The New Brighton Archeological Society

Authors: Mark Andrew Smith & Matthew Weldon
Publication date: November 2008
Genre: Fantasy/Graphic Novel
Copy Provided by: Author
Summary (via Goodreads):

Out of the ashes of misfortune will rise the next generation of great adventurers! After their parents are lost on an archeological expedition, four children begin to unlock the secrets of their parents' mysterious lives, discovering a hidden world of mystical artifacts, mythical creatures, and arcane knowledge. Soon they find themselves drawn into a conflict over a great library that has kept two kingdoms at war for centuries, the children must save an enchanted forest, the birthplace of magic itself. Join us as these children become the latest members of the fabled New Brighton Archeological Society, and take their first steps towards their true destiny!

Why I read this: I am just simply in love with graphic novels and when I saw the cover of this one, I knew I had to read it. The illustrations on the cover alone are fantastic and I loved the subject of this graphic novel.

Plot: It's a fun-filled plot full of discovery, adventure and some really cool magical aspects. It has it's good versus evil underlying plot and I love the connection between their parents and what they are doing. Definitely a series my students would enjoy!

Characters: Graphically I just love the way the characters look. They have the big heads but otherwise look fairly normal. I really think this graphic novel is stunning and I'm in love with the style - especially of the character. I also like that there's enough characters that each reader will have someone they relate to. Also, it's nice to see sort of nerdy kids turned superheroes (not exactly but they do fight otherworldy creatures).

Relatability: For me, it was the sort of geekiness that the characters had going for them. Also, the general curiosity and adventure seeking of the kids reminds me of some of my escapades as a kid. I think I could match up most of the kids with some of my best friends when I was younger and it was kind of fun to just jump right in and imagine you were the one on the adventure.

Cover Commentary: Love it. Definitely a graphic novel that would capture my attention at a bookstore. Great full colors and the characters are in action making the person looking at it want to know what it is about.

Rating: 5/5 Roses

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