Bookshelf Magazine #25

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PLUS:

• An Exploration of the Rise of French Comics • An Interview with Nigerian Creator Roye Okupe • Reviews and Lesson Plans for Schools • And more!

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WELCOME TO BOOKSHELF T HE GR APH I C N OV EL RES OURCE FO R EDU CA TOR S A ND LIB R A R IA NS Graphic Novels have a lot to offer as literature, educational tools, entertainment and more!

Whether you are a teacher or reading specialist seeking to incorporate graphic novels into the classroom; or a librarian or media specialist looking to add graphic novels to your collection, our mission with the Diamond BookShelf is to provide you with comprehensive information on the latest graphic novel news, reviews and events.

On Our Cover

Jazz Maynard was born in the slums of Barcelona, surrounded by the sort of criminal element that gets under your skin for good.

He tried to escape their influence by moving to New York City, but after ten years of living by his own rules, his past caught up with him, forcing him back to the streets that groomed him. Shadows of his former life have been waiting for him, and it’s time for him to face the inescapable.

TABLE OF CONTENTS SPECIAL FEATURES Cowboy Bebop Meets Crime Noir ������������������� 10 Spanish creators Raule and Roger bring crime noir to Barcelona in this preview of Jazz Maynard

In the Dragon’s Maw ����������������������������������������27 A preview of Image Comic’s Scales & Scoundrels by German writer Sebastian Girner and Italian illustrator Galaad

EDUCATORS Teaching French Comics �������������������������������������8 Prof. Katie Monnin and Pop Culture Classroom discuss the surge of French creators in the comics industry

Building A Universe ����������������������������������������� 16 An interview with Nigerian comics creator, Roye Okupe, on how culture influences comic creation and story-telling

LIBRARIANS Around the World in 180 Pages ����������������������� 14 A round up of the top ten graphic novels by international creators

Women in Manga ���������������������������������������������24 Tokyopop launches new initiative to highlight international female

HOW TO USE THIS PUBLICATION The BookShelf magazine was created as a compliment to Diamond’s BookShelf website. With this publication, you’ll find articles designed to introduce you to the world of graphic novels and help you learn how to integrate them into your classroom or library. You’ll also find reviews, core lists, reference recommendations and special extras to help you get started.

If you want to know what comics and graphic novels are and how or why to use them, or if you are already familiar with graphic novels and are looking for a great resource to improve your collection… Read on!

Read BookShelf Online!

To read a pdf version of previous issues of Diamond BookShelf, visit http://bit.ly/BookShelfMag

creators in the manga industry, including Sophie-Chan and Nana Yaa

DEPARTMENTS Graphic Novels 101............................................4 News and Notes................................................ 6 Reviews............................................................32 Core Lists.........................................................34 Resources.........................................................37

Editor: Ashley Kronsberg Contributing Writers: Michael Gianfrancesco, Dr. Katie Monnin, Ilya Kowalchuk, Lindsay Holbrook, Mariela Siegert, and Brigid Alverson Designer: Casey Dimoff Special Thanks to: Cindy Anderson, Roger Fletcher, Steve Geppi, Allan Greenberg, Kuo-Yu Liang, Dan Manser, Tom Sadowski PRINTED IN CANADA

© 2017 Diamond Comic Distributors, Inc. All rights reserved. Diamond, the Diamond logo, Diamond Books logo, Diamond BookShelf logo and diamondbookshelf.com are either registered trademarks or trademarks of Diamond Comic Distributors in the United States and/or other countries.

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GRAPHIC NOVELS 101 ST A R T I N G A G R APHIC NOV EL CO LLEC TION Deciding to include comic books and graphic novels in your collection is the first step into a larger world. Now, you must decide what to do once you’re there. Here are some basic steps on your path to using graphic novels in your collection:

1. Determine Needs

First, you need to ascertain what books you would like to incorporate into your collection. Perhaps you have one or two graphic novels already, or you may be deciding to carry these books for the first time.

You’ll need to decide which books would be appropriate for your community of readers, which books they’re hankering for, and which books would delight and surprise them.

2. Find An Expert

You don’t have to possess an encyclopedic knowledge of comics and graphic novels to successfully integrate them into your library’s offerings.

There are people out there who can advise you on what books are valuable. Reach out to your library community or local comic book retailers who are armed with detailed information about this area of reading they have a vested interest in supporting.

(See “A Great Resource: Your Local Comics Shop“ on page 46 for information) And, of course, you can also feel free to contact those of us at the Diamond Bookshelf!

3. Purchase The Books

4. Decide How To Catalog/

Where To Shelve

Now you need to decide where to put them! For information on cataloging to make integrating graphic novels into your collection easier and shelving, visit the BookShelf website for a comprehensive look at options and resources.

5. Promote Your Graphic Novels

You could have the finest graphic novel collection in history, but if no one knows about, it won’t matter. The success of your collection relies on a certain level of promotion. If you don’t get the word out, no one will know the books are there. Start including the news about your graphic novels into your existing newsletters, pamphlets, and other promotional materials. Put up easy-to-read signs at the entrances to your library so that nobody who enters will fail to know about the new additions. Add the news to your e-mail correspondence. Contact your local media and encourage them to do a story about your library’s efforts to expand and enhance readership through this vital art form. Stage contests, offer giveaways, and plan fun events.

Coordinate promotions with your local comic book retailer.

6. Evaluate Success /Circulation Data

Once you have consulted with your readers, experts in the field, and any others who can offer insight, you’ll be ready with a list of titles of graphic novels to acquire for your library.

After a certain period of time, you’re going to want to crunch the numbers. Measuring the graphic novel circulation at your library indicates the extent to which your readers are using this new library resource and will help you evaluate the success of the program. It will also point you in the right direction as to which titles and series to snap up in the future!

GRAPHIC NOVEL SELECTION IS KEY but the best titles to

include can vary from library to library. There is no national standard when it comes to appropriateness of graphic novels, so it is vital — once you’ve decided on a particular book — to read through the book yourself. What might pass muster in some communities may not pass muster in yours. This website and the various resources listed throughout are your best starting points if you are approaching comics from a starter’s perspective.

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THREE CATEGORIES TO KEEP IN MIND:

7. Poll Patrons

Never forget to meet the needs of your readership. Consulting the experts and embarking on your own research into which titles to carry is a necessary element of this program, but asking your patrons what they want is also crucial.

8. Make Graphic Novels a Regular Part of Your Ordering Cycle

Once you’ve talked to your readers and assessed your circulation data to see how successful the addition of comic books and graphic novels has been, you’ll want to keep the ball rolling. An established graphic novel program in your library needs to be sustained, and making graphic novels a regular part of your ordering cycle will ensure the vibrancy of your collection. Including these titles in your regular decisions on what books to carry will help make them a significant and popular segment of your library.

1. BESTSELLERS Lists of bestselling graphic novels can be obtained each month from www.DiamondBookShelf.com.

Additionally, resources such as BookScan (www.bookscan.com) can provide similar information for the highest selling graphic novels in the book-store market.

2. CRITICALLY ACCLAIMED TITLES Graphic

novels

that

have

received stellar reviews and won literary awards are sure to generate interest in the medium, will attract new readers, and also make a great case for having

REMEMBER:

As with any collection development, there is a period of experimentation during which you will learn which titles will circulate and which will not. You cannot judge the effectiveness of a graphic novel collection with a handful of titles, any more than you would do so with a handful of DVDs or audiobooks. If there’s no room in your budget to make a large initial purchase, start small and evaluate regularly.

Add titles as you can, polling your patrons, reading review sources, and keeping diversity in mind. As time goes on, you will find the right combination for your readership and community.

Soon, you’ll come to realize that comic books and graphic novels are an engaging and vibrant form of literature, and the promotional possibilities for your library are endless!

a

graphic

novel

collection.

There are a number of literary publications that review graphic novels,

including

Publishers

Weekly, Library Journal, School Library Journal, Booklist, VOYA and others. See pages 40-41 for a selection of recent reviews.

3. MEDIA TIE-INS Titles that tie in to hit movies, games, novels and TV shows are sure to appeal to fans of the same. Many manga titles are also TV cartoons, and many blockbuster movies are adapted from comic books.

The BookShelf newsletter stays current with the latest media tieins and adaptations.

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NEWS AND NOTES Valiant Joins Nigeria’s Pedastudio for New Publishing Partnership to Expand into African Marketplace Announced at the 6th annual Lagos Comic Con in Lagos, Nigeria, Valiant Entertainment has formed a new partnership with foreign publisher Pedastudio, which will license and distribute its library of critically acclaimed titles across Africa. Under this new partnership, the adventures of Valiant’s globally recognized superhero series – starting with Archer & Armstrong, Bloodshot, Harbinger, Harbinger Wars, and Quantum and Woody– will soon be found in print and digital under the Pedastudio banner in countries including Ghana, Kenya, Nigeria, and South Africa.

“Valiant’s readership worldwide continues to expand in droves, and we continue to further the excitement by bringing our greatest series to a bigger array of international territories than ever before,” said Russell A. Brown, Valiant’s President of Consumer Products, Promotions & Ad Sales. “Together with Pedastudio, Valiant has now extended its international presence into 37 countries – a figure that now includes, for the first time, African countries with massive and rapidly expanding comic book audiences.”.

Pedastudio is the latest in a long line of publishers to join Valiant’s already extensive network of international partnerships around the globe, which also currently includes Bliss Comics in France, Büyülü Dükkan in Turkey, CFx in Pakistan, China Mobile in China, Cornea Entertainment in India, Jambo in Brazil, Kamite in Mexico, Lezhin in Korea, Medusa Comics in Spain, NHN Comico in Korea and Japan, OVNI Press Editorialthroughout Latin America, ShoPro in Japan, Social Comics in Brazil, Sokol Express in Russia, SchwerkraftVerlag in Germany, Star Comics in Italy, Viverra in Russia, World Publishing in China, and Wydawnictwo Fantasmagorie in Poland.

Naval Institute Press Announces New Graphic Novel Imprint

Emmy Award Winning Producer Options Harry Moon’s Good Mischief Contest Los Angeles producer Dan Redler has optioned the rights to create and produce a reality-based television special and series built around Harry Moon’s Good Mischief Contest. The contest is currently being played across the globe in 10 countries and 33 states.

The contest is the brainchild of Chicago-based Rabbit Publishers.

Rabbit is a publisher of the acclaimed Harry Moon book series. In the contest, the 100 finalists, ages 8 to 12, videotape their feat of Good Mischief. The publishing company describes Good Mischief as a “kindness that surprises.” The finalists upload their videos onto the cloud for viewing and voting across all social platforms including Facebook, Instagram and YouTube.

“Our culture is in need of kindness and warmth,” says Redler. “Mix that warmth and kindness with the humor, grace and irascibility that comes from the very young and something special emerges.

These children exude appreciation and love. Using an innate sense of wonder, joy and discovery, they are speaking up for kindness with clever solutions to problems they see and are determined to solve. They inspire me, and I know they will inspire our audience.”

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The Naval Institute Press is the book-publishing division of the U.S. Naval Institute. The Institute was established in 1873 and is an independent, non-profit, membership association for sea service professionals and others who share an interest in naval and maritime affairs.

On October 5, 2017, The Naval Institute Press announced their plans to launch a new imprint for graphic novel and comic collections - Dead Reckoning. The new imprint will be located in Annapolis, Maryland, and aims to publish nonfiction and fiction graphic novels with a special focus on military and naval history, military and naval biography, general history, and stories of the high seas.

“The audience for comics and graphic novels has been growing for years. As that audience has expanded, there’s been a growing demand for a greater variety in terms of the books being published,” said Gary Thompson, lead editor at Dead Reckoning. “War stories have represented some of the highest quality storytelling the medium has to offer. We feel now is the time to make military themed comics a vibrant genre again and to introduce a whole new generation of graphic novel readers to the power of these stories.”

