The Immortal Iron Fist

Title
The Immortal Iron Fist

Library Link

The book of Iron Fist / by Ed Brubaker, Matt Fraction, Roy Thomas ; artists,
Travel Foreman ... [et al.].
Brubaker,
Ed.
New York : Marvel ; London : Diamond [distributor], 2009.

10 Second Review
A collection of stories exploring past and present bearers of the Iron Fist title.

Lots of martial arts action and interesting concepts.
Art and storylines range from fair to excellent.

Notes
Good for those looking for an alternative to traditional comics and those interested in lesser know Marvel characters.

Learning Curve
Low: Good for new readers

Reading Order
N/a

Gathering Blue

Title
Gathering Blue

Library Link

Gathering
blue / Lois Lowry
Lowry,
Lois.
Boston : Houghton Mifflin, c2000

10 Second Review
Kira lives in a filthy, backward town. When her mother dies, her body is dragged to an empty field and left for the animals.

Kira's home is burned to the ground and her neighbors want her kicked out of town.
However, her luck is about to change.

An excellent, engaging story that will provide the reader with some interesting dilemmas.
Good for those looking for something different and thought provoking.

NotesWhile not a sequel, this book takes place in the same world as 'The Giver'.

Learning CurveLow: Good for new readers.

Reading Order
Related to 'The Giver' and 'Messenger'

X-men: Original Sin

Title
X-men: Original Sin

Library Link

http://catalog.houstonlibrary.org/search~S1
Available
at Lakewood Public Library
Marvel Comics, 2009, by Mike Carey

10 Second Review
Wolverine is forced to face some unpleasant memories when he discovers he may have a son. Logan and Charles work through some issues.

Standard art and standard story. Should appeal to Wolverine fans but might overwhelm new readers.

Notes
Hulk and Wendigo make an appearance.

Learning Curve
Moderate: Those unfamiliar with Wolverine might be confused.

Reading Order
N/a

Mouse Guard Winter 1152

Title
Mouse Guard Winter 1152

Library Link

Mouse Guard. Vol. 2, Winter, 1152 / David Petersen.
Petersen,
David, 1977-
Fort Lee, N.J. : Archaia Studio ; London : Diamond
[distributor], 2008

10 Second Review
On an urgent mission, a guard team gets separated and makes some surprising discoveries.

Exceptional art creates a believable world inhabited by a community of mice and the enemies they face.
This book is a true graphic novel in that the images transcend mere visual appeal and actively participate in the story telling.

Notes
Don't dismiss this book because it's listed in the 'kids' section.

Learning Curve
Low: Good for new readers

Reading Order
Mouse Guard Fall 1152
Mouse Guard Winter 1152

Ms Marvel Operation Lightning Storm

Title
Ms Marvel Operation Lightning Storm

Library Link

Operation
lightning storm / writer, Brian Reed ; artist, Robert De La Torre
Reed,
Brian, 1971-

10 Second Review
Ms. Marvel convinces Tony Stark to let her start her own team and even gives her a mini-carrier. A few Shield Agents and Wonder Man join her to right wrongs and to battle the A.I.M. organization.

Ms. Marvel has some of the most ambiguous powers for a primary character (with Wonder Man bringing in a close second) but her professional wrestler looks seem to inspire better then average art.

The story is typical so this book will most likely appeal to Marvel fans.

Notes
Excellent cover art by Greg Horn

Learning Curve
Moderate: Those new to Marvel comics might be confused.

Reading Order
Occurs before Secret Invasion

Specials

Title
Specials

Library Link

Specials / Scott Westerfeld
Westerfeld,
Scott.

10 Second ReviewTally continues her struggles against various groups trying to manipulate her. One of her tricks goes too far and she is forced to accept responsibility for a dangerous situation.

While a bit tedious at first, this book provides the series with a strong finish. Plenty of twists and surprises make for a great read.

Notes
This book portrays students cutting themselves to stay focused.

Learning Curve
Low: If read in order

Reading Order
Uglies
Pretties
Specials

Spider-man: The Other

Title
Spider-man: The Other

Library Link

Spider-man
The Other, Evolve or Die
UNCATALOGED PAPERBACK
Marvel Enterprises
2007.

10 Second Review
A machine-themed villain gives Spidey headaches and an injury sends him to the doctor.
The doctor finds some disturbing news.
Things look grim for the web-crawler.

