Sinopticon 2021: A Celebration of Chinese Science Fiction is an anthology of thirteen short stories edited and translated by Xueting Christine Ni. It Sinopticon 2021: A Celebration of Chinese Science Fiction is an anthology of thirteen short stories edited and translated by Xueting Christine Ni. It showcases the depth and breadth of Chinese science fiction literature (Kehuan) – at its best.
For the most part, this collection of short stories was written and constructed rather well. Editor and translator Ni has curated thirteen never-before-translated stories couch universal themes of the genre – including the consequences of time travel and the implications of advanced artificial intelligence in elements unique to Chinese identity, culture, and history. Every entry is high-quality, but among the most memorable are Han Song's "Tombs of the Universe" and Gu Shi's "The Last Save".
Ni's concise but detailed introduction and thoughtful story notes provide helpful context, illuminating the history of Kehuan and the ways in which the genre has evolved over the decades. Authors included award winners, bestsellers, screenwriters, playwrights, philosophers, university lecturers and computer programmers.
Like most anthologies there are weaker contributions and Sinopticon 2021: A Celebration of Chinese Science Fiction is not an exception. There were a couple of short stories – mainly the longer ones that dragged on, but those are the outliers of what is a wonderful anthology. Ni's notes after each story detailing the reason behind its inclusion elevated the stories and answer any questions about culture to the Western ear.
All in all, Sinopticon 2021: A Celebration of Chinese Science Fiction is a wonderful collection of modern Chinese science fiction stories....more
Stories for Kids Who Dare to Be Different: True Tales of Amazing People Who Stood Up and Stood Out is a middle grade picture book anthology of mini-biStories for Kids Who Dare to Be Different: True Tales of Amazing People Who Stood Up and Stood Out is a middle grade picture book anthology of mini-biographies written by Ben Brooks and illustrated by Quinton Winter. It is a colorful collection of approximately seventy-five entries, which covers people around the world that dared to be different.
For the most part, this anthology is written and constructed rather well. Arranged in alphabetical order by surname (Deng Adut–Tu Youyou), each tribute receives a two-page biography with a straightforward one-paged, two columned biographies and is accompanied by vivid, full-page illustrations by Winter.
Brooks offers an eclectic, globe-spanning mix of individuals ranging from individual and groups from different walks of life and experiences. Readers learn about seventy-five artists, athletes, inventors, and philanthropists. Winter's dramatic, graphic novel-reminiscent art provides narrative dimension to Brooks' lively biographies, which serve to show readers that there are limitless ways to change the world.
All in all, Stories for Kids Who Dare to Be Different: True Tales of Amazing People Who Stood Up and Stood Out is a well-rounded collection of mini-biographies about individuals and groups that dared to be different. ...more
Rainbow Revolutionaries: Fifty LGBTQ+ People Who Made History is a middle grade picture book anthology of mini-biographies written by Sarah Prager andRainbow Revolutionaries: Fifty LGBTQ+ People Who Made History is a middle grade picture book anthology of mini-biographies written by Sarah Prager and illustrated by Sarah Papworth. It is a colorful compendium, which covers fifty boundary-breaking LGBTQ+ figures from across history and around the globe.
For the most part, this anthology is written and constructed rather well. Arranged in alphabetical order by first name, each tribute receives a two-page biography with a straightforward one-page biography that includes an account of how they changed the world, broke a barrier, or fought for LGBTQ+ rights and is accompanied by vivid, full-page, blocky illustrations. Backmatter includes a timeline, LGBTQ+ flags and symbols, selected bibliography.
Prager had chosen fifty influential people from all walks of life and covering many spheres of influence. The selection showcases a diversity of races, ethnicities, genders, and sexualities, with some minor gaps as there are no intersex examples or those from East-Asian countries. Despite this oversight, it does not diminish the book’s fundamental value as a resource for young people.
All in all, Rainbow Revolutionaries: Fifty LGBTQ+ People Who Made History is an exciting if uneven volume that offers much for inquisitive kids seeking LGBTQ+ information....more
Canadian Women Now and Then: More than 100 Stories of Fearless Trailblazers is a middle grade picture book anthology of mini-biographies written by ElCanadian Women Now and Then: More than 100 Stories of Fearless Trailblazers is a middle grade picture book anthology of mini-biographies written by Elizabeth MacLeod and illustrated by Maïa Faddoul. It is a collection of over a hundred fearless female Canadian trailblazers.
For the most part, this anthology is written and constructed extremely well – it is far from perfect, but comes rather close. Arranged in alphabetical order in profession or vocation (Activist–Writers), each twenty-five sections have at least two tributes: one representing work these women are currently doing (NOW) and one that are considered groundbreakers in their fields (THEN). Sporadically, there would be an additional biography that have individual spans both section (NOW + THEN). Additionally, there may be an additional block of more examples within the profession – mainly in the THEN section.