Dead Reckoning will launch with an initial list of five titles and then expand to 10-12 titles per year in 2019. Subject matter ranges from infamous settings like World War I and the Vietnam War to more recent conflicts like the war in Afghanistan as well as memoirs and biographies.

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TEACHING FRENCH COMICS

BY MICHAEL GIANFRANCESCO, DR. KATIE MONNIN, AND ILYA KOWALCHUK

L

iterature in the 21st century has significantly evolved to be both textual and visual, to view and to comprehend merged into one overarching idea to define how we understand literature. Hence, the modern definition of what counts as literature in classrooms must place value on both textual and visual literature in the hands of 21st century readers. As our world advances and we increasingly rely on visual technology, screen and/or screen-based literacies have allowed us to focus predominantly on the visuals that tell very significant, globally impactful nonfiction stories. Accordingly, literacy scholarship has documented a marked increase in both the creation of and the market for visually-based literature. Graphic novels now represent on average around 23% of the overall publication industry and that number grows each year with the format garnering 43% of book sales in France.

Bandes dessinées have dominated the literary world in France. The diverse styles and stories represent the rich and long history that comics have played in French culture. As we reflect as a diverse, collaborative group of professional writers who teach graphic novels every day, we wish to express our deep and sincere appreciation for the French graphic novels being produced for readers around the world.

For that reason, and to highlight the seismic global impact of what it means for all literate citizens around the world to continue redefining literature in 21st century classrooms, this article will focus on the contemporary contributions of French graphic novelists. Spreading the word about the global graphic novel community is key to a continued redefinition of what now qualifies as literature in modern, culturally responsive classrooms. In the examples that follow, we hope to highlight how some of the best French graphic novels on the market can serve as literary tools for contemporary educators to explore just how textually and visually vibrant visual literature can be in globally conscious classrooms.

California Dreamin’: Cass Elliot Before the Mommas and the Poppas

The Death of Stalin Written by Fabien Nury Illustrated by Thierry Robin Published by Titan Comics

By Pénélope Bagieu Published by First Second Books This graphic novel spans some of the short life of the legendary vocalist Cass Elliot from The Mamas and the Papas; in doing so, it details her love of music, companionship, and freedom. True to its title, the book begins during Elliot’s childhood and ends just when she is about to join the folk group that would make her one of the most famous women in world.

Pénélope Bagieu is a writer and artist whose other books include Exquisite Corpse and the upcoming book Brazen: Rebel Ladies Who Rocked the World. Her artistic style is soft and melodic in appearance and, especially in California Dreamin’, this translates through the representation of melody and music which are not mutually exclusive ideas.

This text is a fantastic example of creative illustration. Bagieu draws songs as if they are traveling on small currents of air, flowing gracefully past those who are listening. Fans of the music of the 60s will immediately hear those tunes play in their minds as they rise and fall on the page. As a result of this unique and melodic visual representation of story we can see this easily being part of an illustration course.

In addition, we would pair this book with Baby’s in Black: Astrid Kirchherr, Stuart Sutcliffe, and The Beatles by Arne Bellstorf because both focus on famous musicians and their lives before hitting it big. Thematically, they both touch on how these artists struggle to make it big, but still revel in the freewheeling lifestyle with which the slow rise to fame is paved.

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With Russia having become a major factor in international politics in recent years, there is no better time for this darkly comic graphic novel to appear. When Joseph Stalin was found unresponsive on the floor of his bedroom, the political insiders immediately jump to contain the news and ensure the country remains under the control of the government.

Along with this title, author Fabien Nury has written a few graphic novels that are steeped in history, but often fictionalized (like the Legion series, which is set during World War II). The illustrator of The Death of Stalin, Thierry Robin, also has other titles, most notably the Li’l Santa series. His art is very cinematic in nature (which is appropriate, considering that it has been adapted for an upcoming film) and uses angles and lighting that you might see being staged on a movie set.

We would caution high school educators about some of the sexual content of this graphic novel as it pulls no punches in representing some of the behind the scenes “activities” of powerful men. That said, The Death of Stalin illustrates the nature of the power vacuum left behind when an authoritative leader suddenly vanishes. In a history course that touches on how empires fall and/or rise, this text could help illustrate the chaos that follows when fate suddenly changes the game.

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Water Memory

Doomboy

A buzzword that often gets tossed around when describing literature is “haunting” and it is even sometimes overused. In the case of Water Memory, there isn’t a better adjective to describe the story. After putting the book down, we defy you to not feel haunted by the events of the story – in particular the ending.

It tells the tale of a young girl named Marion whose single mother just inherited her childhood home and has decided to move them in. In her adventures around the costal town, Marion learns her family’s history is far more complicated and intriguing than she or her mother ever thought.

Nominated for a San Diego Comic Con Eisner Award as Best Graphic Novel for Teens, Doomboy follows the path of D, a young man whose true love has died.

He tries to heal the hole left in his heart through his guitar. D broadcasts his pain-infused ballads across the ‘cosmos’ (radio waves) – but unknowingly, his songs are picked up and loved by the local rockers. He doesn’t want the attention and has to deal with all these problems at once.

Written by Mathieu Reynes Illustrated by Valérie Vernay Published by Lion Forge

Written and Illustrated by Tony Sandoval Published by Lion Forge

Writer Mathieu Reynès is known for his Alter Ego and Harmony series of books. Valérie Vernay is a children’s book illustrator who is known in Europe for her Agathe Saugrenu series. Together, they have created a mysterious tale that keeps the reader guessing until the very last page.

The themes of isolation and family collide in a compelling manner in Water Memory. The main character’s sense of curiosity often lands her in hot water (no pun intended) as she seeks to unlock the mysteries of her new home. The conclusion will raise endless questions in a middle school classroom about the nature of closure and how the book approaches it. In addition, the art style can be a great model for visual storytelling, especially due its unique use of perspective and color.

Park Bench

Written and Illustrated by Christopher Chaboute Published by Simon and Schuster This comic masterfully explores the role that an oft-ignored and common feature plays in marking time: the park bench. Chaboute (Alone, Moby Dick) explores how the bench intersects with various lives, dreams, and perspectives. In this wordless novel, Chaboute builds relationships between his reader and characters through facial expressions, posture, and routines. Another impressive aspect of this graphic novel is how he reveals the passage of time – showing the seasons of life.

Park Bench can be used to explore several themes, including impermanence and perspective. How do tales shift when the anchoring object is inanimate? There are also opportunities to consider how we view individuals, communities, and individuals and communities together.

Suggesting other wordless graphic novels like Gon and Owly certainly work when comparing technical aspects. However, they don’t allow readers to fully explore the emotional depth of this powerful work. We are recommending pairing this graphic novel with Thi Bui’s The Best We Could Do and the Tamaki’s That One Summer to explore the layered complexities of life and time.

Doomboy is yet another example of how French publishers just get “it” what makes a solid prose and visually successful graphic novel story. The story focuses on what’s important, and the little details come together to move the reader in unexpected ways.

Visual references are masterfully used by Sandoval to potently touch on themes of heartbreak, loss, and ethereal connection.

It is also important to note that this book explicitly tells the story of a hidden homosexual relationship and the associated conflicting emotions.

I’d recommend pairing this book with others that cover themes of loss and love for teens, like Generations by Flavia Biondi.

Castle In The Stars

Written and Illustrated by Alex Alice Published by First Second Books Set in Western Europe in 1869, Castle in the Stars tells the fantastical story of a family of scientists searching Earth’s upper atmosphere for the mythical “Aether”; once they find it, the mythical “Aether” will fuel transportation through the stars.

This incredibly powerful discovery becomes the driving force behind international espionage where even the great Bismarck’s machinations play a role.

The original French comic was translated and published

by First Second in 2016. The art and story are beautifully interwoven. Alice uses a gorgeous steampunk and watercolor aesthetic, firmly placing the reader in the 19th century. The translation is masterful, deepening the reader’s’ immersion into the late 19th century and attachment to the dynamic characters. The final panel is as cliff-hangery as they come.

In fact, after reading the cliffhanger many readers have searched online to see if the second and final volume would be and is available. Sadly, it’s not. Hint hint, First Second!

This comic naturally pairs with Phillip Pullman’s Dark Materials trilogy – both storylines explore the mystical materials that facilitate previously unimagined travel and all the associated metaphors. Alice also draws heavily from Jules Verne so any of his works can easily be paired with Castle in the Stars.

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COWBOY BEBOP MEETS CRIME NOIR D I V I NG INT O TH E TA L E OF JA ZZ M A YN A R D

J

azz Maynard was born in the slums of Barcelona, surrounded by the sort of criminal element that gets under your skin for good. He tried to escape their influence by moving to New York City, but after ten years of living by his own rules, his past caught up with him, forcing him back to the streets that groomed him. Shadows of his former life have been waiting for him, and it’s time for him to face the inescapable.

Born November 10, 1971, in Spain, Raule briefly attended animation classes at the Joso School before launching the fanzine “Tribulaciones” in 1993 with the cartoonist Mr. Chaves. Both won the “Prize for Best Draft Drawing” in the Comic Contest of El Prat del Llobregat. In 1994, the duo created “Lady Down” for the magazine “De Tebeos” published in Almería. In 1995 and 1996, they collaborated in the first and last issue of “Ryu” for the Camaleón editions, a manga magazine bringing together several Hispanic authors, and produced “Violencia Sonica”, a mini-series of 4 episodes compiled into a volume in 1997. It was then that Raule began an exclusive collaboration with Roger Ibáñez in “Otaku”, the manga magazine published by Norma. In 1999, with Roger handling art tasks, he worked for “Penthouse Comix”. In 2002 and 2003, they published “Hole’n’Virgin”, “Amores muertos” and “Cabos sueltos” together with Amaníaco. Presented at the Barcelona Comic Fair, this latest title attracted the screenwriter JD Morvan (“Al Togo” – “Reality Show”) who submitted the work to French publisher Dargaud. From there, launched the annual BD Festival in Angoulême 2004, the triptych project “Jazz Maynard” was born. The first of three albums was released in June 2007.

Back in his old stomping grounds of Barcelona, Jazz and his childhood friend Teo are not enjoying their unexpected reunion. Jazz had just returned from New York, where three days earlier, he received a desperate letter from his long-lost sister, who had fallen in with bad company. Jazz did what any good brother would do – he rescued her from the bad company and whisked her back home to Barcelona, the homeland he left 10 years earlier. But it didn’t take long for trouble to catch up with him. Three days, in fact.

Old criminal relationships are renewed, and Jazz’s skills as a thief and bodyguard are put on display, forcing him into various underground jobs by foes both old and new. It becomes pretty clear why Jazz might have left, but the question now is whether he will ever be able to leave again.

Jazz Maynard from Lion Forge is a complex tale of antiheroes and criminal agendas in deadly competition, with our hero trapped in the middle. Described as the Cowboy Bebop of crime noir, the tale is spun by Spanish creators Raule and Roger Ibanez Ugena.

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Roger Ibanez Ugena studied comics at Joso School in Spain. In 1993, he directed several short humorous comics for the fanzine “GN” and, in 1994, he won the first manga contest of Éditions Norma publishing in the manga magazine “Otaku”, featuring several of his short stories. For Cameleon Editions, he drew the periodical “Sukube” and “Hiromi”. From 1999 to 2001, he created over a dozen stories with writer Raule for the magazine “Penthouse Comix” published by El Jueves. Under the pseudonym Nono, he also produces comics for various American erotic magazines including “Sizzle” published by NBM. In 2002 and 2003, he and RAULE created “Hole’n’Virgin”, “Amores muertos” and “Cabos sueltos” for Amaniaco Editions. These last projects attracted the attention of screenwriter JD Morvan, who submitted the work to French publisher Dargaud, who signed the duo to create “Jazz Maynard”, which debuted at the annual BD festival in Angoulême in 2004.