Good story and standard art.
The style of art changes quite a bit and the pace is a bit slow but should appeal to Marvel fans.

Notes
Book combines Amazing Spiderman and Marvel Knights

Learning Curve
Low to Moderate: Readers new to comics might be confused.

Reading Order
N/a

Encyclopedia of The End

Title
Encyclopedia of The End

Library Link

Encyclopedia
of the end : mysterious death in fact, fancy, folklore, and more / Deborah
Noyes
Boston : Houghton Mifflin Co., c2008.

10 Second Review
The book covers a large variety of topics related to the end.

THE End. Pushing up daisies. The big finale. Aka Death.

From protective amulets to cryonics, death brides to forensics and gravestones to war.

Lots of creepy pictures and some surprising historical facts.

Notes
Covers a variety of cultures and should also appeal to history buffs.

Learning Curve
Low: Good for new readers

Reading Order
N/a

Stars and STRIPE

Title
Stars and STRIPE

Library Link

Stars
and S.T.R.I.P.E. / Geoff Johns, writer ; Lee Moder, penciller ; Dan Davis,
inker ; Tom McCraw, colorist ; Bill Oakely, letterer
Johns,
Geoff, 1973-

10 Second Review
A young girl finds some old super hero equipment and decides to lead the crime-fighting life. Concerned for her safety, her step-dad dons an armored suit to act as her sidekick.

It's hard to tell who the target audience is for this book. The main character is young and overconfident (like Teen Titans) but the story line and art seem old school (like Justice Society of America). Basically, a young face on a dated format.

Notes
Fans of JSA might enjoy this series.

Learning Curve
Moderate: Might be confusing for those new to JSA

Reading Order
N/a

Dealing with the Stuff that makes Life Tough

Title
Dealing with the Stuff that makes Life Tough

Library Link

Dealing
with the stuff that makes life tough : the 10 things that stress girls out and
how to cope with them / Jill Zimmerman Rutledge Chicago : Contemporary
Books, c2004.

10 Second Review
Covers a wide range of issues that teen girls may face and offers practical advice.

This book provides a unique approach by providing solutions from different perspectives.
The advice covers a wide range of topics but is largely generic.

Notes
Will probably be more appealing to younger teens.

Learning Curve
Low: Good for new readers.

Reading Order
N/a

Spider-man: Crime and Punisher

Title
Spider-man: Crime and Punisher

Library Link

The
amazing Spider-Man. Crime and Punisher / writers, Marc Guggenheim, Zeb
Wells, Joe Kelly ; artists, Barry Kitson, Paolo Rivera, Chris Bachalo
Guggenheim,
Marc.

10 Second Review
Several unrelated stories gathered together to include Amazing Spiderman #574-577.

A good read with standard art and includes stories about Hammerhead, Punisher and others.

Notes
Spidey gets a big kiss from Greta

Learning Curve
Low: Should be good for new readers.

Reading Order
N/a

Pretties

Title
Pretties

Library Link

Pretties / by Scott Westerfeld
Westerfeld,
Scott.

10 Second Review
Tally wakes up with a brand new face and access to non-stop parties. As she enjoys the good life she also struggles with strange dreams and regaining lost memories.

A very strong sequel to 'Uglies' that is sure to satisfy fans.
More sophisticated then most teen titles, this book should appeal to both teens and adults.

Notes
Chock full of twists and surprises.

Learning CurveLow: If read after 'Uglies'

Reading Order
Uglies
Pretties
Specials

Oh my goddess 18

Title
Oh my goddess 18

Library Link

Oh
my goddess! / story and art by Kosuke Fujishima ; translation, Dana
Lewis, Alan Gleason, and Toren Smith ; lettering and touch-up by Susie Lee and
Betty Dong with Tom2K
Fujishima,
Kōsuke.

10 Second Review
Keiichi and Bell Dandy investigate a ghost sighting and a strange (very strange) mad scientist kidnaps one of the gang.

Fun, easy story. Fans will enjoy this book and a good choice for new readers.

Notes
This book reads in the traditional English format, from left to right.

Learning Curve
Low: Good for new readers

Reading Order
Chronological, but not essential.

Uglies

Title
Uglies

Library Link
Uglies / by Scott Westerfeld
Westerfeld, Scott.
New York : Simon Pulse, 2005.
1st Simon Pulse ed.