Each NOW and THEN biographies are one-page biography, divided into two columns with a portrait done by Faddoul on one side and the other side is the biographical text by MacLeod. The sporadic NOW + THEN biographies are two-page biographies with one full page of art and text. Additionally, there are fifty more biographies of women at the end with five women per page – each with a paragraph of text with a handful of them having illustration of their portrait. Backmatter includes a timeline of important dates, selected bibliography, and an index.
MacLeod had chosen over one hundred influential Canadian women from all walks of life and covering many spheres of influence in their respective professions and vocations from the sciences, the arts, sports, politics, activism, entertainment, law, business and many others. These biographies include those of Indigenous women, immigrants, women with disabilities, and women from the LGBTQ+ community. In short, it is a wonderful collection of biographies of both well-known and not so well-known biographies of Canadian women.
All in all, Canadian Women Now and Then: More than 100 Stories of Fearless Trailblazers is a wonderful collection of inspirational mini-biographies of Canadian women....more
Five Tuesdays in Winter is an anthology of ten short stories by Lily King. It is a collection that delivers a rich and varied narrative filled with chFive Tuesdays in Winter is an anthology of ten short stories by Lily King. It is a collection that delivers a rich and varied narrative filled with characters whose lives are transformed by old and new acquaintances, addiction, and the written word.
For the most part, this collection of short stories was written and constructed rather well. All ten of these tales build gratifyingly to moments of epiphany that never feel unearned. Some are dark, but even they offer moments of sweetness. Many stories are told in retrospect, with the benefits of hindsight. These stories crackle and shine and King is a master of the thumbnail portrait: she can create a fully realized life in a single paragraph and then alter it in breathtaking ways.
Like most anthologies there are weaker contributions and Five Tuesdays in Winter is not an exception. Comparatively speaking, all these stories are written exceedingly well, there we just some moments where I thought were not as strong as the rest.
All in all, Five Tuesdays in Winter is a wonderful collection of short stories that are romantic, hopeful, brutally raw, and unsparingly honest – the many aspects of love....more
Stories for South Asian Supergirls: A Treasure Trove of 50 Illustrated Biographies of Amazing South Asian Women is a children's picture book anthologyStories for South Asian Supergirls: A Treasure Trove of 50 Illustrated Biographies of Amazing South Asian Women is a children's picture book anthology of mini-biographies written by Raj Kaur Khaira and illustrated by Anu Chouhan, Deepikah R. Bhardwaj, Kokila Bhattacharya, Meenal Patel, Nazrina Rodjan, Poonam Saini, Raj Kaur, Sandeep Johal, Suman Kaur, and Vinny Soor. It is a collection of fifty tributes of influential South-Asian Women.
For the most part, this treasury is written and constructed extremely well – it is far from perfect, but comes rather close. In no particular order, these fifty mini-biographies is a two-page spread with a two-columned biographical text on the left page and a full-page portrait on the right done by one of the ten South-Asian women artist listed above. Backmatter includes a timeline with introductions to the ten artists of the anthology.
Khaira had chosen fifty influential women from Afghanistan, Pakistan, India, Bangladesh, Nepal, Sri Lanka, Maldives, and Bhutan. The women tribute ranges from a diverse background from a prominent suffragette, an Indian princess, prime ministers, authors, and everything in-between. In short, it is a wonderful collection of biographies that redresses the imbalance for young girls of color. Furthermore, it is illustrated by ten renowned South Asian women artists.
All in all, Stories for South Asian Supergirls: A Treasure Trove of 50 Illustrated Biographies of Amazing South Asian Women is a wonderful collection of inspirational mini-biographies, who just happens to be women from South Asian descent....more
Unreconciled: Family, Truth, and Indigenous Resistance is an autobiographical memoir written by Jesse Wente. It is a collection of fifteen interconnecUnreconciled: Family, Truth, and Indigenous Resistance is an autobiographical memoir written by Jesse Wente. It is a collection of fifteen interconnecting personal essays, which narrates the life of Jesse Wente.
Jesse Wente is a First Nations Canadian arts journalist and chairperson of the Canada Council for the Arts. He is an Ojibwe member of Serpent River First Nation.
Each chapter is a self-contained essay, yet the book as a whole is a unified narrative of Wente's childhood and professional career and his experience navigating being Indigenous in Canada. Much of what Wente discusses involves the idea of not being "Indian enough" and how colonialism quite literally created official definitions of Indigenous people. At the same time, movements towards self-identification as the standard have created situations where settlers can exploit opportunities created for Indigenous people, such as access to scholarships or specific academic positions.
