Sonic the Hedgehog, Vol. 6: The Last Minute
Flynn, Ian
4 stars = Really Good
Review:

Sonic is back and as fast as ever in Sonic the Hedgehog Vol. 6 - The Last Minute, the next exciting episode in the Sonic series! The action builds as Sonic and his friends scramble to stop Eggman's Metal Virus, an infectious artificial disease that turns ordinary citizens into badniks for Eggman's army. Sonic, Amy, and Tails split up to figure out how to stop the virus, but zombot hazards lurk in every corner. Sonic's friends continue to fall one by one to the vicious virus. On top of this, the zombot army may not be Eggman's for much longer -- the virus has grown resistant to command and is becoming a threat to its own creator! This forces Dr. Starline, Eggman's now-disillusioned associate, to make a shadowy alliance that could fix this "setback" -- but also could prove disastrous for hero and villain alike. Will Sonic -- or Eggman -- find a way to fight the infection before it is too late?

This book is another perfect example of Ian Flynn's exceptional comic writing style, and it perfectly captures the emotions of the characters as they face the end of their world as they know it. Packed with awesome battles, heart-breaking goodbyes, and the introduction of even more fan-fave characters, every Sonic fan will need to get their hands on Sonic the Hedgehog Vol. 6 - The Last Minute!

Reviewer's Name: Dominic
Avatar: The Last Airbender~The Promise Omnibus Book Jacket
Konietzko, Bryan
5 stars = Bohemian Rhapsody Awesome!
Review:

Avatar: The Last Airbender~The Promise follows Team Avatar. After the events of the main story, the gang tries to restore peace and harmony between the nations. They start this by removing Fire Nation colonies from other Nations, starting with the Earth Kingdom. However, after an attempt on his life, Zuko rethinks his decision after realizing that the issue is more complex than he or anyone had originally thought.

There are a lot of really great things about this book. The designs and characterization feel like natural evolution's of the ones that came before. Everyone feels (and looks) older and wiser than they were before, but the story reminds us constantly that they’re all still young, especially with Zuko. Zuko is terrified of becoming the man his father was, and that fear leads to an internal conflict in which he is unsure if what he’s doing is right or if he’s betraying his friends for his own selfish pursuits. Aang’s thoughts about this conflict are equally important, as he and Zuko are two sides of the same coin.

The most important part of this story is the theme: not everything is black and white, and our determination to make it so will hurt everybody in the end. It’s not only an important lesson, but it’s a reflection of our society. We will have different opinions from our friends. We will argue because of them. We will hurt each other because of them. But that doesn’t mean we can’t come to an agreement, and sometimes we won’t come to an agreement, but that doesn’t stop us from loving one another and seeing something from the other’s perspective.

Overall, this book is awesome. The themes might be a bit heavy, but it’s still ATLA, so there are plenty of moments that give you some time to relax and giggle. I would say the only possible issue with it is that it requires context from the show that came before it, but it was made with the intention that you’d have prior knowledge. Either way, it’s still an enjoyable read.

Reviewer's Name: Cierra
Sonic the Hedgehog Vol. 8: Out of the Blue book jacket
Flynn, Ian
4 stars = Really Good
Review:

Ian Flynn's rockin' Sonic series continues with Sonic The Hedgehog Vol. 8: Out of The Blue! The world is safe once again. The Metal Virus is gone. The Deadly Six are underground. Zavok has been captured. And Sonic is missing! As the world recovers from the Metal Virus, Sonic's friends try to adjust the best they can to the newly restored world as they wait for their hero to resurface. But Eggman is not so patient. Will Sonic show in time to foil the doctor once again?

This book is a great read in terms of plot, serving as the epilogue to the Metal Virus saga (though the series isn't over yet!). There's plenty of dialogue between characters as well as an internal look into some of them, which makes the situation feels realistic. Also, while not as climatic as other books in the series, it packs plenty of action and a kick-butt ending. You won't want to miss Sonic The Hedgehog Vol. 8: Out of The Blue!

