El Deafo

El Deafo by Cece Bell is a nominee for the 2016-17 South Carolina Children’s Book Award.

El Deafo is both a graphic novel and a memoir. It truly is Cece Bell’s story. This story–which depicts young Cece as a rabbit–tells of how she lost her hearing and adapted to the world around her. It shows her difficulties fitting in as well as her triumphs. It’s hilarious at times and heart-breaking at others, and anyone who sees himself/herself as different will relate to Cece in some way.

But you don’t really need me to tell you about this book. Let’s hear from the author herself…

I think El Deafo is a great book for introducing a variety of concepts. Some of those may include:

• telling stories in a variety of formats
• exploring the relationships between art and writing
• memoirs
• accepting/celebrating differences; tolerance
• empathy
• self-confidence
• handling conflict

To learn more about this amazing book and author Cece Bell, visit her website.

Return of the Dapper Men

Return of the Dapper Men is a stunning book that will appeal to readers of all ages.  Children, teens, and adults will find something to love in this enchanting tale.

Jim McCann’s evocative words paired with Janet Lee’s amazing visuals combine to create not only an astounding graphic novel but also a breathtaking work of art. The imagination is stimulated by this story, and, in my opinion, that is the mark of all great art and literature.

Return of the Dapper Men, while showcasing the essence of steampunk fantasy, also brings to mind such favorite tales as The Wizard of Oz, Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, Alice in Wonderland, Peter Pan, and other beloved tales. When a book is in such company, it is no wonder that it won this year’s Eisner Award for best graphic album.

I know I haven’t really told anything about the actual story here, and that is intentional. This is one you need to experience for yourself. I hope you will find the journey as magical as I did.