Graphic Novels/Comics

Cross-Curricular Educators’ Guide for Above the Trenches by Nathan Hale

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Above the Trenches (Nathan Hale’s Hazardous Tales #12): A WWI Flying Ace Tale
Author & Illustrator: Nathan Hale
Published: November 14th, 2023 by Abrams Fanfare

Summary: In Above the Trenches, author-illustrator Nathan Hale takes to the skies with the flying aces of World War I to reveal another Hazardous Tale in American history in the #1 New York Times bestselling graphic novel series.

“Yippee! We’re going back to World War One!” said nobody ever—except maybe the Hangman.

When the Great War began in 1914, America had plans to stay out of it. But some young men were so eager to fight, they joined the French Foreign Legion. From deep in the mud and blood of the Western Front, these young volunteers looked to the sky and saw the future—the airplane.

The first American pilots to fight in World War One flew for the French military. France created a squadron of volunteer Americans called the Lafayette Escadrille (named after the great Marquis de Lafayette).

This book is about that volunteer How they got into the French military. How they learned to fly. How they fought—and died. And how these American pilots would go down in history with other legendary flying aces like the Red Baron and his Flying Circus.

Nathan Hale’s Hazardous Tales are graphic novels that tell the thrilling, shocking, gruesome, and TRUE stories of American history. Read them all—if you dare!

Teachers’ Tools for Navigation and Discussion Questions: 

Please view and enjoy the cross-curricular educators’ guide I created for Abrams for Above the Trenches:

You can also access the educators’ guide here.

You can learn more about Above the Trenches on Abrams’s page.

Recommended For: 

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Student Voices: Book Lists from Sarah S., 7th grade, and Lucy S., Isabela M., & Hala B., 8th grade

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Books Lists

“Ten Books I Wish I Could Read for the First Time Again” by Sarah S., 7th grade

New Kid by Jerry Craft

This book is much different than the graphic novels you will expect to read. This book is about Jordan who was enrolled into a private school where Jordan is one of the few kids of color in his entire grade and is struggling to find ways to fit in. This book was one of my favorite books because it shows the struggles he had to go through as a kid with color and I’ve never read any graphic novel like it.

Restart by Gordon Korman

This book is so unique and entertaining that I couldn’t stop reading. It is about a kid in 8th grade who had an accident and banged his head on the ground and lost all of his memory and has no idea of all of the horrible things he’s done in the past and now he has to deal with all of the consequences and what people expect from him. This book is so fun and I would have never guessed all of the plot twists in this book.

Front Desk by Kelly Yang

This book is about a girl named Mia who moved to the United States and helps her parents manage the front desk. She helps her parents hide immigrants, while dealing with the mean motel owner, and trying to fit in at school. While struggling for money, Mia uses her smarts to fight for her dreams of a better future. This book shows that no matter what is happening, you should always believe in yourself.

Drama by Raina Telgemeier

Drama is about Callie who is a theater-lover who’s working on her school’s production of ”Moon Over Mississippi ” because Callie’s not an actress, but instead she joins this production because she is all about stage crew and set design. This book dives into all the drama of setting up a school play and when two brothers enter the story, it just becomes even more messy.

The Summer of Broken Rules by K.L. Walther

This book follows Meredith who’s been grieving with her sister’s death. She goes to Martha’s Vineyard for her cousin’s wedding and there is a tradition of playing a game called Assassin with water guns. But things got messy when she met this guy named Wit and started breaking her own rules about love and life. This book is super interesting and I couldn’t stop reading. This book is so good and I would have never expected the plot.

Places We’ve Never Been by Kasie West

This book was such a fun book to read and honestly unexpected. Norah ends up on a road trip with her childhood friend, Skyler who she hasn’t talked to in a very long time. As they travel together, they start to reconnect and Norah begins to see Skyler in a different light. This book was super entertaining and a fast read. This book was so unexpected and I didn’t see it coming for sure. I thought it was just going to be a fast read but this story had much more coming.

Roller Girl by Victoria Jamieson

This book is about Astrid who wants to be this cool and fun skater girl so she decides to join a summer camp to learn how to skate. She assumed Nicole, her friend would do the same but Nicole joined a dance camp instead. This book is all about Astrid growing up and the tough world of roller derby. This story has such a good moral about navigating friendships and still doing what you love and in this case skating.

Wonder by R.J. Palacio

This book follows August who was born with a facial deformity and he has been home schooled his entire life until now. August is starting 5th grade face-to-face and he wants nothing but to be treated as an ordinary kid but the kids at his school have made this difficult for him. I read this book in 4th grade but I still remember it made me so emotional. This book was so good and I wish I could reread it and rewatch the movie because it made me feel for August and was so sad.

Invisible by Christina Diaz Gonzalez, Illustrated by Gabriela Epstein

This book was a very fun read and completely different from other graphic novels I’ve read. This book is told from five different points of views from kids who don’t have much in common but one thing they do is they are all hispanic and speak Spanish. They are now trying to get along while also trying to finish their school community hours. This book is so interesting and I wish I could read it for the first time again because it was so funny and I love the different points of view in the story.