Reviewer's Name: Dominic
Sonic the Hedgehog, Vol. 7: All or Nothing
Flynn, Ian
5 stars = Bohemian Rhapsody Awesome!
Review:

Sonic The Hedgehog and his friends are at their finest and fastest in Sonic The Hedgehog Vol. 7: All Or Nothing, the most fantastic installation in the IDW's Sonic comic series yet! The world is over -- or so it seems. Dr. Eggman's Metal Virus has spread throughout the world. All but a precious few have managed to escape the vicious infection that transforms all life it touches into robotic "zombots". To make matters worse, Dr. Eggman has no way to control them -- and the Deadly Six do. Due to a critical error by Dr. Starline, Zavok and his Zeti crew have seized ultimate power and plan to obliterate all life. Sonic and the rest of the remaining survivors have holed up on Angel Island, the only place on the planet that has been kept safe from the virus. Things seem hopeless. But when Eggman, Starline, and Metal Sonic show up on Angel Island too, the heroes realize there's only one way to save the world -- work together. Sonic and Eggman must join forces to stop the Deadly Six and take back their world -- a decision that could cost Sonic everything.

Jam-packed with awesome action and introducing even more fan-favorite characters, this book is one of the best I've ever read. One of the best things about this book is that everyone gets a chance to shine! Each character gets their own starring moment and the cooperation dynamics between all of them make this book really pop. If you gotta go fast, then you gotta read Sonic The Hedgehog Vol. 7: All Or Nothing!

Reviewer's Name: Dominic
Sonic the Hedgehog, Vol. 5: Crisis City Book Jacket
Flynn, Ian
4 stars = Really Good
Review:

There's suspense, action, and tragedy galore in Sonic The Hedgehog Vol. 5: Crisis City, the next installation in the fantastic comic series offshoot of the video games. This book follows the blue blur and his friends as they struggle to navigate their world as it quickly turns against them. The Metal Virus -- Dr. Eggman's new bid to enslave all life -- has been unleashed on the world, and there is seemingly no stopping it. It spreads from person to person, converting whole cities into invincible "zombots". Even Sonic has been infected, and has only survived by burning off the virus with his speed. The Restoration tries to find survivors and bring them to safety, but the virus slowly begins to take its toll on the brave rescuers. As if things can't get worse, the virus also begins to give Eggman problems as well. With city after city succumbing to infection and the problem beginning to grow out of control, can Sonic and his friends manage to survive the attacks -- or will they become infected too?
This volume in the series is particularly interesting because it catapults Sonic and his friends head-on into what is at its core a zombie apocalypse. Seeing the crew interact in this sort of survival dynamic is really interesting, as it brings out emotions in characters that normally wouldn't be seen. Surprises and exciting scenarios arise left and right. The only thing that brings the book down a notch from full-on awesomeness is that it is focused on tragedy and loss -- even though the heroes ultimately succeed at what they are trying to do, it feels as if they are continually losing for the entire book. However, this is necessary to build up for what is to come. Overall, the book is a satisfying and suspenseful read, with a great balance between high-speed action and character interactions. Gear up and steel yourself for the most terrifying Sonic conflict yet!

Reviewer's Name: Dominic
Plain Jane and the Mermaid book jacket
Brosgol, Vera
4 stars = Really Good
Review:

This book was pretty good and really funny. It is a graphic novel, so it is a pretty fast read. Plain Jane and the Mermaid is about a girl with deceased parents in the 1800s who can't inherit her own house due to the fact that she is a woman. So, she goes to find a man to marry. Naturally, she chooses Peter, whom she has loved for a long time and he would gladly say yes, if only to get away from his father. This was a great plan... up until Peter was kidnapped by a mermaid. This book balances humor and sadness all while keeping the reader captivated. Although some places were a little less exciting and slow. Overall, this is a great book for graphic novel and mythical creature lovers.

Reviewer's Name: Gabi
A Business Proposal, Vol. 1 Book Jacket
Perilla, Haehwa, NARAK
4 stars = Really Good
Review:

Hari Shin is desperate for money - so when her friend, Youngseo Jin, offers to pay her to attend a blind date, Hari accepts without thinking. She is confident that she can send the potential suitor packing (and have a little fun in the process!)...until her CEO, Taemu Kang shows up at the date. And for some reason, despite her best efforts, Taemu is determined to marry Hari! "A Business Proposal, Vol. 1" is a hilarious manhwa (Korean manga) that follows the adventures that Hari goes on as she tries her best to conceal her true identity - and navigates her feelings for Taemu.

Before reading "A Business Proposal, Vol. 1," I had actually watched the K-drama adaptation of the story first, and both versions are fun and addictive! There are ten volumes of this manhwa, allowing the reader to enjoy the amusing plot and lovable character across multiple books. "A Business Proposal" is a good choice for both people who are familiar with Korean culture, and for those who are not. The incorporation of cultural context is explained in the back of the book and adds a lot of character to the story. This is a relaxing and entertaining read and I definitely recommend both the manhwa and the K-drama to anyone who likes office rom-coms!