10 Second ReviewWhen you turn sixteen everyone gets free surgery to make them beautiful and life is one long party.

One girl finds out the hard way what happens to those that skip the surgery.

An intriguing and entertaining book reminiscent of Brave New World. The author manages to capture how tempting conformity can be.

Notes
Should have wide appeal.

Learning CurveLow: Good for new readers.

Reading Order
Uglies
Pretties
Specials

Iron Man Enter the Mandarin

Title
Iron Man Enter the Mandarin

Library Link

Enter
the mandarin / Joe Casey ; artist, Eric Canete
Casey,
Joe. New York : Marvel ; London : Diamond [distributor], 2008.

10 Second Review
Iron man investigates a strange occurrence and finds the Mandarin causing trouble.

Great art but not much story.
However, Iron man fans will probably still enjoy it.

Includes a brief Mandarin origin story.

Notes
Artist Eric Canete provides a unique look for Iron Man.

Learning Curve
Low: Good for new readers.

Reading Order
N/a

Cell

Title
Cell

Library Link
Cell : a novel / by Stephen King
King, Stephen, 1947-
Waterville, Me. : Thorndike Press, 2006.

10 Second Review
A mysterious signal is sent out via cell phones and all kinds of
King-esque mayhem ensues.

An easy, enjoyable read with endearing characters.
Similar to The Stand but different enough to please King fans.

Notes
While less gory then other King novels, it may still be too much for younger readers.

Learning Curve
Low: Good for new readers.

Reading Order
N/a

Batman: Joker's Asylum

Title
Batman: Joker's Asylum

Library Link

Batman
: Joker's Asylum
New York : DC Comics, c2008.

10 Second Review
A collection of creepy stories narrated by the Joker.
All of the Batman staples have their own story to include the Joker, Penguin, Poison Ivy and Two-face.

Good stories and great art make for a fun read.

Notes
More violent then the average comic so it might be a bit heavy for younger readers.

Learning Curve
Low: Good for new readers

Reading Order
N/a

Truly Mars & Venus

Title
Truly Mars & Venus

Library Link

Truly
Mars & Venus : the illustrated essential Men are from Mars, women are from
Venus / John Gray ; illustrations by Barbara Slate

10 Second Review
An illustrated version of the relationship standard.

Short and simple, this book provides useful and insightful information for understanding yourself and the opposite sex.

Notes
While an easy read, feel free to skip to topics of interest.

Learning Curve
Low: Good for new readers.

Reading Order
N/a

X-men Magneto Testament

Title
X-men Magneto Testament

Library Link

X-Men
: Magneto testament
Magneto TestamentPak, Greg.New York : Marvel
Publishing Inc., 2009.Year: 2009

10 Second Review
This book follows the story of a Jewish family and their struggles to survive under Nazi rule.

This book succeeds in capturing the horror of Nazi concentration camps in a graphic novel format. However, it has very little to do with the Marvel character Magneto.

Notes
Includes recently recovered art from a concentration camp prisoner.

Learning Curve
Low: Good for new readers.

Reading Order
N/a

The Summoning

Title
The Summoning

Library Link

The summoning / Kelley Armstrong.
Armstrong,
Kelley.
New York : HarperCollinsPublishers, c2008.
1st ed.

10 Second Review
Chloe skips class for the first time to secretly dye her hair and comes face to face with a melted-face ghost that desperately wants to talk. This leads straight to the nut house where Chloe learns that not everyone is who they seem. Including herself.

Clever and engaging writing with interesting, complex characters.
A great book with a fast pace that should have wide appeal.

Notes
Should appeal to Twilight, Harry Potter and Maximum ride fans.

Learning CurveLow: Good for new readers.

Reading Order
The Summoning
The Awakening
The Reckoning (05/2010)

Oh my goddess 12

Title
Oh my goddess 12

Library Link

Oh
My Goddess! 12 / story and art by Kosuke Fujishima ; original translation by
Dana Lewis and Toren Smith ; lettering and touch-up by Susie Lee and Betty Dong
with Tom2K, Tom Orzechowski, L. Lois Buhalis and Tomoko Saito
Fujishima,
Kōsuke.

10 Second Review
Another goddess, Peorth, tries to outdo Keiichi's Belldandy in the dating department.

Light-hearted reading and excellent illustrations make this a fun book.

Notes
Peorth may have a secret agenda.

Learning Curve
Moderate: It may take readers a few books to catch on.

