“Be Internet Awesome Vol.4 : It’s Cool To Be Kind” By Various Review

The fourth installment in our Google’s Be Internet Awesome comic series is here, and this time, we are tackling something that everyone who has ever gone online can relate cyber bullying. In today’s day and age, more and more children are becoming victims of online trolling and harrassment, sometimes by peers, sometimes by absolute strangers. So how does one deal with it? That’s exactly what Mo and her sisters figure out together in this story, when Mo becomes the target of a troll attack who take offence with her cooking. Will she learn how to put them in their place, or does it make more sense to take the high road. Just remember, it’s always better (and cooler) to be kind!

This comic book offers a timely and educational exploration of digital kindness and online behavior. At the same time this comic book is part of an initiative aimed at teaching young readers about the importance of maintaining a positive and respectful presence online.

The narrative in this comic book is structured around scenarios that young internet users might encounter, focusing on themes such as empathy, respect, and the impact of words and actions in the digital world. The contributors effectively convey these themes through relatable stories and characters, making the lessons accessible and engaging for a younger audience.

One of the strengths of this comic book is its clear and straightforward messaging. The stories are crafted to resonate with children, emphasizing the importance of kindness and the consequences of negative behavior online. The dialogue is simple and direct, making it easy for young readers to grasp the underlying messages.

The artwork throughout this comic book is pretty vibrant, because it is capturing the attention of its target audience. The illustrations complement the narrative, providing visual cues that enhance the storytelling. The characters are expressive and relatable, which helps in conveying the emotional aspects of the stories.

Despite its strengths, this comic book sometimes feels a bit didactic. While the educational content is valuable, the narrative occasionally sacrifices depth and engagement in favor of delivering the message. This can make the stories feel more like lessons than engaging narratives. A bit more focus on developing the plot and characters could add depth and enhance reader engagement.

The pacing of this comic book is generally well-executed, with each story providing a complete and concise exploration of its theme. However, the transitions between stories can feel abrupt, which might disrupt the reading experience for some. A more seamless integration of the stories could create a more cohesive volume.

One notable aspect of this comic book is its emphasis on interactive elements. The inclusion of questions and prompts encourages us as readers to reflect on their own online behavior and consider how they can apply the lessons in real life. This interactive approach not only reinforces the educational content but also engaged me personally in a meaningful way.

I Give This Book 3 / 5

“Sleepytime Warriors: A book to encourage kids to sleep” By Catherine Warwick Review

This comic follows two characters, Luke and Dendra, on their journey in your child’s immune system. These characters/cells get increasingly better weapons to fight with depending on how much sleep your child gets. This comic teaches kids how much sleep impacts their immune system. The comic has spaces to write your child’s name and bed time.

This comic book aims to provide a comforting bedtime story for children, but unfortunately falls short in execution. Despite this comic book’s well-intentioned premise, the book struggles with narrative coherence, engagement, and effectiveness in achieving its goal.

The story in this comic book centers around a group of “Sleepytime Warriors” who embark on nightly adventures to help children embrace sleep. While the concept is charming, the narrative lacks structure and focus, making it difficult for me personally to follow or become invested in the story. The plot feels disjointed, with abrupt transitions that disrupt the flow and hinder the calming atmosphere that a bedtime story should cultivate.

The character development in this comic book is notably lacking. The Sleepytime Warriors, intended to be relatable and comforting figures for children, are presented with minimal depth and personality. Their motivations and roles in the story are not clearly defined, leaving them feeling more like abstract concepts than engaging characters. This lack of connection makes it challenging for me personally to relate to or find comfort in them.

The writing style in this comic book, while attempting to capture a whimsical and soothing tone, often falls flat. The language is overly simplistic and lacks the lyrical quality often found in successful bedtime stories. Rhythmic and poetic elements, which could enhance the soothing nature of the narrative, are largely absent. As a result, the text fails to create a calming or enchanting environment conducive to sleep.