Unreconciled: Family, Truth, and Indigenous Resistance is written is written rather well. Organized into three sections about the stories we are told, we tell ourselves, and we tell others. Part memoir and part manifesto, Wente's essays tackle so many interconnected ideas, from tokenism to scapegoating to representation. All of these intersect along axis of liberation and power, as he examines the points in his life where he has been free (or the opposite) to choose, points where he has had the power to determine something or when that power has been an illusion.
All in all, Unreconciled: Family, Truth, and Indigenous Resistance is a wonderful exploration of being Indigenous and its relationship with Canada....more
Girls Think of Everything: Stories of Ingenious Inventions by Women is a middle grade picture anthology of mini-biographies written by Catherine ThimmGirls Think of Everything: Stories of Ingenious Inventions by Women is a middle grade picture anthology of mini-biographies written by Catherine Thimmesh and illustrated by Melissa Sweet. It is a compilation of short biographies of seventeen inventors that happens to be women.
For the most part, this biographic anthology is written and constructed rather well. These biographies range from Ruth Wakefield – inventor of the chocolate chip cookies to Alice Brooks and Bettina Chen – creators of Roominate. Thimmesh had selected a group of diverse innovators from around the world and different walks of life.
These seventeen mini-biographies in fifteen sections cover approximately four pages of written work with mini-portraits and associated illustrations done by Sweet. Backmatter includes a timeline with many more women inventors, selected bibliography, glossary, and index.
The women that Thimmesh had chosen are: Virginia Apgar, Ruth Wakefield, Anna Stork and Andrea Sreshta, Mary Anderson, Azza Abdelhamid Faiad, Stephanie Kwolek, Alissa Chavez, Grace Murray Hooper, Trisha Prabhu, Margaret E. Knight, Patricia Bath, Jeanne Lee Crews, Kiara Nirghin, Patsy O. Sherman, Ann More, and Alice Brooks and Bettina Chen.
All in all, Girls Think of Everything: Stories of Ingenious Inventions by Women is a wonderful collection of mini-biographies of ingenious women whose inventions had made life simpler and better....more
Alien Nation: A Celebration of Immigration from the Stage to the Page is an anthology of thirty-two personal essays collected and edited by Sofija SteAlien Nation: A Celebration of Immigration from the Stage to the Page is an anthology of thirty-two personal essays collected and edited by Sofija Stefanovic. In this celebratory essay collection, Stefanovic spotlights the deep and complex stories of immigrants in America.
For the most part, this collection of essays was written rather well. Alien Nation: A Celebration of Immigration from the Stage to the Page is written by different immigrants from all over the world, who has made the United States of America their new home. It features work by writers, entertainers, thinkers, and community leaders.
Like most anthologies there are weaker contributions and Alien Nation: A Celebration of Immigration from the Stage to the Page is not an exception. Stefanovic organizes the pieces into seven thematic sections, which was based on a play of the same name: "Alien and Familiar" (5), "Then and Now" (6), "Deep in New York City" (5), "Attachments" (5), "What Forms Us" (5), "Being Here" (5), and "Finding Roots" (5). Most stories survive the transition from stage to page surprisingly well. However, it is the more comedic essays that don't translate all too well into print and perhaps best seen live.
All in all, Alien Nation: A Celebration of Immigration from the Stage to the Page is a moving look at what the American dream means today....more
Trigger Warning: Incest, Rape, and Sexual Violence.
Drawing Power: Women's Stories of Sexual Violence, Harassment, and Survival is a collection of overTrigger Warning: Incest, Rape, and Sexual Violence.
Drawing Power: Women's Stories of Sexual Violence, Harassment, and Survival is a collection of over sixty autobiographical comics collected and edited by Diane Noomin with and introduction by Roxane Gay. The #MeToo is elaborated as a movement, not just a moment, in this diverse, unblinkingly honest anthology of sixty-three autobiographical comics.
For the most part this anthology is written constructed rather well. Each short piece, ranging from a few panels to a few pages, explores the specific cartoonist's experiences of sexual harassment, abuse, and violence in varying art styles and approaches – most don't come to a clear resolution. However, the focus is on exposure rather than neatly sewing up a raw experience. Yet whether they are optimistic or nihilistic, abstract or exactingly inked, each entry presents its own startling truth.
The strength of this collection comes from its diversity both of breadth and depth. The anecdotes shared cover a wide range of experiences from a wide range of voices from queer, trans, non-binary, POC from around the world.
Like most anthologies there are weaker contributions and Drawing Power: Women's Stories of Sexual Violence, Harassment, and Survival is not an exception. To be clear, it is not the stories that the problems lay, albeit it was a tad repetitive in some cases, but in its construction. Granted some art is better than others as there were a few that was difficult to decipher, but also some comics felt a tad too cluttered, which made the reading experience difficult.
