling about this book, and that’s what makes it so much fun. The art is beautiful and very creepy, and the stories are equally so. Even the stories that end “happy” — meaning the protagonist survives and the antagonists pay for their misdeeds — leave you ill at ease. But the characters are very engaging, Annabelle especially, and I can’t wait to see where this series goes from here.

Behind the Scenes
There is some lovely guest art at the back, and a few pages of the original script. It’s always cool to compare script pages to finished comic panels.

Audience
Fans of Niel Gaimen’s Coraline, and pretty much anything by Tim Burton, will probably really love this series. That said, it’s not for the kiddies. I’d mark it as 13+, for violence; there’s a lot of blood in this book.

by Lucy Softich

Diary of a Wimpy Kid, by Jeff Kinney
$13.85 (hardback)

Plot
Greg’s mom is making him keep a journal (NOT a diary–he specifically told her to buy one that didn’t have the word ‘diary’ on the front, but did she listen?). But don’t expect him to get all mushy on you or anything. He will, however, reveal the pranks he plays on his best friend, the story of the dreaded Cheese Touch, and all his misadventures in middle school.

First Impressions
I’ve been curious to read this book for awhile, because it gets talked a lot about. Kids love it, parents and teachers hate it, and it is a really interesting illustrated novel, that combines super simplistic comic-style drawing with text.

Lasting Impressions
This was not exactly my type of book, but if I were eight years old, I know I’d love it. So many of Greg’s plans reminded me a lot of things I did as a kid, and some of his observations are hilarious. He’s self-centured and mischievious, but what kid isn’t?

To be fair, his isn’t a literary masterpiece, but it isn’t supposed to be. It’s witty and hilarious, and Jeff Kinney is definitely channeling his inner child.

Audience
This is a great book for kids, probably from elementary to middle school. Parents might have some reservations, but this is a great book for “reluctant readers” and a hilarious book to share with your kids. If you have issues with some of Greg’s actions, you might consider using them as a jumping-off point for talking to your kids about bullying, school mischief, etc.

by Lucy Softich

Hereville: How Mirka Got Her Sword, by Barry Deutsch
$15.95

Plot
Mirka lives in an all-Jewish town, with her father, stepmother, little brother, and a cast of sisters. Her stepmother is trying to teach her to be a perfect lady—but Mirka just wants to fight dragons and have adventures.

First Impressions
I read this book on a recommendation from one of my roommates, and in her words “there just aren’t enough fantasy-books about Jewish girls.” I was truly charmed by the premise, because she’s very right, and Mirka’s story has all the feel of a classic hero’s adventure. It’s also by a local Portland author, which is always a plus!

Lasting Impressions
I was charmed by Mirka, and her entire world was fascinating and well developed. It really does remind me of an old fairytale, but with a spunky and stubborn female protagonist. Mirka deals not only with a pig out for revenge, a troll, and a dubious witch, but also a good spattering of family drama. Through it all, the book also conveys a really interesting view of Mirka’s culture.

Audience
This book will be a fun read for anyone 8+, and will charm boys as well as girls. Mirka’s a hero we can all really identify with.

Publisher’s Note
I have had the opportunity to meet Barry Deutsch on several occasion at various comics conventions. He’s a great guy who loves his work, justifiably so. If you get the chance, say hi the next time you see him at a show. —Bo

by Lucy Softich
Babymouse, Vol. 1: Queen of the World, by Jennifer L. Holm and Matthew Holm
$5.95

Plot
Babymouse’s life is typical–boring day, boring school, boring homework. But she dares to dream big. Queen of the World, big. The one thing standing in her way is Felicia Furrypaws, the current queen of the school, but Babymouse just knows if she can get invited to Felicia’s big slumber party, her life will change forever.

First Impressions
I stumbled upon this book while doing research for a Children’s Books class I took (have I mentioned my school rocks?), and I was initially intrigued by the premise–a “literary” graphic novel (as opposed to “comic book”) for kids. I was quickly won over by the adorable herioine and charming plot.

Lasting Impressions
This really is an adorable book. Babymouse is very easy to relate to. She reminds me a lot of myself at her age. She’s unique, free-spirited, and knows how to have fun. She also has a very active imagination. It’s also a visually stunning book; I love the choice of doing black and white with one color, pink, and they play up the color and Babymouse’s iconic heart throughout the book. The writing is also really tight and hilarious.

Audience
I think the primary audience for this book is kids from about 3rd grade on, but there are references and tight writing that older readers will enjoy as well.