The artwork in his comic book, do little to enhance the overall reading experience. While they capture the fantastical elements of the Sleepytime Warriors’ adventures, the artwork often lacks detail and consistency, failing to convey the warmth and coziness that bedtime stories typically exude. The visual style does not engage picky readers such as myself, further diminishing the book’s impact.

The pacing of this comic book is another significant issue I had with it. Since this comic books scenes that either drag without purpose or rush through potentially significant moments. This inconsistency disrupts the soothing rhythm that a bedtime story should maintain, making it difficult for me personally to relax and unwind.

Despite this comic book’s shortcomings, the book’s concept of using imaginative adventures to encourage sleep holds potential for future development. With a more structured storyline, deeper character exploration, and enhancements to both language and visuals, subsequent versions could better capture the calming and engaging experience that bedtime stories aim to provide.

I Give This Book 1 / 5

“HBO Max/Raised by Wolves (2020-) #1” By Aaron Guzikowski & Meghan Hetrick & Nick Filardi Review

Sent on a mission from a destroyed Earth, two androids raise humanity’s best hope for the future on a distant planet. But the monsters that forced them to leave still haunt this new home.

This comic book is a masterfully crafted comic that expands on the intriguing universe of the acclaimed sci-fi series. At the same time this comic book deepens the narrative with compelling storytelling and stunning artwork, making it a must-read for fans of the show and newcomers alike.

Aaron Guzikowski, the creator of the original series, brings his sharp writing skills to the comic adaptation, maintaining the complex themes of humanity, belief, and survival. The story delves into the lives of androids Mother and Father as they navigate a strange and hostile planet while raising human children. Guzikowski expertly balances philosophical questions with intense drama, creating a narrative that is both thought-provoking and emotionally engaging.

The characters in this comic book are richly developed, with Guzikowski providing deeper insights into their motivations and struggles. Mother and Father, as central figures, are portrayed with depth and nuance, highlighting their conflicting roles as caregivers and protectors. The complexity of their relationship, along with their interactions with the children, adds layers to the story, making it richly textured and relatable.

The artwork is a standout feature of this comic book, because it is capturing the eerie beauty and harshness of the alien world. The illustrations we get in this comic book are detailed and atmospheric, bringing the unique setting to life with precision and creativity. The artwork in this comic book has the ability to convey emotion through her character designs enhances the storytelling, making each panel resonate with me personality.

One of the strengths of this comic book is its ability to stand alone while enriching the existing universe of the TV series. The narrative is accessible to those unfamiliar with the show, providing enough context and background to engage new readers. For fans of the series, the comic offers additional layers and insights, enhancing the overall experience and understanding of the characters and their world.

The pacing of this comic book is expertly managed, maintaining a balance between introspective moments and action-packed sequences. The creators of this comic book work seamlessly together to create a narrative that flows smoothly, each scene building on the last to create a cohesive and compelling story.

I Give This Book 5 / 5

“Painkiller Jane (2007) #0” By Jimmy Palmiotti & Joe Quesada & Lee Moder Review

The larger than life star of her own brand-new series on SCI FI is back and this time, the bodies are piling up all around her! From last year’s debut to the release of the classic Painkiller Jane material, everyone’s talking about Jane! Now, the creative team is reunited – Jimmy Palmiotti, Joe Quesada and Lee Moder – for a special introductory issue that leads directly into Jane’s new series this summer!

This comic book delivers a gritty and action-packed introduction to the world of Jane Vasko. At the same time this comic book sets the stage for a series filled with intensity and intrigue, though it struggles with narrative cohesion and depth.

The story of this comic book revolves around Jane Vasko, a former cop turned vigilante with an extraordinary ability to heal rapidly from injuries. The creators of this comic book create a plot that is both engaging and fast-paced, throwing us as readers into the thick of Jane’s relentless pursuit of justice. The narrative effectively captures the gritty atmosphere of a crime-ridden city, though it occasionally feels disjointed which have left me wanting more clarity and structure.