Jazz Maynard is a crime noir thriller with over 100 pages of uninterrupted action sequences. The graphic novel releases in December 2017 and can be previewed on the following pages.

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A PREVIEW OF JAZZ MAYNARD FROM LION FORGE

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A PREVIEW OF JAZZ MAYNARD FROM LION FORGE

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Winter 2018

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A PREVIEW OF JAZZ MAYNARD FROM LION FORGE

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AROUND THE WORLD IN 180 PAGES TOP TEN MUST-HAVE GRAPHIC NOVELS BY INTERNATIONAL CREATORS Beowulf

By Santiago García and David Rubín Image Comics – 9781534301207 Ages 16+ Beowulf tells of the tale of a Scandinavian hero in lands that would become what is now Denmark and Sweden: A monster, Grendel, has arrived in the kingdom of the Danes, devouring its men and women for 12 years until Beowulf arrives to save them. Faithfully following the original story, the graphic novel version is neither revisionist nor postmodern, but captures the tone and important details of the poem, translating its potent, epic resonance and melancholy into a contemporary comic.

Captain Canuk Vol. 1: Aleph

By Antony Johnston and Sam Hart Chapterhouse Publishing – 9781988247274 Ages 13+ Born of the true north and tested in war, Captain Canuck is thrust into battle at the head of the global crisis intervention agency called Equilibrium. He must find his way as warrior, leader, and ultimately, hero to save humanity from the machinations of Mr. Gold, Blue Fox, and the even more menacing forces that watch from the shadows.

Cici’s Journal: The Adventures of a Writer-in-Training

By Joris Chamblain & Aurélie Neyret First Second – 9781626722484 Ages 8+ Cici dreams of being a novelist. Her favorite subject: people, especially adults. She’s been watching them and taking notes. Everybody has one special secret, Cici figures, and if you want to write about people, you need to understand what’s hiding inside them. But now she’s discovered something truly strange: an old man who disappears into the forest every Sunday with huge pots of paint in all sorts of colors. What is he up to? Why does he look so sad when he comes back?

Doctor Who: 100 Illustrated Adventures

By Various Penguin Group (UK) – 9781405927222 Ages 9+ A new illustrated episode guide, showcasing the best of the beloved British sci-fi classic, Doctor Who. Profiling 100 of the most beloved episodes since the show first broadcast in 1963, this book is filled with original art from fan artists and professional artists alike, as well as in-depth episode information. Spanning from the era of the First Doctor to the Twelfth, this stunning book is a must-have Doctor Who keepsake and guide.

E.X.O. Legend of Wale Williams Vol. 1

By Roye Okupe, Sunkanmi Akinboye & Goodwin Akpan Youneek Studios – 9780996607001 Ages 13+ Featured on CNN, the BBC, and Forbes, E.X.O.: The Legend of Wale Williams is a superhero story about redemption, set in a futuristic Africa.

Volume one of the graphic novel series follows the journey of Wale Williams, an impetuous young man who inherits a suit with super powers after his father goes missing.

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Winter 2018

Genius Vol. 1

By Marc Bernardin, Adam Freeman, & Afua Richardson Top Cow – 9781632152237 Ages 16+ What if the greatest military mind of our generation was born to a people who are already supremely conditioned to wage war, who know nothing but violence since birth and must continually adapt to new predators in order to survive? What if the second coming of Alexander the Great, of Genghis Khan, of Napoleon, of Patton...what if it was a teenaged girl from South Central, L.A. named Destiny?

Kobane Calling: Greetings from Nothern Syria

By Zerocalcare Lion Forge – 9781941302491 Ages 16+ The autobiographical memoir of a young Italian humor cartoonist who volunteers to support and observe the Kurdish resistance in Syria as a journalist and aid worker. He winds up in Ayn al-Arab, a majority-Kurd town in the Rojava region of Syria, on the front lines against the encroaching Islamic State, and there he receives a heartbreaking education into the Syrian Civil War.

The Lost Path

By Amélie Fléchais CubHouse – 9781941302446 Ages 9+ Three young boys set off from Camp Happiness, determined to win a treasure hunt. But the shortcut they take leads to something far more spectacular and sinister! All manner of magical beasties live in these woods, and the kids find themselves caught between warring Forest Spirits.

Monstress Vol. 2: The Blood

By Marjorie Liu and Sana Takeda Image Comics – 9781534300415 Ages 13+ Set in an alternate matriarchal 1900’s Asia, in a richly imagined world of art deco-inflected steam punk, Monstress tells the story of a teenage girl who is struggling to survive the trauma of war, and who shares a mysterious psychic link with a monster of tremendous power, a connection that will transform them both and make them the target of both human and otherworldly powers.

Royal City Vol. 2: Sonic Youth

By Jeff Lemire Image Comics – 9781534305526 Ages 16+ In this second installment of bestselling author Jeff Lemire’s (Descender, Sweet Tooth) ambitious new series we travel back to the year 1993 and follow the then teenaged Pike siblings and see the last week of Tommy Pike’s life unfold. The mysteries of his death and all the sins that now plague the Pike family are brought to light in this heartbreaking and new storyline.

SAVE THE DATE!

FREE COMICS FOR EVERYONE! Details @ www.freecomicbookday.com /freecomicbook

@freecomicbook

@freecomicbookday

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BUILDING A UNIVERSE AN INTERVIEW WITH COMICS CREATOR ROYE OKUPE

BY ASHLEY KRO NSB E R G

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omics and graphic novels are a staple literary format in our current society with graphic novels being featured on best-seller lists and receiving countless literary awards. With the wealth of content found by creators in the US, international creators have also coveted a major part of the comics industry.

Nigerian comics creator, Roye Okupe, is one of many creators working in the United States; however, unlike many creators, Okupe is the creator of an entire universe under his publishing company YouNeek Studios. Based in Silver Springs, Maryland, Okupe’s superhero universe derives its background and culture directly from his African roots, providing a unique story for his readers that cannot be found between the pages of many superhero stories published today.

BookShelf Editor, Ashley Kronsberg, sat down with Okupe to discuss building this universe and how the influence of Nigerian and African culture brings a refreshing take on the superhero genre that is accessible to any reader. t Ashley Kronsberg: To start, could you give

us a little background on the overall universe you have created through YouNeek Studios?

Roye Okupe: If you ask a casual comic book/superhero fan who Batman, Superman, Iron Man, or Spider-Man are odds are the majority, if not all, will be able to tell you who they are. Ask them how many African born superheroes they know, and they probably will not be able to go past Black Panther. Africa has a wealth of culture and mythology that the world has not been exposed to. I started YouNeek Studios to change that.

Our overall universe, which we call the “YouNeek YouNiverse” is a series of stories featuring a very diverse list of awesome heroes, villains, and locations with continuity and inter-connectivity from story to story. Dubbed “The MCU of graphic novels,” the YouNeek YouNiverse is a combination of individual graphic novel series (E.X.O., Malika, WindMaker, etc.) tied together with one continuous, overall plot that weaves through each story.

We want to make it easy for ANYONE to get into comic books and graphic novels. One of the inspirations behind the YouNiverse comes from something I see Marvel Studios doing successfully with their movies. Marvel has masterfully crafted a system of connected movies (collectively called the Marvel Cinematic Universe or “MCU”) that has brought in millions of casual, everyday fans that have never read a single comic book! So, we decided to do something to attract both hardcore and everyday casual fans to beautifully crafted stories by way of graphic novels (except for special circumstances, all our comic books have a 100-page minimum. Hence the term graphic novel).

into a superhero sci-fi epic. My culture is a huge part of why I write these stories. And I also believe it is what sets us apart as a company. Our books are culturally authentic, and you can feel it on every page. One of the main reasons why is because the majority of the people that work on the books (sometimes all the people) are born and raised on the continent. For instance, E.X.O. - The Legend of Wale Williams, which is a superhero story about redemption set in a futuristic (2025) Lagos, Nigeria, had a production team (writer, pencils, inks, colors, and editor) of people born and raised in Lagos, Nigeria. And it shows on each page.

The talent is immense in Nigeria (and African as a whole) and one of our goals here at YouNeek Studios is to shed light on them.

t One criticism some diverse comics get is that the content is not relatable because the creators do not know the experience behind the diverse character in question. With E.X.O. and Malika, this is not the case as these characters are created with their diverse backgrounds at the forefront of their stories.

Can you tell us what inspired you to create these characters? How have they evolved over time since you started writing them?

However, Africa is just the current area focus. Because I was born in Nigeria, it was the logical place to start. We do aspire to extend the YouNiverse and create heroes/stories from/about other cultures and places around the globe.

t You are originally from Lagos, Nigeria – which

has become quite the pop culture hub in recent years – how do you incorporate your native culture into the comics you are producing today?

Our first book here at YouNeek Studios (which I wrote), E.X.O. - The Legend of Wale Williams, is essentially a lot of things I saw, felt and experienced growing up in Lagos Nigeria, woven

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diamondbookshelf.com The inspiration comes from the fact that I didn’t see characters like the ones I’m creating now (African superheroes) growing up in Lagos, Nigeria. As I mentioned, Africa has a wealth of history and mythology that is largely unknown to mainstream audiences (comics, TV, animation, movies etc.). For instance, Malika’s story is heavily inspired by a real African Ruler called Amina. Queen Amina was the ruler of the West African kingdom Zazzau, which was located in current day Zaria, Nigeria.

doing this at a high level. And that goes into the decisions I make daily. Because of that, I’m able to inspire others to chase their dreams while I live mine.

I think it’s important not just for people of African descent but the industry as a whole that stories like hers become more widespread. When you hear about Africa in mainstream media, it’s usually about wars, corruption, poverty and mostly negative things/images. While these problems do exist, and it is important to shed light on them, it shouldn’t be the only narrative. And it’s not just Queen Amina.

Hahaha! Trust me, we have plenty of plans to expand the YouNiverse. Some really exciting ones. Unfortunately, I can’t share a lot at the moment. However, I can talk about the current characters/ongoing series we currently have out. One thing that we are really excited about is our Halloween ComicFest (HCF) one shot: Malika - Dragon Trials! This is one of the most epic stories I’ve ever written. It’s African mythology mixed with dragons! I mean, c’mon! How awesome is that?!

There are many others like her. For example, Mansa Musa, ruler of the Mali Empire who was one of the richest people in the world in his time. Or Sunni Ali of the Songhai Empire was one of the brightest military minds. These and many more stories are rarely told. And it’s not just past glory, there is also present greatness. There is a wealth of achievements (in the technology, medical and entrepreneurial fields) that have occurred in the past two decades that hopefully get more global attention.

I also want to inspire people from other cultures to do the same thing I’m doing with regards to my culture.

t Malika: Warrior Queen is the newest addition to the universe you have created.

Could you give us some background on her character and how she fits into the universe?

Yes! Malika (pronounced “Ma-LIE-ka”) is quickly becoming one of our fan favorites here at YouNeek Studios, and it’s not too hard to imagine why. Her story is one of historical fantasy that takes place in a 15th century West Africa, as Malika, Queen and military commander of Azzaz, struggles to keep the peace in her ever-expanding empire.

t Finally, do you have any plans of further

expanding the universe? New characters, story lines, etc.? (That you can tell us without giving away too much of course!)

We’ve been very fortunate to be selected for both FCBD and HCF this year and are immensely grateful to Diamond for the opportunity. An opportunity we believe we’re fully taking advantage of by releasing amazing stories. If you don’t get a chance to visit your local comic book shop to grab Malika: Dragon Trials for free, you’ll be able to download it for free as well via our website: youneekstudios.com. Dragon Trials is a perfect entry point for those that want to give the Malika series a try without spending a dime. It’s a one shot with a self-contained story so you don’t have to worry about getting any of the previous books. You have nothing to lose so make sure you check it out!

