"Some Things Aren't Meant to Be" by J. Peter Cobb is a heartfelt story about John Gauthier, a man on a journey to find love, faith, and his true purpose in life. Set in rural Vermont from 1929 to 1982, the book follows John through his early days working on a farm, the relationships that shape him, and his decision to become a priest. Cobb writes about love, loss, and personal growth in a way that feels both deep and relatable, pulling readers into John's world and making us care about his choices and dreams.

One of the standout aspects of this story is how it continues to build the relationship between Tintin and Captain Haddock. While we already met Haddock in previous books, this is where his backstory, particularly the history of his ancestor, Sir Francis Haddock, becomes a central theme. I especially loved how this installment gave Haddock more depth and humor, especially through his eccentric and memorable rants.

Wright not only provides a visually stunning collection of classic sci-fi posters—from The Time Machine to When Worlds Collide—but he also pairs each image with witty and insightful commentary on the films themselves.

What sets this graphic novel apart is the way it weaves Omar’s personal experiences with universal themes of hope, resilience, and the importance of family. The narrative is heart-wrenching, but there’s also warmth and humor, making it accessible and engaging for young readers. Victoria Jamieson’s art beautifully complements the story, giving life to the emotions and challenges faced by the characters.

What I love most about this book is how it perfectly blends classic Tintin elements—his unwavering bravery, Captain Haddock’s comedic grumbling, and the beautiful, detailed artwork—with a new, fantastical angle. It’s a great exploration of how Hergé could push his storytelling into different genres while maintaining the charm and excitement that Tintin fans love.

What really stands out in this book is how Charles M. Schulz translates his comic strip genius into a longer format. The pacing of the story flows seamlessly, and the illustrations stay true to Schulz’s iconic style.

The illustrations by Dani Jones are a highlight for me. Her style is incredibly approachable for children, with vibrant colors and a great sense of movement that keeps the action lively and engaging. At over 200 pages, it might seem like a lot for younger readers, but the book is a quick, entertaining read. The storyline is well-paced, and the characters are charming, making it enjoyable for both kids and adults.

The illustrations by David Roberts are nothing short of spectacular. They capture the spirit of the late 50s and early 60s, with a playful nod to American design history. The diverse classroom and quirky character designs make each page a visual treat, with plenty of details to keep both kids and adults engaged.

What makes this series stand out is its perfect blend of action and humor. The colorful, fun illustrations leap off the page, drawing you into a world filled with quirky characters and high-stakes battles. The themes of friendship, teamwork, and finding strength in protecting those you love are woven seamlessly into the story, making it as heartwarming as it is exciting.

What truly makes this book remarkable is how well it has aged. The trails Kibling covers are still being maintained, providing hikers with the same breathtaking views and peaceful retreats that she so lovingly described decades ago. As a local, I can attest that the places highlighted in this guidebook remain as enchanting as ever, offering a perfect blend of natural beauty and historical significance.

The story itself is engaging, blending mystery with character dynamics that add depth to the narrative. While the plot can feel a bit disjointed at times, the overall experience is so captivating that these moments are easily overlooked. The cliffhanger ending leaves you wanting more, eagerly anticipating the next installment in Sorceline’s journey.

"Better to Be Lucky than Smart" is not just a collection of stories; it's a celebration of a life well-lived. It reminds us of the importance of embracing opportunities, no matter how diverse or challenging. Bill Mares' memoir is a fitting tribute to his legacy and is highly recommended for an inspiring and heartfelt read. His memory, and his words, will continue to inspire all who read this remarkable book.

As the 8th book in the Tintin box set, "Tintin: The Crab with The Golden Claws" marks a significant milestone in the series with the introduction of the beloved Captain Haddock. This addition to the storyline does not disappoint and adds a delightful new dimension to Tintin's adventures.

What stands out in "Tales from the Con" is its ability to poke fun at the conventions while celebrating them simultaneously. The comic puns, pop culture references, and general goofiness are mined for good laughs. Yes, some jokes border on the kind of puns you'd scold your dad for, but many more are genuinely entertaining and clever.

What makes "Plain Jane and the Mermaid" stand out is how Brosgol hints at a rich world-building without overwhelming the reader. The underwater environment, filled with selkies and mermaids, is beautifully illustrated and adds depth to the narrative. Each page is a visual treat, capturing the magic and danger of the ocean depths.

If you’re a fan of clever wordplay and pun-tastic humor, "All Puns Blazing" by Geoff Rowe is a must-read. Arranged by specific topics and themes such as food, transport, family, sports, Christmas, and more, this book is jam-packed with jokes that will make you laugh and groan in equal measure.

This flip book serves as a fantastic introduction to the characters and storyline of the Clone Wars TV show, which we're planning to explore next. It's designed to be both informative and entertaining, making it ideal for young fans eager to learn more about the epic battles between the Jedi and the Sith, the Republic and the Separatists.

The humor is particularly effective, with clever details in both the dialogue and the illustrations. For instance, early in the book, Snowy’s sarcastic remarks and physical comedy—such as walking into a garbage can immediately after chastising Tintin—add a layer of charm that endears these characters to the readers. These small, humorous touches make "Tintin and the Broken Ear" a delightful read.

Joni’s wit shines through from the first page as she tackles everything from feuding with a dead medium to overthinking insulting birthday cards. Her writing is irreverent and thought-provoking, offering a joy ride through eclectic essays that perfectly balance soul-searching and social commentary.

Though this book is technically a collection of postcards, I have to admit, I’m hesitant to actually use them. They’re just too good to part with! But if you’re braver than I am, sending one of these postcards to a friend would definitely brighten—or snarkily darken—their day. Each card is a little slice of sarcasm heaven, ready to be mailed out to unsuspecting victims of your choice.