All in all, Drawing Power: Women's Stories of Sexual Violence, Harassment, and Survival is a powerful testimony to the strength of women who has suffered through sexual violence, survived it, and stood up to tell their stories....more
Little People, Big Dreams: Treasury: 50 Stories from Brilliant Dreamers is a children's picture anthology of mini-biographies written by Isabel SáncheLittle People, Big Dreams: Treasury: 50 Stories from Brilliant Dreamers is a children's picture anthology of mini-biographies written by Isabel Sánchez Vegara and illustrated by various artists. It is a collection of fifty tributes to several influential dreamers around the world.
For the most part, this treasury is written and constructed extremely well – it is far from perfect, but comes rather close. Arranged chronological from Mary Shelley in 1790 to Greta Thunberg in 2003, these fifty mini-biographies covers four pages: to the left is an updated text from their original books with the cover portrait centered on the right, which is followed by a two-page timeline of the person in question’s life, which could be found in each book's endnotes. Essentially, this treasury is a collection of fifty children books into one – just without the illustrations of the various artists.
Vegara had chosen fifty influential people throughout time that has helped or currently helping to shape the world. People chosen come from diverse fields from activists, writers, suffragists, scientists, explorers, doctors, civil rights leaders, conservationists, celebrities, and many more.
All in all, Little People, Big Dreams: Treasury: 50 Stories from Brilliant Dreamers is a wonderful collection of inspirational dreamers, who have changed or currently changing the world....more
Find Me is a bind-up anthology of two novellas from the Shatter Me series written by Tahereh Mafi. These novellas bridN.B.: Rating 3.5 ★ rounded down.
Find Me is a bind-up anthology of two novellas from the Shatter Me series written by Tahereh Mafi. These novellas bridges consecutive installments of the core series told in the point of view of fandom favorite Kenji Kishimoto.
Shadow Me (★★★★☆) centers on Kenji Kishimoto and retells the last moments of Restore Me and the disastrous outcome the Symposium ending in the death of most of the Reestablishment leadership, the kidnapping of Juliette Ferrars and Aaron Warner, and his injury. This novella nicely bridges Restore Me and Defy Me – the fourth and fifth installments of the core series.
Reveal Me (★★★☆☆) centers on Kenji Kishimoto at Sanctuary Headquarters – another resistance group led by Nouria, Castle's daughter. After the events at the end of Defy Me, the Resistance are recuperating and convalescing, Kenji is still feeling the aftereffects of the drugs that he was injected with and deals with upcoming plots that would lead to the final book and the relationship tension with Nazeera Ibrahim. This novella nicely bridges Defy Me and Imagine Me – the fifth and sixth installments of the core series
For the most part, these novellas were written moderately well. Mafi has given wonderful insights to fandom favorite Kenji Kisihmoto as both novellas were written in his perspective, albeit not as in-depth as the previous novellas has done for Aaron Warner and Adam Kent respectively. Mafi has created a wonderful voice in Kenji Kisihmoto as his in-your-face and snarky attitude brings much levity to the series.
All in all, Find Me is a great bind-up of two interconnecting novellas, while not crucial to the core series, it would give a wonderful insight to Kenji Kisihmoto....more
This Is Our Rainbow: 16 Stories of Her, Him, Them, and Us is an anthology of sixteen entries co-edited by Katherine Locke and Nicole Melleby. These siThis Is Our Rainbow: 16 Stories of Her, Him, Them, and Us is an anthology of sixteen entries co-edited by Katherine Locke and Nicole Melleby. These sixteen entries by celebrated authors of literature for young people center the experiences of LGBTQ+ youth in pivotal moments of childhood and adolescence.
For the most part, this collection of short stories was written and constructed extremely well – it is far from perfect, but comes rather close. Editors and contributors Locke and Melleby assemble the works of sixteen authors and artists whose pieces present a wide range of LGBTQ experiences across genres and formats. Thirteen short stories, two comics, and one written in verse encompass this anthology of diversity. The result is a strong amalgam of confidently written portraits that consider the joys, pains, and complexities that can come with being young and queer.
Like most anthologies there are weaker contributions, but This Is Our Rainbow: 16 Stories of Her, Him, Them, and Us may be the rare exception. Many of the protagonists feel a budding desire for close connection and they overcome self-doubt to reach for it. Not every infatuation works out, and sometimes feelings get hurt, but these outcomes lean toward recovery and personal growth while validating the sadness of loneliness. This collection breaks free from the dichotomy of representing LGBTQ+ lives as total tragedy or one-true-love, happily-ever-after coming-out stories.