Other things we’re looking forward to are of course the Malika: Warrior Queen Part Two. If you enjoyed part one of this awesome series, you’re in for a treat with part two. We’re also in early development of our first animated movie which is an adaptation of our first graphic novel E.X.O. - The Legend of Wale Williams. As you can see, there’s a lot of amazing stuff going on, so make sure you follow us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram (@YouNeekStudios) or sign up for our newsletter at www.youneekstudios.com/join to keep up to date and get access to over 100+ pages of our comics for free.

Right off the bat, this isn’t a story you would regularly see in comics or any other medium for that matter. And I think that’s why a lot of people from different places around the world have embraced her story. It’s so compelling and unique (no pun intended). However, her story’s distinctiveness is just one of the many things about Malika.

My favorite thing about her is who she is as a character and what she represents. You have a queen and ruler with all these powers, who is also able to display the complex human emotions we all experience in our daily lives.

Finally, she represents some of the diversity I think a lot of people have been asking for in the comic book industry

t How has your background influenced the decisions you make as a creator? What kind of effects have you noticed these influences have on your audiences?

I am very lucky to 1. have a loving, supportive and understanding wife; 2. be raised by encouraging parents 3. be supported by siblings and friends; and 4. blessed with amazing fans. These people are the reason I can do what I do for a living. Because of them, I have no choice but to keep

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BOOKSHELF WINTER RECOMMENDED READS K I D S G RAPHIC N OVE L S A G E S 4 + Castle in the Sky Picture Book

By Hayao Miyazaki Viz Media – 9781421592664 Release Date: 12/19/2017

The legends were true! Somewhere high in the clouds, human beings have again set foot on the floating island of Laputa, for centuries a peaceful parklike ruin tended only by its silent, faithful robots. But just behind Pazu and Sheeta are soldiers from the aerial dreadnought Goliath—who have captured Dola and her pirate crew and are now looting the gold and jewels of the Castle in the Sky for themselves!

Dream of the Butterfly Volume 1: Rabbits on the Moon

By Richard Marazano & Luo Yin Roar Comics – 9781941302392 Release Date: 01/29/2018

Tutu is lost in a village where winter is eternal and the rabbits of the secret police find her guilty of one of the worst crimes imaginable—being a little girl! The Emperor of this strange town holds the key to her redemption, but it will come at a price.

Eleanor & the Egret

By John Layman & Sam Kieth Aftershock Comics – 9781935002765 Release Date: 12/26/2017 The most daring art thief in Paris has struck again, and the police have assigned their best detective to the case. His only clue? A single white feather left at the scene. Could this feather belong to the thief? To the thief’s accomplice, an oversized talking egret? Or will his investigation lead him to somewhere even stranger?

(Answer: all of the above.)

Little Sid

By Ian Lendler & Xanthe Bouma First Second – 9781626726369 Release Date: 01/23/2018 A spoiled young prince, Siddhartha got everything he ever asked for, until he asked for what couldn’t be given­—happiness. Join Little Sid as he sets off on a journey of discovery and encounters mysterious wise-folk, terrifying tigers, and one very annoying mouse.

Little Tails on the Farm

By Frédéric Brrémaud and Federico Bertolucci CubHouse – 9781626726369 Release Date: 01/16/2018 Precocious puppy and squirrel buddies, Chipper and Squizzo, set out to borrow some milk from the farm next door, but their journey turns into a fun adventure where they meet a whole community of farm animals to befriend!

For our full list of recommendations, please visit http://bit.ly/KidsWinterReads 18

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BOOKSHELF WINTER RECOMMENDED READS Y O UN G ADULT G R A P H IC NOVE L S A G E S 13 + Casa Nostra

By Chris Sarracini & Nick Kilslian Udon Entertainment – 9781772940558 Release Date: 12/12/2017 In 1933, four women run a comforting safe house for Chicago criminals looking to lay low. But when the ladies find themselves violently betrayed by one of their distinguished guests, revenge becomes their new business.

Daring heists, dirty money, infamous gangsters and Tommy guns are all a part of the plan in this original noir graphic novel.

Elsewhere Vol. 1

By Jay Faerber, Sumeyye Kesgin & Ron Riley Image Comics – 9781534304697 Release Date: 01/09/2018 Mysteriously transported to a strange new world filled with flying beasts and alien civilizations, Amelia desperately struggles to return home. Along the way she forges alliances and makes enemies, as she goes from aviator to freedom fighter in a rebellion against a merciless warlord!

Faith & the Future Force

By Jody Houser, Stephen Segovia, Barry Kitson, and Diego Bernardi Valiant – 9781682152331 Release Date: 12/19/2017 Faith “Zephyr” Herbert - former member of Unity, current Harbinger Renegade, and Los Angeles’ #1 superhero - is the universe’s last, best chance at survival! Centuries from today, a devious artificial intelligence has unleashed a blistering attack on the very foundations of time...one that is the unwriting history from beginning to end!

The Legend of Zelda Twilight Princess Vol. 1

By Akira Himekawa Viz Media – 9781421593470 Release Date: 03/14/2018

Link once trained in swordsmanship, hoping to protect the world of Hyrule. After a fateful meeting, he sought out the anonymity and peace of life in a small village. But danger and adventure always find heroes to set things right, and when the dark minions of the King of Shadows threaten his new home, Link answers the call!

Shinobi: Ninja Princess Vol. 2 Lightning Oni

By Martheus Wade, Janet Wade, and Gene Fayne Action Lab – 9781632293015 Release Date: 01/09/2018

After the capture and narrow escape of fourteen-year-old ninja-in-training, Shainndrea, the Toshigawa Ninja Clan has been forced to move to a new secret base further on the outskirts of Osaka. The evil Red Dragon has taken leadership of the rival Azumi Ninja Clan and is determined to fulfill the contract to capture Shianndrea at any and all costs. Now, with her new commanders in place, the stage is set for the Red Dragon to reveal her most powerful Oni yet, Yawata, the embodiment of war with the powers of lightning.

For our full list of recommendations, please visit http://bit.ly/YAWinterReads Winter 2018

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BOOKSHELF WINTER RECOMMENDED READS O LD ER T EENS GR A P H IC NOVE L S A G E S 16 + Algeria is Beautiful Like America

By Olivia Burton, & Mahi Grand Lion Forge – 9781941302569 Release Date: 04/24/2018

Olivia had always heard stories about Algeria from her maternal grandmother, who had emigrated to France after the Algerian War of Independence. Years after her grandmother’s death, Olivia decides to travel to Algeria and experience the country for herself; she arrives alone, with but a single phone number in her pocket, of an Algerian, Djaffar, who will act as her guide. Olivia’s quest to understand her origins will bring her to face questions about heritage, history, shame, friendship, nostalgia, and memory.

The Bridge: How the Roeblings Connected Brooklyn to New York

By Peter J. Tomasi and Sara DuVall Abrams ComicArts – 9781419728525 Release Date: 11/21/2017

More than 130 years after its completion, the Brooklyn Bridge remains one of the most extraordinary landmarks and symbols of Brooklyn and New York City—and the story behind this architectural marvel is just as extraordinary. In this inspiring graphic novel, author Peter J. Tomasi and illustrator Sara Duvall show the building of the Brooklyn Bridge as it has never been seen before, and the marriage of the Roeblings—based on intellectual equality and mutual support—that made the construction of this iconic structure possible.

James Bond: Kill Chain

By Andy Diggle and Luca Casalanguida Dynamite – 9781524105952 Release Date: 04/17/2018 When a counterespionage operation in Rotterdam goes catastrophically wrong, James Bond finds himself in the crosshairs of a plot to smash NATO. Someone is assassinating allied agents, and 007 is the next target in the kill chain. Having kept the peace for decades, the old alliance is collapsing, pitting MI6 against its former ally - the CIA!

Skin & Earth

By Lights Dynamite – 9781524106034 Release Date: 04/03/2018 Skin & Earth is a story of a girl looking for hope in a hopeless world. Caught between romance and cults, gods and mortals, and just trying to find a good borscht, Enaia Jin is lead down a dark path by new lovers that reveal a twisted fantasy world and her own true nature. Set in a post-apocalyptic future where corporations rule, this adventurous tale of loneliness, deceit and self-discovery begins here! Written and drawn by alt-pop phenomenon Lights, Skin & Earth ties directly into her next full length album, released in Fall 2017 on Warner Bros Records

War Mother

By Fred Van Lente, Stephen Segovia and Tomas Giorello Valiant – 9781534303492 Release Date: 03/27/2018 Two millennia from today, Earth is not the hospitable home we once we knew. Ravaged by an endless onslaught of war, disaster, and time, the world is littered with desolate badlands, fortified kingdoms, and secretive enclaves where humanity still clings to life… Enclaves like The Grove – Earth’s last known repository of scientific knowledge and bioengineered prosperity. Now, under the leadership of the lone protector called WAR MOTHER and her sentient sniper rifl e, the denizens of The Grove face a critical choice: remain where they are and die, or fi nd a new land and flourish. Can War Mother lead her people out of isolation and reignite the fi res of a dying planet? And even if she can locate the distant citadel she seeks, can she fight back the horrors and perverse monstrosities that lurk just beyond her doorstep?

For our full list of recommendations, please visit http://bit.ly/TeensWinterReads 20

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FRENCH COMICS KISS BETTER A CELEBRATION OF BANDES DESSINÉES

BY ASHLEY KRO NSB E R G

T

he world of comics has greatly expanded from its humble beginnings of newspaper funnies and superhero adventures to become home to a wealth of genres and storylines. Comics and graphic novels have grown alongside their audiences to continuously provide diverse content, but the reach of comics does not stop at the gutters between the pages printed in the United States – comics are a household literary format internationally with French comics among the most prestigious and popular in the market.

“THE COMICS INDUSTRY IS A FIRMLY-ROOTED STAPLE OF FRANCO-BELGIAN CULTURE AND AN ESSENTIAL ELEMENT OF FRENCH CREATIVITY”

Philippe Ostermann, former head of the FCAy, described the comics industry as “a firmly-rooted staple of Franco-Belgian culture and an essential element of French creativity.”

French Comics Kiss Better is an initiative put together by the FCA and Europe Comics to bring French comic creators to the United States. The comics framed festival was held during the ALA Conference in Chicago June 2017, and welcomed several graphic novel artists including: Guy Delisle (Pyongyang: A Journey to North Korea), Marguerite Abouet (Aya), Pénélope Bagieu (My Quite Fascinating Life, California Dreamin’), Jérémie Royer, David Etien (Chito Grant, The Quest for the Bird of Time), Stefano Turconi and Teresa Radice (Pippo, Mickey Mouse & Big Sand Sea).

Ostermann added that the French “graphic novel industry is the third largest worldwide… [and] has developed a particularly strong presence in the American market, with between 60 and 100 translations published every year in the United States.” It is the goal of the FCA to give voice to major contemporary figures of Franco-Belgian comics and deepen their presence in the American landscape. It was through these core values that the French Comics Kiss Better Festival was created.

The newly elected incoming President of the FCA, Jean Paciulli of Glénat, says, French Comics Kiss Better “is a huge opportunity to present the French culture of bande dessinée.” As the third largest market in the comics industry, French comics “bring many years of literary heritage, from beloved characters like Astérix, Tintin and the Smurfs, to new original graphic novels,” Paciulli continued.

“I’m honored and excited to present the creators on this 2017 tour, whose bande dessinée explore every subject, from adventure stories to social issues, with audacious talent.”

The French Comics Association (FCA) is an organization dedicated to bringing together major publishers of French comics and promoting Franco-Belgian comics to international markets. The FCA aims to promote comics translated into English, support US publishing, and foster cultural exchanges through literature and visual narratives.

