Graphically Reading: First Issues 2 (the Girl Power Edition)

 If you're into graphic novels and comics, then you've probably spent some time browsing the Comixology website. When there, one thing I always look for is their periodic free (or sometimes really inexpensive) first-issue sales. It's a great way to get a feel for a comic series, author, and artist without investing a lot of money and time. Here are five first issues I read this month.

 Lumberjanes by Grace Ellis & Noelle Stevenson (Boom / Boom Box, 2014): Jo, April, Mal, Molly, and Ripley are best friends and cabin mates at Miss Quinzella Thiskwin's camp for girls. When they venture out into the woods one night, they see some strange sights, but before they can safely sneak back into their bunks, they're caught by their counselor, who takes them to see the camp director. But instead of getting into trouble, the girls are given their Up All Night badges and sent back to bed. Just what lurks out in those woods? Verdict: Continue with the series: I love these spunky girls, with their distinct styles and personalities, the fun art, the promise of action, and the mystery of the camp. Princess Ugg by Ted Naifeh (Oni Press, 2014):  Ulga, a battleax-wielding princess from mountain land of Grimmeria, is sent to the city to be educated at the famous Princess Academy, where the royalty of all five kingdoms send their young ladies. But before she has even arrived at the doors of the school, she has a confrontation with the retinue of Julifer, a pampered princess from Atraesca. Imagine their surprise when the girls later learn they're roommates for the duration of the school year. Verdict: Continue with the series: First, I just love the beautiful, detailed artwork, in a full range of colors. I love the medieval / fairy tale feel of the setting, and I can't resist the barbaric tomboy versus the fashionable city girl story line.

Rat Queens by Med Dejmal and Kurtis J Wiebe (Image / Shadowline, 2013). The first issue I read was the Rat Queens Preview, in which we're introduced to the group of women mercenaries, who party as hard as they fight demons. The issue consists of snapshot introductions to Hannah, an elf; Mage, a dwarf; Dee, a human; and Betty, a hobbit. Verdict: Give this series a try: I will definitely continue reading, but can't make a full judgment based on this short prequel. The four friends have different personalities and promise lots of action ahead. The artwork has a minimal feel, yet the facial expressions and background details give the reader the good feel for the scenes. The Sword by Jonathan and Joshua Luna (Image, 2007). Dara Brighton, an art student, still lives at home with her mom and dad, partly because she's in a wheelchair. One night at dinner, when her sister is visiting, three strangers burst into the house, making demands and implying that Mr. Brighton might not be who he says he is. Before the tragic night is over, Dara makes a surprising discovery. Verdict: Continue with the series. I picked this one up because it's by the Luna brothers, and I love the mix of contemporary story with some fantasy elements. There's definitely a mystery here that I want to learn about. The colors of the panels are muted and earthy; facial expressions are easy to read, and the action has impact. Wayward by Jim Zub (Image, 2014): Redheaded Rori Lane, leaves her Irish father to start a new life in a new country with her Japanese mother. Fortunately, Rori is fluent in Japanese, so she shouldn't have that much trouble adjusting. But before her first day is over, she discovers that Tokyo has some "interesting" street cats and depths not seen by ordinary people. Does Rori have a secret calling? Verdict: Continue with the series. This is another one that mixes modern-day life with a bit of fantasy, good action, and some hidden powers. The colors pop off the page, and we really get a great sense of Rori's style and personality. I bet this series is fun.

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Graphically Reading: First Issues 1

 If you're into graphic novels and comics, then you've probably spent some time browsing the Comixology website. When there, one thing I always look for is their periodic free (or sometimes really inexpensive) first-issue sales. It's a great way to get a feel for a comic series, author, and artist without investing a lot of money and time. Here are four first issues I read this month.