All in all, This Is Our Rainbow: 16 Stories of Her, Him, Them, and Us is a vital and liberating anthology perfect for middle graders....more
Swimmers in Winter is an anthology of six stories by Faye Guenther. This collection contains three pairs of astute stories about Canadian lesbians, thSwimmers in Winter is an anthology of six stories by Faye Guenther. This collection contains three pairs of astute stories about Canadian lesbians, the first one starting in the 1940s and the final one taking place sometime in the future. It has been shortlisted for the 2021 Toronto Book Awards.
For the most part, this collection of short stories was written and constructed rather well. Advertised as a trifecta of diptychs, any of the six pieces can stand well on their own, or can work in their pairs to flesh out the characters, the timeframe, and the realities of life for queer women in their communities. Offering an exploration of desire that spans the past, present, and future, the collection's structure and organization is as interesting to contemplate as the stories themselves.
Multifaceted women are the focus of the collection. There are assertive women who reckon with the options available to them in a moment designed to restrict their freedoms. There are loyal women who crave stability and a place to call home in the face of economic insecurity and danger. There are warrior women who have been damaged by forces beyond their control, yet who still fight to find connections and safety. They are all familiar, beautiful, and full of life with idiosyncrasies and flaws that are wonderfully and carefully rendered.
Like most anthologies there are weaker contributions and Swimmers in Winter is not an exception. Relatively speaking, they were all written well, but the middle or second pair of stories seems weaker than the first and third pairs, but written rather well nevertheless.
All in all, Swimmers in Winter is a wonderful soul-searching, plot-driven character studies of the past, present, and possible future for lesbian women....more
Future State: Suicide Squad is an anthology of four series that are a part of the greater Future State event, published by DC Comics. This trade paperFuture State: Suicide Squad is an anthology of four series that are a part of the greater Future State event, published by DC Comics. This trade paperback collects: Future State: Suicide Squad #1–2, Future State: Teen Titans #1–2, Future State: Shazam! #1–2, and Future State: Swamp Thing #1–2.
Suicide Squad (★★☆☆☆) is a two-issue storyline (Future State: Suicide Squad #1–2) has Amanda Waller (for some reason) creating a Justice Squad from Earth-3: William Cobb as Batman, Alinta as Bolt (The Flash analogue), Fisherman (Aquaman analogue), Clayface as Martian Manhunter, Conner Kent as Superman, and Hypnotic Woman (Wonder Woman analogue) and the Suicide Squad from Earth Prime tries to stop her. It is penned by Robbie Thompson and penciled by Javier Fernandez.
Black Adam (★★☆☆☆) is a two-part storyline and a back-up story in Future State: Suicide Squad (#1–2) has Black Adam in the far future with Justice Legion-A take on the Four Horsemen of the Apocalypse, Lords of Chaos, and the Seven Deadly Sins. It is penned by Jeremy Adams and penciled by Fernando Pasarin.
Ruins/Reckoning (★★★☆☆) is a two-part storyline (Future State: Teen Titans #1–2) has the original Titans opening up a school to teach future heroes – the next generation of Teen Titans and their generational battle with the Horsemen of the Apocalypse. It introduces Red X to DC Continuity for the first time. It is penned by Tim Sheridan and penciled by Rafa Sandoval.
The Last Temptation of William Batson/Devil's Due (★★★☆☆) is a two-part storyline (Future State: Shazam! #1–2) has Billy Batson as Shazam making a deal with Neron – a Demon Lord of Hell and the Justice League of America are trying to find out the reason Shazam is acting so oddly. Apparently, Billy Batson and Shazam were separated so Billy Batson could guard the new prisoner on The Rock – The Unkindness – a possessed Raven by the Four Horsemen of the Apocalypse. It is penned by Tim Sheridan and penciled by Rafa Sandoval.
Obsidian Sun (★★★★☆) is a two-part storyline (Future State: Swamp Thing #1–2) has Alec Holland as Swamp Thing in the distant future, where the Green has retaken the Earth as humanity literally destroyed themselves. However, things go sideways, when Swamp Thing discovered that a pocket of humanity had survived. It is penned by Ram V and penciled by Mike Perkins.
For the most part, these short stories are written and constructed moderately well. The story about the Teen Titans, Shazam, and Black Adam loosely interconnects with each other, which in itself is a continuation of a story started in Future State: The Flash, which was bind-up in Future State: Justice League. The Suicide Squad story is rather odd as nothing is explained, while the Swamp Thing story is the best, but felt like an outlier, because it was set in the far future.
As for the pencilers, while not many, have their own distinctive styles, which the artistic flow rather turbulent. Some pencilers are better than others – Fernandez has a messy and chaotic style, Perkins has a monotone one, and the rest complement each other rather well. Fortunately, the artistic flow is mitigated somewhat by having one penciler or a team of pencilers doing one story.