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With the major success of the festival in Chicago, the FCA held a second week-long festival in New York during New York Comic-Con in October 2017. Hosting a new slate of French comics creators, attendees of the festival met several Franco-Belgian creators including: Pénélope Bagieu (My Quite Fascinating Life, California Dreamin’), Brüno (But What Are the Police Doing?), Mathieu Lauffray (Prophet, Long John Silver), Patricia Lyfoung (La Rose Ecarlate), Fabien Nury (Once Upon A Time In France, The Death of Stalin: A True Story), Alexis Sentenac (The Gesture of the Dragons Knights), El Torres (Drums, Nancy in Hell on Earth), Valérie Vernay (Water Memory), and Zep (Titeuf).

“What obstacles do you face in bringing comics and graphic novels with adult content into your classroom?”

The success of the French Comics Kiss Better Festival initiative has led to planning into 2018 to bring more international creators to the United States. “As we plan our 2018 programs, we look forward to visiting different American conventions across the year, including new cities,” said Paciulli. “[The French Comics Association is] delighted to connect with U.S. publishers, booksellers, librarians and educators, and to discover opportunities to introduce American readers to the beauty and breadth of European comics creators.”

Along with signings and panels featuring the lineup of French comic creators, the FCA also showed exclusive footage from the upcoming IFC release of the film The Death of Stalin, directed by Armando Ianucci and based on the French graphic novel by Fabien Nury. The FCA was also a sponsor of the New York Public Library’s programming during New York Comic Con, and presented a panel dedicated to international cartoonists moderated by Meg Lemke called Bande Dessinée 101. The panel was followed by a mixer hosted by the FCA, First Second Books, and Pop Culture Classroom that invited teachers and librarians to meet with the comics talent and discuss lesson ideas around graphic novels.

The mixer following Bande Dessinée 101 utilized the annual gathering of educators organized by Pop Culture Classroom and hosted by Michael Gianfresco and Illya Kowalchuk.

Educators participating were set up at four tables and were split up by their audience’s age range as well as by topic/ genre. Each table had a comic creator who presented their work, discussed their process and influences, as well as collaborated with educators on how their titles could be utilized in the classroom. Gianfresco provided “essential questions” to spark conversation among the groups such as “How and why do younger readers benefit from comics and graphic novels,” “How do you use comics in classes within my subject area,” and

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FOR MORE INFORMATION ON THE FRENCH COMICS ASSOCIATION AND FUTURE FRENCH COMICS KISS BETTER FESTIVAL EVENTS, PLEASE VISIT THEM AT THE SOCIAL MEDIA LINKS BELOW. Website: http://frenchcomicsassociation.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ComicsFramed

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Twitter: @FrenchComix and @FrenchBooksUSA Instagram: ComicsFramed

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A WOMAN’S PLACE IS IN MANGA A SPOTLIGHT ON TOKYOPOP’S INTERNATIONAL WOMEN IN MANGA CAMPAIGN

BY ASHLEY KRO NSB E R G

T

okyopop was founded in 1997 and established the market for manga in North America. Since then, the company has published thousands of books, distributed anime and Asian films on home video and television, and licensed merchandise to consumer goods companies. The Tokyopop brand has expanded internationally with a network of over 160 partners in more than 50 countries and 30 languages, inspiring the company’s newest campaign: International Women in Manga.

The topic of women in manga has been widely discussed with creators, publishers, and editors alike referencing the lack of opportunities in the manga market. Recognizing this phenomenon, Tokyopop will be launching the International Women in Manga campaign over 2018 with the goal of raising awareness for women creating best-selling manga in the current market and exploring the talent they bring to the industry. The campaign will begin by focusing on four major players in the international manga market: Sophie-chan, Nana Yaa, Ban Zarbo, and Gin Zarbo.

anyone to praise my work or support it. I knew I will get better in time and believed in myself.”

Sophie-chan was born in Iraq and became infatuated with shojo manga at the tender age of seven. With dreams of becoming a manga artist herself, she began teaching herself to draw using her favorite shows as inspiration. Even as she studied to become an engineer, she kept drawing, refusing to give up her dream of becoming a worldclass manga artist.

“I wasn’t seeking approval from anyone,” Sophiechan explained. “I was drawing as a hobby and thought that as long as I’m enjoying it, I don’t need

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Things took a dramatic turn in 2008 when she started a YouTube channel, which has since amassed an audience of 370k subscribers, and serves as a platform to not only show off her own artwork to her legions of fans, but also provides tutorials to aspiring manga creators all around the world.

Sophie-chan is currently living in Canada with her family and working on her first-ever manga series Ocean of Secrets (9781427857149).

“I was drawn to the ocean,” Sophie-chan explained in an interview about her upcoming series. “I was also a big fan of fantasy and mystery. If you combine these genres together, along with a spice of drama, the Ocean of Secrets is born.”

“We were thrilled to publish Sophie-chan’s debut work, the first volume of Ocean of Secrets which was originally self-published, and now the longawaited second volume with all new material is in

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“We couldn’t be more excited!”

Inspired by Hayao Miyazaki’s Howl’s Moving Castle, Ocean of Secrets follows the story of Lia, an orphan living by the Atlantic Ocean. One day she is swept away by the currents in a ruthless storm. She is saved by a duo of illegal runaways, Moria and Albert, and their magical ship. Her old mundane life suddenly becomes a supernatural adventure as she learns more about the world and herself.

works in Neuss, Germany where her best-selling adventure trilogy Goldfisch was first released. Her shonen manga series is currently being translated for a U.S. publication from TOKYOPOP with Goldfisch Volume 1 (9781427857675) is set to release January 16, 2018.

Goldfisch tells the story of a Morrey Gibbs, a fisher-boy in a flooded world overrun with mutated animals known as “anormals.” But he’s got more problems than just giant fish to deal with. Namely, how everything he touches turns to gold! Sure it sounds great, but gold underpants aren’t exactly stylish... or comfortable.

Together with his otter buddy Otta and new inventor friend Shelly, Morrey’s on a quest to rid himself of his blessing-turned-curse, and try to find a solution for the tragedy he unwittingly caused.

Nana Yaa is one of the most prolific creators on the German manga scene for her yaoi web comic series CRUSHED!!, having self-published numerous volumes and short stories, as well as contributing to multiple anthologies through the independent publisher Shwarzer Turm. Yaa won first place in the manga competition Manga Magi at the early age of 17 and caught the attention of late-night talk show host Stefan Raab, who in turn had her on his show TV Total. She is now among the most productive artists in the German manga scene and has already published numerous amateur manga and short stories. In addition to her contributions to anthologies by the independent publisher Schwarzer Turm, her first full-length work, Patina was published by Droemer Knaur in 2016. Her slice-of-life drama MCS was awarded Doujinshi of the Year in 2016.

“When you make the step from amateur to professional artist and suddenly a lot of people will see your work, this job can be kind of scary.”

Yaa explains. “No matter how big or the small the audience may be, you should always draw a story that you would like to read yourself.”

Now 26, Nana has a Bachelor’s of Arts in Communication Design, and currently lives and

“Nana Yaa is an incredible new African-German manga talent, and we couldn’t be more proud to adapt her chart-topping shonen manga series into English,” says TOKYOPOP founder and CEO, Stu Levy.

Rounding off the initial launch of the International Women in Manga campaign are Ban and Gin Zarbo. The twins were were first introduced to anime and manga by their mother as young girls, inspiring them to one day become manga creators themselves. At 24 years of age, the Swiss natives with Dominican and Italian roots, have already reached their goal, building a following of devoted fans through social media, and their German publication of Kamo: Pact with the Spirit World (Ban Zarbo) and Undead Messiah (Gin Zarbo) being translated for US publication from TOKYOPOP. The two sisters share a studio in the Swiss hamlet of Langendorf, which houses their massive manga collection.

“We all know the superpowers of twins – and Ban and Gin have manga-making powers,” said TOKYOPOP founder Stu Levy. “Their stories are fresh and riveting with compelling characters and intriguing artwork. Fans will do a double-take!”

When asked about their inspiration, Ban attributed her mother and Dominican kinship to the main influences behind her story-telling. “My siblings

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diamondbookshelf.com and I have grown up with ghost stories,” Ban said of her manga series. “I could not help but develop a predilection for mystery, horror, and crime.”

In March, TOKYOPOP will release Ban Zarbo’s Kamo: Pact with the Spirit World (9781427858672) a little less than a year after its German debut. Kamo has kept death at his doorstep for years. Now, just before his last breath, he receives a visit from a powerful mind named Crimson. Crimson offers him a chance at a new and healthy heart, in exchange for his help in capturing twelve spirits. However, Kamo will find more than happy about this opportunity. Ever since my childhood, I wanted an international out a pact with a spirit is not without its price. publication and especially in the USA. Thank you “It’s an incredible experience for me and a real for the fulfillment of my dream!” dream to see how my manga Kamo is released in the US in English,” says Ban Zarbo. “A big thank you to TOKYOPOP’s International Women in Manga the whole TOKYOPOP team for making this possible! campaign will kick off January 2018 with exclusive social media campaigning, special I’m still floating on clouds!” creator spotlights on prolific women working in the industry internationally, and more! The launch will follow through the rest of 2018 with Tokyopop introducing a slew of other prolific female creators working in manga including Natalia Batista who is best known for her twist on the damsel in distress story trope in Amaltea. For more information on the campaign, visit TOKYOPOP’s website at https://www.TOKYOPOP.com.

Like her sister, Gin also took much of her inspiration from the horror and mystery stories the Zarbo twins were told in their youth. “I’ve always liked eerie myths and monsters like vampires, werewolves, ghosts and zombies,” she explained. “Due to the fact that a zombie outbreak could trigger catastrophes all over the world, I find them most fascinating because they can spread rapidly compared to other monsters, thereby giving them the power to wipe out all mankind.”

A month after Ban’s manga debuts in America, Gin’s Undead Messiah will be released with a full Englishtranslation. The series follows an average 15-yearold zombie obsessed teenager, Tim, who dreams of taking down the walking dead himself. However, this fascination does not make him very popular with his peers until one fateful afternoon, after he discovers the trail of bloodthirsty beings with supernatural powers, it seems he may get his wish. Now is Tim’s chance to prove himself, as the fate of humanity lands squarely on his shoulders!

When asked about the US debut, Gin said, “I am

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About POP Media & TOKYOPOP Founded in 1997 by media entrepreneur Stu Levy, POP Media Holdings brings Asian Pop Culture to Hollywood and beyond. Its publishing company TOKYOPOP® established the market for manga in North America, introducing the term to the English language in the process. Over its history, POP has published thousands of books, distributed anime and Asian films on home video and television, licensed merchandise to consumer goods companies, created graphic novels of major brands and led the way digitally in social media, e-commerce and user-generated content, including the mobile publishing platform POP Comics®. POP expanded internationally with offices in Europe and Japan and a network of over 160 partners in more than 50 countries and 30 languages. Its production arm has produced liveaction and animated film and television content based on its extensive intellectual property library, including Priest, America’s Greatest Otaku, Van Von Hunter, and a slate of projects currently in development. Visit POP at www.TOKYOPOP.com, www.TOKYOPOP.de, www.POPcomics.com, and subscribe to TOKYOPOP TV for original web series and shows (www.youtube.com/TOKYOPOPtv).

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INTO THE DRAGON’S MAW A PRE VIEW OF SCA L E S & SCOU NDRE L S V O L U M E 1

Scales & Scoundrels Volume 1 Written by: Sebastian Girner Illustrated by: Galaad Publisher: Image Comics Format: Softcover, Color, 128 pages, $9.99, Ages 9+ ISBN: 9781534304826

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t’s hard to make an honest living in a land brimming with magic and mystery, and treasure hunter Luvander is tired of being a penniless adventurer. Ever in search of gold and glory, she sets off for a fabled dungeon “The Dragon’s Maw,” an ancient labyrinth at the bottom of which slumber endless wealth...or certain doom!

