Wednesday, July 18, 2012

Courtney Crumrin, Volume 1 by Ted Naifeh

OK, I'll admit it.  I still like to read comics.  This graphic novel also includes monsters and witches.  How could I pass it up?

Oni Press and Net Galley allowed me to download an ebook for review (thank you).  This book has been published in hardcover.  Check with your local bookstore for a copy.

Courtney and her parents have just moved into a big old mansion that belongs to her father's great uncle.  (He's not real sure how many greats should be ahead of his name, but he knows he can get free room and board there and that's all that counts.)  Her parents want to be part of the social network and be "important".  Courtney just wants to get along and have peace in her life.

As you can guess, the new girl in school doesn't get much respect or attention.  Only one nerdy boy in school will even talk to her.  When she gets bullied by the local kids who want her money (they had taken it all the day before), she runs into the woods.  The boy follows her, but he never comes out.  There's a monster in the woods you see.

Courtney can't sleep at night because there are "things" in her room.  She wants to get rid of the monster.  And she has access to her Great Uncle's huge library.  It's filled top to bottom with books.  Odd books at that...

Warren Wucinich is the illustrator and his graphics fit the story line well.  The monsters are dark and have big teeth; the library is huge and well stocked; the Great Uncle is long and lean and a bit odd; and Courtney shows her emotions through facial expressions.  A very nice job by the illustrator.

The story line is entertaining and interesting.  I'd like to read more about Courtney.  The author shows how cruel children can be and yet leaves you with a positive outlook for Courtney's future.  She's a survivor.  

Are you?

Happy reading.


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