Reviewer's Name: Addelyn
The Girl from the Sea
Ostertag, Molly Knox
3 stars = Pretty Good
Review:

Pretty good, but the ending is not what I would have liked. Morgan is an introvert. And she’s a lesbian. Ever since her dad left the family, things have been getting tense between her and her mother and her brother. So one night, after a big fight, she goes down to the rocks. She slips and falls into the ocean, almost drowning. A silky rescues her, and Morgan is convinced that it is a near death experience when she kisses her. But when Kelpie shows up the next day with human legs, things get awkward.

Reviewer's Name: Tegan
The Infinity Particle
Xu, Wendy
5 stars = Bohemian Rhapsody Awesome!
Review:

I loved this book so much! It is set in the future, where humanity has expanded and moved to Mars. We follow a girl called Clem, and her robot SENA, who have moved to Mars for an internship with Clem’s idol. While working at the internship, Clem meets a personal build humanoid robot named Kye. Soon, Kye starts to malfunction, and the only one who can help him is Clem. They both have to delve deep into their pasts to solve what’s going on, and they become very close along the way. This book is filled with mystery, romance and secrets hidden in the past. 10/10 recommend!

Reviewer's Name: Tegan
Cover of Sonic The Hedgehog Volume 4: Infection
Ian Flynn
5 stars = Bohemian Rhapsody Awesome!
Review:

Sonic The Hedgehog Volume 4: Infection is Sonic-speed thrills from cover to cover! Dr. Eggman is gone for good. A happily retired handyman, he’s a threat no longer — or so everyone thought. Now, a new foe has emerged from the shadows and signs are pointing to the return of the doctor’s dark side. As Eggman’s allies slowly increase in numbers, Sonic must rush to find him again. It won’t be easy, though— the devious doctor and his fiendish friends are cooking up a new superweapon that even Sonic and friends can’t contain!!! Combing Ian Flynn’s story writing skills and the art of Adam Bryce Thomas, Diana Skelly, Tracy Yardley and Jack Lawrence, Sonic The Hedgehog Volume 4: Infection is a real treat!

Reviewer's Name: Dominic
Cover for Sonic the Hedgehog Volume 3: Battle For Angel Island
Ian Flynn
5 stars = Bohemian Rhapsody Awesome!
Review:

Sonic is back for more way-past-cool adventures in Ian Flynn’s Sonic the Hedgehog Volume 3: Battle For Angel Island! Neo Metal Sonic, the super-powered steel nemesis, has conquered Angel Island and claimed the Master Emerald as his prize. Now, Sonic, alongside Tails, Knuckles, Amy, Shadow, and the rest of the Resistance fighters, must prepare for the fight of their lives in order to prevent Neo Metal Sonic from reviving Dr. Eggman’s terrifying Empire. As the battle goes on, though, Neo Metal Sonic becomes increasingly stronger. Can Sonic stop the robot’s rampage, or will he succumb to the “perfect version” of himself? With awesome art by Tracy Yardley and Evan Stanley, no Sonic fan will be able to resist Sonic the Hedgehog Volume 3: Battle For Angel Island!

Reviewer's Name: Dominic
Cover of Sonic The Hedgehog Volume 2: The Fate of Dr. Eggman
Ian Flynn
3 stars = Pretty Good
Review:

Ready for more exciting adventures? Sonic The Hedgehog Volume 2: The Fate of Dr. Eggman has just that! Since Dr. Eggman’s mysterious disappearance, Sonic has been dashing around the world hunting for him — and whoever is controlling his robot army. But when Sonic, with the help of the Chaotix Detective Agency, finally locates him, he’s in for a big surprise! And that’s not all— Shadow, Sonic’s grim rival, is also hunting for Eggman. While dealing with this problem, Sonic also must uncover the true identity of the Eggman Empire’s new leader. Sonic will have to be at his fastest if the day is going to be saved! Written by Sonic super-enthusiast Ian Flynn and featuring art by Tracy Yardley, Adam Bryce Thomas, and Evan Stanley, along with tons of fantastic cover art, this comic collection is essential for any action lover!