A loner by trade, Luvander is forced to team up with a team of scraggly adventurers, each hoping to find a treasure of their own in the forbidden tomb: there is Prince Aki of the Scarlet Sands Empire, anxious for his first taste of adventure yet blind to the consequences; his royal Shadow and bodyguard, Koro, whose very honor hangs in the balance of her prince’s success; and Dorma Iron, a stocky young dwarf whose journey will take her deeper into the darkness than she ever wished to tread.

For these scruffy heroes, what starts out as a road to riches becomes the first step on an epic journey to destiny, for Luvander holds a secret in her heart that will shatter the chains of fate and bring light to a world encroached upon by an ancient darkness.

Writer, Sebastian Girner, was born in Germany raised in New York and studied Japanese language, history and culture at the University of Bonn, Germany and the University of Shizuoka, Japan. He has been the editor of several comics including Deadly Class, Punisher, and Southern Bastards and is also the writer for Shirtless Bear Fighter! Series artist, Galaad, is an Italian comics and story board artist.

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A PREVIEW OF SCALES & SCOUNDRELS VOLUME 1

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Winter 2018

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A PREVIEW OF SCALES & SCOUNDRELS VOLUME 1

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KATIE’S KORNER A GRAPHIC NOVEL TEACHER’S GUIDE

BY D R. KATIE M ONNIN

Spinning Written and Illustrated by: Tillie Walden Publisher: First Second Format: Softcover, 5 x 8, 400 pages, $17.99 ISBN: 9781626729407 REVIEW In this coming of age memoir, graphic novelist Tillie Walden attempts to explain – from her still forming and seeking to understand early 20s perspective – what it means to be uprooted from a familiar, comfortable school and set of friends. At her new school, Tillie attempts to forge a more authentic identity. But things don’t always go as she wishes for them to go.

Tillie defines herself through her sport: Ice Skating.

An individualistic sport that requires deep-rooted inner reflection and concentration, however, can also be a more team-oriented sport. At her new school and with potential new friends, Tillie finds that ice skating is only one piece of her identity.

Although ice skating once defined her completely, it now seems as though Tillie struggles with a series of coming of age issues: reckless driving, bullying, coming out and more.

To learn more about Tillie and her teenage attempts to find her own identity get a copy of Spinning and join Tillie as she tries to make sense of it all.

ELEMENTS OF STORY Plot: Spinning is a coming of age story about a young girl who is unhappy with her family’s decision to move to a new state. Defined by ice skating her entire life, Tillie is forced to start over with new ice skating teams, a new school, new friends, while also experiencing the challenges of bullying and coming out as a lesbian.

Major Characters: Tillie Walden, Molly, Coach Joulwan, Dad, Mom, John, Rae, Ms. Ramberg, Caitlin, Carly, Rosalind, Lindsay, John, Grace, Victoria, Mr. Williams Major Settings: New Jersey; Texas; high school; skating rink; mall; Dallas, Texas; Colorado Themes: Coming of Age, Coming Out, Sport, First Love, Bullying, Family, Friendship

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LESSON PLAN RECOMMENDATION USING THE COMMON CORE STANDARDS (CCS) FOR YOUNG ADULTS CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.RL.11-12.5 Analyze how an author’s choices concerning how to structure specific parts of a text (e.g., the choice of where to begin or end a story, the choice to provide a comedic or tragic resolution) contribute to its overall structure and meaning as well as its aesthetic impact.

CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.RL.11-12.6 Analyze a case in which grasping a point of view requires distinguishing what is directly stated in a text from what is really meant (e.g., satire, sarcasm, irony, or understatement).

DIRECTIONS FOR LESSON PLAN Walden’s memoir is full of experiences that inform her identity. Her experiences are crafted in a way that also make them easily identifiable as themes in the graphic novel. Thus, the following graphic organizer identifies themes and asks readers to link those themes to Walden’s experiences and emotions in the memoir.

As students read this graphic novel they can trace Walden’s experiences and emotions as they develop as a series of overall literary themes; space is provided for students to include multiple experiences and emotions if needed.

Within the graphic organizer students should be encouraged to use both words and / or images to express their responses. For a copy of the graphic organizer, please visit http://bit.ly/SpinningLesson

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Pix Volume 1: One Weirdest Weekend Written and Illustrated by: Greg Schigiel Publisher: Image Comics Format: Softcover, 6 x 9, 128 pages, $9.99 ISBN: 9781534301405 REVIEW If a story were to stand in for an amusement park Pix: One Weirdest Weekend would be on the front gate in great big neon letters.

“Welcome to Pix: One Weirdest Weekend, where your life becomes a superhero’s adventure!”

Pix (Emaline Laurel Pixley) is not only a teenager, but also a superhero. Her friends are not jealous, either.

In fact, they helped her make her costume and even help her play the superhero role. For mature, thoughtful teenagers this graphic novel offers a rollicking, upand-down, backwards and sideways adventure full of frogs, dragons, superheroes, TV stations, a dog named Bonus, and more. Much, much more.

It’s an exciting adventure just to recommend it!

ELEMENTS OF STORY Plot: When an extremely extraordinary student finds out she has superpowers her family and friends are in for the greatest set of adventures imaginable.

Major Characters: Emaline Laurel Pixley, Regie, Risa, Seth, Cherry, Laura, Ron, Noah, Bonus, Narrator, Monah, King of the Fairies, Michael Felix, Wyndra, Magic 8-ball, Frog, Suzy, Red Dragon, White Dragon, Uncle Ellis, Rabbit, Bear, Noah’s Mother, Monkey, Prince Lorne, Prince Lorne’s Uncle Major Settings: Car, TV Station, Ron’s Office, the Sky, Pix’s House, Kitchen’s Sink, Noah’s House, Restaurant, Neighborhood

* The number(s) referenced above corresponds to the number used by the Common Core Standards. ** A 12th grade Reading Literature standard is used because it encompasses reading skills inherent in 12th grade classrooms and below, an aspect which aligns well with teaching this graphic novel in either setting.

LESSON IDEA FOR MIDDLE SCHOOL AND/OR HIGH SCHOOL READERS

Directions: Using the two columns below ask students to identify six major characters in the story. Next, ask students to find a representative and/or significant quotation for each character. In the top column, students draw six characters, one for each block. In the bottom column, students randomly arrange all of their identified quotations from the story.

From the top column to the bottom column, it is important that students DO NOT align character drawings in the same order they identify their quotations.

Themes: Teenagers, Superheroes, Princesses, Powers, Relationships, Technology

When students are done drawing and writing significant quotations in the two columns they can turn their papers in.

LESSON PLAN RECOMMENDATIONS USING THE COMMON CORE STANDARDS FOR MIDDLE AND HIGH SCHOOL READERS CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.RL.11-12.3 Analyze the impact of the author’s choices regarding how to develop and relate elements of a story or drama (e.g., where a story is set, how the action is ordered, how the characters are introduced and developed).* **

As the educator, your job is to collect all of these papers and then redistribute them to other students in the room. It is the second student’s job to “align the characters with the quotations by drawing arrows from the top column to the bottom column and/or vice versa.”

For a copy of the graphic organizer, please visit http://bit.ly/PixVolume1

Dr. Katie Monnin is an Associate Professor of Literacy at the University of North Florida. Besides the joy that comes with reading comic books and graphic novels, Dr. Monnin enjoys a Peter Pan-ish life of researching and writing her own books about teaching comics, graphic novels, and cartoons: Teaching Graphic Novels (2010), Teaching Early Reader Comics and Graphic Novels (2011), Using Content-Area Graphic Texts for Learning (2012), Teaching Reading Comprehension with Graphic Texts (2013), Get Animated! Teaching 21st-century Early Reader and Young Adult Cartoons in Language Arts (2014), and Teaching New Literacies in Elementary Language Arts (2015). When she is not writing (or sitting around wondering how she ended up making an awesome career out of studying comics and graphic novels), Dr. Monnin spends her time with her three wiener dogs, Samantha, Max, and Alex Morgan Monnin.

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GRAPHIC NOVEL REVIEWS Heathen Written & Illustrated by: Natasha Alterici Publisher: Vault Comics Format: Historical Fantasy, Softcover, 112 pages, Color ISBN: 9781939424181 Ages: 16 and up Gr. 10 & up | Aydis. Viking. Warrior. Brave. Fearless.

Banished. Pretending to be dead because she refuses to be anything other than she really is, Aydis is on a quest to save Brynhild, the fallen Valkyrie, who is being eternally punished by Odin, king of the gods for disobeying him. However, things are not as simple as they seem when we realize that Brynhild has been saved before, with unfortunate consequences, as Odin rules over all, justly or not.

Beautiful and expressive drawings tell a magnificent original story about a young Viking woman who dares to be different. She has no desire to be married as she does not feel for men. Instead she falls for a female friend who returns her feelings. When they are caught in the forest kissing during archery practice, the elders of the community, all men, decide that the punishment

Water Memory Written by: Mathieu Reynes Illustrated by: Valerie Vernay Publisher: Lion Forge Format: Fantasy, Softcover, 108 pages, Color ISBN: 9781941302439 Ages: 13 and up Set in a French fishing village, Water Memory is a children’s adventure story with a timeless feel. It is a tale of supernatural sea creatures, a family curse, and an unlikely friendship between a curious girl and a bitter old man, a set of classic elements that Reynes and Vernay make fresh again when they bring a hint of menace to a charming seaside setting.

Caroline and her preteen daughter Marion have just moved to Caroline’s childhood home, a house she left after her father died at sea when she was just four. Marion is curious about the landscape of her new home, and as she explores, she keeps encountering odd carvings on the rocks on cliffs around the house. Her explorations quickly get her into trouble. First she investigates a cave,

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will be decided by the fathers. The choices are marriage or death.

Aydis’ father chooses death for her instantly, leads her into the forest but instead lets her go.

This is the start of her determined quest to free Brynhild, fight for those who cannot fight for themselves, and to stop Odin’s reign once and for all.

Heathen is an amazing story mixed with Viking legends, gods, and warriors.

Dark tones and sparse colors drawings lend to the ferocity of the time-period while also clearly marking our characters and our surroundings. A mature graphic novel that also deals with love and honor, Heathen is a great choice to add to a library collection.

Reviewed by Middle School Librarian Mariela Siegert, Bloomingdale, IL

where she finds a decaying fish and another of the strange carvings—and then almost drowns when the rising tide rapidly fills the cave. Next, she makes her way to a nearby lighthouse, where she finds mysterious books and pictures of the carvings—but as she heads home, trying to outrace the rising tide, she is startled by a gruff old man, who picks her up, puts her in a boat, and rows her back to the shore. The neighbors explain that the carvings are there to placate the sea spirits who live around the island, but they warn her to stay away from the old man, Virgil, whom they believe murdered his wife. Unfazed, Marion seeks out Virgil and eventually wins his trust. He carries a family curse: His grandfather captured and killed one of the sea spirits, and the price

Winter 2018

diamondbookshelf.com of this crime was that every member of the family would lose a loved one to the sea. His grandparents committed suicide, and Virgil’s wife had fallen overboard when they were out on a boat—he did not murder her. With no friends and no children, he believes the curse will die with him, but there are secrets from the past that still affect the present.

Vernay’s art is simple but expressive—she describes each figure with a few supple lines, but she has a keen eye for small details, such as the way Marion sleeps with just one foot under her blanket, or the twist of a restaurateur’s hands as he polishes a wineglass. She also uses the weather and a varied palette to describe the mood: The sea lies calm and inviting in the sunshine, but it can turn menacing in a heartbeat, with swirling waves and looming shadows.

