(2) 4-6 Color by Alex Campbell and Hilary Sycamore. In pursuit of the ogre who kidnapped his sister Maddy, Jack (Mighty Jack) and his sword-wielding neighbor Lilly travel to a bizarre fantasy world. They are soon separated; Jack discovers that Maddy's life is in grave danger, while Lilly ends up in an arranged marriage to the oppressive Goblin King. Dynamic panel layouts and ever-present sound effects ("CH-CHUNK!" "SPLORT!" "FOOM") convey the nonstop action in this graphic novel.

Reviewer: Patrick Gall | Horn Book Magazine Issue: November, 2017

(3) K-3 When adventurers steal Goblin's treasure and his best friend, Skeleton, from his dungeon, Goblin courageously endeavors to save them. Chased by villagers for being different, he finds acceptance and aid from other goblins. The pen-and-ink and watercolor illustrations depict a medieval-like setting with fantastical creatures, including friendly goblins, who upend prescribed depictions of good and evil. An enjoyable twist on the hero's tale.

Reviewer: Aimee Chevrette Bear

(2) 4-6 Color by Alex Campbell and Hilary Sycamore. Jack foolishly trades the family car for a packet of seeds. He's thrilled when his younger sister (who doesn't speak) cares for the garden, but these seeds yield a sinister menagerie of sentient plant creatures. Graphic novelist Hatke employs a vibrant color palette dominated by verdant greens and with a panel layout that segues seamlessly between dialogue and action--all to terrific effect.

Reviewer: Jonathan Hunt | Horn Book Magazine Issue: September, 2016

(2) 1-3 A box falls out of a truck; a young girl wriggles out of the window of her trailer home and into the woods, where she finds a mysterious box. Inside is an adorably uncoordinated robot, just the right height and temperament for a companion. The lively, mostly wordless graphic novel's engaging story of loneliness, bravery, and friendship builds to a satisfying, sweet conclusion.

Reviewer: Sian Gaetano | Horn Book Magazine Issue: September, 2015

(3) 4-6 Following Legends of Zita the Spacegirl, the third graphic novel opens with Zita's capture and punishment for her "crimes." But never fear: Zita is brave, clever, and has a loyal following. The art is colorful, detailed, and child-friendly. Readers of all ages can relate to the themes of friendship and loyalty while enjoying the fantasy of a far-out sci-fi adventure.

Reviewer: April Mazza

(3) 4-6 Zita (Zita the Spacegirl) is famous now for her interplanetary exploits, which explains how her face on a poster is the first thing a shape-shifting--and identity-stealing--robot sees. Zita's efforts to finally go home are derailed by the robot doppelganger, and she's pushed into heroism again. Lush illustrations are in sync with the text in this action-packed graphic novel.

Reviewer: April Spisak

(3) 4-6 Zita pushes a big, red button on a strange device; a porthole immediately opens, and an alien's springy tentacles suck her friend Joseph through to another world. Zita follows after Joseph and soon meets--and befriends--a hodgepodge of extraterrestrials. Hatke mixes loads of humor into his sci-fi graphic novel. His illustrations, in muted shades, capture the fast-paced action and comical antics.

Reviewer: Tanya D. Auger