Book Recommendation: We Called Them Giants by Kieron Gillen

In this story, we encounter a post-apocalyptic world where humanity has largely disappeared, leaving a small band of survivors who must rely on themselves and each other to survive. The book presents a vibrant, reimagined landscape filled with mysterious, otherworldly beings and a more unforgiving climate.

WHAT I LIKE ABOUT THE BOOK

The visuals are absolutely stunning, capturing the setting beautifully.

WHAT I DISLIKE

While the plot is straightforward—a quality that can work well—it lacks much suspense, giving the sense that it serves as more of a prologue than a fully developed narrative.

WHO IS THIS FOR?

Fans of YA fantasy might want to have a look at this one.

Many thanks to Image Comics for providing a review copy.

Book Recommendation: The Library Mule of Cordoba by Wilfrid Lupano, Leonard Chemineau

The Library Mule of Cordoba is a story about the destruction of one of the largest libraries in the world. It also tells how its Head Librarian, a copyist, and a thief managed to save some of the library's contents.

This book explores the importance of ideas and the value of challenging deeply held beliefs. It also examines the dangers of populism, showing how it brutally suppresses opposition and leads to the destruction or banning of ideas.

WHAT I LOVE ABOUT THE BOOK
Despite its serious themes, The Library Mule of Cordoba maintains a humorous tone and doesn't take itself too seriously. The art style is lovely and French-y... reminiscent of the Asterix and Obelix series.

DISLIKES
However, a few of the panel scenes felt a bit too long.

WHO IS IT FOR?
I recommend this book for adults and young adults who have a passion for ideas.

Special thanks to Ablaze for providing a review copy.

Lies My Teacher Taught Me (A Graphic Adaptation) by James W. Loewen, Nate Powell - Book Recommendation

 

While the title may be misleading, "Lies My Teacher Told Me" strives to address numerous historical inaccuracies commonly taught in American schools. The book sheds light on the negligence of publishers in critically examining historical facts and figures while often prioritizing national pride and jingoism.

The book challenges accepted mistruths about Columbus's role in American history and reveals lesser-known aspects of Helen Keller's life (aspects that are conveniently brushed aside as they do not fit into an established hero origin story).

WHAT I APPRECIATE ABOUT THIS BOOK
This book is a valuable guide for instructing students about the perils of unquestioningly believing everything they read. It emphasizes the significance of research and self-examination in the realm of history. It encourages readers to approach history with a critical mindset.

DISLIKES
None.

TARGET AUDIENCE
This is recommended for adults and young adults who have a passion for knowledge and value a broader perspective on history.

Special thanks to Ingram Publisher Services for providing a review copy.

Illegal Cargo by Augusto Mora - Book Recommendation

Augusto Mora's book "Illegal Cargo" gives an unflinching account of the risks, heartaches, and potential misfortunes endured by illegal migrants, particularly those taking the Mexican route to enter the United States. It details the dangers they face and the exploitation that occurs during their journey, and it sheds light on those who benefit from human trafficking and the trail of blood that is left behind.

WHAT I LIKE ABOUT THIS BOOK
Illegal Cargo poignantly shows the emotional toll that the Mexican route experience takes on the migrants, and its frank portrayal of the ugliness of this issue offers readers a powerful understanding of the human costs of illegal migration.

DISLIKES
Nothing.

WHO IS IT FOR
This is for anyone and everyone.


Many thanks to Diamond Books for providing a review copy.

In Search of Gil Scott-Heron by Thomas Mauceri and Seb Piquet - Book Recommendation

 

In Search of Gil Scott-Heron is a journey to discover the life and works of the famous musician. It is a detailed exploration of the artist's genius and how it shaped the music and culture of Black America. The book reveals the intricate details of Gil's life, from his early days in the music industry to his final years. It also documents the author's failed attempts to make a documentary on the artist.

WHAT I LIKE ABOUT THE BOOK
It is a great insight into his immense influence on American culture, and how it still resonates today. It is a testament to his legacy and his place in the music world, which will continue to be felt for many years to come.

WHAT I DISLIKE
Nothing.

WHO IS THIS FOR?
This book is a must-read for music lovers and those interested in learning more about the importance of Gil Scott-Heron. Those with no knowledge of his influence can also learn of his importance to music and culture in the West.

Many thanks to Titan Books for providing a review copy.

Fortune & Glory by Brian Bendis and Matthew Wilson - Book Recommendation

 

Fortune & Glory by Brian Michael Bendis delves into the triumphs and pitfalls of writers trying their luck at crafting the next Hollywood hit. The author reflects on his own journey and highlights the idiosyncrasies of the movie industry, revealing its brutal realities.

