Teen Titans: Raven by Gabriel Picolo and Kami Garcia

Page Count: 192

Published On: July 2, 2019

Published By: DC Ink

Genre(s): YA, fantasy, comics, graphic novel, sequential art

Source: personally purchased

Where To Find It: Amazon // Book Depository 

My Rating: 4 stars

Goodreads synopsis:

When a tragic accident takes the life of 17-year-old Raven Roth's foster mom--and Raven's memory--she moves to New Orleans to recover and finish her senior year of high school.

Starting over isn't easy. Raven remembers everyday stuff like how to solve math equations and make pasta, but she can't remember her favorite song or who she was before the accident. And when impossible things start happening, Raven begins to think it might even be better not to know who she was before.

But as she grows closer to her new friends, her foster sister, Max, and Tommy Torres, a guy who accepts her for who she is now, Raven has to decide if she's ready to face what's buried in the past...and the darkness building inside her.

~~~

Hey, guys!

I originally was provided an ARC on NetGalley for this graphic novel, but I was unable to access the file no matter how hard I tried. After a couple of days, the book was released and I pretty much ignored my bank account and bought the book. I definitely wasn't disappointed. I'm so excited to continue to support Gabriel Picolo and his artistic endeavors. His art is so beautiful and exciting. 

I've been a fan of the DC superhero group - the Teen Titans - for the majority of my life. Though I'm more of Marvel fan, I still consume some of the DC work from time to time. I tend to stick to Aquaman, Wonderwoman, Catwoman, and the Teen Titans and whatever comes from their respective canons. I'm not well versed in the DC universe, but I still like some of what they've released. From the animated Teen Titans TV show from the early 2000s (NOT Teen Titans Go), to the comics that are so iconic and fun to the new material that has been gradually been released -- the characters have always been a staple in my (still limited) DC Comics consumption. 

Garcia has been such a big name in the YA world. I've never really been a fan, but I'm really pleased with the story in Raven. Raven is one of my favorite characters and I'm really eager to see where her story goes in these graphic novels. This graphic novel was a really fun look into her character, but it was still quite underwhelming. I had hoped for a more solid story line, but it just wasn't the tea. The ending was very flat and I just felt like the writing itself wasn't that great. 

However! I feel like the artwork really carried this graphic novel. Picolo is so freaking talented and every line, every bit of his art was flawless. He did such a fantastic job! I've followed Picolo on social media for quite a long time and I couldn't be more pleased with his work in Raven. This graphic novel was excellent. If you enjoy the Teen Titans, you'll like this graphic novel.

Overall, I had hoped for more from the story, but the art really boosted the entire package. 

Happy reading!

Olivia

~ Liv the Book Nerd ~

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2018 Favorites: Graphic Novels

Hey, guys! 

This year I read 43 graphic novels, comics, and picture books. This is such a massive amount and I'm sure that is why I was able to read over 100 books this year. I absolutely love this form of literature. They are so much fun to immerse myself into. Artists and illustrators are so talented and the writers that they work with are just as amazing! I'm excited to see which graphic novels, comics, and picture books that I pick up in 2019! Here are my top 4 favorite graphic novels and series that I read this year!

1. The Saga Series by Brian K. Vaughan and Fiona Staples

This series just takes the cake for 2018. I absolutely adore everything about this series. I cannot wait to read Volume 10 in 2019. I'm already in withdrawls. Rereading the first two volumes and continuing on with the next five volumes has been such an amazing reading experience. I cannot wait for volume 10. The end of 9 left me completely broken and dead.

Reviews:

Volumes 1-3: {click here}

Volumes 4-9: {click here}

2. The Wicked + The Divine series by Kieron Gillen, Jamie McKelvie, and Matt Wilson

This series is so freaking addicting. When I started this series in January I could not put it down. I read the first several issues within 2 or 3 days, putting off all responsiblity. I cannot wait for the next issue to come out! I'm so excited to see where this story goes on!

Reviews: 

Volumes 1-6 + Christmas Single Issue: {click here}

Volume 7: Review coming soon!

3. The Prince and the Dressmaker by Jen Wang

This summer, Julia and I read this gorgeous book for one of our book club picks. This has quickly become one of my all time favorite stories. If you haven't picked up this beautiful book, you need to! Quickly!

Review: {click here}

4. The Runaways by Rainbow Rowell and Kris Anka

I've only read the first 7 issues of this awesome series, but I'm absolutely obsessed with Rainbow's writing and Kris's art style. I'm so excited about this series. I'm definitely trying to keep up with it! 

Issues #1-6: {click here}

What kind of graphic novels did you read this year? Do you have a favorite? Let's discuss in the comments!

Happy reading!

Olivia

~Liv the Book Nerd~

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{Comic Series Review // GN Reviews #6-11} The Runaways #1-6 by Rainbow Rowell & Kris Anka

Page Count: (collectively 130 pages) 18, 28, 20, 22, 21, & 21 pages

Published on: these comics have been published individually starting in September 2017 up to February 2018. There are more single issues in the works and the series will continue for some time. 

Published by: Marvel

Genre(s): Comics, Sequential Art, Superheroes, Fantasy, Paranormal, Young Adult, Graphic Novels

Source: paperback - personally purchased in single issue form

Age Rating: marketed as YA, but everyone will love it

Where To Find It: Goodreads 

My Rating: 5 stars

Goodreads synopsis: 

GET READY TO RUN! The "IT" book of the early 2000s with the original cast is back – Nico! Karolina! Molly! Chase! Old Lace! And, could it be? GERT?! The heart of the Runaways died years ago, but you won't believe how she returns! Superstar author Rainbow Rowell (Eleanor & Park, Carry On) makes her Marvel debut with fan-favorite artist Kris Anka (ALL-NEW X-MEN, CAPTAIN MARVEL) in the series that will shock you and break your heart!