The character development is one of the areas where this comic book shows potential but falls short. Jane Vasko is introduced as a tough, no-nonsense protagonist with a haunted past. While her resilience and determination are evident, the issue lacks a deeper exploration of her motivations and backstory. This absence of depth makes it difficult for me personally to fully connect with her character.

The side characters in this comic book is similarly underdeveloped, serving primarily as plot devices rather than fully fleshed-out individuals. This limits the potential for dynamic character interactions and emotional resonance, which could have added layers to the narrative.

The artwork in this comic book complements the story with its bold and dynamic style. The illustrations capture the raw energy and intensity of Jane’s world, with detailed action sequences that enhance the comic’s gritty tone. The use of shadow and contrast in the artwork of this comic book effectively conveys the dark atmosphere of the narrative, drawing me personally into the visceral experience of Jane’s battles.

The dialogues throughout this comic book are sharp and often witty, reflecting this comic book’s ability to create engaging character interactions. Conversations contribute to the development of the plot, though they sometimes lack the emotional depth needed to fully engage picky readers as myself. The balance of tension and humor in the dialogue enriches the storytelling, making interactions both entertaining and impactful.

One of the strengths of this comic book is its thematic exploration of justice and resilience. This comic book weaves these themes into the narrative, inviting us as readers to reflect on the moral complexities faced by Jane as she navigates her dual identity as a vigilante and a survivor. This thematic depth adds substance to the story, elevating it beyond a simple action comic.

I Give This Book 3 / 5

“Adrenaline #1” By Tyler Chin-Tanner & Fabio Redivo & James Boyle Review

While trying to leave Africa after an illegal hunting trip, Alex is confronted by Saida. She jumps aboard his helicopter to stop him from taking the lion he has killed, but she is unable to take him down due to his two strong bodyguards, Christopher Schock and Damian Savage. Left with no other option, the captive Saida decides to join Alex in a crazy scheme to form an unofficial Reality TV show starring the two of them. This will help Alex prove his ability to take over as CEO of his father’s company, a role for which he had been deemed too irresponsible. Saida is interested in using the show’s cash prize to fund her health programs.

This comic book is an exhilarating start to an engaging series. At the same time this comic book masterfully combines action, suspense, and intriguing character dynamics, creating a story that has hooked me personally from the first page.

The storytelling aspect of this comic book is sharp and dynamic, introducing readers to a high-stakes world where adventure and danger are just around the corner. The plot centers around an extreme reality TV show pushing its contestants to their limits, both physically and mentally. The creators of this comic book excels at crafting a narrative that balances intense action with emotional depth, ensuring that the story is both thrilling and relatable.

The characters in this comic book are well-developed and compelling. The creators of this comic book provides each contestant with distinct personalities and backstories, making them more than just players in a game. Their motivations and personal struggles add layers to the narrative, allowing us as readers to connect with them on a deeper level. This character-driven approach enhances the story, making the stakes feel real and immediate.

The artwork in this comic book is a standout feature, because it is bringing the fast-paced world of “Adrenaline” to life with vivid detail. The illustrations we get in this comic book are energetic and expressive, capturing the intensity of the action sequences and the subtleties of character interactions. The artwork in this comic book has the ability to convey motion and emotion through the art enhances the storytelling, making each panel visually captivating.

One of the strengths of this comic book is its ability to blend action with thematic exploration. The story delves into themes of ambition, competition, and the human drive to push beyond limits. The creators of this comic book weaves these themes seamlessly into the narrative, prompting us as readers to reflect on the nature of reality TV and the personal cost of living life on the edge.

The pacing of this comic book is expertly managed, maintaining a rhythm that keeps readers engaged from start to finish. The creators of this comic book work seamlessly together to deliver a narrative that flows smoothly, each scene building on the last to create a cohesive and compelling introduction.