Reviewer's Name: Dominic
The Infinity Particle
Xu, Wendy
5 stars = Bohemian Rhapsody Awesome!
Review:

The Infinity Particle is about a futuristic world where humans have colonized Mars and have advanced technology. Clementine is a young girl who has just moved to Mars to get a start at a new life. She is working with her hero, as she is one of the most talented people to work in the field of robotics. On her first day, her and her personal robot SENA meet Kye, a personal humanoid robot built by Clem’s hero. Soon, Clem finds out her hero is not who she believed her to be, and Kye is malfunctioning. Clem and Kye have to work together to solve this mystery, and in doing so, they unearth both Clem and Kye’s troubled pasts, and they grow closer together. It’s a great book!

Reviewer's Name: Tegan
The Legend of Zelda: Oracle of Seasons book jacket
Himekawa, Akira
4 stars = Really Good
Review:

I like this book a lot because of how cute and funny it is. The way this book is written makes it very exciting to read. Link is shown how he can positively interact with any type of living creature. His cute companion Peeko that's been with him since a chick is adorable and such a fun character to have in the book. The way the art is drawn makes the whole thing cuter and more adorable than to how it could have been if it wasn’t drawn in this style.

Reviewer's Name: Syierre
The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time, Part 2 book jacket
Himekawa, Akira
5 stars = Bohemian Rhapsody Awesome!
Review:

The second part of the Ocarina of Time is a well drawn and written book. It was interesting seeing all the changes that happened in seven years after Ganon won and got the triforce. There are funny moments in it when Link with a child's mentality and an adult's body confuses people with how he does things. It’s cute when Link meets people and animals he made friends with seven years ago where he remembers it so well. The bonus story with the entirely new character Rouro was an interesting way to see Link help animals/people when it doesn’t involve fighting a monster.

Reviewer's Name: Syierre
Bone
Smith, Jeff
4 stars = Really Good
Review:

Bone is one of those comics I’ve always been aware of but haven’t gotten around to reading until now. It’s interesting how the visual style of the titular characters evokes an older style of comics, while the other characters in the world feel more modern. The storytelling runs at a pretty fast pace that kept me turning the pages to see what happens next. There’s some pretty good humor here, as well as tense situations to keep it from becoming too silly. I can definitely see the appeal and why it’s been a notable comic since its origins in the early 1990s.

My only qualm with this book has to do with the main characters. The three “Bones” feel out of place in the fantasy realm, let alone our world. It also took me a while to distinguish visually between Fone Bone and Phoney Bone, which was only aided because this book mostly follows Fone. These characters are quite expressive for their simple design, which helps. I understand their simple white design would make producing the (originally black and white) comic easier, but they’re so jarring when everything else is so detailed.

It's funny how the Japanese isekai genre has picked up in recent years, only to have been solidly pre-dated by Bone. The concept of a group of people being transported/lost in an unfamiliar fantasy world is a huge genre today. The fantasy world-building Jeff Smith does in this first volume definitely holds to a lot of fantasy tropes while also taking humorous turns that make the world unique. I’m glad I picked up the colorized version of this first volume and I’ll definitely be reading the next volume when I get the chance.

A bold take on the isekai genre in an American style, I give Bone, Vol. 1 4.0 stars out of 5.

Reviewer's Name: Benjamin W.
Nimona
Stevenson, Noelle
5 stars = Bohemian Rhapsody Awesome!
Review:

It's a rare treat to find a graphic novel with well-rounded characters, an interesting story, and an art style that has range. Even if it started as a webcomic, Nimona shows a surprising amount of depth for the medium. Sure, some of the early parts were clearly encapsulated in a serial format, but they were a quick way to introduce the characters and setting. When the story has some room to grow, it gets even better. It's definitely a page-turner, and I devoured it as fast as I could.

The heart of Nimona is its characters. Flipping the hero's journey on its head and focusing on the villain's perspective was a fun touch. Nimona's chaotic nature was a fun contrast to Lord Ballister Blackheart, who just wanted to do his villainous revenge alone. Perhaps the biggest surprise was how naturally the book handles LGBTQ+ themes. None of it felt forced or odd, even in a science fantasy setting. It was just there, with no winking nods or awkward attention brought to it. Then again, it was also a fantastic adaptation of the "enemies to lovers" trope—or would it be "lovers to enemies"?