Reading Order
There are 30+ books in this series.

My Secret: A PostSecret Book

Title
My Secret: A PostSecret Book

Library Link

My secret : a PostSecret book / compiled by Frank Warren.
New York : Regan,
c2006.
1st ed.

10 Second Review
According to wikipedia "PostSecret is an ongoing community mail art project, created by Frank Warren, in which people mail their secrets anonymously on one side of a homemade postcard. Select secrets are then posted on the PostSecret website, or used for PostSecret's books or museum exhibits."

A simple, yet strangely gripping book that may offer some surprising insights.

http://postsecret.blogspot.com/

Notes
Some topics may not be appropriate for younger readers.

Learning Curve
Low: Good for new readers

Reading Order
N/a

Amazing Spider-man: Kraven's First Hunt

Title
Amazing Spider-man: Kraven's First Hunt

Library Link

Kraven's
first hunt / by Marc Guggenheim and Zeb Wells ; artist, Phil Jimenez
Guggenheim,
Marc.

10 Second Review
Peter Parker's new roommate is angry with both him and Spider-man. Kraven gives the new roomie plenty to get upset about.

Good art and good story.
Fans should enjoy this book as things seem to be back to normal for Spidey.

Notes
Vermin and Dare Devil make an appearance.

Learning Curve
Low: Should be good for new readers.

Reading Order
Occurs after 'One More Day'

10,000 Dreams Interpreted

Title
10,000 Dreams Interpreted

Library Link

10,000 dreams interpreted : a dictionary of dreams / by Gustavus Hindman Miller.
Miller,
Gustavus Hindman, 1857-
New York : Sterling, [2007].
Rev. and
updated / by Hans Holzer.

10 Second Review
Have any weird dreams lately?
Do you wonder what they might mean?
This book might offer some help.

It covers a wide array of topics and offers interpretations of even the strangest dream.

Notes
An interesting book but know that intrepreting dreams can be very subjective.

Learning Curve
Low: Good for new readers.

Reading Order
N/a

Superman: The Third Kryptonian

Title
Superman: The Third Kryptonian

Library Link

Superman. The third Kryptonian! / Kurt Busiek ... [et al.]
New York : DC
Comics, 2008.

10 Second Review
A strange visitor informs Superman that there is a new Kryptonian on Earth.
Superman is not the only one interested in finding this mysterious stranger.

Good story and great art.
Story offers a different view of the people of Krypton.
Not everyone is as selfless as Superman.

Notes
Clark takes Pa Kent on an unusual fishing trip.

Learning Curve
Low: Good for new readers.

Reading Order
N/a

Wolverine: Logan

Title
Wolverine: Logan

Library Link

Wolverine.
Logan / writer, Brian K. Vaughan ; artist, Eduardo Risso
Vaughan,
Brian K.

10 Second Review
Wolverine finds himself at the wrong place at the wrong time during the final days of World War II.

Good art and interesting story.

This book fills in some blanks that fans may have been curious about but it is ultimately light reading.

Notes
Good choice for Wolverine fans.

Learning Curve
Low: Should be good for new readers.

Reading Order
N/a

Mouse Guard Fall 1152

Title
Mouse Guard Fall 1152

Library Link

Mouse Guard : fall 1152 / story and art by David Petersen.
Petersen,
David, 1977-
Fort Lee, N.J. : Archaia Studio, 2007.
1st ed.

10 Second Review
Members of the elite Mouse Guard uncover a secret plot while investigating a recent disappearance.

Exceptional art creates a believable world inhabited by a community of mice and the enemies they face.

While the art is top notch, some may not care for the shortage of text.

Notes
Should appeal to a wide range of ages.

Learning Curve
Low: Good for new readers

Reading Order
Mouse Guard Fall 1152
Mouse Guard Winter 1152

New Avengers Civil War

Title
New Avengers Civil War

Library Link

New
Avengers.
Civil warBendis, Brian Michael.New York : Marvel, c2007.Year:
c2007

10 Second Review
The government wants heroes to register and those who oppose this law join with Captain America to form a resistance.

Good art and great story. A must read for Marvel fans.

Notes
Tony Stark deals with a disgruntled employee.

Learning Curve
Moderate: Might confuse those new to Marvel.

Reading Order
Occurs after House of M.

Twilight

Title
Twilight

Library Link

Twilight / Stephenie Meyer.
Meyer,
Stephenie, 1973-
Waterville, Me. : Thorndike Press, 2009.