I Give This Book 5 / 5

“KFC: The Colonel of Two Worlds” By Tony Bedard & Shaine Edwards Review

When a new Colonel from Earth-3 threatens to tarnish the good name of everyone’s favorite chicken chef, it’s up to Colonel Sanders and The Flash to set things right!

This comic book delivers a surprisingly entertaining and humorous crossover. At the same time This comic book cleverly combines the fast-paced world of DC superheroes with the iconic charm of Colonel Sanders, resulting in a fun and engaging read.

The narrative of this comic book kicks off with an intriguing premise: the Colonel from Earth-1 finds himself face-to-face with his doppelgänger from Earth-3, who is decidedly less savory.

The creators of this comic book creates a plot that is both whimsical and action-packed, blending superhero antics with the lightheartedness of a KFC adventure. The storyline is well-paced, maintaining a balance between humor and action that have kept me hooked throughout.

The character development in this comic book is handled with a deft touch, particularly given the comic’s playful nature. The creators of this comic book brings Colonel Sanders to life with a delightful mix of bravado, wit, and unmistakable charm. The interaction between the two Colonels is a highlight, showcasing clever banter and contrasting personalities. Despite the comic’s whimsical tone, the characters are given depth and personality, making them both memorable and engaging.

The artwork in this comic book complements the narrative with its vibrant and dynamic style. The illustrations capture the energy and humor of the story, with expressive character designs and action sequences that enhance the comic’s playful tone. The use of the details in this come book brings the world of Colonel Sanders and the DC universe together in a visually appealing way, creating an immersive experience for us as readers.

The dialogues throughout this comic book are sharp and witty, reflecting this comic book’s knack for crafting engaging character interactions. Conversations are filled with humor and clever exchanges, driving the plot forward while adding layers of entertainment. The balance of comedy and action in the dialogue enriches the storytelling, making interactions both amusing and memorable.

One of the strengths of this comic book is its thematic exploration of identity and heroism. This comic book weaves these themes into the narrative with a light touch, inviting us as readers to reflect on the dualities and contrasts presented by the two Colonels. This thematic depth adds an extra layer to the story, elevating it beyond a simple crossover.

The pacing of this comic book expertly managed, balancing fast-paced action with comedic moments. This balance ensures that the story remains engaging from start to finish, allowing us as readers to fully enjoy the whimsical adventure. The seamless transition between humor and heroics enhances the narrative’s impact, making it a delightful read.

I Give This Book 4 / 5

“Starcraft #1” By Simon Furman & Keith Giffen Review

From the bestselling Blizzard computer game comes the most explosive sci-fi action comic ever created! Join the War Pigs, a disbanded team of outlaws reunited by their former captain for one last the assassination of Jim Raynor!

This comic book offers an exciting introduction to the expansive StarCraft universe. At the same this comic book captures the essence of the popular video game series, delivering a narrative rich with action, intrigue, and character development.

The story in this comic book plunges us as readers into the heart of interstellar conflict, where the Terrans, Zerg, and Protoss vie for supremacy. The creators of this comic book create a plot that is both engaging and accessible, making it appealing to long-time fans and newcomers alike. The narrative balances high-stakes action with moments of strategic planning, creating a dynamic and immersive experience.

The character development is a standout feature in this comic book. The creators of this comic book introduce a diverse cast of characters, each with distinct motivations and personalities. The protagonists are portrayed with depth, showcasing their strengths, vulnerabilities, and the complex relationships that drive their actions. This attention to character detail adds layers to the story, making their journeys compelling and relatable.

The artwork in this comic book complements the narrative with its bold and dynamic style. The illustrations capture the gritty and intense atmosphere of the StarCraft universe, bringing the epic battles and intricate settings to life. The use of details in the artwork of this comic book enhances the visual storytelling, drawing readers into the heart of the action.

The dialogues throughout this comic book are sharp and effective, reflecting the tension and urgency of the characters’ situations. 

