May 29, 2017

Recent Reads

52. Giant Days, Vol. 3
In the third installment of this graphic novel series the first year at university draws to a close. Unlike the previous two volumes, this one didn't work as well for me. Maybe because it felt more like four short stories than a cohesive narrative, but my overall feeling about this one was meh, so while the art continues to be cute, colorful and manga-ish, I'm not sure I'll be continuing on. Though there is that ending.... Rating: 2 stars.

53. The Illustrated Compendium of Amazing Animal Facts
This is a delightful little book with whimsical black and white illustrations and a handful of facts about a bunch of animals. I loved the illustrations, and also learned some things along the way.

Did you know that a group of cockroaches is called an intrusion? Or that the Chinese leather turtle pees through its mouth? Me neither.

Highly recommended for kids of all ages, especially animal lovers, and as an added bonus, this would also double as a fun coloring book. Simply delightful. Rating: 4 stars.

54. Little White Duck : A Childhood in China
2.5 stars.

This graphic memoir is a collection of eight short stories based on the author's childhood in 1970s China. This book is targeted for middle school readers, and it's a good introduction to some Chinese culture and history. The stories center around Na Liu and her younger sister, and as if often the case in all cultures, much of what is going on in the adult world makes little sense to the young. I especially liked the way class is explored in the title story, however the book lacked enough cohesiveness and depth for this adult reader. I liked the art enough to round up. Rating: 3 stars.

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