As someone who likes to write science fantasy stories, I absolutely loved the science fantasy setting. It has all the trappings of a medieval time, just with video chats, laser guns, and dragons co-existing in a way that makes perfect sense. This is the kind of thing I can completely get behind. If anything, I hope this book inspires more writers to jump into this genre, as I desperately want to read more books like this. It's like the best parts of sci-fi and fantasy brought together in an awesome (but also deeply moving) story.

A science fantasy graphic novel with excellent characters, story, and art, I give Nimona 5.0 stars out of 5.

Reviewer's Name: Benjamin W.
Solutions And Other Problems
Brosh, Allie
4 stars = Really Good
Review:

My first introduction to Allie Brosh's work—as I'm sure is the case for many—was the "all the things" meme. For those looking for more depth from these drawings, look no further than the humorous illustrated memoir, Solutions and Other Problems. I have never quite read a book like this. When I picked it up off the shelf, I was expecting a graphic novel, only to be surprised with big chunks of text between illustrations. Clearly, the best of both worlds here. You'll laugh. You'll cry. You'll be glad you read this book.

While it might be easy to discount the simple drawing style at first glance, many illustrations in this book prove to be quite exquisite. The stories themselves, which are not all silly or humorous, aid this distinction. Solutions and Other Problems subverted my expectations by being both hilarious and deeply profound. I've never read a book that had both a story about an obsessed kid stealing things from a neighbor's house and an examination of loss and depression. And yet, they both work in this context.

As these essays are deeply personal, I can say I don't particularly agree with some of the choices presented here. And that's fine. Everyone is different, and these are definitely the stories the author wanted to convey. I just don't want to endorse this book without providing the caveat that I probably wouldn't do things the way the author did them. Still, if you're going through some tough times, then perhaps this book will help break through to you with its humor while also comforting you with the idea that your feelings are valid and shared by other people.

The best half-graphic novel/half-memoir I've ever read, I give Solutions and Other Problems 4.0 stars out of 5.

Reviewer's Name: Benjamin W.
The Magic Fish book jacket
Trung Le Nguyen
5 stars = Bohemian Rhapsody Awesome!
Review:

This graphic novel has a really interesting way of storytelling- it has multiple stories running simultaneously that add depth to one another. The author uses fairy tales, like the Magic Fish, to represent the actual characters in the main story. It follows a young boy who struggles to tell his mother he is gay and he experiences a crush on one of his close friends. It touches on some sensitive topics but ends really sweetly. Another bonus is the gorgeous artwork and use of color in the different storylines. Despite being a quick read, it was meaningful and a good story.

Reviewer's Name: Lauren
Less book jacket
Greer, Andrew Sean
5 stars = Bohemian Rhapsody Awesome!
Review:

The book Less follows a middle-aged, gay author named Arthur Less, and recounts his loves and losses from a third person point of view. His lover of many years, Freddy, leaves him for a more serious relationship, he goes on a trip around the world partly to avoid Freddy's wedding and his upcoming 50th birthday. The book explores themes such as love, heartbreak, self-doubt, fear of aging, and sexuality. In Less's journey, he discovers that he can't run from his fears by traveling across oceans, he must face them. A Pulitzer prize winner, the language in the book is mature and riddled with literary references spanning throughout history. The author uses many intricate metaphors to describe Less's situation, and then book ends with an incredible twist that will make your jaw drop. I would recommend this book to anyone who likes contemporary literature and wants a meaningful, yet entertaining read.

Reviewer's Name: Lauren
To Kill a Mockingbird book jacket
Lee, Harper
4 stars = Really Good
Review:

To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee explores themes of race, justice, and morality through the eyes of a young girl in a small Southern town. Set in the 1930s, the novel follows Scout Finch as she grows up and navigates the complex social and political landscape of Maycomb, Alabama. The plot of To Kill a Mockingbird is both compelling and emotionally resonant. Lee’s exploration of racism and prejudice is nuanced and insightful, offering a powerful critique of the social and political systems that perpetuate injustice. The trial of Tom Robinson, which forms the center of the novel, is both tense and heartbreaking, with Lee masterfully building tension and suspense as the case unfolds. This novel is very heavy in symbolism and encapsulates the perspective and voice of a young, naive girl very successfully. I enjoyed the wide variety of characters, bits of humor, and overall depth of meaning and thought that To Kill a Mockingbird provides. Overall, it was a very thought-provoking and deep read, perfect for classic lovers and those who enjoy realistic fiction.
Reviewer Grade: 11.