The writing style in this comic book captures the unique voices of the characters, making conversations feel authentic and contributing significantly to plot progression and character development. The balance of tension, strategy, and subtle humor in the dialogue enriches the storytelling, making interactions both entertaining and meaningful.

One of the strengths of this comic book is its thematic exploration. This comic book delves into themes of power, survival, and the moral complexities of warfare, inviting readers to reflect on the challenges faced by the characters. These themes are woven seamlessly into the narrative, adding depth and resonance to the story.

The pacing of this comic book is well-managed, balancing fast-paced action with moments of introspection and world-building. This balance ensures that the story remains engaging throughout, allowing us as readers to fully immerse themselves in the unfolding drama. The seamless transition between high-stakes events and personal reflection enhances the narrative’s impact.

I Give This Book 4 / 5

“DC Graphic Novels for Young Adults Sneak Previews: Mera: Tidebreaker (2020-) #1” By Danielle Paige & Stephen Byrne & David Calderón Review

Princess Mera is teenage royalty and heir to the throne of Xebel, a colony ruled by the other no-so-lost land under the sea, Atlantis. Her father, his court, and the entire kingdom are expecting her to marry and introduce a new king. But Mera is destined to wear a different crown.

This comic book is an engaging and visually captivating introduction to the story of Mera. At the same time this comic book offers a fresh perspective on a beloved character, providing a compelling blend of action, romance, and self-discovery.

The writing in this comic book shines as the creators of this comic book create a narrative centered around Mera, a strong and determined young woman from the underwater kingdom of Xebel. The story explores Mera’s internal conflict as she navigates her duty to her people and her desire to forge her own path. The creators of this comic book excels at capturing Mera’s voice, balancing her fierce determination with moments of vulnerability. The dialogue is sharp and relatable, capturing the complexity of Mera’s character and her evolving relationships.

The plot in this comic book is engaging, introducing us as readers to the political tensions between Xebel and Atlantis, which serve as the backdrop for Mera’s personal journey. The creators of this comic book effectively weaves together elements of adventure and romance, setting the stage for a story that promises both excitement and emotional depth. The themes of identity and independence are thoughtfully explored, making Mera’s journey relatable and inspiring for young adult readers.

The artwork in this comic book is a standout feature of this comic book because it is bringing the underwater world to life with vibrant detail and dynamic compositions. The illustrations are clean and expressive, capturing the energy and emotion of each scene. The character designs are distinctive and appealing, enhancing the narrative by conveying the characters’ personalities and emotions through their visuals.

One of the strengths of this comic book is its accessibility. The story is crafted to appeal to both longtime fans of the DC universe and newcomers, offering a fresh take on Mera’s character that can be enjoyed by readers of all backgrounds. The blend of action, romance, and personal growth makes it a compelling read for young adults seeking a story with both heart and excitement.

While this comic book excels in many areas, it occasionally leans on familiar tropes, such as the classic forbidden romance. However, the execution is strong enough to keep the story engaging and relatable, embracing these themes with a modern twist that feels both fresh and relevant.

I Give This Book 4 / 5

“Shinobi: Ninja Princess: Introduction” By Martheus Wade & Janet Wade & Adam Shaw Review

Shianndrea Toshigawa is just your average, ordinary ninja-in-training. On the run from the Azumi ninja clan, Shianndrea trains with the legendary Toshigawa clan to embrace the mysterious power within her, all the while, navigating the life of a teenage girl. Ninja Princess is 192 pages of martial arts action and all ages fun. Collects Ninja Princess #1-6!

Let me start this review by saying that this one is just a preview for the entire comic book. And I read it because I wanted to see if the full comic book was worth the money and time I would spend on it. And I’m gonna give you the answer for that at the end of this review.

This preview presents an intriguing premise with potential for adventure and character growth. While the concept of this preview is appealing, the storytelling and character development leave much to be desired.