Kisses and Croissants by Anne Sophie Jouhanneau

This book follows Mia who is a ballerina and she joins a ballet summer program and she has this idea that at all times she will be focused on ballet but her plans change when she meets this boy. This book is very cute and I wish I could reread it because it was so fun seeing how Mia was going to do with all of the decisions in the story.

“Ten Books I Wish I Could Read for the First Time Again” by Lucy S., 8th grade

Percy Jackson & The Olympians: The Lightning Thief by Rick Riordan

The strong urge to revisit the Percy Jackson series, It’s like reconnecting with old friends you haven’t seen in ages – there’s this sense of familiarity and warmth that’s just irresistible. The blend of adventure, humor, and heart in those books is timeless, and it’s hard to resist the allure of diving back into that world.

But it’s not just about reliving past escapades; it’s about uncovering new layers and insights that I might have missed before. Each time I read any of  Percy Jackson’s universe, I discover hidden clues, unique parts, and character development that add depth to the story. It’s like peeling back layers of an onion – there’s always something new to uncover beneath the surface. So, yeah, rereading Percy Jackson isn’t just about nostalgia; it’s about embarking on a journey of rediscovery and exploration, one that never fails to captivate me.

Prisoner B-3087 by Alan Gratz

I’ve been really drawn to the idea of reading Prisoner B-3087 by Alan Gratz again. It’s a book that really hit me hard the first time around, especially with Yanek’s journey through the Holocaust. The emotions and struggles he faces are so vividly portrayed, it’s like you’re right there with him.

But beyond just enjoying the story, I think there’s something important about revisiting “Prisoner B-3087.” In today’s world, where there’s still so much prejudice and injustice, it’s crucial to remember the lessons from history. Yanek’s story reminds us of the dangers of intolerance and the importance of standing up for what’s right. So, rereading “Prisoner B-3087” isn’t just about enjoying a good book; it’s about learning from the past and working towards a better future. (I’ve read this book a gazillion times 😁)

Unravel Me by Tahereh Mafi

Unravel Me by Tahereh Mafi. As the second book in the Shatter Me series, it’s a captivating blend of romance, suspense, and self-discovery. Juliette’s journey, grappling with her identity and newfound powers, resonates with me on a deeper level, and I can’t wait to revisit the twists and turns of the plot.

However, beyond the surface-level excitement, Unravel Me delves into profound themes like individuality and the struggle for freedom. Each read-through offers a chance to uncover new layers of meaning and connect more intimately with the characters. It’s like embarking on a journey of self-reflection and growth alongside Juliette and her companions. So, rereading Unravel Me isn’t just about entertainment; it’s about exploring the complexities of the human experience and gaining insights that resonate long after the book is finished.

If He Was With Me by Laura Nowlin

Recently, I’ve found myself drawn back to the pages of If He Was with Me by Laura Nowlin. This novel holds a significant emotional resonance for me, particularly in its exploration of love, loss, and the relationships of human beings. The narrative, centered around Autumn and Finny’s profound connection amidst personal love, captivated me upon my initial reading and continues to linger in my thoughts.

Beyond the surface allure of its romantic drama, If He Was with Me delves into deeper themes such as friendship, grief, and the pursuit of happiness. With each revisit, I uncover new layers of meaning and insight, enriching my understanding of the characters and their struggles. Thus, the prospect of rereading this novel isn’t merely an act of revisiting a cherished story; it’s an opportunity for introspection, emotional resonance, and personal growth through literature. (I cried)

A Good Girl’s Guide to Murder by Holly Jackson

Lately, I’ve been itching to dive back into A Good Girl’s Guide to Murder by Holly Jackson. This gripping thriller had me hooked right from the start with its compelling storyline and well-developed characters. Following Pippa Fitz-Amobi’s quest to uncover the truth behind a murder in her small town was both exhilarating and thought-provoking, as the twists and turns kept me guessing until the very end.

With the excitement of solving the mystery, there’s a deeper desire to explore the novel’s underlying themes. A Good Girl’s Guide to Murder delves into issues of justice, truth, and the complexity of human nature, offering valuable insights that linger long after the final page is turned. Each time I reread the book, I discover new layers of meaning and subtle hints that enhance my appreciation for the story. So, the idea of rereading A Good Girl’s Guide to Murder isn’t just about reliving the suspenseful journey; it’s about immersing myself in a world of intrigue and reflection, where every chapter holds the promise of uncovering hidden truths.

The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins

I’ve found myself drawn back to The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins. This dystopian tale, with its gripping narrative and compelling characters, has left a lasting impression on me. Katniss Everdeen’s (With Peeta) journey through the brutal arena and her subsequent defiance against the oppressive regime of Panem resonate deeply with themes of resilience, social justice, and the human spirit’s capacity for resistance

Beyond the surface-level excitement and suspense, The Hunger Game offers a profound exploration of power dynamics and societal inequality. Each revisit to the novel provides an opportunity to delve deeper into its themes, uncovering new layers of meaning and relevance. It’s not merely about reliving the thrilling adventure; it’s about engaging with thought-provoking commentary on contemporary issues and reflecting on the complexities of the human condition.