Normandy Gold Written by: Megan Abbot Illustrated by: Alison Gaylin Publisher: Titan Comics Format: Mystery, Softcover, 152 pages, Color ISBN: 9781785858642 Ages: 18 and up Sheriff Normandy Gold is no stranger to the gritty world of crime, but when she receives a strange phone call from her sister just moments before her death, Gold is forced to dive headfirst into the 1970s world of prostitution.

Containing everything you love about a good ol’ cops and robbers story, Normandy Gold is a fast paced and thrilling read with clean art that jumps off the page.

Megan Abbot is best known for You Will Know Me and her work on HBO’s The Deuce, but here we see her taking on the world of sex, violence and corruption as she plants Gold into the thrilling world of 1970s Washington D.C. Where crime thrillers shine is in the engaging story-telling and strong protagonists, Abbot gives us both as the story is propelled forward by thought-provoking and determined women. Along with Normandy Gold, Abbot introduces a slew of emotionally raw badass women, starting the series off with small encounters that gradually grow into more risky situations with each page.

Where Normandy Gold truly shines is in the emotional delivery of both story and illustration. When Gold first receives the phone call of her sister that would prove to be her last, readers are truly heartbroken. The gutwrenching sequence is emphasized in Gold’s quick call

The story unfolds at a fairly leisurely pace at first, as Caroline and Marion talk to their neighbors and learn about Marion’s grandfather and the ways of the village, then slowly builds to a heart-stopping climax. It’s a story a child can enjoy—there is talk of murder, suicide, and infidelity, but all these things happen offscreen, and the story really centers around Marion and her curiosity about the world around her. There are a few mildly scary scenes, but this is a classic middle-grade adventure/mystery story with a determined main character who takes sometimes unwise risks, set in a solid community that faces a supernatural threat. At the same time, there is a lot for adults to enjoy, and the story has some subtle undertones, including a hint of darkness at the end.

Reviewed by School Library Journal Editor, Brigid Alverson

to action, signifying both her love for her sister and her truly fascinating physical capabilities.

Drawing from staples of the 70s crime drama, this feminist story told by women is a crime adventure that is rich in story and aesthetics.

Alison Gaylin lends her talents between the panels of this beautifully drawn book. Crossing between a noir thriller and 70s exploitation movie, her art coupled with Abbot’s devastating and engaging story line complete a reading experience that all crime noirs strive to achieve. Throughout the entire graphic novel, Gaylin and Abbot do not pull any punches, making this title raw and compelling. Rated for mature readers, the sex, violence, and otherwise mature themes presented throughout the story are beautifully poetic when read alongside Gaylin’s intentional choice of color schemes and clean lines.

Normandy Gold is an engrossing, disturbing, and feminist commentary that takes the crime noir genre in graphic novels to new heights. While the graphic nature of some of the violence and the gruesome behavior committed by some of the characters caters to a mature audience, Normandy Gold is perfect for anyone interested in feminist stories, mysteries and crime noir.

For more reviews, visit http://bit.ly/BookShelfReviews Winter 2018

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CORE LISTS BookS helf p resen ts a l i s t o f s e l e ct e d e s s e ntia l title s f o r d if f e re nt a g e ra ng e s

Titles for Kids (Age 6+) A Polar Bear in Love Volume 2

By Koromo Yen Press – 9780316441735 Adventure Time Comics Volume 4

By Pendleton Ward, Justin Jordan, and others KaBOOM! – 9781684151332 Bodie Troll

By Jay Fosgitt KaBOOM! – 9781684151240 Capture Creatures

By Frank Gibson, Becky Dreistadt, and Katy Farina KaBOOM! – 9781608867981 Color Your Own Black Panther

By Various Marvel – 9781302908997 DC Super Hero Girls: Date With Disaster

By Shea Fontana and Yancey Labat DC Comics – 9781401278786 Disney Manga: Fairies – The Great Fairy Rescue

By Shiori Kanaki Tokyopop – 9781427858092 Eleanor & the Egret

By John Layman, Sam Kieth Aftershock Comics – 9781935002765

Manosaurs Volume 2

By Stefan Petrucha Papercutz – 9781629918785 Neko Atsume: Kitty Collector – Where Am I Meow?

By Hit Point Viz Media – 9781421598017 Over the Garden Wall Volume 3

By Jim Campbell, Cara McGee, and others KaBOOM! – 978=1684150601 Sami the Samurai Squirrel: Welcome to Woodbriar

By Scoot, Franco, Art Baltazar Action Lab – 9781632293534

Grass Kings Volume 1

By Matt Kindt and Tyler Jenkins BOOM! Studios – 9781684151158

W.I.T.C.H. Part 2, Volume 1

By Disney Yen Press – 9780316518345

Infini-T Force Volume 1

By Ukyou Kodachi, Tatsuma Ejiri Udon – 9781772940503

Titles for Young Adults (Age 13+)

A Girl in the Himalayas

By David Jesus Vignolli BOOM! Studios – 9781684151295

Garfield: The Search for Pooky

By Jim Davis, Antonio Alfaro, and others KaBOOM! – 9781684151431

A Small Charred Face

By Kazuki Sakuraba Viz Media – 9781421595412

Grumpy Cat / Garfield

By Mark Evanier and Steve Uy Dynamite Entertainment - 9781524104962

Animosity Volume 2

By Marguerite Bennett, Rafael de Latorre Aftershock Comics – 9781935002741

Hero Cats Volume 6 Kyle Puttkammer, Omaka Schultz, Julie Barclay Action Lab – 9781632293008

Archival Quality

By Noelle Ivy Weir, Steenz Oni Press – 9781620104705

Hotel Translyvania Volume 2: Hide & Shriek

By Stefan Petrucha Papercutz – 9781629918549

The Backstagers Volume 2

By James IV Tynion and Rian Sygh BOOM! Studios – 9781684150571

Kilgore

By Frédéric Brrémaud, Federico Bertolucci CubHouse – 9781942367536

Black [AF]: America’s Sweetheart

By Kwanza Osajyefo, Jennifer Johnson, Sho Murase Black Mask – 9781628751918

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Faith & the Future Force

By Jody Houser, Stephen Segovia, and others Valiant – 9781682152331

Toyetica Volume 1

By M. Alice LeGrow Action Lab – 9781632293039

Fruit Ninja & Jetpack Joyride

By Nate Cosby, Scott Brown, Ruairi Coleman Dynamite – 9781524105730

The Lost Path

By Amélie Fléchais CubHouse – 9781941302446

Elsewhere Volume 1

By Jay Faerber, Sumeyye Kesgin, Ron Riley Image Comics – 9781534304697

Giant Days Volume 7

By John Allison, Liz Fleming, Max Sarin BOOM! Studios – 9781684151318

4 Kids Walking Into A Bank

By Matthew Rosenberg and Tyler Boss Black Mask – 9781628751888

Little Pierrot Volume 2: Amongst the Stars

By Alberto Varanda CubHouse – 9781941302613

Descender Volume 5: Rise of the Robots

By Jeff Lemire, Dustin Nguyen Image Comics – 9781534303454

Steven Universe Volume 2: Punching Up

By Rebecca Sugar, Katy Farina, and others KaBOOM! – 9781684151349

Fraggle Rock Volume 1

By Jim Hensen, Katie Cook, and others Archaia – 9781684151189

Little Tails on the Farm

By Mark Andrew Poe and Becky Minor Rabbit Publishers - 9781943785742

Cyanide & Happiness: Parenting by Three Guys with No Kids

By Kris Wilson, Rob DeBleyker, and Dave McElfatrick BOOM! Studios – 9781684150021

The Black Sable

By Joe Brusha, Sergio Arino Zenescope – 9781942275732 Boccano! Volume 1

By Ryohgo Narita, Shinta Fujimoto, Katsumi Enami Yen Press – 9780316552783 The Complete Okko

By Hub Archaia – 9781684150434

Winter 2018

Kong of Skull Island Volume 3

By James Asmus, Carlos Magno, and Jeremy Lawson BOOM! Studios – 9781684151165 Laid-Back Camp Volume 1

By Afro Yen Press – 9780316517782 Life, Death & Sorcery Volume 1

By Danny Zabbal Chapterhouse – 9780995009813 The Linking

By Justin J. Little Chapterhouse – 9781988247175 Lumberjanes Volume 8

By Shannon Watters, Grace Ellis, and others BOOM! Box – 9781684151325 March of the Crabs Volume 3

By Arthur DePins Archaia – 9781684151653 Moonstruck Volume 1

By Grace Ellis, Shae Beagle, Kate Leth Image Comics – 9781534304772 Miraculous: De-Evilize

By ZAG Entertainment Action Lab – 9781632293121 One Week Friends, Volume 2

By Matcha Hazuki Yen Press – 9780316447362 Photographic: The Life of Graciela Iturbide

By Isabel Quintero and Zeke Pena Getty Publications – 9781947440005 Shinobi: Ninja Princess V2: Lightning Oni

By Martheus Wade, Janet Wade, Gene Fayne Action Lab – 9781632293015 Spy Seal Volume 1

By Rich Tommaso Image Comics – 9781534304796

diamondbookshelf.com Street Angel: Superhero for a Day

By Jim Rugg, Brian Maruca Image Comics – 9781534305533

Guardians of the Galaxy: Telltale Games

By Fred Van Lente and Salva Espin Marvel – 9781302909390

Devilman Grimoire Volume 3

By Go Nagai and Rui Takatou Seven Seas - 9781626927728

Theatrics

By Neil Gibson, Leonardo Gonzalez T Pub – 9780995721906

The Harcourt Legacy

By Brendan Cahill, Jason Federhenn, Josh Burcham Action Lab – 9781632293022

Divided States of Hysteria

By Howard Chaykin Image Comics – 9781534303836

The Three Stooges Volume 2: TV Time

By S.A. Check, Brendon Fraim, Brian Fraim American Mythology – 9781945205118 War Mother

By Fred Van Lente, Stephen Segovia, Tomas Giorello Valiant – 9781682152379

James Bond: Kill Chain

By Andy Diggle and Luca Casalanguida Dynamite – 9781524105952 Justice League Volume 5: Legacy

By Bryan Hitch, Fernando Pasarin, and others DC Comics – 9781401277253

DMZ Book 4

By Brian Wood, Riccardo Burchielli and others DC Comics – 9781401274634 Food Wars! Shokugeki no Soma

By Yuto Tsukuda, Shun Saeki, and others Viz Media – 9781421597041 The Furnace

By Prentis Rollins Tor Books – 9780765398680

Warframe Volume 1

By Matt Hawkins, Ryan Cady, Hive Studio Image Comics – 9781534305120

The Librarians Volume 1: In Search Of…

By Will Pfeiffer, Rodney Buchemi Dynamite – 9781524105990

World Reader Volume 1

By Jeff Loveness and Juan Doe Aftershock Comics – 9781935002789

Moon Girl and Devil Dinosaur Volume 4

By Brandon Montclare and Natacha Bustos Marvel – 9781302905354

Gwar: Orgasmageddon

By Matt Miner, Matt Maguire, Jonathan Brandon Sawyer Dynamite – 9781524105013

Mother Panic Volume 2: Under Her Skin

By Jody Houser, John Paul Leon, and others DC Comics – 9781401277680

High Moon Volume 2: Wicked Ways

By David Gallaher and Steve Ellis Super Genius – 9781545800010

Titles for Older Teens (Age 16+) Algeria is Beautiful Like America

By Olivia Burton, Mahi Grand Lion Forge – 9781941302569 Amazing Spider-Man: Worldwide Volume 7

By Dan Slott, Stuart Immonen, and others Marvel – 9781302902940 The Arab of the Future 3

By Riad Sattouf Metropolitan Books – 9781627793537 Assassination Classroom Volume 20