Archer & Armstrong by Fred Van Lente and Clayton Henry (Valiant, 2012): Raised and educated in a fundamentalist encampment, Obadiah Archer is sent out into the world (New York City) to defeat the Evil One. Armstrong, however, has already survived thousands of years, and Archer's martial arts training is not going to be enough to bring the big man down. Right in the middle of their confrontation, everything changes when they are suddenly united in a fight against a common enemy. Verdict: continue the series: You'll find good humor, lots of political jibes, fast action, and expressive art. This will particularly appeal to the more liberal crowd. Butterfly by Arash Amel, Marguerite Bennett, and Antonio Fuso (Boom-Archaia, 2014): When her cover is blown and she's accused of crime she didn't commit ex-CIA agent Rebecca Faulkner (aka Butterfly) is on the run, heading to a location known to her only by its coordinates. When she gets there, she finds a surprise that changes her world. Verdict: pass on the series: the colors are gorgeous and the artwork shines, but the story is uneven, it's hard to connect to the characters, and the ending doesn't pack the punch that I think we were supposed to feel.

Dead Letters by Christopher Sebela and Chris Visions (Boom-Studios, 2014): When Sam wakes up to the sound of pounding on his door, he knows only that he's lost his memory and that he needs to run from whoever is trying to get in. After car chases, a confrontation with a gang, and a rescue by a pretty woman, Sam is about to learn the surprising truth of his current situation. Verdict: read the series: the premise may sound familiar, but this is not your usual amnesia story; plenty of action and the mystery of Sam's past pull you along; the art is dark, a bit sketchy, and perfect for the story. Girls by Joshua Luna (Image, 2005):  Lonely, single Ethan Daniels lives in a small town, where everyone knows everyone. One night, after spending time in the local bar, he's driving home along dark, country roads, when he almost hits a naked woman who is standing in the middle of the pavement. Seeing that she can barely talk and is in trouble, he gets her in his car, intending to offer help--not realizing that someone has been watching. Verdit: try the series: this has potential, but I need to read more to decide what I think; Ethan doesn't seem all that appealing, but I have the feeling that his discovery of the dazed woman is about to change him--plus who was hiding in woods? I love the clean lines and muted colors of the panels.

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Graphically Reading: A Look at My Reading List

Today is all about my current graphic novel reading list. But first I want to thank you for your great comments (here and on Twitter) about my Monday and Thursday posts. As I'm sure you can tell, I'm still learning, and I don't pretend to be an expert on the medium.

Several of you asked about the difference between a graphic novel and a comic. Although some sources use the term graphic novel for standalone books and the term comics for series that are published in short issues at (semi)regular intervals, I believe the proper term for all graphic books is really comics. Let me know if I'm wrong.

Now, on to my reading list, alphabetized by title.

Alex + Ada by Jonathan Luna: This fun series is set in the future and has sci-fi elements. The major themes are relationships, everyday life, and human–android interactions. Alex didn't think he wanted a robot, but when he is given Ada as a gift, he just might change his mind. I'm reading this one issue by issue and am really loving it.

Amulet by Kazu Kibuishi: This ongoing series focuses on a brother–sister pair and starts out when their mother is kidnapped by otherworldly beings. Their search for her takes them into a variety of worlds with talking animals, robots, and spaceships. Although geared to middle grade readers, I'm enjoying the story. I've reviewed the first two books, though I've read more.

Clues by Mara: This is a beautifully illustrated series set in 19th-century London. A young women teams up with a Scotland Yard inspector to solve a mystery that took place at least a decade earlier. The comic is written in French, and I won't be reviewing it. I enjoyed the first issue, but I'm not confident enough in my command of the language to write intelligently about the series. And it's been a great way to practice my French.

Conversation 1 & 2 by James Kochalka and others: In these fascinating books, comic artist Kochalka engages in a graphic conversation with another artist. The first book features Craig Thompson and the second, Jeffrey Brown. I know of no better way to explain the nature of this series than to use the publisher's summary for the first volume: "It's like a comics version of My Dinner with Andre, but with a giant killer octopus!" I can't wait to start reading.

