New Graphic Novel Roundup

 We have a fresh batch of manga and graphic novels that has just arrived, and is ready for you to request through Curbside Pickup from any of our participating branches. Here are some of the highlights of what we have just received. (Click the covers or book titles to place the books on hold today!)

Last Pick by Jason Walz: In this new dystopian, science fiction Trilogy series, Aliens invaded earth three years ago and abducted people who were deemed "useful." The only ones spared were those who were either too young, too old, or considered too “disabled” to be of value. Living under the aliens authoritative rule, the aliens do not see the human rejects as threat…until twins Sam and Wyatt start a revolution to fight against them! Find out what happens in this action-packed graphic filled with relatable characters and great world-building.

The PLAIN Janes by Cecil Castellucci and Jim Rugg: For teens who have a passion for art, this one is for you! After a horrific terrorist attack, artsy misfit Jane Beckles is forced to move to a small town and leave everything she loves about the bit city behind. At her new school she surprisingly finds where she belongs: the reject table in the cafeteria along with three other girls: Brain Jayne, Theater Jane, and sporty Polly Jane. The girls become fast friends united by their shared name and their frustrations with the adults that surround them. The girls start a secret club dedicated to fighting suburban apathy with fun, guerrilla works of art (like putting bubbles in the town fountain). For Jane Beckles, this movement is to prove to herself that she is not going to let fear run her life like it has her parents. Armed with her sketchbook and a mission of resistant, The PLAIN Janes are out to prove that passion, bravery, and a group of great friends can save anyone in their high school. (This is an omnibus edition that included the previously published The PLAIN Janes, Janes in Love and a never-before released 3rd volume Janes Attack Back)

Banned Book Club by Kim Hyun Sook, Ko Hyung-Ju and Ryan Estrada: This true story is based on the author’s real-life experience of joining a secret high school club which read books banned by South Korea’s Fifth Republic in 1983. During this time, the military regime held power through censorship, torture and murder.  Kim finds solace and refuge from the violence through reading books. Approached by the handsome young school editor of the newspaper, to join a reading group, Kim thinks she is going to discuss favorite classic literature like Moby Dick or Hamlet. Instead, she finds herself hiding in the school basement as the youngest member of a banned book club, and finds a thrill and joy in reading illicit literature that are quickly overshadowed by fear and violence.

Blackbird: Book 1 The Great Beast by Sam Humphries and art by Jen Bartel: Nina Rodriguez has always known about a hidden magical world in Los Angeles that is run by ruthless "cabals" - secret political groups. When a giant beast crosses over from the magical world into her "normal" L.A. and kidnaps Nina’s sister, Nina must confront her past (and her own personal demons) to get her sister back and to reclaim her life. This series is perfect for fans of Riverdale and those who love magical, fantasy worlds.

Heartstopper by Alice Oseman: Fans of Love, Simon, this one is for you! Charlie and Nick go to the same school, but they’ve never met until the day comes when they are forced to sit together at their strict British school for boys. They become fast friends, and soon, openly gay Charlie finds himself falling in love with Nick but he doesn’t think he has shot with the tough rugby player. Little does Charlie know, Nick is interested in him too! This cute LGBT+ graphic novel about love, friendship, loyalty and mental illness tells a realistic and relatable story everyone can enjoy reading.