| Graphic Novel News |
By Jeannine Wiese, Collection Development, Graphic Novels Specialist
Publisher News
Tokyopop expands its titles for younger readers with Jr. Cine-Manga titles aimed at the very young reader, ages 5-7. Sesame Street titles like Elmo and Zoe Fly a Kite and Disney favorites like Cars are now joined by the sassy, fashion conscious Bratz series beginning in February 2007.
Tokyopop's Manga Reader brand for younger readers also grows to include a new Disney princess series in early spring, Kilala Princess, for girls of all ages, giving them as much reading pleasure as Kingdom Hearts gives the boys. Girls will delight in the royal adventures of young Kilala after she awakens a sleeping prince named Rei, and then learns she's magically gained the powers of princesses Ariel, Cinderella, Jasmine, Snow White, and Belle. Reassure your young lady patrons that Manga Readers are NOT early readers. They are manga stories perfect for all 8-12 year olds.
And to those same intermediate grade ladies who love mysteries and manga, suggest Kat & Mouse: Volume 1 and Volume 2. Written by Eisner nominated author, Alex De Campi, this smart, clever series satisfies mystery lovers' cravings with realistic school whodunits proving smart girls can be cool. The value of true friendship and loyalty easily comes forth in these stories. Extra Kat & Mouse “notes” appear at the back of each volume giving added investigative information like how to dust for fingerprints, safety tips referencing details from the plot, as well as personal notes about the author and illustrator. These are great, fun reads. And boys need not be afraid of them.
DK will launch new Graphic Readers in March 2007 written by Stewart Ross as part of its DK Readers series Level 4. This initial release of four titles and subsequent titles in the following seasons will be thrilling action tales set in historically accurate settings. The first four are set in Ancient Egypt--The Curse of the Crocodile God and Instruments of Death--and in Ancient Rome--The Price of Victory and The Terror Trail.
School Specialty Publishing has received some good reviews from VOYA and Booklist recently regarding its new graphic nonfiction series Stories from History. Two examples are Elizabeth I and the Spanish Armada and The Building of the Great Pyramid. These titles serve as good introductions into specific time periods and have special appeal to the casual or reluctant reader.
Lerner Publishing Group's new Graphic Universe imprint is another promising source of graphic nonfiction titles with curriculum tie-ins. The series, Graphic Myths and Legends, launched five titles this fall with more to come each season. Two examples are Hercules: The Twelve Labors and King Aruthur: Excalibur Unsheathed. Experienced graphic novel authors and artists who know their craft and also work for publishers like DC and Marvel create the wonderful art and text of each title. Action-packed panels in full color pull the reader into the tales. Each story is supported by nonfiction back matter that includes primary source research material, glossary, index, further reading suggestions, and Web sites. These are worthy, accessible introductions to age-old tales that will spark the interest of reluctant and crossover readers, hopefully leading to deeper, future reading.
Top 10 Graphic Novel Series Lists for Your Viewing
New on ipage® and worth viewing are four new Top Paperback Fiction & Graphic Novel series lists appearing on the Collection Development Tab under Youth Books & Audiobooks. These lists will be updated quarterly and are based on sales and demand. The top 10 series from each of four age categories are listed and include Elementary Age, Middle School Age, High School Age, and Older Teens. These have been designed to aid your graphic novel selection by allowing you to see what's most popular with your young readers.
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