WHAT I LIKE ABOUT THIS BOOK
Fortune & Glory reads like a friend telling you their life story while offering honest advice. It sheds light on how Hollywood operates with regards to selling and buying written works of art.

The narration is engaging, treating you like a co-conspirator in the author's quest to get his work made into a movie.

DISLIKES
Nothing.

WHO IS IT FOR
Any writer or artist can benefit from the author's experience. The book is full of valuable tips on what to do and what not to do when dealing with Hollywood or any other movie industry.

Many thanks to Dark Horse Books for providing a review copy.

Down To The Bone: A Leukemia Story by Catherine Pioli - Book Recommendation

Non-fiction books are usually solemn and tempered, especially those themed around illness and death. Down to the Bone by Catherine Pioli is an exception to this. Yes, there are touching moments... but it also celebrates life in humorous and uplifting ways.

WHAT I LIKE ABOUT THIS BOOK
The art of Down to the Bone is understatedly beautiful; enchanting even. The simplicity and the use of colour are something I have never seen before (as a concept). Most importantly, the style is fitting for the book and its theme.

I also love the humour on display. It feels odd to laugh when reading a book like this, but some of the situations and reactions of the author to her predicament touched me and brought out a myriad of emotions in me.

DISLIKES
None.

WHO IS IT FOR
Any adult who loves non-fiction ought to try reading Down to the Bone.

Many thanks to Graphic Mundi - PSU Press for providing a review copy.

It's Lonely At The Centre Of The Earth by Zoe Thorogood - Book Recommendation

It's Lonely At The Centre Of The Earth is an autobiography that explores the author's mental illness, especially during the Covid-19 pandemic. The book explores her struggles with depression and suicidal thoughts as she grapples with her illustration career and attempt at finding love.

WHAT I LIKE ABOUT THIS BOOK
This book is candid about suicidal feelings and the myriad of ways it shows itself. The author does not hold back in showing how her depression manifests and the awkwardness it engenders. The reader is exposed to the weirdness of thoughts that flows through the author's mind, how it affects her outlook on life, and the successful ways she tries to cope with them.

DISLIKES
The differences in art styles within the same page can be jarring

WHO IS IT FOR?
Anyone struggling with mental illness may find a lot to relate to here. Those with loved ones who are dealing with such will gain a little bit of insight into their inner world.

Many thanks to Image Comics for providing a review copy.

How To Win The War On Truth by Samuel C. Spitale - Book Recommendation

How To Win The War On Truth is a graphic novel that explores historical examples of how the media, companies, and governments waged misinformation wars on everyday folks. The book also details how to find truths within media lies and educate ourselves to recognise our own susceptibility to misinformation.

WHAT I LIKE ABOUT THE BOOK
The author's use of real-life examples of misinformation and its effects is very educational and exposes how vulnerable even the most discerning of us can be. It shows how good people can turn into monsters based on false convictions fueled by misinformation.

Also, the artwork complements the writing, bringing clarity to a complicated subject.

WHAT I DISLIKE
Nothing.

WHO IS THIS FOR?
This is for adults and young adults keen to learn how to navigate the internet world. It is for those who want to learn how to discriminate when taking in data that is meant to influence us.

Many thanks to Quirk Books for providing a review copy.

Radical: My Year with a Socialist Senator by Sofia Warren - Book Recommendation

Books that discuss politics can be boring to some, but such people might want to make an exception for this one.

Radical: My Year with a Socialist Senator is a first-hand witness account of a cartoonist's time with Julia Salazar, a 27-year-old democratic socialist running for state senate in New York. Most of what the book material is about are what the cartoonist witnessed during the first year of Salazar's term by embedding herself with the young senator's team for about a year.

WHAT I LIKE ABOUT THE BOOK
One of the best tools of journalism is witnessing a situation about which you are reporting first-hand. This way, you get to understand your subject with little or no filtering. Radical is a book with lots of eye-opening information on politics, money, and how these forces have an impact on everyone's lives... more than we know or care to admit.

DISLIKES
None.

WHO IS IT FOR
This is for any adult who wants to understand politics without getting bored.

Many thanks to Top Shelf Productions for providing a review copy.

Forgotten Blade by Tze Chun & Toni Fejzul - A Review

Forgotten Blade is a fantasy story set in the land of Five Rivers. It is a tale of a female magician who enlisted the help of a mercenary to topple a theocratic government in revenge for the curse placed on her two children.

WHAT I LIKE ABOUT THIS BOOK
Forgotten Blade is a beautifully drawn book. The uniqueness and style of the art stand out in the midst of a tale that seems familiar.

DISLIKES
The plot is predictable and holds little or no surprise.