Overall, having read all six trades of the Future State event, I finally got the sense of the event. Basically, in the near possible future, all the big named superheroes are replaced for one reason or another (i.e., Jace Fox as Batman, Jon Kent as Superman, Yara Flor as Wonder Woman, etc.). However, most of the stories just jump into the middle of the narrative, expecting the reader to have done their homework and know what was going one. To complicate things further, some stories take place in the distant future – one even at the end of time, so trying to make sense of the chronology is difficult at best. In short, this event could have benefit with a timeline.
All in all, Future State: Suicide Squad is a mediocre collection of stories in the Future State event, focusing loosely on the Teen Titans storyline, which is odd that they call this collection after Suicide Squad as they were only featured in one story....more
Queer as All Get Out: 10 People Who've Inspired Me is a graphic novel written and illustrated by Shelby Criswell. It is a graphic novel that effortlesQueer as All Get Out: 10 People Who've Inspired Me is a graphic novel written and illustrated by Shelby Criswell. It is a graphic novel that effortlessly blends memoir with mini-biographies of global LGBTQ+ change-makers.
Shelby Criswell is a queer comic creator living in San Antonio, Texas. They studied studio arts at the Santa Fe Institute of Art and Design as well as illustration at Academy of Arts University.
This graphic novel is a collection of ten mini-biographies of queer people that Criswell found especially meaningful – particularly to them. Rather than attempting a comprehensive history, the illustrated biographical sketches provide a well-researched, if slightly disjointed, catalog of them. This broad selection offers a starting place for readers seeking meaningful connections with the past.
As White, non-binary college student Criswell wanders around San Antonio, Texas, they unpack the complexities of Southern identity and begin to research, draw, and discuss significant icons with friends. Accompanying them on this journey, readers meet history-makers who are often overlooked by the mainstream – people who broaden Criswell's understanding of the difficulties facing those who have fought for LGBTQ+ justice around the world.
Queer as All Get Out: 10 People Who've Inspired Me is written and constructed rather well. Criswell’s approach effectively anchors contemporary life to these influencers. At times the transitions and interjections are a bit stiff, but what is lacking in flow is countered by Criswell's crisp drawings and eye for details. The choice of subjects reflects diverse perspectives – the ten mentioned are: Mary Jones, We'wha, Magnus Hirschfeld, Dr. Pauli Murray, Wilmer "Little Axe" M. Broadnax, Sister Rosetta Tharpe, Carlett Brown, Nancy Cárdenas, Ifti Nasim, and Simon Nkoli.
All in all, Queer as All Get Out: 10 People Who've Inspired Me is a wonderful and positive collection of mini-biographies of LGBTQ+ heroes that are not as well known....more
Future State: Wonder Woman is an anthology of three series that are a part of the greater Future State event, published by DC Comics. This trade paperFuture State: Wonder Woman is an anthology of three series that are a part of the greater Future State event, published by DC Comics. This trade paperback collects: Future State: Wonder Woman #1–2, Future State: Superman/Wonder Woman #1–2, and Future State: Immortal Wonder Woman #1–2.
Hell to Pay (★★★★☆) is a two-issue storyline (Future State: Wonder Woman #1–2) has Yara Flor as the new Wonder Woman, who is from the tribe of the Amazons of the Amazon, came out of obscurity from the heart of the Amazon Rainforest in Brazil to protect Man's World from the magic that is within it. She confronts Cerberus and Charon in order to threaten Hades, who stole her sister. It is penned and penciled by Joëlle Jones.
The Planet's Finest (★★★☆☆) is a two-part storyline (Future State: Superman/Wonder Woman #1–2) has Jon Kent as Superman teaming up with Yara Flor as Wonder Woman teaming up to prevent disaster to their cities as two sun gods –Kuat (Brazilian Sun God) and Solaris, the tyrant sun – an enemy to Superman. It is penned by Dan Watters and penciled by Leila del Luca.
Immortal Wonder Woman (★★★☆☆) is a two-part storyline (Future State: Immortal Wonder Woman #1–2) has Diana of Themyscira as Wonder Woman taking on Darkseid as the Highfather and The Undoing – The Anti-life Equation at the very end of the universe. It is co-penned by Becky Cloonan and Michael W. Conrad and penciled by Jen Bartel.
Nubia (★★★☆☆) is a two-part storyline and a back-up story in Future State: Immortal Wonder Woman (#1–2) has Nubia as Wonder Woman – apparently she is the fable Lost Princess of the Amazons, daughter to Hippolyta and half-sister to Diana. She is to stop Grail, who is collecting nine artifacts that holds the anger of the gods – a very powerful weapon. It is penned by LL McKinney and penciled by Alitha Martinez.