10 Second ReviewA girl moves to a small town and finds herself in the midst of an ancient, supernatural rivalry.

This book alone may have saved some libraries from closing but it may be a tough sell for boys.

Notes
The story moves pretty slow at first

Learning CurveLow: Good for new readers

Reading OrderTwilight
New Moon
Eclipse
Breaking Dawn

The New Avengers Secret Invasion Book 2

Title
The New Avengers Secret Invasion Book 2

Library Link

The
new Avengers
Bendis, Brian Michael.New York : Marvel ; London : Diamond
[distributor], 2009.Year: 2009

10 Second Review
Shape-shifting aliens have infiltrated the Marvel universe. This book follows the events of Secret Invasion from the perspective of the New Avengers.

Readers will need to pay attention to follow this complicated but satisfying story.

Notes
Red Hood plays a role.

Learning Curve
Moderate to High: Readers new to Marvel will likely be confused.

Reading Order
Occurs after the start of Civil War.

Hunger Games

Title
Hunger Games

Library Link

The
hunger games / Suzanne Collins
Collins,
Suzanne.

10 Second Review
A young girl is forced to participate in a gruesome contest where only the winner survives.

A gripping, exciting novel that will have wide appeal.
Action, romance and a reality TV setting make for a good read.

Notes
By the same author that wrote 'Gregor the Overlander' but more teen friendly.

Learning Curve
Low: Good for new readers

Reading OrderHunger Games
Catching Fire

The New Avengers Secret Invasion Book 1

Title
The New Avengers Secret Invasion Book 1

Library Link

The
new Avengers.
Secret invasionBendis, Brian Michael.New York : Marvel ;
London : Diamond [distributor], 2009.Year: 2009

10 Second Review
Shape-shifting aliens have infiltrated the Marvel universe. This book follows the events of Secret Invasion from the perspective of the New Avengers.

This is a good place to start for those interested in Secret Invasion.
Lots of story here and details of how the Skrulls outsmarted everyone.

Notes
Confusing but fun.

Learning Curve
Moderate to High: Readers new to Marvel will likely be confused.

Reading Order
Occurs after the start of Civil War.

A.D. New Orleans After the Deluge

Title
A.D. New Orleans After the Deluge

Library Link
A.D. : New Orleans after the deluge
Neufeld, Josh.New York : Pantheon Books, c2009.Year: c2009

10 Second Review
The book tells the true story of a handful of New Orleans residents and their experiences during Hurricane Katrina. Told in a graphic novel format, this book touches on many issues that other mediums bypass.

Excellent illustrations combine with real-life experience to create an unforgettable reading experience.

Notes
This book deals with some issues that might overwhelm younger readers.

Learning Curve
Low: Good for new readers.

Reading Order
N/a

Wolverine: Origin

Title
Wolverine: Origin

Library Link

Wolverine
: origin
OriginJenkins, Paul, 1965-New York : Marvel ; London : Diamond
[distributor], c2009.Year: c2009

10 Second Review
Journey back to the turn of the century to witness the birth of a Marvel icon.

Good art and good writing with some clever elements.
While a good book, it should have been a great book.
Some will feel it would have better to have left this story untold.

Notes
Includes behind-the-scenes notes and sketches.

Learning Curve
Low: Good for new readers

Reading Order
N/a

The 50th Law

Title
The 50th Law

Library Link

The
50th law
Fiftieth law50 Cent (Musician)New York : HarperStudio,
c2009.Year: c2009

10 Second Review
A collaboration between 50 cent and the author of '48 Laws of Power' this book discusses the powerful nature of fear and the rewards of overcoming it.

This is much easier to read then '48 Laws of Power' and offers practical advise. While not really a 'teen' book this book covers subject matter that will appeal to that age group.

Notes
Offers interesting insight into many historical figures.

Learning Curve
Low: good for new readers.

Reading Order
N/a

The New Avengers: Revolution

Title
The New Avengers: Revolution

Library Link

The
New Avengers. Volume 6, Revolution / writer, Brian Michael Bendis ; art,
Alex Maleev, Leinil Yu
Bendis,
Brian Michael.

10 Second Review
Hawkeye comes back from the dead and the team heads to Japan to help an undercover agent accidentally abandoned by Civil War.

