Chris Wooding - Havoc - Book Review

Book Review

Here is the next slice of book action in the world of Malice, where kids are trapped inside the real comic-book world, living in fear and fighting for away out. However someone is watching every step they take and will stop at nothing to keep them from escaping back to the real world . The story finds Seth trying to find his way back into the comic book world, even though he'd managed to escape the twisted and evil clutches of Tall Jake. However after leaving his best friend Kady, he now wants to go back and save her. But Kady has her own mission in this book, to find and join the group Havoc (a rebel group of kids), who want to take a stand against Tall Jake. This dual storyline provides the opportunity for a great split plot, as well as a chance to be introduced to a new character - Alicia, who uncovers some of the darkest secrets from the creation of Malice. The plot is told wonderfully, and draws you into the nasty world with its ghastly creations. The world of Malice leaks into the real world; there's no telling as to what might come through which is how the story keeps you on tender hooks. A unique aspect about this book comes from the use of graphic novel images and extracts, which are beautifully illustrated by the talented Dan Chernett. They certainly plunge you deeper into the depths of the story, which I totally loved; it adds another dimension and layer to the plot. The second book has a lot more going on than the first. I was engaged and completely hooked through every page. This series is rapidly becoming one of my personal favourites; Chris is a very skillful writer and has one of the greatest imaginations in the book world, in my humble opinion.  Book published by Scholastic Children's - May 3 2010 Other sites of interest to visit are.malicecomic.co.uk and danchernett.moonfruit.com

Matthew Cody - Powerless (Guest Book Review )

Guest Book Review

In a wholly satisfying debut, Cody tackles themes of heroism, sacrifice and coming-of-age, as played out in a comic book–inspired good vs. evil scenario. Soon after arriving in the small town of Noble's Green, Pa., where his family has moved to take care of his ailing grandmother, 12-year-old Daniel Corrigan discovers the existence of real-life superheroes. In this town, certain kids develop superpowers, which they use in secret to perform good deeds (for the most part). One catch: as soon as they turn 13, their powers and all related memories vanish. As Daniel forges a friendship with these extraordinary youths, he uses good old-fashioned investigative skills rather than superhuman abilities to uncover the secret of their powers' origins and the dark force that has been preying on the town's children for decades. What do comic books from the 1940s, a pulp hero, a burned-down orphanage and a pair of superhuman bullies have to do with the mystery? It all comes together in a tightly woven narrative characterized by a persuasive premise, memorable characters, a bit of intrigue and a sense of wonder. Ages 10–up. 

 Knopf Books for Young Readers (October 27, 2009)


Synopsis

Twelve-year-old Daniel, the new kid in town, soon learns the truth about his nice—but odd—new friends: one can fly, another can turn invisible, yet another controls electricity. Incredible. The superkids use their powers to secretly do good in the town, but they’re haunted by the fact that the moment they turn thirteen, their abilities will disappear—along with any memory that they ever had them. Is a memory-stealing supervillain sapping their powers?

The answers lie in a long-ago meteor strike, a World War II–era comic book (Fantastic Futures, starring the first superhero, Johnny Noble), the green-flamed Witch Fire, a hidden Shroud cave, and—possibly, unbelievably—“powerless” regular-kid Daniel himself.

Superhero kids meet comic book mystery in this action-filled debut about the true meaning of a hero.


About the author divides his time between writing and teaching college English. He lives with his wife and young son in New York City, where he is at work on his next novel for Knopf.