Drops of Gold by Tadashi Agi Shu Okimoto: This series of long books is set in the contemporary world of wine and takes place mostly in Japan. This is one of the few Manga series I've tackled (and the books read right to left). Although I'm learning a lot about wine and the books have won some culinary awards, I'm only lukewarm about the plot line (which is draggingly slow). I've reviewed the first two books on my blog.

Endless Sky by David Boller: I love a good graphic memoir. In this trilogy, Boller talks about his journey from his native Switzerland to the United States to fulfill his dream of becoming a comic artist. This is a frank account of the young man's first impressions of America, his schooling, his struggles with finding his place as a professional, and his sometimes rocky relationship with his family. I have only skimmed this one so far.

Essex County trilogy by Jeff Lemire: The trilogy is set in a farming community and explores family, friendship, and the dynamics of being human. I have the combined volume, which includes a couple of stories not published in the original books. This is at the top of my TBR.

Fables (and spin-offs) by Bill Willingham: This very long series imagines that all the fairy tale and nursery rhyme characters have been forced into the modern world by a great enemy. They fight battles, mingle with humans, and dream of getting back to their homelands. I've reviewed many of these on my blog and will write about others in bullet reviews. This series will be ending soon.

The Initiates by Etienne Davodeau: Here's a nonfiction entry. Comic artist Davodeau spent a year with winemaker Richard Leroy, each learning about the other's profession. The book documents their friendship and explores why we are drawn to certain careers. I haven't started this yet.

Minimum Wage by Bob Fingerman: This slice-of-life adult comic stars Rob and focuses on his relationships with women and his struggles to make ends meet. I bought a revised collection, for which Fingerman updated and reworked his original series. I remember when the comic was popular in the 1990s, but this will be my first time reading it.

Northlanders by Brian Wood: I have a thing about Vikings so couldn't resist starting this long series based on Viking legends and history. Sven is a warrior prince who must fight to claim and then hold on to his inheritance. I love the period details and the red/teal palette. Many hours of enjoyment here.

Pretty Deadly by Kelly Sue DeConnick: This series is a mix of fantasy with the American Old West starring Death's daughter. The story promises to have very adult themes, and I can't wait to get reading.

Rat Queens by Meg Dejmal and Kurtis J. Wiebe: Women power at its best is at the heart of this very popular series, which is fantasy but with plenty of humor. The publisher's summary calls it "Buffy meets Tank Girl in a Lord of the Rings world on crack." I haven't read it yet.

Runaways by Brian K. Vaughan: I reviewed the first issue of this series about a group of kids who learn that their parents are terrorists. They run away from home and decide to use their special powers for good, not evil. I like the premise of these books, but I haven't felt the need to read past the third installment. The target audience for this superhero-like series is teens.

Saga by Brian K. Vaughan: This series is part love story and part politics. The story line, so far, centers around a couple from different planets and different side of the battlefield. The art is gorgeous and I love the humor and the characters. I'm caught up with this series, but I haven't written about the last few issues.

Sweet Tooth by Jeff Lemire: This is one of my all-time favorite series (and it is for many people). The story is about Gus, a teen who lived his whole life in isolation from the world, protected by his father, because he was born with deer ears and antlers. When his father dies, Gus is forced to leave the woods, though he is totally unprepared for what he sees in the wider world. Your heart will go out to Gus, one of the most sympathetic characters I've met. Trust me, you'll love this comic, even if the world Lemire imagines can be scary.

That Salty Air by Tim Sievert: This debut graphic novel is about a fisherman who begins think of the sea as his enemy. What happens when Hugh turns his back on what used to be his life and livelihood? I just checked this one out of the library.

Umbral by Antony Johnston: This is a fantasy series that I haven't yet started. The comic is drawn in full-color and the story line includes history, myths, and a murder mystery. It's set in the Middle Ages.