Excellent art and excellent story. A pivotal book in the Secret Invasion series.
A must read for True Believers!

Notes
Scarlet Witch makes an appearance.

Learning Curve
Moderate: Those new to Marvel might be confused.

Reading Order
Occurs at the end of Civil War.

Scott Pilgrims's Precious Little Life

Title
Scott Pilgrims's Precious Little Life

Library Link

Scott
Pilgrim. [vol. 1] : Scott Pilgrim's precious little life / Bryan Lee
O'Malley
O'Malley,
Bryan Lee.

10 Second Review
Scott's a bass-playing, high-school-girl-dating, twenty-something slacker that's literally met the girl of his dreams.

A clever, enjoyable book that is genuinely funny.
A great choice for those seeking a non-superhero graphic novel.

Notes
Should have wide appeal.

Learning Curve
Low: Good for new readers

Reading Order
Chronological order 1-5

Annotated Mona Lisa

Title
Annotated Mona Lisa

Library Link

The annotated Mona Lisa / Carol Strickland.
Strickland,
Carol.
Kansas, Mo. : Andrews McMeel ; London : Simon & Schuster
[distributor], c2007.

10 Second Review
The subtitle of this book states it is 'A Crash Course in Art History from Prehistoric to Post-Modern'.

This is a fun, easy to read book that covers a wide spectrum of art throughout history. While an obvious choice for art lovers it is also a good choice for aspiring artist in order to learn and recognize technique/style/etc.

Notes
A good alternative to dry, academic textbooks.

Learning Curve
Low: Good for new readers.

Reading Order
N/a

The New Avengers: Breakout

Title
The New Avengers: Breakout

Library Link

The
New Avengers. Volume 1, Breakout / writer, Brian Michael Bendis ; penciler,
David Finch ; inker, Danny Miki ... [et al.] ; colorist, Frank D'Armata ;
letterer, Richard Starkings & Comicraft's Albert Deschesne
Bendis,
Brian Michael.

10 Second Review
A new team forms in the aftermath of "House of M' events in response to a massive prison break and represents the start of a new Avenger team.

Great art, great story and some genuinely funny elements.
Should have wide appeal for Marvel fans.

Notes
Lots of villain special guest

Learning Curve
Low: Good for new readers

Reading Order
Occurs after 'House of M' but before 'Civil War.'

Adventures in cartooning

Title
Adventures in cartooning

Library Link

Adventures
in cartooning / James Sturm, Andrew Arnold, Alexis Frederick-Frost
Sturm,
James, 1965-

10 Second Review
A clever book that tells a fun story while explaining the cartooning process.

The story will appeal to younger readers while the cartooning process may have appeal for tweens and teens.

While the material is a bit juvenile that approach makes the material more accessible.

Notes
Presented by the Center for Cartoon Studies
http://www.cartoonstudies.org/

Learning Curve
Low: Good for all ages.

Reading Order
N/a

New Avengers: The Collective

Title
New Avengers: The Collective

Library Link

The
New Avengers. Volume 4, The collective / writer, Brian Michael Bendis ;
pencilers, Steve McNivern, Mike Deodato, Jr. ... [et al.]
Bendis,
Brian Michael.

10 Second Review
An extremely powerful, flaming naked man crashes into a northern town, wipes out Alpha Flight and is generally very rude. Sentry and Ms. Marvel are no match.

Excellent art and a good story. Fun to see the Avengers face a genuine threat.

Notes
Peter Parker gets to use that big brain.

Learning Curve
Moderate: Those new to Marvel might be confused.

Reading Order
Occurs after 'House of M' but before 'Civil War.'

Encyclopedia of Superstitions

Title
Encyclopedia of Superstitions

Library Link

The
encyclopedia of superstitions / Richard Webster
Webster,
Richard, 1946-

10 Second Review
From the back cover:
"Richard Webster presents over five hundred of the most obscure, curious, and just-plain-freaky superstitions of the Western world."

Did you know that birthmarks are a sign of the Devil?
If you find dice, what do the numbers mean?
What steps can you take to remove bad luck?
What protections do tattoo's offer?
Explore these and many other curious beliefs.

Notes
This book does not need to be read cover to cover.

Learning Curve
Low: Good for new readers

Reading Order
N/a

New Avengers: Sentry

Title
New Avengers: Sentry

Library Link

The
New Avengers volume 2 : The Sentry / Brian Michael Bendis, writer; Steve
McNiven, penciler
Bendis,
Brian Michael.

