New Ultimate Spider-Man Revealed...

In a landmark move, Marvel has announced a replacement for the recently deceased Peter Parker in it Ultimate Comics line for the upcoming issue #1. The new Ultimate Spiderman, Miles Morales, is half black, half hispanic and will fill the shoes of one of the most iconic superheroes in comics and pop-culture. The comic industry has never really embraced diversity, and this is a fantastic third step in that direction that follows on the heels of DC comic's decision to introduce a homosexual Batwoman in its most recent iteration of that comic. DC will also include a African Batman in its brand new title Batwing, coming out in September. While few and far between, having these examples of diversity shows the comics industries willingness to embrace the reality of such a culturally diverse world. 

These titles would make a great addition to any classroom library, either in single issue format, or in the collected editions. Your students will read these books (comics) if you make them available. They are also fantastic for reluctant readers, or struggling readers. 

Great Starting Point for DC Comics

DC Comics is re-launching all 52 of it's books this September by releasing #1 issues for all of them. This is a great time to jump on board with some of the most iconic characters in comics. Speaking of #1's, Captain America just relaunched with a new #1. Done by Ed Brubaker is one of the best books on the shelves. 

Free Comic Book Day Finds

Of all the books they had at FCBD, Super Dinosaur was the most intriguing. It just started it's run, and is by Robert Kirkman, a very well regarded author. The proof is in tha puddin' though and my 8 year old has read it no fewer than 4 times. It hits the sweet spot for that age range...dinosaurs, super-villians, and a lost world that needs protected from those that would exploit it. The art is excellent with bright, vibrant coloring. Issue #1 just came out, so it is the perfect time to hit your local comic shop.

Jeff Smith: The Bone Saga

With the release of Quest for the Spark, the latest offering from Jeff Smith, I thought it time to revisit his original epic, The Bone Saga. 

After re-reading the series, I was reminded of what a good story this is and how great it is for readers in the 10-16 year-old range. The pacing is great, there is a lot of humor (both subtle and overt), and despite Fone Bone’s (the main character) vanilla appearance, the art is very rich, and does as good a job as any graphic novel that I have read in carrying the story. 

The story itself is creative, and has a bit of a Frodo feel to it...an unsuspecting hero who is part of a much bigger conflict. Unlike Frodo, who knows what he is getting himself into, Bone  and Thorn learn of the gravity of their involvement as the story progresses. The females in this book are smart, proactive, clever and very strong both physically and emotionally. This is NOT a “boy book”. Any reader would benefit from reading this series. 

All in all, this series would get my highest recommendation. These books really hit the sweet spot for kids this age (and older) and are great for both eager and reluctant readers. They are also a great way to try this genre out. Unlike many “kid” reads, this series makes for a great adult read as well. 

The image is a link to Amazon, check out the used versions for a great bargain. As an aside, the giant volume is tempting because it is cheaper, but it is in black and white. The digital painting done in the color versions is too good to pass up.