For the most part, these short stories are written and constructed moderately well. It focuses on three Wonder Women: Diana of Themyscira – the original, Yara Flor – a demigod, and Nubia – half-sister to Diana with half of the stories focusing on Yara Flor, which is good, because her character is a breath of fresh air. The outlier of the group is the original Wonder Woman as her story takes place at the end of time – literally, while the others takes place in the possible near future.
As for the pencilers, they complement each other rather well as their styles meshes well with each other, which help with the artistic flow of the trade – no major complaints.
All in all, Future State: Wonder Woman is one of the better collection in the Future State event, focusing mainly on three very different Wonder Women....more
The Penguin Book of First World War Poetry is an anthology of sixteen entries edited by George Walter. This collection reflects the diverse experienceThe Penguin Book of First World War Poetry is an anthology of sixteen entries edited by George Walter. This collection reflects the diverse experiences of those who lived through the war, bringing together the words of poets, soldiers, and civilians affected by the conflict.
For the most part, this collection of poetry was written and constructed rather well. Editor Walter has assembled sixteen wonderful poems about the Great War – both during and after the war. Well-known poets and more obscure ones nicely balance this anthology with different viewpoints and talents.
Arranged thematically, the selections take the reader through the war's stages, from conscription to its aftermath, and offer a blend of voices that is both unique and profoundly moving. This anthology is divided into five sections with three poems each and a coda at the end: "Your Country Needs You", "Somewhere in France", "Action", "Blighty", and "Peace", which neatly divides each poem from conscription to peace.
Like most anthologies there are weaker contributions and The Penguin Book of First World War Poetry is not an exception. Granted that a couple poems are written better than other – comparatively speaking, but it is only a singular experience – a British one. Granted they were a major player in the Great War, but it would have been nice to have a more worldly view as it was the first war that the world participated in.
This particular edition contains an introduction by George Walter, which examines the genre of War poetry – in particular to the First World War and how these poems impacted the world at the time. Additionally, there are copious and valuable notes on the text, glossary, biographies, and a list of further reading.
All in all, The Penguin Book of First World War Poetry is a wonderful, albeit limited, collection of war poetry – in particular the First World War....more
Future State: Justice League is an anthology of six series that are a part of the greater Future State event, published by DC Comics. This trade paperFuture State: Justice League is an anthology of six series that are a part of the greater Future State event, published by DC Comics. This trade paperback collects: Future State: Justice League #1–2, Future State: Aquaman #1–2, Future State: The Flash #1–2, and Future State: Green Lantern #1–2.
Justice League (★★★☆☆) is a two-issue storyline (Future State: Justice League #1–2) has the new Justice League: Andrina Curry as Aquawoman, Jace Fox as Batman, Jess Chambers as The Flash, Green Lantern Jo Mullein, Jon Kent as Superman, and Yara Flor as Wonder Woman trying to solve a mystery that happened at the base – the murder of the Legion of Doom. It is penned by Joshua Williamson and penciled by Robson Rocha.
Justice League Dark (★★★☆☆) is a two-part storyline that serves as the back-up story in Future State: Justice League (#1–2) has Zatanna and Detective Chimp, who hosts Etrigan, trying to stop Merlin of Arthurian Legends from taking all magic. To aid them, are: Khalid Nassour as Doctor Fate, John Constantine, Madame Xanadu, and Rory Regan as Ragman. It is penned by Ram V and penciled by Marcio Takara.
The Confluence (★★★★☆) is a two-part storyline (Future State: Aquaman #1–2) has Jackson Hyde as Aquaman being held prisoner by the Neptunians – extraterrestrials from the planet Neptune as he recalls his mentor-student relationship with Andrina Curry as Aqualass – now Aquawoman of the Justice League. It is penned by Brandon Thomas and penciled by Daniel Sampere.
Death Race (★★★☆☆) is a two-part storyline (Future State: The Flash #1–2) has Barry Allen as The Flash with the support of his team: Avery Ho, Jay Garrick, Bart Allen as Impulse, and Max Mercury – all depowered trying to stop a possessed Wally West from killing people – really DC, why all the Wally hate? It is penned by Brandon Vietti and co-penciled by Dale Eaglesham (#1), Brandon Peterson and Will Conrad (#2).
Last Lanterns (★★★☆☆) is a two-part storyline (Future State: Green Lantern #1–2) has a depowered John Stewart and his team, composed of several alien warriors, including two former Green Lanterns in G'nort and Salakk, protecting the Shaar, the people of Corex D'Shaar, from an assault of the Khunds - brutal barbarians who just want to bath in blood. It is penned by Geoffrey Thorne and penciled by Tom Raney.
