Graphic Novel Reviews | the first five

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Does anyone remember when I did that list all the way back in January…. you know the TBR full of graphic novels. Guess what?? I read some. 🎉🎉

I never knew this day would come. I actually read some books from a planned TBR… absolute madness. I thought this was just a myth.

Moving on from my own astonishment, let’s talk about what I thought of these novels. Including if I would recommend any to you desiring readers. At least I am presuming you are currently desiring books to read. I mean, let’s be real, who isn’t?

Now on with the first five mini-reviews…

Heartstopper by Alice Oseman

ayyy… look who it is? I feel confident in saying this is one of the most popular YA graphic novels. With all that weighty expectation, it had a lot to live up to. But, thankfully, it basically knocked it out of the park. Yes, it was a bit cliché and very cutesy which isn’t my usual thing but, I still enjoyed it. I felt like it had a lot to offer readers.

The emotionally healthy discussions were really stand out for me. Many of the comments were ‘yes, thank you’ moments. The comic really emphasised bettering how you feel and looking after each other in healthy ways. I loved that soOOo much.

Plus, the art, expressions (the eyes!!), and the humour all added to it. A great graphic novel to read.

Would I recommend it? If you don’t know my answer by now, I haven’t written my thoughts correctly. YESSSS.

low: a delirium of hope volume one by Rick Remender and Greg Tocchini

The story of what happens after the sun explodes (please tell me we have all wondered what would happen !!). An aquatic adventure with a strong feel of sci-fi and tragedy… like a lot of tragedy. That is what I would tell you to expect from this story.

This story did have its merits. Following an optimistic character against such a devastating premise was actually really inspiring. It was a great creative choice. I also enjoyed that the plot was essentially an adventure. It was compelling to read and see. Some of the panels were visually amazing, particularly the scenes in the water.

However, I wouldn’t say I enjoyed the graphic novel. Despite the optimism, I didn’t particularly care for the characters. The plot never delved into anything unique even though I felt it has the potential to, and some scenes just made me feel a little uncomfortable.

Would I recommend it? nope.

something is killing the children volume one by James Tynion IV, Werther Dell’Edera & Miquel Muerto

A potential by-product of a stranger things era. Monsters come haunting, kids go missing, and someone comes to save the day.

This was a solid graphic novel, and it was just the beginning. Once I had finished volume one, I was ready for more which is a good sign. The plot was compelling and I liked the characters. I do wish I got a little more from the story at times to give it that extra punch. Hopefully, the other volumes will deliver on that for me.

As this is a horror-based comic, I felt like the atmosphere was done well. There was mystery, suspense and I loved the way the art style matched it. It was dark like you would expect but paired with bright colours when suitable. I loved the contrast. I thought it was a great and distinct creative decision that helps this novel to stand out.

Being horror, it was slightly out of my comfort zone, but it was good. At the minute, just a solid read, not exceptional, but I’m intrigued to see where it goes.

Would I recommend it? I would if it initially appeals to you.

midnight radio by Iolanda Zanfardino

Sadly one of the more disappointing graphic novels I read. I was so excited for this one, and when flicking through the art, I loved it a lot. The bold colour palettes. How each perspective was assigned a different colour. The brush/sketch style. It was all so BEAUTIFUL and unique. I still love the art, but the story itself was lacking structure hence the disappointment.

The graphic novel follows four perspectives on separate journeys. Fitting four stories into this novel left too little time to explore each one. I couldn’t get invested, and they even felt a little squashed in together. It was also disappointing that the whole radio thing, you know the namesake, didn’t play much of a part in the story. Overall, it felt a little unsatisfactory to read, and I was really bummed about it. I admired what the novel was trying to do, and I hope it worked better with other readers.

Would I recommend it? I’m sorry, but it is going to have to be a no.

heathen volume one by Natasha Alterici & Rachel Deering

I loved the premise and the execution absolutely held up to it. This comic definitely deserves more love, please. Allow me to explain… it starts with a woman rescuing a cursed goddess to prove she is brave and defy those in power. Plus… our female saviour is Sapphic and perfect. Are you convinced you need to love it yet???

It is full of adventure, heroines, gods, Norse mythology and magic. I loved the pacing, themes, how much speech there was and the character interactions. I am very eager to see where this comic goes…. obviously.

I liked the art, whilst not one of my favourites, it had lots of good features. It had a dark palette, with limited colour, but still good at shading and adding dimension. I loved the expression and realism in this sketchy style as well. Plus, I loved, LOVED, loved how our main heroine looked. She wasn’t your typically beautiful heroine model but looked real and her actual age. I reeaaally liked that.

Would I recommend it? yesssss, I loved this one.

notes on reading graphic novels so far…

1. The bigger they are, the more I enjoy them. You can learn more about the characters and plot, so it is a much more fulfilling experience as a reader.
2. I really enjoy it when the art has a distinct style, so it really stands out.
3. Graphic novels are expensive !!

here’s to the next 5 graphic novels… 🥂

Have you read any of these graphic novels? What did you think to them?

Have you got any recommendations for graphic novels?