10 Second Review
Provides a back-story for the Avengers most powerful member.

Excellent art and an interesting story.
Some will find the Sentry's story creative while others may feel it is too gimmicky.

Notes
Includes a mini-encyclopedia

Learning Curve
Low: New readers should be o.k.

Reading Order
Occurs after 'House of M' but before 'Civil War.'

Tales of the cryptids

Title
Tales of the cryptids

Library Link

Tales
of the cryptids : mysterious creatures that may or may not exist / by Kelly
Milner Halls, Rick Spears, Roxyanne Young ; [illustrated by Rick Spears]
Halls,
Kelly Milner, 1957-

10 Second Review
This book explores legendary animals.
From regulars like Bigfoot and the Lochness Monster to lesser-known beast and even some outright hoaxes.

Fun reading that includes some surprising scientific evidence.

Notes
The Mongolian Death Worm, Mothman and the Fiji Mermaid are addressed.

Learning Curve
Low: Good for new readers.

Reading Order
N/a

Superman and the Legion of Super-heroes

Title
Superman and the Legion of Super-heroes

Library Link

Superman
and the Legion of Super-heroes / Geoff Johns, writer ; Gary Frank, penciller
; Jon Sibal, inker ; Dave McCaig and Hi-Fi, colorists ; Rob Leigh, letterer ;
introduction by Keith Giffen Johns,
Geoff, 1973-

10 Second Review
Brainiac comes from the future to recruit Superman's help in averting a galactic-wide war that Earth is trying to start.

Good art and a standard story. Fans of the Legion will likely enjoy this book. The large cast of super-powered heroes might overwhelm others.

Notes
Should appeal to teens.

Learning Curve
Moderate: Lots of characters but most are explained.

Reading Order
N/a

Codes and Cheats

Title
Codes and Cheats

Library Link

Codes
& cheats : [18,000 tested codes]
Roseville, CA : Prima Games, c2009.
Summer 2009 ed

10 Second Review
Claims to include over 18,000 cheat codes for Xbox, Nintento and Playstation systems.

Good luck finding this extremely popular book.

Notes
Best option is to place this book on hold.

Learning Curve
Low: Should be easy for gamers

Reading Order
N/a

Project Superpowers

Title
Project Superpowers

Library Link

Project
superpowers
Krueger, Jim.Runnemede, N.J. : Dynamite Entertainment ;
London : Diamond [distributor], 2009-Year: 2009-

10 Second Review
An original story that follows the trials of World War II superheroes that have suddenly returned to the present after years of mystic imprisonment.

An interesting and intriguing story with unusual art.
Some with enjoy the painting style art while others may find it too dark and less defined than modern comic standards.

Notes
Fans of Golden Era comics will likely enjoy this series.

Learning Curve
Moderate to High: Those new to comics might find this confusing.

Reading Order
N/a

Body Language

Title
Body Language

Library Link
Body language / Susan Quilliam
Quilliam, Susan.
Buffalo, N.Y. : Firefly Books, 2004.

10 Second Review
Learn to read body language with this easy to follow book.
What can body language tell you? Quite a bit.

Learn how others perceive you and what subconscious signals you may be sending out.

Notes
Cool illustrations and examples.

Learning Curve
Low: Good for new readers.

Fantastic Four: The End

Title
Fantastic Four: The End

Library Link

The
end premiere
Davis, Alan, 1956-New York : Marvel ; London : Diamond
[distributor], 2007.Year: 2007

10 Second Review
Set in the future, Reed Richard's utopian society is threatened by unknown forces.

Decent story but includes art that feels dated.
An odd choice for a story set in the future.

Notes
Almost everyone for the Fantastic Four storyline appears in this book.

Learning Curve
High: Even fans might be confused. Many un-introduced characters.

Reading Order
N/a

Manga for Dummies

Title
Manga for Dummies

Library Link

Manga
for dummies / Kensuke Okabayashi
Okabayashi,
Kensuke.

10 Second Review
A nice, thick book that covers everything from figures to creating your own comic book.

This is a good book that provides many examples and exercises for the aspiring manga artist.
It seems much more complete then most 'how-to-draw' books but that results in a fairly large book that may intimidate some readers.

Notes
An excellent resource for comic/manga artist.

Learning Curve
Low: Good for new readers.

Reading Order
N/a