By Yusei Matsui Viz Media – 9781421593388 Babyteeth Volume 1

By Donny Cates, Garry Brown Aftershock Comics – 9781935002772

My Friend Dahmer

By Derf Backderf Harry N. Abrams – 9781419727559 Rough Riders Volume 2

By Adam Glass and Patrick Olliffe Aftershock Comics – 9781935002819 Skin & Earth

By Lights Dynamite – 9781524106034 So I’m a Spider, So What? Volume 1

By Baba Okina, Asahiro Kakashi Yen Press – 9780316414197 Star Wars Legends Epic Collection: Legacy Volume 2

By John Ostrander, Omar Francia, and others Marvel – 9781302910198 Superman: Action Comics Deluxe Edition Book 2

By Dan Jurgens, Patch Zircher, and others DC Comics – 9781401277604

Black Clover Volume 10

By Yuki Tabata Viz Media – 9781421597638

X-Men: Legion – Shadow King Rising

By Chris Claremont, Bill Sienkiewicz, and others Marvel – 9781302909550

Black Panther Prelude

By Will Corono Pilgrim, Annapaola Martello, and others Marvel - 9781302909420

The Young Master’s Revenge Volume 1

By Meca Tanaka Viz Media – 9781421598970

BLACK Volume 1

By Kwanza Osajyefo, Jamal Igle, and others Black Mask – 9781628751864 The Bridge: How the Roeblings Connected Brooklyn to New York

By Peter J. Tomasi and Sara DuVall Abrams ComicArts – 9781419728525 Children of the Whales Volume 2

By Abi Umeda Viz Media – 9781421597225 Elseworlds: Superman Volume 1

By J.M. DeMatteis, Eduardo Barreto, and others DC Comics – 9781401271183 Graphic Classics Volume 26: Vampire Classics

By Bram Stoker, Timothy Truman, and others Eureka Productions – 9780982563090 Grimm Fairy Tales Legacy

By Joe Brusha, Ediano Silva, and others Zenescope – 9781942275671

Titles for Adults (Age 18+) Amazing Decisions

By Dan Ariely and Matt R. Trower Hill and Wang – 9780374103767 The Ancient Magnus Bride Supplement I

By Kore Yamazaki Seven Seas – 9781626928824 Anonymous Noise Volume 6

By Ryoko Fukuyama Viz Media – 9781421594255 Charlaine Harris’s Cemetery Girl Book 3: Haunted

By Charlaine Harris, Christoper Golden, Geraldo Borges Dynamite – 9781524105334

Winter 2018

Idle Days

By Thomas Desaulniers-Brousseau and others First Second – 9781626724587 If It’s For My Daughter I’d Even Defeat A Demon Lord

By Hota and Chirolu Seven Seas – 9781626927964 Immortal Iron Fists

By Kaare Andrews and Afu Chan Marvel – 9781302905361 Jack of Fables Deluxe Edition Book 2

By Matthew Sturges, Russ Braun, and others DC Comics – 9781401277710 Jim Butcher’s The Dresden Files: Dog Men

By Jim Butcher, Mark Powers, Diego Galindo Dynamite – 9781524105440 My Mighty Captain Marvel Volume 2

By Margaret B. Stohl, Michele Bandini, and others Marvel – 9781302906061 New Game! Volume 2

By Shoutarou Tokunou Seven Seas – 9781626927858 Oh, My Sweet Alien!

By Kouji Miyata Yen Press – 9780316476744 Pestilence Volume 1

By Frank Tieri, Oleg Okunev Aftershock Comics – 9781935002758 Project Superpowers: Hero Killers

By Ryan Browne and Pete Woods Dynamite – 9781524105297 Punisher Max Complete Collection Volume 7

By Jason Aaron and Steve Dillon Marvel – 9781302909123 The Shadow: The Death of Margo

By Matt Wagner and Brennan Wagner Dynamite – 9781524105136 Takane & Hana Volume 1

By Yuki Shiwasu Viz Media – 9781421599007 Venomverse

By Cullen Bunn and Iban Coello Marvel – 9781302909345

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RESOURCES B O O KS ABO UT G RAPHIC NO V ELS Superhero Comics

By Chris Galaver A complete guide to the history, form and contexts of the genre, Superhero Comics helps readers explore the most successful and familiar of comic book genres. In an accessible and easy-tonavigate format, the book reveals: the history of superhero comics-from mythic influences to 21st-century evolutions; cultural contexts-from the formative politics of colonialism, eugenics, KKK vigilantism, and WWII fascism to the Cold War’s transformative threat of mutually assured destruction to the on-going revolutions in African American and sexual representation; key texts-from the earliest pre-Comics-Code Superman and Batman to the latest post-Code Ms. Marvel and Black Panther; approaches to visual analysis-from layout norms to narrative structure to styles of abstraction.

Going Graphic: Comics at Work in the Multilingual Classroom

By Stephen Cary Comics are natural for second language development. Their unique mix of abundant comprehensionbuilding visuals and authentic text readily engages learners, contextualizes language, and offers a window into the culture. Building on the latest brain-based research, second language acquisition theory, and progressive literacy principles, Stephen Cary offers twenty-five proven activities for comics-based instruction in all classrooms, especially TESL/TEFL settings, and for all grade and English-proficiency levels.

Reading with Pictures: Comics That Make Kids Smarter

By Josh Elder Uniting the finest creative talents in the comics industry with the nation’s leading experts in visual literacy to create a game-changing tool for the classroom and beyond, this fullcolor volume features more than a dozen short stories (both fiction and nonfiction) that address topics in Social Studies, Math, Language Arts, and Science, while offering an immersive textual and visual experience that kids will enjoy.

Graphic Novels in High School and Middle School Classrooms: A Disciplinary Literacies Approach

By William Boerman-Cornell, Jung Kim and Michael L. Manderino The ultimate guide for using graphic novels in any middle school or high school classroom, this book considers how the graphic novel format can support critical thinking and help reach disciplinary goals in history, English language arts, science, math, fine arts, and other subjects. Using specific graphic novels as examples, this book considers how to help students read, question, and write about both fiction and non-fiction. Whether teachers are new to graphic novels or have been working with them for years, this book will help improve instruction.

U S E F U L

L I N K S

The Comic Book Project – Center for Educational Pathways http://www.comicbookproject.org/

Good Comics for Kids (School Library Journal Blog) http://blog.schoollibraryjournal.com/goodcomicsforkids

ComicsResearch.org – Academic & Library Resources http://www.comicsresearch.org/academic.html

Making Curriculum Pop http://mcpopmb.ning.com

Eek! Comics in the Classroom! (Education World) http://www.education-world.com/a_curr/profdev/profdev105.shtml

Maryland Comic Book Initiative http://archives.marylandpublicschools.org/MSDE/programs/ recognition-partnerships/md-comic-book.html

Expanding Literacies through Graphic Novels (Members Only) http://www1.ncte.org/Library/files/Free/recruitment/ EJ0956Expanding.pdf

No Flying, No Tights (Graphic Novel Review Site) http://www.noflyingnotights.com/

Building Literacy Connections with Graphic Novels: Page by Page, Panel by Panel http://www.graphicnovelreporter.com

Using Comics and Graphic Novels in the Classroom (The CouncilChronicle, Sept. 05) http://www.ncte.org/magazine/archives/122031

GNLib: Graphic Novels in Libraries https://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/gn4lib/info

YALSA’s Great Graphic Novels for Teens List http://www.ala.org/yalsa/ggnt

More Links DiamondBookShelf.com maintains an ever-growing database of web resources for educators and librarians.

Categories include official Publisher sites, resources for teachers, resources for librarians, graphic novel and comics review sites, resources for kids and more!

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diamondbookshelf.com

HOW TO ORDER COMICS & GRAPHIC NOVELS Yo u ha v e man y o p tion s – c h oose th e o ne t hat w o rks bes t f o r yo u!

1. BUY FROM YOUR LOCAL COMIC BOOK SHOP

2. BUY FROM YOUR USUAL WHOLESALER OR BOOK JOBBER

For a variety of reasons, your local comic book shop could be the best possible resource for your purchase of graphic novels. In fact, many local comic shops service both schools and libraries already with the latest comics and graphic novels.

Baker & Taylor, Booksource, Brodart, Follett, Ingram, and other wholesalers all carry a full line of graphic novels.

Most schools and libraries already do business with one or more of these companies, and it’s easy to add in your order through these procurement channels.

3. BUY DIRECT FROM DIAMOND If there are no comic book stores in your area and your usual wholesaler doesn’t have deep stock on a variety of titles, Diamond does sell directly to educators and librarians.

For more information, call Allan Greenberg at 443-318-8001 ext. 8564 or email library@diamondcomics.com or schools@diamondcomics.com

A GREAT RESOURCE: YOUR LOCAL COMIC BOOK SHOP Quality comic book shops are a valuable resource for libraries and schools seeking graphic novels and graphic novel information. In the past, such partnerships have proven successful for all involved, with increased sales and circulation, as well as the satisfaction that comes with community involvement. As comic book and graphic novel specialists, comic shop retailers have up-to-date knowledge on the most recent and upcoming hits, and a great familiarity with what their customers are reading and enjoying. Many are more than willing to work together on cross-promotional events, reaching out to and expanding the audience of graphic novel fans. So, how do you go about finding and dealing with your local comic shop? Well, it’s easier than you think. By following these easy steps, you’ll be coordinating with your local comic shop in no time!

Find a Store. We’ve already done the work for you! To find your closest comic shop, all you have to do is use the Comic Shop Locator Service. Just log on to http://www. comicshoplocator.com and enter your zip code. It’s as simple as that! Located on the store listings is the School and Library Partners icon above. Stores with this designation have told us they are willing to partner with schools and libraries to aid with selection, programming, purchasing, and more.

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Research and Choose a Store. Once you’ve located a store, the next thing to do is find out more about it. If you used the Comic Shop Locator, many of the stores have posted brief profiles. The best way to find out more information about a store is to visit it in person. That way, you’ll have the opportunity to browse through the store’s collection and get personal advice from the knowledgeable experts on hand. All stores will have their own unique approach – find one that you feel comfortable with.

Introduce Yourself. Going into any new environment can be intimidating, especially when you have preconceived notions.

But there’s nothing to fear from comic shop retailers. Many of them are happy to welcome librarians and teachers into their stores because they understand the mutual benefit working together can achieve. Let them know you’re interested in using graphic novels, and they will be more than happy to help!

Winter 2018

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Designed to inform educators and librarians about the best graphic novels for their school or library, stay up to date on the latest industry news, read creator interviews, see exclusive previews and lesson plans, and more!

Subscription comes with a free downloadable graphic novel pdf from a Diamond Book Distributors publisher. w ww. D iamon d Book S h elf.c om /su b scribe

BOOKSHELF WANTS TO HEAR FROM YOU! What did you think of this issue of Diamond BookShelf?

Send your feedback, ideas, and suggestions for future articles to: DIAMOND BOOKSHELF 10150 YORK ROAD HUNT VALLEY, MD 21030

EMAIL: EDITOR@DIAMONDBOOKSHELF.COM

We at Diamond have known for years that comic books and graphic novels are excellent teaching and learning tools… we’re pleased that so many educators are starting to agree! We hope you find this publication and our website a useful resource to convince others that comics can make a difference in helping to promote literacy, motivate readers, and more.

If you find Diamond BookShelf worthwhile, be sure to pass it on and tell your colleagues!

Diamond Comic Distributors is the world’s largest distributor of Englishlanguage comic books, graphic novels and comics-related merchandise.

We believe that comics are not only great fun and great art, but also have educational value and are terrific tools for promoting literacy.

The BookShelf magazine and website are two of Diamond’s outreach initiatives to support the use of comics and graphic novels in schools and libraries.

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