Reviews...

Scott Pilgrim vs. the World (DVD, 2010)

Two words...crazy awesome! This movie is based on the graphic novel series by Bryan O'Malley, and from what I hear, the movie follows the GN really well, so fans of the series won't be disappointed. The story (both movie and GN) is about an aimless 22 year old, Scott Pilgrim, who plays the bass in a band, dates a high schooler (which I believe is illegal), and is currently unemployed. Everything changes for Scott when he meets the girl of his dreams, Ramona Flowers (although, not the jobless part). There is a catch to this relationship, he must defeat her seven evil exes before they can be together. This movie has action, comedy, and romance. Definitely look Scott Pilgrim on the teen shelves.


Gothic Beauty (Magazine)

Recently this magazine came to my attention, being new to the shelf, and it is wicked cool. I don't even think you need to be gothic to enjoy it. Some of the articles found in the most recent issue deal with steam-punk fashion, insane assylms, timeless trends, DYI (do-it-yourself) coffin purses, and heritage museums. I really like how it mixes history with fashion. Of course, Gothic Beauty also contains music, book, and product reviews that are related to gothic culture. Look for issues of this magazine in the teen section at the Central Branch.

Shanna
~Teen Librarian

Graphic Novel Review

Wormwood: Gentleman Corpse Vol. 1
Birds, Bees, Beer & Blood

by Ben Templesmith

Smart-aleck jokes, grotesque dismemberment, a sentient worm living inside a corpse's eye socket, male alien pregnancy, strippers, and beer - these are just a few of the wonderful things you will find in this beautifully illustrated graphic novel. Some readers will be very attracted to it, and some will be utterly disgusted. Created, written, drawn, and designed by Ben Templesmith, who is best-known for 30 Days of Night, this is the best graphic novel I have read in months. It is very funny, almost silly at times, yet it is about saving the world from a demon. The humor is really just a bonus to the great characters, fascinating story, and incredibly visceral drawings. I was really bummed when it ended. I hope Volume 2 comes out soon!

Trevor
~Youth Services

Book Reviews...Finally!

Bright Young Things
by Anna Godbersen

I love Anna Godbersen. She never fails to write a book that I enjoy. Her most recent book, Bright Young Things, begins a series set in the flapper era. The story follows three young women as they navigate New York City in the 1920s. Letty and Cordelia are both transplants to New York. Although they are childhood friends, almost immediately they separate and find their own, very different, path in the city. Additionally, this book focuses on Astrid, who is a struggling NY socialite. All three girls struggle with love, life, and changes of fortune. This book is a fast read for those who enjoy historical fiction. Check it out!

Also, if you like books set in the flapper era, check out Vixen by Jillian Larkin.


Picture the Dead
by Adele Griffin and Lisa Brown

As if you didn't know already, I love historic fiction. This story takes place immediately after the Civil War in the North. While many lives were lost, Jennie feels especially alone because both her twin brother and fiance were killed in the war. In order to reconnect with her loved ones, she turns to a photographer, who claims he can picture the dead through his photos. These images haunt Jennie and she begins to feel that the dead are trying to tell her something. The authors also include illustrations of old letters and photographs to help you solve this mystery. This book is available for checkout today!

Shanna
~Teen Librarian