Anne of Green Gables by Lucy Maud Montgomery

Lately, I’ve been feeling this strong urge to return to the pages of Anne of Green Gables by Lucy Maud Montgomery. It’s a story that holds a special place in my heart, like revisiting an old, cherished friend. Anne Shirley’s adventures, with her vivid imagination and boundless enthusiasm, never fail to uplift my spirits. Whether she’s embarking on mischievous escapades or enchanting the residents of Avonlea with her infectious charm, Anne’s journey serves as a comforting reminder of the joys of imagination and the warmth of companionship.

However, beyond the comforting familiarity of Anne’s world, there’s a deeper yearning to rediscover the profound wisdom and heartfelt emotions that the deeper meaning shows. “Anne of Green Gables” transcends its status as a simple children’s tale, offering timeless lessons in resilience, empathy, and the transformative power of love. With each return to its pages, I find myself drawn once more into Anne’s world, captivated by its rich imagery and enduring messages. The prospect of rereading Anne of Green Gables isn’t merely about revisiting a beloved story; it’s about reconnecting with the enduring spirit and timeless truths that lie within its pages.

She Persisted by Chelsea Clinton

This empowering collection of stories about women who have overcome adversity and made a significant impact in various fields resonates deeply with me. Each narrative is a testament to the power of resilience, determination, and unwavering perseverance in the face of obstacles. From historical figures like Harriet Tubman and Helen Keller to contemporary trailblazers like Oprah Winfrey and Sonia Sotomayor, the stories inspire me to strive for my dreams and never give up, regardless of the challenges I may encounter or face.

Moreover, beyond just the inspiration derived from the individual stories, there’s a broader significance to rereading She Persisted. In today’s world, where gender equality and empowerment remain pressing issues, the book serves as a timely reminder of the progress that has been made and the work that still lies ahead. By revisiting these stories of resilience and determination, I am not only reaffirming my own commitment to perseverance but also gaining renewed inspiration to advocate for positive change in my community and beyond.

Wonder by R.J Palacio

Lately, I’ve been feeling a strong pull to revisit Wonder by R.J. Palacio. This heartwarming tale about a young boy named Auggie Pullman, who faces challenges due to his facial differences, resonates deeply with its message of empathy, kindness, and acceptance. The story touched my heart when I first read it, as it beautifully portrays the power of friendship and the importance of seeing beyond external appearances to recognize the beauty within.

But beyond just reliving the emotional journey of Auggie and his friends, there’s a deeper longing to rediscover the profound lessons and universal truths embedded within the narrative. Wonder isn’t just a story; it’s a book for empathy and understanding, prompting readers to reflect on their own actions and attitudes towards others. Each time I revisit the book, I find myself inspired anew by Auggie’s resilience and the transformative impact of small acts of kindness. So, the prospect of rereading Wonder isn’t just about revisiting a loved novel, it’s about embracing its timeless message and striving to make the world a kinder, more inclusive place.

Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets by J.K Rowling

Recently, I’ve been wanting to revisit Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets by J.K. Rowling. It’s like taking a trip back to Hogwarts and joining Harry, Ron, and Hermione on their adventures all over again. The mystery surrounding the Chamber of Secrets adds an extra layer of excitement to the story, keeping me on the edge of my seat.

But beyond the thrill of the magical world, Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets also explores important themes like friendship and bravery. Each time I read it, I discover new insights about loyalty and standing up against injustice, just like the characters do. So, rereading it isn’t just about having a good time; it’s about gaining valuable life lessons too.

“15 Books I Want to Read” by Isabela M., 8th grade

Twisted Tales: Part of Your world by Liz Braswell

I read the Cinderella twisted tale and I love it, so I want to read more of them and since the little mermaid is one of my favorite princesses I really want to read this book.

Better Than the Movies by Lynn Painter

I’ve seen this book a lot online and heard a lot of good reviews. Also, my sister read this book and she said she enjoyed reading it.

Love & Gelato by Jenna Evans Welch

I read the book summary, and it looks like a nice book. I also saw that this book has a movie on Netflix so I want to read it so then I can compare it to its movie adaptation.

One Of Us Is Lying by Karen M. McManus

I’ve always wanted to read this book but never checked it out. I am pretty sure this book is really good because everyone I’ve asked about the book, they have told me to read it.

The Diary of a Young Girl by Anne Frank

I am very interested in her story. I’ve watched some videos of what she went through so I want to read what she wrote while everything was happening.

Spy School by Stuart Gibbs

It was recommended to me by my 7th grade teacher, and I saw that one of my classmates read this book and by their review I am interested in reading this book.