The Taking of Sector 0123 (★★★★☆) is a one-shot story and the first of four back-up stories in Future State: Green Lantern (#1) has Jessica Cruz trapped on a Space Station on Sector 0123, when her ring died, but even without her ring and her powers, she is able to defend the station against three Yellow Lanterns. It is penned by Ryan Cady and penciled by Sami Basri.
Book of Guy (★★★★☆) is a one-shot story and the second of four back-up stories in Future State: Green Lantern (#1) has Guy Gardner being sent to Rerlin of Sector 0345 to stop a holy war, when his ring depowers and is trapped on the planet – worse yet, he becomes the prophet – the religious leader of the planet. It is penned by Ernie Altbacker and penciled by Clayton Henry.
Dead Space (★★★☆☆) is a one-shot story and the third of four back-up stories in Future State: Green Lantern (#2) has Keli Quintela as Teen Lantern on Mogo – the living planet Green Lantern traveling through the vast nothingness of space when their rings depowers and it is up to Quintela to revive Mogo and stop an alien invasion. It is penned by Josie Campbell and penciled by Andie Tong.
Recon (★★★☆☆) is a one-shot story and the fourth and final back-up stories in Future State: Green Lantern (#2) has Hal Jordan leaving Earth for Oa to do some recon as he has lost all contact with the other Lanterns and his ring has been on the fritz lately. Traveling thorough the dangers of space, he manages to crash land on Oa to see it decimated. He is confronted by a very angry Green Lantern Jo Mullein. It is penned by Robert Venditti and penciled by Dexter Soy.
For the most part, these short stories are written and constructed moderately well – far better than the previous collections I have read in this event (so far). The first half of the trade paperback deals with the individual Justice League members that doesn't have a big enough story for their individual trades (Aquaman and The Flash – not thrilled how they handled Wally West – again), while the second half deals with most of the Green Lanterns of Earth when suddenly their Power Battery on Oa is destroyed, missing are: Kyle Rayner and Simon Baz, who gets the briefest of mentions.
As for the pencilers, there are far too many to comment or to form a cohesive flow as their styles are drastic from one another. They have rather distinct styles, but most if not all of them are rather pleasing to the eye as there is no outright outlier of terrible art. My only quibble is found in Future State: The Flash #1–2, where they have different pencilers for each issue, which I prefer one penciler or team of pencilers for the entire run.
All in all, Future State: Justice League is a moderate set of stories apart of the greater Future State event within the Justice League members and the Green Lantern Family....more
Unite Me is a bind-up anthology of two novellas from the Shatter Me series written by Tahereh Mafi. These novellas bridgN.B.: Rating 3.5 ★ rounded up.
Unite Me is a bind-up anthology of two novellas from the Shatter Me series written by Tahereh Mafi. These novellas bridges consecutive installments of the core series told in the point of views of the love interest of Juliette Ferrars: Aaron Warner (Destroy Me) and Adam Kent (Fracture Me).
Destroy Me (★★★★☆) the novella centers on Aaron Warner, Chief Commander of Sector 45 and main antagonist, and takes place shortly after his near-fatal wound shoulder wound that Juliette Ferrars committed in order to escape his clutches. This novella nicely bridges Shatter Me and Unravel Me – the first and second installments of the core series.
Fracture Me (★★★☆☆) the novella centers on Adam Kent, Member of Omega Point Resistance, and takes place during and shortly after the all-out assault on The Reestablishment within their sector. It follows Adam Kent's thoughts prior, during, and after the assault. This novella nicely bridges Unravel Me and Ignite Me – the second and third installments of the core series.
For the most part, these novellas were written moderately well. Mafi has given wonderful insights to the two love interest to Juliette Ferrars, as the core series is written in a limited first-person perspective, which is rather unreliable to the true thoughts of the characters in question. Surprisingly, Mafi has a different writing style for each of her characters with Juliette Ferrars it is very purple, Aaron Warner is very succinct, and Adam Kent is rather emotional.
These novellas should end the love triangle debate of the series rather well – as the titles are indicative to stressing how Juliette Ferrars' departure would affect both of these men as losing Juliette for Aaron Warner would destroy him, but for Adam Kent would only fracture him. The text within the novellas also supports this supposition.
This bind-up also includes segments of Juliette's Journal, which is a personal account of her mental state when she was being held by The Reestablishment during her 264 days of her imprisonment. It is an interesting tidbit and an intimate precursor to the series. Also in this bind-up is a teaser for the third book in the series – Ignite Me.
All in all, Unite Me is a great bind-up of two interconnecting novellas, while not crucial to the core series would give a wonderful insight to the two love interests of the core series....more
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