Reviewer's Name: Addison
The Fault in Our Stars book jacket
Green, John
5 stars = Bohemian Rhapsody Awesome!
Review:

I love this book! The fault in our stars is a book that really tugs at the reader’s heart strings. The book starts off with a 16 year old named Hazel Grace meets a cancer survivor, Augustus Waters. Hazel and Augustus begin to fall in love, but they don’t want to share their feelings with one another. Throughout the novel, Hazel and Augustus share many similarities (an example being their favorite book and favorite author). This romance story is on another level. It’s heartbreaking and astonishing at the same time. Every time I turned the page, I did not want the story to end. The entire story is so well composed and the writing is absolutely breathtaking. John Green did such and amazing job writing this beautiful tale, you really feel like you’re in the story. The challenges and hardships Hazel and Augustus face lead them to new and better horizons. The Fault in Our Stars is an incredible romance novel that everyone should read one day. From the storyline to the imagery, this story is the best romance novel in my book.

Reviewer's Name: Abigail
Diary of a Wimpy Kid book jacket
Kinney, Jeff
5 stars = Bohemian Rhapsody Awesome!
Review:

I absolutely love this book series. I started reading Diary of a Wimpy Kid when I was in elementary school when it got recommended to me by a friend. I have no regrets. Even today I still love reading these books. The art in them is exceptional and unique as well as the stories and writing. I have read everyone of these books in the series, but I still think that the first one is a classic.
Greg Heffley is an extremely unique character within the Diary of a Wimpy Kid series. The author of this book gives Greg an almost “cartoony” personality. At first, I didn’t like Greg, but he definitely grew to become my favorite character in the book. The first book in this series introduces Greg and all of the characters and hardships they face. I would 100% recommend this series. If you want to start the series, read this one!
Reviewer Grade: 8

Reviewer's Name: Abigail
Dork Diaries: Tales From A Not-So Dorky Drama Queen book jacket
Russel, Rachel Renee
5 stars = Bohemian Rhapsody Awesome!
Review:

Next to the 1st book in this 12 series collection, this one is hands down my favorite. Nikki goes through a series of events in this book and it is a real attention grabber. I loved these books as long as I can remember, and I picked this one up today and realized how awesome these books are! Even in eighth grade, these books still leave me in a feeling of awe. I HIGHLY recommend these books to anyone looking for an easy to read book series. Considering this is the ninth book of this incredible series, I am not too sure how to sum this book up without spoiling the rest of the story line, but this is a ten out of ten book and the collection as a whole! 10/10 highly recommend!!!!

Reviewer's Name: Abigail
Real Friends book jacket
Hale, Shannon
4 stars = Really Good
Review:

The graphic novel “Real Friends” is about a girl named Shannon. Shannon and Adrienne have always been best friends, but when Adrienne begins hanging out with the popular girl, Shannon is just left in the dust. The novel follows Shannon as she goes through one big roller coaster called middle school. The book touches on the subject of how difficult middle school can be and challenging middle school friendships.
I enjoyed this book because I can relate to the lessons and feelings Shannon has towards her friendships and surroundings. Middle School is a tough and confusing time in everyone’s life, and knowing that you have similar experiences to others is nice to know. I would recommend this book to anyone who is struggling to find themselves throughout middle school or even awkward years.
Reviewer Grade: 8

Reviewer's Name: Abigail
In the Time of the Butterflies book jacket
Alvarez, Julia
5 stars = Bohemian Rhapsody Awesome!
Review:

In the Time of the Butterflies by Julia Alvarez is a fictionalized account of resistance to the dictatorial rule in the Dominican Republic inspired by the stories of the three Mirabal sisters who were murdered in 1960. Alvarez expertly captures the terrorized atmosphere of living in a police state and the courage of a few to stand up in resistance. Despite the underlying anguish and dread, the novel is brimming with romance, hope, and faith as Dominicans try to find life under a dictator. Suppose you want a captivating novel enriched with courage, feminism, and intimacy and are willing to read a challenging narrative to stomach. In that case, this anxious page-turner will not disappoint.