WHO IS IT FOR
Fans of epic fantasy may enjoy the art and possibilities Forgotten Blade has to offer.

Many thanks to TKO Presents for providing a review copy.

Yellow Cab by Benoît Cohen & Christophe Chabouté - Book Recommendation

Going into a new career as a middle-aged person can be disorienting or empowering, depending on your circumstances or outlook on life. One thing that cannot be dismissed is the insight and understanding a new career or employment gives. It has the potential to open us to a side of life we may have overlooked or never noticed before.

Yellow Cab is an autobiography (graphic novel) of a filmmaker called Benoît Cohen who, devoid of inspiration for his next film, decided to become a New York City taxi driver. What follows is his insights and documentation about the streets of New York - its people, its prejudices, and its politics.

WHAT I LIKE ABOUT THE BOOK
The characters in the book are interesting and mysterious. Even though some of them appear for a brief time, there is a liveliness to them that makes me hang on to their every word. The art has this kind of depressing quality to it... I expect it to bum me out but I quite like it actually as it fits the mood of the book.

DISLIKES
None.

WHO THIS IS FOR
Whether you are familiar with the work of Benoît Cohen or not, I think this is a non-fiction most fans of the genre will appreciate.

Many thanks to IDW Publishing for providing an advance copy.

The Way Forward: From Early Republic to People’s Republic (1912 – 1949) by Jing Liu

History is messy and complicated. Every country has skeletons in its cupboards and will give you different justifications or reasons as to why they are there. The Way Forward is the fifth volume of the Understanding China Through Comics series. The series seems to be aimed at simplifying the history of China as a country, without losing the essence and vital details of the events that formed the country into what it is today.


WHAT I LIKE ABOUT THIS BOOK
The Way Forward makes effort to explain the nitty-gritty of macro-events, especially how it affects the common man or woman in China. We are not just told who or what made a decision at the highest level of government, we are shown how it impacted the citizens and the ramifications for the common man. This level of detail kept me engaged and invested.

DISLIKES
While this book does not shy away from some uncomfortable subjects, there is an element of excuse for most mishaps or ill-actions caused by China. In my opinion, history books ought to stick to facts and not be apologists for any country's ideology.

WHO IS IT FOR
This is a good introductory book for those interested in the history of China. It serves as a good entry material for those willing to learn more about one of the modern-day world powers.

Many thanks to Stone Bridge Press for providing a review copy.

The Struggle Bus by Julie Koon - Book Recommendation

The Struggle Bus is a short illustrated book that acknowledges the inevitability of life struggles and proposes ways of coping.

WHAT I LIKE ABOUT THE STRUGGLE BUS
The light-hearted nature of the book brings fresh clarity to a dark topic.

DISLIKES
None.

WHO IS IT FOR
Anyone.

Many thanks to Kind World Publishing for providing a review copy.

On The Intricacies Of Living With Monsters

 

We all have that voice that nags us when we do something inappropriate like making a cutting remark to someone when we don't mean it or overreacting to something so small that we end up making an okay situation worse. For some, this nagging voice can go on for minutes, for others... days, even weeks.

MonsterMind is a graphic novel that opens our eyes to how this process plays out in Alfonso Casas (the author). By using himself as an example, the author informs us of how he interacts with his inner monsters without losing himself. This is an autobiographical book that explores the debilitating thoughts that goes on in the author's head and how he sometimes succumbs or copes with it.

One of the strengths of great literature is how it holds up a mirror to see ourselves clearly. MonsterMind achieves this by making me identify with the author and his experiences. More importantly, I gain new perspectives and tools to live with my own inner monsters. As far as mental health books go, this has to be one of my favourites.

If have ever had trouble getting out of bed at any time of the day, unmotivated, and weighted down by anxieties real or imagined, then MonsterMind is for you. This is a book for every adult and young adult dealing with life's ups and downs.

Many thanks to Ablaze for providing a review copy.

School Of Love by BeKa & Maya: Book Recommendation

I believe the best of stories are the ones that give you an insight into other minds, presenting a glimpse of what reality is like in the eyes of others. School of Love: Secret of the Heart  is such a story.

School of Love is a fiction that explores what love and relationships look like to middle school students and how they navigate its murky waters. Through the eyes of two friends (Linon and Garance) and their fellow students, we see how love can hurt, or mislead, or heal.

WHAT I LIKE IN SCHOOL OF LOVE
There would be lots of praise for the quality of the artwork on display here and rightfully so. I'll give the crown to the colour scheme in particular. The illustrator managed to find colour blends that look bright yet not bright enough to distract us from the essence of each panel composition. The whole project looks wonderful and any art lover could spend time admiring the artwork without even bothering with the story.