14 Ways to Die by Vincent Ralph

The plot of this book sounds really interesting. I want to see who wins the competition to catch the killer. I also want to start reading more mystery books because I find them entertaining.

Harry Potter Series by J.K Rowling

I watched all of the movies but never read the books because they are too long but now I think I may start reading them during the summer.

Today Tonight Tomorrow by Rachel Lynn Solomon

I like reading romance books and this book based on reviews looks like a good and fun book to read.

White Bird by R.J. Palacio

I saw this book in my school library and when I looked it up, I saw that it has great reviews. I also read the summary and it looks like a great book.

The Selection by Kiera Cass

This book series has been recommended to me by some of my friends, so I decided to look it up on Goodreads, and I found really good reviews.

House Arrest by K.A. Holt

I saw this book in another blog post and by the description written about this book, I feel like I will like it.

If he had been with me by Laura Nowlin

I have seen this book and its sequel on the internet, and I have read that it is sad but at the same time is a good book.

One for the Murphys by Lynda Mullaly Hunt

My friend recommended it to me. She said that she read this book last school year and that she really enjoyed reading it.

I Survived The Sinking of the Titanic, 1912: The Graphic Novel by Lauren Tarshis & Georgia Ball

I love reading the I Survived books, and I am very interested in the story of how the Titanic sank.

“Ten of my All-Time Favorite Childhood Books” by Hala B., 8th grade

Books that give children the opportunity to enjoy reading are the type of books that parents should encourage their children to read. As a kid myself, I always chose books that looked like they would give me comfort and would be fun, I did not admire reading as much as a child but when I came to reading these books below I started to enjoy watching the stories unfold just to reread them over and over again. I recommend everyone to read even if it’s an audio book, picture book, hardcover, etc. It gives a lot of different messages and life lessons to a reader. You can choose to keep that lesson with you or even leave it in the book as it doesn’t interest you. Still, whatever you do just know that reading at a young age will help build up many kids’ strengths and abilities and they will be able to be strong-willed and achieve their goals using all the lessons they learned from books and real-life experiences that might have taught them the same lessons a book has.

Charlotte’s Web by E.B. White

Charlotte’s Web is an awesome book to read, this book shows friendship and perseverance it teaches determination and how true friendship is valuable, and that throughout many struggles the friends who stay and make you the best of who you are, are the true friends you should surround yourself with and appreciate them for being with you through thick and thin. Many should understand how friendship works and how having good friends allows you to be your best self.

The Tortoise and the Hare by Aesop

The reason I loved The Tortoise and the Hare is that it taught me two things, first thing is that even if you are faster or better at something, don’t take that for granted and level down because even if you are the best you can still get even better. The second thing I learned is that even when you are slow you can still keep going and try your hardest to get better and faster and even win if you keep trying as hard as you can.

Pete the Cat I Love My White Shoes by Eric Litwin, James Dean, and Kimberly Dean

This was such a good book, It showed me how Pete’s shoes changed and even as they changed Pete kept going forward with each couple of steps. I recommend this book because it shows that even when there is change, you can keep moving forward and towards the future. I loved that Pete never got discouraged even as the shoes kept getting worse and worse.

Mama Bear’s Love by Jane Hubbard

I loved this book, it showed me how much love a mom gives to her child and how much more moms need to be appreciated. It shows how important a mom’s love can be in someone’s life. I love my mom with all my heart and would do anything for her, Knowing that she loves me even more than that gives me the strength to keep going with my life and to make her proud but most importantly, It showed me that not only do we need our parents love but they need our love in return as well and that we should always try our best to take care of them as well as ourselves.

A Bad Case of Stripes by David Shannon

This book was one of my favorites because It taught me to do my things and follow my dreams no matter who likes or dislikes it. It also showed me that no matter what there will always be someone or something trying to bring me down or challenge me but there will always be a way to bring yourself back up. I recommend this to others because It will show them that they should keep moving forward with their passion and dreams no matter what occurs.

Clifford the Big Red Dog by Norman Bridwell

This book showed how good friends are beneficial especially when someone requires a helping hand. Being a good friend is not a duty it is an option whether or not you want to be a kind and helpful friend and someone who will allow others to feel safe. This book taught me that helpful friends will stick with you and make you feel as happy as possible.

Don’t Let the Pigeon Drive the Bus! by Mo Willems

This picture book was a very fun, exciting, and funny read, the book mainly showed a one-sided conversation in which you can respond to the characters yourself as if you were in the conversation. It was an exhilarating experience since as a kid I loved to answer the pigeon and tell them that they cannot drive the bus as if I was watching the bus for the bus driver. I believe this book is an easy, pretty quick, and funny read and should be more appreciated and read more often by children.