Reviewer's Name: Lucia
No Longer Human book jacket
Dazai, Osamu
4 stars = Really Good
Review:

No Longer Human is a cultural phenomenon, widely known as the second most bestselling novel in the history of Japan. Within, Osamu Dazai explores the life of a man who feels that he has never been a part of humanity, and his desperate strivings to find a piece of happiness in a life full of terror and vice. The timeless, existential themes of the novel will haunt the reader past the last page.
I chose to read this book because I'd seen a lot of people all over the internet praise it as the saddest book they'd ever read. There are about a thousand videos and essays and think pieces about the depressing nature of this book, and how it can devastate and eviscerate emotionally. Weirdly enough, I don't see it. The book is definitely very sad, but to me it didn't extend very far beyond the other grimly written books about very sad people with very sad lives. However, the psychology of the protagonist definitely sets the book apart. Unlike other books of the same nature, this book cuts to the bone by showing the terrifying underbelly of humanity. The protagonist is paralyzed by fear because he comprehends what many of us forget: that we are at all times surrounded by our own apex predators. Each of us has our own deep desires that could stir us to violence at any given time. We lie and cheat and steal to get what we want, effortlessly wearing masks that can obscure our entire character and can last a lifetime. The protagonist isn't like other antiheroes of hardened books about the horribleness of humanity. He doesn't accept it, or rail against it. He is very much afraid of it, and does everything he can to get out of its way. The protagonist's perspective is also interesting in the way it views humanity. The detachment of the central character is clinical, and portrays the characters in an alien light. He is scared of humans, but he also doesn't understand them. He sees all hunger and desire as something strange, and he wonders how people can be so insincere so easily. But despite his abject horror of humanity, the protagonist is slowly transformed into everything he despises and cannot understand. Perhaps the most fascinating part of this tale is how the protagonist is dragged, slowly but steadily, into the grips of humanity's vices and horrors.
Despite the intriguing nature of the protagonist's psychology, I didn't find the rest of the book as interesting as I thought I would. I was likely just disappointed that after all the build up, this amounted to another very well done, very sad bildungsroman in the vein of Catcher in the Rye or Little Friends. There's also issues with the way the writer portrays women, but since everyone in the book is fairly dehumanized it doesn't bother me as much as I thought it would. All in all, No Longer Human is a fascinating journey through the most base natures of humanity, all through the eyes of a man who feels disqualified from being human. I'd recommend this to someone who wants something dark and strangely fascinating. I would not recommend this to anyone who is anywhere close to being in a bad place, or anyone who got annoyed by Holden in Catcher in the Rye. This guy is ten times worse.
Reviewer Grade: 12

Reviewer's Name: Eve
Heartstopper: Volume Four book jacket
Oseman, Alice
5 stars = Bohemian Rhapsody Awesome!
Review:

Every time I think, "Alice Oseman can't possibly outshine previous Heartstopper books," she proves me wrong! This graphic novel had beautiful art and great representation. Heartstopper: Volume Four follows Charlie and Nick as they deal with separation anxiety, saying "I love you", and working through Charlie's declining mental health. There are some really important themes introduced, the biggest being Charlie's anorexia and OCD diagnosis. This was a really emotional part of the book, but it is also crucial for more young adult books like this to spread awareness about how common mental illnesses are. Charlie and Nick's relationship is strong, but it was also cool that they discussed how spending time with other loved ones instead will strengthen their relationship. Plus, their friends are diverse, endlessly kind, and could easily be real people. It is always a joy to read this series, and I can't wait for Volume Five!
Grade 12

Reviewer's Name: Maggie
Roller Girl
Jamieson, Victoria
5 stars = Bohemian Rhapsody Awesome!
Review:

This graphic novel has lovely art and an even better storyline. Astrid is a middle-schooler who has a tough time doing roller derby without knowing anyone on the team. She has to learn how to hold her own and find her place doing a sport she loves. I liked how the author depicted Astrid's friendship with Nicole and they were able to learn from each other despite not being on the same path anymore. It was also cool to see Astrid's character development as she gained confidence and found her identity. The dedication it took to do that is a great lesson for anyone!
Grade 12

Reviewer's Name: Maggie
Heartstopper
Oseman, Alice
5 stars = Bohemian Rhapsody Awesome!
Review:

I'm not a huge graphic novel fan because previous ones I've read have been too complicated to get hooked on. This series totally changed my mind! Heartstopper is a wholesome story of two schoolboys who fall in love and deal with all sorts of backlash from it. Even through the pain and sadness that bullying can cause, Charlie and Nick have a lovely way of persevering and having great communication with their diverse support system. It teaches that no matter how alien you might feel, there is always someone ready to listen and accept you. Plus, if you like this series already, try out the Netflix series for a beautiful adaptation of it.
Grade 11

Reviewer's Name: Maggie