Zita the Spacegirl
By Ben Hatke
Summary
This graphic novel was a quick (1h) fascinating read, with a series of imaginative scenes, a host of memorable characters, as well as meaningful dialogue and a suspenseful story-line. This is a children's graphic novel at its best, with a believable fictitious world made accessible by well-drawn images and a convincing plot.
Main Character
Zita is an impulsive 10-12 year old who manages to get herself and her friend Joseph zapped to another planet. Through a series of adventures, Zita manages to find and save Joseph, even sacrificing her own return to Earth to get him back. From beginning to end, we see Zita grow from being impulsive and thoughtless to brave and selfless.
Graphics
The colourful, playful, imaginative images are very appealing to my readers, both boys and girls.
Causes for Concern
There were no "red flags" for parents in either the images or the text. There is some very minor violence, but no main character dies or even gets seriously hurt (without being "repaired"). There is, however, enough action/adventure in the text to appeal to students who like suspenseful story-lines.
Age Appropriateness
The book generally appeals to readers (boys and girls) aged 10-12. If a younger student were willing to take the book out, my only real cause for concern would be reading comprehension. The text bubbles are within the ability of most readers aged 8+, though text/image comprehension would be 10+.
