The Mayor’s Review of Comics Squad #2: Lunch by Jennifer L. Holm, Matthew Holm, Jarrett J. Krosoczka, Peanuts, Cece Bell, and more
Available: January 2016
Genre: Graphic Novels, Humor
Age: Elementary School Readers (2nd-6th)
Summary:
This is the ultimate “sampler platter” of graphic novels. Eight short stories from different authors all focused on the great childhood equalizer – lunch. I already knew I loved Cece Bell (El Deafo), Jennifer and Matthew Holm (Babymouse) and Nathan Hale (Hazardous Tales,) but this was a great way to get introduced to authors I had not read before.
My Favorite Part:
I’m a fast reader and often skim through good novels to find out what happens. But I find that graphic novels actually make me slow down and be a “close reader” because I have to soak in the pictures, too, to really get what’s happening. A good reminder to me as a reader and educator.
All the stories brought a smile to my face, but my favorite was “Crazy Little Thing Called Lunch” by Cece Bell. I loved the dreamy eyed character that really was delirious from nut allergies.
Why It Mattered to Me:
Sometimes you just need to laugh. This book did that for me – and my eight-year-old son, Beck. I had been telling Beck that he needed to do his evening reading and he kept finding other things to do (wander around the living room, play on an iPad, tap me on the shoulder.) Finally, I handed him this book and he immediately shut up and read it three times in a row.
Who Should Read This Book:
While some of the stories are actually complex (like the choose your own adventure one by Jason Shiga) and some address older kid issues (crushes!), and some talk about historical topics (Nathan Hale), I think this would appeal to younger readers in 2nd/3rd grade as well as older 4th-6th grade readers in the mood for a good laugh.