The story in this preview follows Shianndrea Toshigawa, a young ninja learning the ways of her clan while facing various challenges. The idea of a teenage ninja grappling with her identity and responsibilities is compelling, yet the narrative lacks cohesion and depth. The plot feels disjointed, jumping between events without a clear narrative thread, which makes it difficult for me personally  to become fully invested.

The character development is another area where this preview struggles with. Shianndrea, as the protagonist, has the potential to be a relatable and inspiring character. However, her motivations and growth are not explored in enough depth to create a strong connection with the picky readers as myself. The supporting cast is similarly underdeveloped, serving primarily as plot devices rather than fully fleshed-out characters with their own arcs.

The writing style in this preview, while attempting to capture the excitement of a ninja adventure, often falls flat. Dialogue tends to be expository rather than engaging, which detracts from the opportunity for dynamic character interactions and emotional resonance. The narrative occasionally lacks the sharpness and wit needed to elevate the story.

The artwork in this preview is energetic, capturing the essence of a youthful ninja story. The character designs are appealing and the action sequences are lively, but the illustrations sometimes lack the detail necessary to convey the intensity and emotion of key scenes. While the art adds a layer of visual interest, it cannot fully compensate for the narrative shortcomings.

The pacing of this preview is inconsistent, with some scenes dragging without adding value and others rushing through potentially important moments. This unevenness disrupts the flow and makes it challenging for me personally to maintain interest or fully grasp the progression of the story. A more balanced approach could improve the overall reading experience by allowing for deeper exploration of both plot and character.

So will I buy and read the full version of this comic book ? I don’t think I will. The main reason behind this is how poorly this preview was very uninteresting for me personally.

I Give This Book 2 / 5

“Lola XOXO Volume 1: Bonus Content” By Siya Oum Review

In the “Wasteland”, Lola, a young woman with a resolve fortified by a lifetime of survival on her own, must journey across the nuclear-decimated United States in order to find the family that was taken from her! As her quest for the truth begins, Lola uncovers the true inhumanity of the Apocalypse, as those who seek to hold power in a new frontier, will do so at all bloody costs-including her life!

This comic book offers a visually captivating glimpse into a post-apocalyptic world. While the artwork is a standout feature in this comic book, the additional content fails to fully engage or enrich the overarching story.

The bonus content in this comic book aims to provide deeper insights into the world of Lola XOXO, set in a dystopian future where society has crumbled. However, instead of enhancing the main storyline, these extras feel disjointed and lack the depth needed to add meaningful context. The snippets of backstory and world-building are intriguing but too brief to leave a lasting impact.

The character development in this comic book is minimal in this bonus content. While Lola herself is an interesting protagonist with potential for depth, the additional material doesn’t explore her motivations or background in a way that adds significant value. This lack of exploration had left me wanting more substance and connection with the characters.

The writing style in this comic book, while attempting to provide more layers to the world, often falls short in delivering the emotional depth and clarity needed to fully engage me personally. The narrative snippets feel more like sketches than fully realized stories, lacking the cohesion and structure necessary to draw readers in.

The artwork in this comic book, remains a highlight. The illustrations are beautifully detailed and richly colored, capturing the desolate beauty of the post-apocalyptic setting. The visual style is both dynamic and expressive, conveying the harsh realities of Lola’s world with a captivating aesthetic. This artistic talent is a major draw, offering a visual feast even if the narrative falls short.

The bonus content’s in this comic book pacing is uneven, with scenes that either drag without purpose or rush through potentially interesting moments. This inconsistency disrupts the overall flow and makes it challenging for me personally to maintain interest or fully grasp the world Oum has created. The lack of a clear narrative arc further exacerbates this problem, had left me without a satisfying sense of direction.

Despite this comic book’s shortcomings, the concept of Lola XOXO holds potential for further development. With more focused storytelling and deeper exploration of character motivations, future comic books in this series could better capture the excitement and depth inherent in the premise.

I Give This Book 2 / 5