The Cartoonists Club by Raina Telgemeier, Ray Baehr, Scott McCloud on April 1, 2025
ISBN: 1338777211
Pages: 280
Genres: Juvenile Fiction / Comics & Graphic Novels / Humorous
Format: Graphic Novel
Source: MSL Book Review
Goodreads
Makayla is a budding storyteller – always brimming with ideas. Howard loves to draw, but can’t always find the words to go along with his stories. One day (with the help of a passionate librarian) they get an idea – to start a Cartoonists Club. They recruit some additional Cartoonists – Art, who just loves trying new things, and Lynda, a quiet and serious artist. With the help of their librarian, they learn all about how to create comics, develop their own following of fans, and even have an exhibit table at a local comic convention. One particularly moving moment in the story is when Lynda is inspired to share her very personal comic about losing her Dad – showing just how important it can be to share personal experiences to relate to readers and make other people feel seen.
Sprinkled throughout this fun graphic novel are real tips and tricks of the trade. The back matter provides even more information about the different jobs and steps it takes to create a graphic novel. The characters in the story are diverse, and include a non-binary main character. The illustrations are well suited to the story and creatively display the club’s explorations as budding Cartoonists. A great graphic novel for any collection. Recommended for ages 8 to 12 (3rd grade to 6th grade).
Reviewed by: Jenn Mead, Charlotte Hobbs Memorial Library, Lovell