~~~

Hey, guys!

Back in December, my boyfriend and I decided to start the new Marvel show, Runaways, on Hulu. We automatically were hooked to the awesome story that was being told. Because of this, we had a genuine interest in reading the comics and fully understanding the original Runaways storyline. Soon after Christmas, we went book shopping and managed to be sucked into the comics and graphic novel section of our local Books-A-Million. We actually managed to find the first few single issues of the newest Runaways comic series by Rainbow Rowell and Kris Anka. I was, personally, hooked. Since December, I've read a few more of the single issues that have been put out and I've picked up the first two massive volumes of Brian K. Vaughan's adaptation of the Runaways.

     I'm not going to individually review every single volume of this series, but I'm just going to say that I absolutely love it. Kris Anka has perfectly captured the essence of the Runaways and Rainbow Rowell has, once again, stolen my heart with her writing. She is a beautiful wordsmith from above. I just love basically everything she writes. I cannot wait to continue on with this awesome story. I wish I had money to buy all of the rest of the single issues, and the larger compiled volumes, and the eventual massive ultra volume bind-ups. I'm that extra. 

I highly recommend this series if you love Marvel, kids with superpowers, and action-packed stories. 

Happy reading!

Olivia

~LivTheBookNerd~

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{Graphic Novels/Comics/Picture Books 2018} #1-5

Hey, guys! 

    It's already July and I've already read so many more graphic novels and comics than I anticipated. I've probably read 3 times more comics/graphic novels/picture books than the past two years combined (Don't check my math on that. I'm just guessing.). I'm going to continue on with this sort of mass review strategy just to continue sharing my thoughts on these books. They've ended up being about one third to a half of what I've read this year, so I ought not to be lazy about reviewing them. I won't go too into depth when it comes to talking about them, but I did want to dedicate some blog-space to them. 

    In the past couple of years, I would compile my thoughts in one long blog post and share my thoughts, but I've already read 30 books like these

#1. Lumberjanes Volume 2: Friendship to the Max! by Noelle Stevenson, Grace Ellis, Shannon Watters, Maarta Laiho, and Brook A. Allen

Page Count: 126

Published by: Boom! Box

Published on: October 13, 2015

Where To Find It: Goodreads // Amazon // Book Depository

My Rating: 4 stars

Goodreads synopsis:

Jo, April, Mal, Molly, and Ripley are not your average campers and Miss Qiunzella Thiskwin Penniquiqul Thistle Crumpet's Camp for Hardcore Lady-Types is not your average summer camp. Between the river monsters, magic, and the art of friendship bracelets, this summer is only just beginning. Join the Lumberjanes as they take on raptors and a sibling rivalry that only myths are made of.

This New York Times bestseller and Eisner Award-nominated series is written by awesome all-star Noelle Stevenson and brilliant newcomer Grace Ellis, and illustrated by the tremendously talented Brooke Allen.

Lumberjanes, Vol. 2: Friendship to the Max includes issues 5-8 and the first fourteen pages of Giant Days, Vol. 1 by John Allison.