The Unwritten by Mike Carey: This is a very literary series that explores the intersection of reality with the world formed by words and books. I think I've reviewed only the first one. The plot is smart and complex. The most recent issue is a crossover with the Fables series, which I haven't read yet.

Warriors Three by Bill Willingham: I admit I picked up this series because it's written by the same person who writes Fables. The genre is superhero, and I plan to give it my full attention. Based on recommendations from friends, this may be the series that turns me into a superhero fan.

I many more comics (books, series, fiction, nonfiction) in my house and on my wish list, but this post highlights some of the variety you can find in the medium. No GN reading list of mine would be complete, however, without mentioning First Second, which is one of my go-to imprints for the graphic medium. I love their books and plan to review most of them.

Now that you've seen some of the books and series on my GN list, tell me what's on yours? I'm always looking for recommendations.

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Graphically Reading: Buying, Reading, & Reviewing

On Monday, I talked about graphic novels (or comics) in general, shared a little of my own history with the medium, and told you about a good book that covers the basics of comics. Today, I want to say a few words about types of graphic books and how they're published and then talk a little bit about reviewing. Tomorrow I'll give you an annotated list of GNs I've already read, am reading, or want to read.

First, before the people who know way more than I do about graphic books get all bent out of shape, I should say a little something about the terms I use. Experts in the medium make a distinction between illustrated books, graphic novels (and nonfiction), comics, and so on. Not only am I aware of the difference among these types of graphic books but I understand the importance of having clear terminology. For the sake of my Graphically Reading posts, however, I use the term GN (for graphic novel) to mean pretty much all these, fiction or not. This is just to make it easy on myself when I'm writing about the story form in general.

Publication crazies. Normally when you buy a novel, you have three choices: print, eBook, or audio. But no matter what the medium, you are still buying the same book, from page one to the end. Simple and familiar. When buying a GN, however, you are faced with other options. Of course, some GNs are stand-alone books (Sailor Twain) and some are parts of a short series that have been bound or boxed together (the Essex County trilogy, Boxers & Saints), just like a "regular" book.

Buying GNs gets trickier, however, when you start to get involved with longer series. Many of these are first published as individual issues (Sweet Tooth, Saga), which are later republished in bound collections. In addition, some very long series (Northlanders) are available in bound story arcs. So you have the choice of reading issue by issue or by collected volumes, either chronologically or by plot. And just to make it crazier, some comic artists give their readers bonus issues (called one-shots), which usually focus on a side story or a particular character.

If you are unsure of how to read a long and complex series, like Fables, you can opt to read them in the order they were published or you can do a little research or ask friends about the best way to approach the books. For more linear series, you can choose to read each individual issue as it comes out or wait for a bound volume. These are matters of personal taste and economics.

Reviewing. I have been a bit lax with reviewing GNs lately. It's easy enough to review a stand-alone book, and I'm fairly caught up in that department. My real problems come with the series and stem from two places. First, some of the series I'm reading are really, really long. Let's face it, even though the characters grow and change and they find themselves in new situations, what more can I say about Fables seventeen that I didn't already say about the first sixteen volumes? Instead of writing about each installment, my new approach is to wait until either I finish the series or I reach a logical pause in the overall plot line.

The second problem occurs when I read a series issue by issue, as I'm doing for Sweet Tooth. So for those GNs, do I review each twenty-page issue as I finish it? Do I wait until I've read the issues collected in, say, the first bound volume? Or do I review the series when I think a story arc has ended? I haven't fully decided on my approach, except that I will not be reviewing each individual short issue.

Finally, I'd like to encourage those of you who review GNs to remember to comment on the medium itself. Because the heart of a GN is the interplay between art and words, don't just concentrate on the plot, tell us a little something about the pictures and how they affected your connection to the characters, action, and setting.

Tomorrow look for my current GN reading list. You'll find series and stand-alones, fiction and nonfiction. I'm reading adventure, historical fiction, dystopian, memoir, and mystery. Some of the GNs are in full color, others are monotone; some are read left to right, and others right to left. Hope you find something that calls to you.