Outside of the artwork, what elevates School of Love is the dialogue between the two protagonists - Linon and Garance. It is like eavesdropping on two real-life characters. The camaraderie between the two leaps off the page and makes the story believable.

DISLIKES
Call me old-fashioned, but I am not particularly sure about 11-year-olds kissing in public or wherever. As much as I understand the kinds of questions kids of that age might have when it comes to relationships, I am not sure some of the affectionate display between Linon and her crush is something to encourage. Other characters engaging in the same act seem a little older, which is okay.

WHO IS IT FOR?
This is for teenagers of all ages as well as adults who love to read good middle school fiction (regardless of whether they have kids of that age or not).

Many thanks to Europe Comics for providing a review copy.

Art As An Elevated Form Of Communication

Art is usually considered inferior to text - an examination of people's attitude to comics versus normal textbooks is a testament to that. However, what if art is actually an elevated form of communication? What if the medium has more to offer us if we open our minds and allow it to show us its secrets. Teaching Artfully is all about the exploration of the possibilities of art for both the artists and the people who consume it as a medium.

LIKES
This book reminds me of Nick Sousanis' Unflattening, hence I was not surprised to see his name at the bottom of the foreword. Teaching Artfully is a meditation on the nature of art and how it can help us understand ourselves and the world as well. It is a book that points out the potential of art to inspire out-of-the-box thinking and perspectives.

DISLIKES
None.

WHO IS IT FOR?
It does not matter if you are an artist or not, Teaching Artfully is for anyone who is open to learning what art has to offer for their self-development as a human being.

Many thanks to Diamond Books for providing a review copy.

Mafiosa by Barbito, Carita, and Pattison - Book Recommendation

Mafiosa is a story of Nicoletta, a young lady in a Sicilian-American crime family, who is deemed unsuitable for taking a big role in the family business because she is a woman. Determined to prove herself, she engages in a few reckless ventures that turn out to be profitable yet attract enough trouble to plunge her family into crisis.

LIKES
The colour scheme is used well to suit the overall theme of crime, blood, and deceit. The dark tones used to depict the overall mood in some of the panels are top-notch.

DISLIKES
The characters are hard to get into, and that includes the protagonist. I find it difficult to sympathise with her though she has good reasons to be agitated. I wish the plot is worked a bit more to make us care about her feelings.

WHO THIS IS FOR
For fans of crime novels, of course. Though the protagonist might not be everyone's cup of tea.

Many thanks to Dark Horse Books for providing a review copy.

On Tyranny (Graphic Edition): 20 Lessons From The Twentieth Century by Snyder & Krug - Book Recommendation

"To abandon facts is to abandon freedom. If nothing is true, then no one can criticize power, because there is no basis upon which to do so. If nothing is true, then all is spectacle."

In penning On Tyranny, Snyder and Krug created a masterpiece of a graphic novel that presents historical lessons from nations that have fallen into dictatorship in recent past. This is a book that calls us into action to defend our countries against influence(s) that may seek to take it over in the way of division and hate.

WHAT I LIKE ABOUT THIS BOOK
There is always an unconscious assumption about people living in countries that are under despotic rule. We think they are weak-willed or easily led. We assume any normal person ought to see the kind of disaster that befell them coming a mile away. On Tyranny: 20 Lessons From The Twentieth Century shows us how hard it is to spot despotism when it is looming over us, especially if we are not the ones feeling the pinch. It tells us that tyranny appeals to a very deep-seated desire within us for order and certainty. More importantly, ruthless leaders know how to harness this desire and use it to their benefit.

DISLIKES
None.

WHO IS IT FOR?
Ultimately, this is a book for anyone living in a democratic country. It is a warning that a state of peace and security in any nation never lasts unless most citizens work to sustain it. It teaches us that this role is even more important today in a social media age where anyone can either contribute to falsehood or promote truth and kindness. All in all, On Tyranny is a timely book for our times and worth a read for everyone that is of voting age.

Many thanks to Ten Speed Press for providing a review copy.

The Keeper of the Little Folk (Fairy Balm) by Carbone, Barrau & Forns - Book Recommendation

This is the tale of Elina who, discovering that her ill grandmother is the keeper of the little folk, had to step in for her in stemming a threat that is about to send the fairy community into crisis.

LIKES
The art evokes warm feelings in me. The colour combination and the detail that went into the paintings make this book a collectible.

DISLIKES
The story is a bit cliche and predictable but charming nonetheless.

WHO IS IT FOR?
This is for lovers of fairytales of all kinds, though this story is as traditional as they come.

Many thanks to Europe Comics for providing a review copy.