The Rainbow Fish by Marcus Pfister

Some may disagree with the way I thought of this book and may argue that it shows how the fish has to get rid of part of itself for others to like him/her but when I was a child the way I felt about the book was that The Rainbow Fish was one of my favorite bedtime stories. This story showed a lot of different emotions which is why I loved it so much as a kid, it showed humiliation, sharing, friendship, and true happiness which are key things needed in one’s life to live with experiences of hardship and happiness of life so they can live to be a stronger person every time they grow older. I believe this book has taught me a lot about how to be prepared as I gain knowledge about expectations and how to move on with life as I make my own life myself with only the help of the important people in my life who have huge care for me.

The Kissing Hand by Audrey Penn

I loved this book as a kid, this book showed great lessons one being that we don’t always want to do things we might have to do even when they seem scary at times or even strange, but it is part of experience and life to try new things out to see how you can use it or not use it in your future. It also allowed me to stop only seeing the bad in things and decide to consider the good that may come out of it, although you should always take notice of the cons and pros of things before considering you shall also see how well or unwell it will take you or if it will take you far. It taught me a lot about decision making which is an important aspect of life because you will always face decisions you will have to consider and think wisely about. I recommend this book to many people because it will show how as you are living there will be many challenges you will have to face and during that period, how you react with words or actions will affect how you are going to move on with your life and stay in a comfortable environment with good people all around you.

Olivia the Ballerina by Farrah McDoogle

Olivia the Ballerina used to be a book I would read many times, for a matter of fact I still own it to this day. This book showed me how trying to achieve things by practicing hard will get you to where you want to be, but it also showed me that as important as following your dreams may be, you must always still balance that with education and all the other important factors needed in one’s life. Homework is just as important as having other dreams because it will help you in the long run when you require knowledge. I recommend this book because it will teach others to value their education and dreams all at once.

Thank you so much to my student voices today–I loved sharing your book lists!

Student Voices: Author Reflections from Susana N., 7th grader, and Meghan K. & Ricardo D., 8th graders

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Author Reflections

“Four Authors I’d Love to Meet” by Susana N., 7th grade

I will love to meet Jenny Han. The books of hers I have read are amazing. I want to keep reading all her books. I love how she keeps the readers interested in the book. I will love to meet her and have a book with her autograph. The Summer I Turned Pretty is, for me, in my top two in all the book I read in this whole school year, and I hope keep reading all her book.

I have read almost all of Raina Telgemeier’s books; they are very good, and I love all of them! They are all so funny, and I recommend them. I want to meet Raina Telgemeier because when I first read Smile, almost the whole school was talking about it and when I first read it, it was really good, and I knew I had to read the other ones by her, and they were really good she a very good author.

When I first read Sunny Rolls the Dice, it became one of my top books of all the books I have read. Since I liked it, I knew I had to read all the series. All the books are so good. I need to meet Jennifer L. Holm. Her books always put a smile in my face. All her books are very good, if I could read a book again and again, it would be these.

I read the first Baby-Sitters Club book when I was in 6th grade, and it was so good! I knew I had to read all the books. Then I found out there was a series on Netflix, andand the series is as good as the book. I want to meet Ann M. Martin because her books are nice and always have a message of the story. They are more than just good book, they are really good books. I will always love these books.

“Author Spotlight: Ann M. Martin” by Meghan K., 8th grade

Get to Know Ann M. Martin

Ann M. Martin is the author of many books and series. One of her most famous series The Baby-Sitters Club. The Baby-Sitters Club has sold over 180 million copies. Even though Baby-Sitters Club is a popular series in her collection, that does not mean it’s the only one. She has written many different books, like Slam Book, On Christmas Eve, Rain Reign, and many more. Ann M. Martin has great books, and they teach great life lessons and give messages to whoever reads them. Ann M. Martin is a great author, I think, because she relates her books to some of her own life experiences and childhood memories or feelings. Ann M. Martin has made a name for herself in children’s and young adult fiction. She is a full-time writer and published her first book in 1985 while working for Scholastic as a children’s book editor. 

I chose Ann M. Martin to spotlight because her books and series are very inspiring and interesting to read. I loved her series The Baby-Sitters Club throughout middle school. They are one of the only books I would read because they kept me interested, as well as Baby-Sitters Little Sister. If anyone asked me for an opinion on her books I would recommend for them to read them. 

Resource: The Baby-Sitters Club Wikipedia & Ann M. Martin Wikipedia

“Reflection on Akira Toriyama’s Passing” by Ricardo D., 8th grade

Akira Toriyama — The Legendary Mangaka, No More | by Jijo George | Medium

Manga creator Akira Toriyama passed away on March 1st 2024. The cause of his  passing was due to an acute subdural hematoma, which is when you injure your head severe enough to cause pooled blood to push on the brain. His death was not announced on March 1st, it was announced on the 8th due to his family’s request. He still had a lot of projects he was working on when he passed as well. I found out late at night when a friend called me out of nowhere and told me about it. Dragon Ball is my favorite anime and his death happened before they even animate the moro arc, which is tragic.

What caused his death?