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Graphically Reading: Thoughts on the Graphic Medium

One of the wonderful benefits of blogging has been the chance to broaden my reading horizons. Until I started Beth Fish Reads, my exposure to comics consisted of my lifelong, daily addiction to comic strips and the comic books I read as a kid.

I guess I should start by admitting I was kind of a lame comic book reader. My favorites were of the Richie Rich ilk. I loved Archie, and I read Superman sporadically, but I was never a superhero fan. I have a few bound comics from my childhood, including a couple of Tintin books as well as some comic strip collections.

I was/am completely eclectic when it comes to daily comic strips. I read everything except Mark Trail. I remember Apartment 3G and  Mary Worth (neither of which appear in my current local paper); Peanuts when there were still new strips; and Pogo, Bloom County, and Calvin and Hobbes (R.I.P.). I read them all from Prince Valiant (so slow but oddly addictive) to Shoe, Nancy, and Doonesbury.

So why did it take me until 2009 to return to reading graphic books? No idea. (Note: My reviews for all the books shown in this post, except the last one, can be found by clicking "Graphic Novel" or "Graphic Nonfiction" in the "Select a Label" pull-down list in the sidebar.)

Over the last few weeks, my Twitter stream has shown a rise in interest in the graphic format, which prompted me to check my archives. I was surprised to discover I've written 80 posts tagged as either graphic novel (includes comics) or graphic nonfiction, especially because I haven't written about all the graphic books and series I've read since I picked up that Nancy Drew (don't bother) almost six years ago.

One of the points I like to make when I review GNs (the term I'll use here for fiction, nonfiction, comics, series, and stand-alones), is that graphic is a format, not a genre. No matter what your reading tastes are, there's a GN for you. So many people associate GNs with only superheros or only fantasy. Others are sure they all are geared to children or teens or that they're meant only for fun escape reading. The truth is very different.

I've read GNs that have explored serious issues, such as the Holocaust, immigration, family, love, sexuality, death, and sickness. Others took me into the kitchen, back through history, into the future, and to makebelieve lands. From fantasy to historical fiction, from mystery to true crime, from contemporary novels to contemplative short story collections: artist/writers have covered every conceivable genre and have written to audiences from the earliest readers to the most sophisticated scholar.

My own tastes are wide ranging, although I tend to be attracted to fantasy (as a huge, broad category) and memoir. I still don't read X-Men or superheroes, I'm not much taken by Manga (yet), and I don't like traditional print novels that have been turned into GNs (based on a sample of about four). I love beautiful, colorful art (Saga) as much as simple black and white (Anya's Ghost). I am as addicted to more literary GNs (The Unwritten) as I am to the fun and goofy (Bones).

If you're new to the graphic medium, you might want read Scott McCloud's Understanding Comics. I read it soon after it was published (my copy is from 1993), and I remember it as being a fascinating look into the graphic medium throughout history and as comic artists geared up for the changes coming in the twenty-first century. Although the book may be due for a revision (adding eComics and new color technology, for example), it remains a serious, comprehensive introduction to this form of storytelling.

Among other topics, McCloud discusses comics lingo, different styles of art, and the evolution of common icons. He talks about how and why comics work as sequential art and explores some of the issues unique to the format (such as how to draw sounds, movement, and time). If you're unsure how to read a GN or want to know the difference between Western and Eastern comics, McCloud comes to your rescue.

One of the more frivolous things that stuck with me was this (and I'm paraphrasing): When it comes to comics, you really can judge a book by its cover. After all, comics (GNs) are where words and pictures meet.

Thursday: There is still so much I want to say about the graphic medium, I'm going to continue this discussion later this week. I want to talk a little bit about the range of artwork in GNs as well as the different forms (collected issues, single issues, series, stand-alone titles). In addition, I want to share some of the GNs I've read and not yet reviewed plus the titles I have on my reading stack.

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