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Holm, Jennifer L.

Turtle in Paradise: The Graphic Novel

256 pp. | Random/RH Graphic | June, 2021 | Trade ISBN 978-0-593-12631-8 $20.99 | Library ISBN 978-0-593-12632-5 $23.99 | Paper ISBN 978-0-593-12630-1 $12.99 | Ebook ISBN 978-0-593-12633-2 $8.99
(2) 4-6 Illustrated by Savanna Ganucheau & Lark Pien. Here is a graphic novel adaptation of Holm's 2011 Newbery Honor Book of the same title (rev. 5/10). Turtle arrives in Key West to stay with her aunt and cousins after her mother gets a housekeeping job for a wealthy woman who cannot tolerate children. Because the United States is in the midst of the Great Depression, work is scarce, but Turtle's cousin Beans leads the Diaper Gang, a cheeky group of preteens who cares for babies and their irritated bums with its exclusive formula for fighting diaper rash. Turtle never experiences a dull moment with this crew, and they initiate a variety of mostly harmless antics. Holm's (Sunny Side Up, rev. 9/15, and sequels) novel lends itself easily to a graphic format: its short chapters translate well into paneled illustrations, and the great bits of fun in the novel now get full-color treatment (highlights being big ocean adventures and tick-tocking––a naughty prank). Ganucheau shines when drawing the tropical scenery and setting of the Florida Keys, and colorist Pien catches the eye with soft pastels and skillful mood-setting. The titular paradise is not always sunny, but all visual efforts reinforce the brightness and buoyancy of this idiosyncratic place.
Reviewer: Niki Marion | Horn Book Magazine Issue: September, 2021

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