A few weeks before his death, Akira Toriyama said he wasn’t sure he could keep going. “I am not sure how much more I can do, as I am not very confident about my health, probably due to my lifestyle when I was younger…”. It is not confirmed what he meant by lifestyle, but it is assumed that he is referring to his smoking habits, poor diet, and stress early in his career. He spoke many times about how deadlines were getting to him and that he would smoke several packs of cigarettes a day, hair loss due to stress, and sleepless nights for days. If it’s like that for other manga artists, worrying about deadlines and stress, that’s just too much.

Who will be Akira Toriyama’s successor?

Despite his death, Dragon Ball Super will continue. His student and apprentice Toyotaro will write and also draw the manga. Toyotaro himself was a massive Dragon Ball fan since he was little. His drawing style and skills caught the attention of Akira and ended up working closely with him. I think Toyotaru could continue Dragon Ball but it’s not going to be the same, art style sure but, writing-wise I don’t think so. Toyotaru’s drawing skills are good but I don’t think he has much experience writing manga.

Other manga creator’s thoughts

Eiichiro Oda, known for making One-Piece, and Masashi Kishimoto, known for making Naruto both wrote eulogies about Akira Toriyama. Oda stated that it was too early, that sadness washes over knowing he would never see Akira again. Kishimoto wishes his family well and feels lost like Oda. It’s sad that we probably will never know what he was working on, nor the finished result.

Impacts on me

I grew up watching Dragon Ball when I was younger, I liked it so much that I even watched Dragon Ball GT. Most people think GT isn’t good and whatnot but I liked it. I also watched Dragon Ball Z Kai which is just Dragon Ball Z but improved. Once I found out about Akira’s death I couldn’t believe it. He usually didn’t speak publicly much so people knew little about him but he made the show I and millions of people watched every day in the morning. These news made everyone that watched the show feel down, including me.

Sources: https://thedaoofdragonball.com/blog/news/akira-toriyama-last-message/#google_vignette | https://screenrant.com/one-piece-naruto-akira-toriyama-tribute-dragon-ball/ | https://www.marca.com/en/lifestyle/tv-shows/2024/03/08/65ea8bc622601d0e068b4575.html

Thank you so much to my student voices today and their reflections on favorite authors!

Alterations by Ray Xu

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Alterations
Author & Illustrator: Ray Xu
Published January 30th, 2024 by Union Square & Co.

Summary: This funny yet poignant middle-grade coming-of-age story highlights the struggle of feeling invisible while yearning to be seen by all.

Kevin Lee is having a really bad week. Although he lives in a crowded Toronto apartment above the family’s alterations and dry-cleaning store, he mostly goes unnoticed. School isn’t exactly an oasis either—being one of the few Asian kids makes for some unwelcome attention. But when Kevin’s class plans a trip to Thrill Planet, a spectacular theme park, will he finally have a chance to turn his life around, or will it just be another day for Kevin Lee?

Fans of middle school graphic novels exploring identity and self-esteem will appreciate the poignant yet humorous journey of finding one’s place in the world, and readers who are looking for Asian representation in books will connect with Kevin’s story of racism, bullying, and the immigrant experience. With its mix of family relationships, friendships, and a thrilling amusement park climax, this inspiring read is perfect for fans of humorous middle grade fiction with diverse characters overcoming obstacles.

Praise:

This is an excellent debut middle grade graphic novel, both funny and full of heart, depicting the lives of an immigrant family.” —Book Riot

“A funny and heartfelt story that beautifully communicates the honest and awkward relationships we have with life and our immigrant parents.” —Dan Santat, Caldecott Medal winner and creator of A First Time for Everything

“Charming, relatable, nostalgic. Love Xu’s subtle and scraggly drawing style paired with his understated, yet deeply affecting storytelling. Brings me back to being a lonely Chinese kid in Toronto.”—Academy Award–winning director and screenwriter Domee Shi (Bao, Turning Red)

“Themes of sacrifice, survival, and love abound in a multidimensional story of navigating the bumpy terrain of family tensions and resilience across generations.”—Horn Book Magazine

“[A] moving depiction of a multigenerational immigrant Chinese family trying to sew themselves back together.”—Bulletin Center for Children’s Books

About the Author: Ray Xuis a Toronto-based story artist for television and feature films. His recent work includes the 2021 Netflix animated hit The Mitchells vs. The Machines; Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Mutant Mayhem; and more. He invites you to visit him online at raymond-xu.com.

Review: This book is about so much more than it seems at first. Is it about Kevin navigating middle school, definitely, but it is also about so much more. Set in the 1990s, Kevin finds himself in the middle of his parent’s divorce with his mother working all the time and his grandmother newly moved into their small apartment where he finds himself fighting with his sister and mom more than being happy. This unsettled feeling bleeds into school where he doesn’t fit in with the primarily white school population and finds himself being picked on for his differences and getting in trouble when he’s truly not doing anything wrong.

It is only through drawing that Kevin finds solace, and we, as readers, get to experience a story he is creating with his favorite superhero. This story runs parallel with Kevin’s life and is how he deals with the conflict surrounding him.