Review:

This is a really cute addition to the Lumberjanes series. I'm really enjoying getting to know each of the girls and learning more about their camp and going on more adventures. I really love how their friendship is portrayed and how their characters begin to develop.

~~~

#2. Lumberjanes Volume 3: A Terrible Plan by Noelle Stevenson, Shannon Watters, Carolyn Nowak, Maarta Laiho, Aubrey Aiese, Brittney Williams, Aimee Fleck, Faith Erin Hicks, Rebecca Tobin, Felicia Choo, and T. Zysk

Page Count: 126

Published by: Boom! Box

Published on: April 5, 2016

Where To Find It: Goodreads// Amazon // Book Depository

My Rating: 4 stars

Goodreads synopsis:

IF YOU GOT IT, HAUNT IT!

Trying to take advantage of the first quiet day at camp in a while, Mal and Molly's date takes a bizarre turn with the appearance of the Bear Woman! Back at camp, Jo, April, and Ripley must stay on their toes as they try and earn every badge possible, which ends up being a lot harder than any of them ever planned.

This New York Times bestselling series continues with Lumberjanes #9, "If You Got It, Haunt It Badge;" #10, "Abscence Make the Heart Grow Fondant Badge;" #11, "Go Ball-istic Badge;" and #12, "Oldie but Goodie Badge."

Mini-Review

Another adorable addition to the Lumberjanes series. The world that Stevenson and her comrades are creating is very interesting. I adore the mythological bits that they are adding and more depth for the characters. However, I did not enjoy the change in art style. It really changed up the tone of the story, which slowed down the regularly fast-paced story. 

~~~

#3. Lumberjanes/Gotham Academy (#1-6) by Chynna Clungston Flores, Rosemary Valero-O'Connell, Maddi Gonzalez, and Whitney Cogar

Page Count: 160

Published by: Boom! Box

Published on: March 7, 2017

Where To Find It: Goodreads // Amazon // Book Depository

My Rating: 4 stars

Goodreads synopsis:

The Lumberjanes and Gotham Academy kids team up!

DREAM TEAM UP!

When a teacher at Gotham Academy goes missing, it’s up to Olive, Maps, Colton, Pom, and Kyle to figure out what is happening and how to get her back. With only an outdated birthday invitation as the clue, they find themselves in the middle of the woods with no idea of where to start. With the sudden appearance of the Lumberjanes—April, Jo, Mal, Molly, Ripley and Jen—who are on the hunt for their missing Camp Director, all clues point to an abandoned cabin with more secrets than cobwebs.

BOOM! Studios and DC Comics team up to bring together Lumberjanes and Gotham Academy for the ultimate friendship-fueled crossover event. Written by Chynna Clugston Flores (Blue Monday), and illustrated by Rosemary Valero-O’Connell (Laura Dean Keeps Breaking Up With Me) and Maddi Gonzalez, this is a running-for-your-life-from-skeletal-monsters mystery that leads to lifelong friendship!  

Review:

I'm quite familiar with the characters in the Lumberjanes series, but I had never read any of the Gotham Academy comics. I thought this was a really fun series of comics. I really enjoyed how their characters interacted and the story was just super fun. The art styles were really nicely done and I really enjoyed the colors and themes that were prevalent throughout the comic compilation. 

~~~

#4. Sex Criminals Volume #1: One Weird Trick by Matt Fraction and Chip Zdarsky

Page Count: 160

Published by: Image Comics

Published on: March 7, 2017

Where To Find It: Goodreads // Amazon // Book Depository

My Rating: 3.5 stars

Goodreads synopsis:

Suzie’s just a regular gal with an irregular gift: when she has sex, she stops time. One day she meets Jon and it turns out he has the same ability. And sooner or later they get around to using their gifts to do what we’d ALL do: rob a couple banks. A bawdy and brazen sex comedy for comics begins here!

Collecting: 1-6

Mini-Review

This was a pretty fun and intriguing beginning to the Sex Criminals series. While it isn't my favorite graphic novel series, it's fairly entertaining. I'm not the biggest fan of the characters, but the art and the humor quite fun. The premise, itself, was really fun; but overall it wasn't my favorite.

Page Count: 128

Published by: Image Comics

Published on: March 7, 2017

Where To Find It: Goodreads // Amazon // Book Depository

My Rating: 3 stars

Goodreads synopsis:

The second storyline from the Eisner Award winning Sex Criminals finds the honeymoon to be over for Jon and Suzie. Once the thrill of new lust fades, where do you go? Come along and laff and love with Matt and Chip as they brimp back ceaselessly against the past.

Collecting: Sex Criminals 6-10

Mini-Review:

Overall, this addition to the Sex Criminals series wasn't as good as the first. While it was fairly entertaining, the pacing was much slower than the first. I do not think I will actively continue this series any time soon. 

Happy reading!

Olivia

~LivTheBookNerd~

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Graphic Novels & Comics Read In 2017

Hey, guys!

      I read quite a few graphic novels and comics this year, especially towards the end of the year. I really enjoyed reading the interesting storylines and getting to see how the authors and illustrators imagined their characters. 



The School For Good & Evil: The Never Ever Handbook by Soman Chainani

My Rating: 4 stars

My Review: {click here}

This really made me excited to read book #4! I can't wait to get to it! I definitely recommend you read it after The Last Ever After!















Red Hood & the Outlaws Volume 1: Redemption by Scott Lobdell & Kenneth Rocafort

My Rating: 4 stars


I really enjoyed this! I borrowed this from my boyfriend a couple months back and I really enjoyed the art style and story. I'm really behind on reading all of the back story, but I really enjoyed the first volume of Red Hood & the Outlaws!









Dragon Ball Z Volume 1 by Akira Toriyama

My Rating: 4 stars

I really liked this too! Alex is a big DBZ fan and when I found this at Goodwill I knew it would be fun little surprise for him...and then he let me read it. I thought this story was really interesting. Though I don't have time to actually read all of the volumes or watch the show, I know I'd be interested in reading/watching more eventually. 












Jem & the Misfits by Kelly Thompson

My Rating: 3 stars 

I really liked the art style of this comic. I think I'd continue with it if I found the other issues for as cheap as I did this one. I think that the characters could be really cool and I think the way the story was going could be really funny too. 

The Backstagers Act One by James Tynion IV

My Rating: 5 stars


Of the comics that I bought with my Christmas money, this one was probably one of my top favorites. I really enjoyed the characters, the art style, the story, and the plot. I can't wait to get my hands on more issues. I've been looking for the full first volume for about a week now. 










Ladycastle by Delilah S. Dawson & Ashley A. Woods

My Rating: 4 stars

This comic really has a great story and some really awesome characters that I want to know more about. I cannot wait to find more Ladycastle issues!















The Runaways (#1-#4) by Rainbow Rowell & Kris Anka

My Rating: 5 stars all together

Alex and I have really gotten into the Runaways lately, so I'm really excited to get the next issues purchase the full first volume. I love the story and I love the characters. Rainbow Rowell's writing is phenomenal and the art style is awesome. 














Saga Volume 1 by Brian K. Vaughan & Fiona Staples

My Rating: 4.5 stars

My Review: {click here}

This was a reread, but I loveeee this story and this series. I can't wait to continue on with this series.













Saga Volume 2 by Brian K. Vaughan & Fiona Staples

My Rating: 4.5 stars


I looooved this volume! This series just gets better and better! I cannot wait until I can just buy the mega volumes and binge them all. This story is so great!!!












Saga Volume 3 by Brian K. Vaughan & Fiona Staples

My Rating: 5 stars

This was definitely my favorite of the three volumes I read. I really love how this story is developing. I can't wait to read the rest of the volumes and I can't wait to see where the characters go.












Anne of Green Gables: A Graphic Novel by Mariah Marsden, Erika Kuster, Brenna Thummler, & Kendra Phipps

My Rating: 4.5 stars


I just adore Anne's story. While this illustrated parts of the story beautifully, it wasn't the full book, so don't expect a full graphic novel version of the classic story. This graphic novel was STUNNING! I was absolutely floored by how gorgeous the illustrations were. I'm so glad that this book is a thing. It included almost all of my favorite parts of the original book. I highly recommend this graphic novel if you love Anne of Green Gables!





Nimona by Noelle Stevenson

My Rating: 5 stars
My Review: {click here}


This is one of my favorite graphic novels and one of my favorite graphic novel artists and writers. I read this back in 2015 and I really really loved it. When I picked up a copy for myself this year, I had to read it again. This is one of my favorite stories and when someone asks for a great graphic novel I, of course, recommend this one. 










Wolf Children: Ame & Yuki by Mamoru Hosoda & Yuu

My Rating: 3 stars

My best friend, Emmie, let me borrow her copy of Wolf Children and it was very interesting. I really like the art style and the length of the book, but the story was very very strange and kind of unsatisfactory. Overall, the story was good, but it wasn't my favorite.











Night Shift by  Debi Gliori

My Rating: 4 stars

My Review: {click here}

This was sent to me for an honest review, and wow was I glad I accepted the request. This book is so powerful and has such a great message. 





I'm really happy with the graphic novels, mangas, picture books, and comics I read this year. Comment down below if you read any of these or if you'd like to read any of them!

Happy New Year!
Olivia
~LivTheBookNerd~

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