Readers will find empathy for Kevin throughout his story and will want to keep reading and rooting for Kevin to trudge his way out of the bumpy road he is navigating.

(Keep an eye out for some fantasy elements at the end of the book! I found it to be figurative more than literal magic to symbolize just one other way Kevin felt–you’ll have to let me know what you think!)

Tools for Navigation: This book will be read and loved by your graphic novel memoir fans. Although it is not a memoir, it fits in with Sunny Side Up, Mexikid, Smile, and other memoirs set in similar time periods.

Discussion Questions: 

  • How were both Kevin and his sister valid in how they were feeling?
  • How did Popo both help and add tension to the Lee household?
  • What does the roller coaster on the cover of the book symbolize?
  • Do you think it is fair that Kevin is called to the principal’s office for the egg and the basketball incident?
  • Why do you think Lily stopped being Kevin’s friend? What happened to make her reconsider?
  • How was the comic Kevin was writing reflective of what was going on in his life?
  • What do you think is the purpose of the fantastical element at the end of the book?

Flagged Spreads: 

Read This If You Love: Graphic novels about school and family dynamics

Recommended For: 

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**Thank you to Union Square for providing a copy for review!**

Author Guest Post: “Peer Tutoring, Musical and Otherwise” by Caroline Palmer, Author of Camp Prodigy

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“Peer Tutoring, Musical and Otherwise”

As far as I’ve heard, peer tutoring is typically intended to be the most beneficial for one person–the one being tutored. In contrast, while the tutor themselves may receive extra credit in a class, or some pocket change, they ultimately don’t learn anything new. Or at least, that’s how it seems. In reality, the few times I’ve been asked to explain a concept to one of my classmates, I’ve always walked away from the encounter feeling more assured in my knowledge and aware of the weaknesses I need to build up. Peer tutoring is much more reciprocal than most people assume!

When it comes to older tutors, the balance is naturally lopsided. One party is experienced and well versed in the topics of choice, and the other is not. With peer tutors, however, the participants are on equal footing. Both must work together to come up with answers to their questions. And being closer in age to your collaborator makes it easier to understand one another. Who can better explain a concept in a way that makes sense than someone on your level?

In high school, I took an orchestra class every year. It was a very collaborative environment! Something that stood out to me was a type of practice called sectionals. You and your peers who played the same specific instrument would group together for a set amount of time to make progress on the music you were learning. The head of the group–the one who sits in front–leads the sectional. I was first given this duty around 9th grade, and I remember being intimidated at the thought of having to take a leadership position, having to talk to people I didn’t know well, and having to instruct peers who were older than me. I’m sure that the first sectional I led was rough, but with practice, I was able to get used to and even enjoy the responsibility. Aside from helping my peers learn, I was also able to better identify the skills I needed to improve.

And apart from being educational, peer tutoring is a great chance to build interpersonal relationships. I became a better musician when I led those sectionals, and also, I grew as a person. I was able to become closer to my peers, despite how shy I tended to be in school. All of us were able to trust each other–they could trust that I would offer them helpful and clear advice, and I could trust that they’d point out places in the music where we all needed to agree on the best way to play. In addition to strengthening our friendships, this sort of peer tutoring also strengthened my self-confidence. If I hadn’t been pushed to lead, I might not have done as well in orchestra as I did, and I certainly would’ve been far less social with the rest of the class.

I can imagine that there are plenty of kids in schools who would be less than enthused at the chance to teach their peers. Whether because they see it as a waste of time, they doubt their own expertise in the subject matter, or they’re awkward talking to those they don’t know well–like I was. Still, I’d say that they should give it a shot. Sometimes, you have to push through the discomfort for a while to reap the benefits.

Tutor or tutee, if they still struggle with the material after doing their best, at least they might have a new friend willing to help them through it.

Published June 11th, 2024 by Atheneum Books for Young Readers

About the Book: Perfect for fans of Victoria Jamieson and Raina Telgemeier, this heartwarming middle grade graphic novel follows two nonbinary kids who navigate anxiety and identity while having fun and forming friendships at their summer orchestra camp.

After attending an incredible concert, Tate Seong is inspired to become a professional violist. There’s just one problem: they’re the worst musician at their school.

Tate doesn’t even have enough confidence to assert themself with their friends or come out as nonbinary to their family, let alone attempt a solo anytime soon. Things start to look up when Tate attends a summer orchestra camp—Camp Prodigy—and runs into Eli, the remarkable violist who inspired Tate to play in the first place.

But Eli has been hiding their skills ever since their time in the spotlight gave them a nervous breakdown. Together, can they figure out how to turn Tate into a star and have Eli overcome their performance anxieties? Or will the pressure take them both down?

About the Author: Caroline Palmer (they/them) is a nonbinary comic creator. Their work has been published in the comics anthology, A Taste of Home (2020) by Level Ground Comics, and they’ve been consistently updating their Webtoon Talent de Lune since 2016.

Thank you, Caroline, for reminding us to allow peers to collaborate and educate!

Kellee’s 2023 Reading Round Up: Statistics, Favorite Reads, #mustreadin2023 End-of-Year Check In, & 2024 Reading Goals

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Here is my 2023 Reading Round Up!

And just for fun: here is Trent’s 2023 Year in Books!

Here are my five star reads from 2023!

I also did a 2023 Reading Bracket!

I introduced my #mustreadin2023 list last January–here is my end-of-year summary:

I am not sure if there is going to be a #mustreadin2024 challenge, but if there is, I am setting my goal to read the 29 2024 Project Lit books that I haven’t read (red checkmarks = I’ve already read).

Happy reading in 2024, friends!!!
To see all the books I’m reading, visit my READ Goodreads shelf and feel free to follow 📖💙

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Author Guest Post: “The Powerful Nature of Graphic Memoirs” by Claire Lordon, Author of One in a Million

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“The Powerful Nature of Graphic Memoirs”

I think graphic memoirs are so powerful because not only are you reading a story but you can also visualize things as well. When I was thinking of creating my graphic memoir One in a Million there never was a doubt that it was going to be in graphic memoir format. I wanted to show what I went through. I knew I would have a hard time conveying what depression felt like in writing, but with my illustration background I sure knew how to show it.

Graphic memoirs are just that, memoirs that are created with graphics. While creating this book I first called it a “graphic novel memoir” just because I hadn’t heard the term graphic memoir, and because it gave people an idea that it would be similar to a graphic novel. The term “graphic novel memoir” always seemed like a misnomer because how can something be a novel and a memoir? It was only since Jarret J. Krosoczka’s Hey, Kiddo that I started hearing the term graphic memoir in use. It fit and since then I’ve heard many other books use that term too. I made sure that the term graphic memoir was on the cover of my book because I needed people to know that it’s a true story.

Since I started working on my book I have also learned about the term “graphic medicine”. This is a subgenre of comics, graphic novels, and graphic memoirs that depict or have themes relating to healthcare. One of the interesting ways graphic medicine is being used is in the medical humanities at medical schools. Medical students can gain an understanding of what a patient’s perspective may be.

The importance on memoirs, including graphic memoirs is that they give the reader an insight into another person’s life and perspective. This can help create compassion and empathy for others. My hope is that my book helps others that are going through something similar. I also hope that others gain some understanding of what being sick as a teen can entail (especially if someone looks “normal” on the outside). Everyone has a story to share. What will be yours?

Some of my favorite graphic memoirs:

  • Smile by Raina Telgemeier
  • Hey, Kiddo by Jarret J. Krosoczka
  • A First Time for Everything by Dan Santat
  • Parenthesis by Élodie Durand
  • Fun Home by Alison Bechdel
  • In Limbo by Deb JJ Lee

Writing prompt

Everyone has a story to tell.

Create a short comic about an event in your life. It could be as simple as to your morning routine today to a big life event. Don’t worry about your art skills. Stick figures will work (see xkcd.com).

Some prompts: What is the happiest memory you have? What is the saddest memory you have? What was your day like yesterday? Draw a comic of your most recent birthday.

Create a grid on paper could be 4×4 or more, depending on how long you want your story to be (some comics are even just a single panel! I encourage starting with a 4×4 so you can show time passing). You can work on creating your characters separately or you can just jump into creating. Draw your character(s) and make sure to leave room for the text (if needed). Remember in comics half the story is in the art. So if you want to show someone putting on their shoes you don’t need to state it in the text (ex. ”…and then I put on my shoes.”) We don’t need the text because we can see it. Happy creating!

Published October 10th, 2023 by Candlewick Press

About the Book: Debut graphic novelist Claire Lordon’s medical misfortunes may be one in a million in this relatable memoir, but so is her determination, grit, and passion to beat the odds and reclaim her life.

Something is wrong with Claire, but she doesn’t know what. Nobody does, not even her doctors. All she wants is to return to her happy and athletic teenage self. But her accumulating symptoms—chronic fatigue, pounding headaches, weight gain—hint that there’s something not right inside Claire’s body. Claire’s high school experience becomes filled with MRIs, visits to the Mayo Clinic, and multiple surgeries to remove a brain tumor. But even in her most difficult moments battling chronic illness, Claire manages to find solace in her family, her closest friends, and her art. A deeply personal and visually arresting memoir that draws on the author’s high school diaries and drawings, One in a Million is also a sophisticated portrayal of pain, depression, and fear that any teen or adult can relate to. With a sensitive preface and an author’s note connecting past to present, this true story of resilience strikes a moving balance between raw honesty in the face of medical and mental trauma and the everyday musings of a teenager.

About the Author: Claire Lordon is an author, illustrator, and designer who creates children’s books, comics, murals, maps, and greeting cards. She is the author-illustrator of Lorenzo, the Pizza-Loving Lobster, the Taking a Walk series, and other picture books. One in a Million is her first graphic novel. Claire Lordon lives in Vancouver, Canada.

Thank you, Claire, for these writing prompts to get our students creating!